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Babar Azam urges for calm ahead of high-stakes India clash

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Pakistan’s experienced batter Babar Azam has urged his teammates to remain calm and focused amid the high expectations ahead of the T20 World Cup match against India, scheduled for Sunday in Colombo. “Matches between Pakistan and India are always intense. It’s not just the people of both countries, but the whole world watches this game, which takes it to a completely different level and raises expectations from the players,” Babar said in a video statement. He added, “I have been part of many such matches and have learned that the more composed you remain, and the more you focus on the game instead of external noise, the better you will perform.” Babar acknowledged the excitement surrounding the fixture but emphasised that players benefit from staying tension-free. “There is always a lot of energy in this match, but the more relaxed the players are, the better it is for them,” he said. Rain to play spoilsport Meanwhile, the Sri Lanka Meteorological Department has predicted rain...

X-factor Usman Tariq Pakistan's 'key weapon' against India

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Pakistan’s Usman Tariq left his cricket ambitions back home to start a salesman’s job in Dubai, before a biopic about India great Mahendra Singh Dhoni changed his life. The unusual bowling action of the double-jointed spinner has created plenty of chatter in his first T20 World Cup, and now he goes into Sunday’s revived clash against India as one of Pakistan’s main weapons. His inspiration was born in India and Tariq admits if he had not watched the 2016 Bollywood movie "M.S. Dhoni: The Untold Story" he might not be playing cricket today. Based on the life of India’s World Cup-winning captain, the movie told a tale of grit, rejection and eventual glory — and made Tariq believe it was never too late to chase his ambition. Tariq, now 30, left Dubai and roamed around the world to mature as a mystery spinner. Pakistan skipper Salman Agha insisted Tariq will be a special weapon when his side face their arch-rivals India on February 15. "Tariq is our X-factor and a key...

Ahmad Shahzad opens up down over prolonged cricket exile

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Former Pakistan batter Ahmad Shahzad became visibly emotional while speaking about his prolonged absence from competitive cricket, admitting that missing out this time hurt more than before — mainly because of his son. Speaking during the Geo News programme 'Harna Mana Hai', where he appears as a regular panellist, Shahzad said he still feels a deep desire to return to competitive cricket. “Yes, of course, I get emotional. If I’m being honest, I feel very sad. I want to play,” he said. “My batchmates are all playing. I feel happy for them, but I do wonder about myself — what were the reasons, why did this happen?” Shahzad, who was part of Quetta Gladiators’ title-winning side in the PSL, said the days following every auction are particularly difficult for him. “I have 18 years in this field. For all those things to suddenly go away, I remember it a lot. It makes me want to cry. The first two or three days are very difficult, and it happens every time,” he added. He also ...

Australia Cruise Past Ireland by 67 Runs in T20 World Cup Opener as Marsh Ruled Out

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A depleted Australia brushed aside the absence of injured captain Mitchell Marsh to secure a commanding 67-run victory over Ireland in their opening match of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup at the R. Premadasa Stadium on Wednesday. Stand-in skipper Travis Head won the toss and elected to bat first, guiding Australia to 182-6 in 20 overs. In response, Ireland were bowled out for 115 in 16.5 overs. With Marsh ruled out before the match, Josh Inglis was promoted to open and delivered a quickfire 37 off just 17 balls. Marcus Stoinis top-scored with 45, while Matt Renshaw added 37 to help Australia post a competitive total. Fast bowler Nathan Ellis, who had been recovering from a hamstring injury ahead of the tournament, delivered a standout performance with figures of 4-12. Spinner Adam Zampa also impressed, claiming 4-23. Ellis struck twice in his opening over, reducing Ireland to 27-4 early on. A 46-run sixth-wicket partnership between Lorcan Tucker and George Dockrell briefly steadied...

Heavenly Fruit Fig: How Beneficial Is It for Heart, Digestion, and Weight? Latest Expert Research

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Figs, often referred to as the “fruit of paradise,” are widely known for their rich nutritional value and healing properties. According to recent medical findings and nutritional research, figs offer multiple health benefits — though caution is advised in certain medical conditions. Benefits of Figs Improves Digestion Figs are rich in dietary fiber, which helps relieve constipation, cleanse the intestines, and improve overall digestive health. Supports Heart Health The potassium content in figs helps regulate blood pressure, while omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids contribute to maintaining healthy arteries. Strengthens Bones Figs are a good source of calcium and magnesium, which help increase bone density and support joint health. Helps with Anemia Figs contain iron, which may improve hemoglobin levels and help reduce the risk of anemia. Aids in Weight Management When consumed in moderation, figs can help control appetite and support weight loss efforts. Possible Side Effec...

T20 World Cup: Australia Captain Mitchell Marsh Injured, Steve Smith Called Up

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Australia suffered an early setback in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 as captain Mitchell Marsh was ruled out of the opening match against Ireland due to injury. The match is being played at the R. Premadasa Stadium, where Travis Head is leading the side in Marsh’s absence. According to Cricket Australia, Marsh sustained a serious groin injury during a side-arm throwdown session in training on Sunday. He immediately left the nets after experiencing discomfort. Medical scans later confirmed an internal injury, and team officials stated that the all-rounder will require rest and rehabilitation. His participation in Australia’s next match against Zimbabwe also remains doubtful. In Marsh’s absence, Matthew Renshaw has been included in the World Cup playing XI for the first time, while Josh Inglis has partnered Travis Head at the top of the order. Meanwhile, Steve Smith is set to travel to Sri Lanka as a standby player and may be added to the squad if required. Marsh’s injury come...

India's Abhishek Sharma hospitalised with stomach infection

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India’s opening batter Abhishek Sharma has been hospitalised with a stomach infection, media reports said on Wednesday. The development has put the availability of India’s main batter for Thursday’s T20 World Cup match against Namibia in doubt. Sharma has been receiving treatment in a private Delhi hospital for the past two days. “Abhishek has been admitted to a private hospital in Delhi due to a stomach infection. Some tests are being done to ascertain the problem. It is still not clear whether he will be discharged today. But the match against Namibia looks doubtful as of now,” a BCCI source was quoted as saying. Sharma, who was dismissed for a first-ball duck in India’s opening World Cup game against the USA, had previously been battling a stomach issue. He did not field during the USA’s innings, with India’s assistant coach Ryan ten Doeschate confirming that Sharma was recovering from a stomach bug. “Abhi still has got a few issues with his tummy. We are hopeful that he’ll...