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Showing posts from April, 2024

SBP receives $1.1 billion IMF tranche amid high hopes of economic stability

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The State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) has received SDR 828 million (around $1.1 billion) from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) a day after the global lender approved the last tranche of Pakistan under the $3 billion Stand-By Arrangement (SBA). In a statement on Tuesday, the central bank said the amount would be reflected in the SBP’s foreign exchange reserves for the week ending on May 3, 2024. Last week, the SBP said its foreign exchange reserves dropped by $74 million to $7.981 billion in the week ending on April 19 because of external debt repayments. The country’s foreign reserves fell by $93 million to $13.281 billion. The reserves of commercial banks also decreased by $20 million to $5.299 billion, as per the SBP. An official statement issued by the IMF late Monday said the executive board completed the second and final review of Pakistan’s economic reform programme supported by the SBA. "The board’s decision allows for an immediate disbursement of SDR 828 million (ar...

India announce squad for T20 World Cup

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India on Tuesday announced their squad for the T20 World Cup 2024 in June, which is set to take place in the United States and West Indies. The squad will be led by Rohit Sharma with Hardik Pandya his deputy. Yuzvendra Chahal has been picked after impressing in the IPL, along with fellow spinners Kuldeep Yadav, Ravindra Jadeja and Axar Patel. Meanwhile, the pace attack includes Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj and Arshdeep Singh with Pandya and Dube also available as seam-bowling options. Sanju Samson and Rishabh Pant are the two wicketkeepers in the Indian squad. India's T20 World Cup 2024 squad Rohit Sharma (captain), Hardik Pandya (vice-Captain), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Rishabh Pant (wk), Sanju Samson (wk), Shivam Dube, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Yuzvendra Chahal, Arshdeep Singh, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammad Siraj. Reserves: Shubman Gill, Rinku Singh, Khaleel Ahmed and Avesh Khan India will start their World Cup campaign against Ire...

South Africa announce T20 World Cup 2024 squad

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South Africa have announced their 15-man squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup, set to take place in the United States and West Indies from June 1. Among the notable inclusions are fast bowler Anrich Nortje, who returns to the T20 international scene after a year-long hiatus due to injuries, and the uncapped pair of batter Ryan Rickelton and seamer Ottniel Baartman. Nortje's comeback is eagerly anticipated despite his recent struggles in the Indian Premier League, where he recorded a concerning economy rate of 13.36 runs per over across six matches. Meanwhile, Rickelton's impressive performances in the SA20 competition, where he emerged as the top scorer with 530 runs at an average of 58.88, have earned him a well-deserved call-up. Baartman's commendable tally of 18 wickets in eight T20 matches further strengthens South Africa's bowling arsenal. Leading the squad will be Aiden Markram, who will have the firepower of seasoned hitters such as Heinrich Klaasen, David M...

Stain removal techniques

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There are two basic approaches to removing spots and stains. You can use a stain-removal agent that interacts with the stain chemically, or you can physically loosen or remove the stain from the surface. Many stubborn stains require both chemical and physical treatment. In this chapter, we discuss eight physical stain-removal techniques: brushing, flushing, freezing, presoaking, pretreating, scraping, sponging, and tamping. Which technique to use in treating a particular spot or stain depends upon both the nature of the stain and the type of surface stained. For example, a stain may be wet or dry, semisolid or hardened. On a very delicate surface, you may not be able to use such techniques as scraping and tamping. A stain may be flushed more easily from a loosely woven fabric than from one that is tightly woven; but a tightly woven fabric can withstand a treatment such as tamping more successfully. Follow these directions carefully to assure successful stain removal without harm t...

Pakistan need to bat more productively in middle overs: Babar

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While acknowledging that his team need to lift their game overall ahead of this year’s T20 World Cup, Pakistan captain Babar Azam has said that the batsmen need to lift their game in middle overs. “We are struggling significantly to get quick runs in middle overs. To improve in this area, we tested Iftikhar Ahmed, [all-rounder] Shadab Khan and [top-order batter] Usman Khan up the order under our rotation policy. But unfortunately injuries to Mohammad Rizwan, Azam Khan and Irfan Khan Niazi hit our plans in this series [against New Zealand],” Babar said during a presser after Pakistan survived a scare while registering a narrow nine-run win over an under-strength New Zealand team in a thrilling fifth T20 International here at the Gaddafi Stadium on Saturday night. The result ended the five-match series tied at 2-2 with one game in Rawalpindi washed out. “We are scoring 50 runs on average in powerplay [first six overs] which is not bad but we should add 40-odd runs from seven to 10 o...

Optician warns stress can lead to eye twitches and vision loss

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1 in 5 Britons older than 16 feel stressed every day, and nearly a third of them experience stress weekly, according to recent research. Stress affects each person differently; it can cause insomnia, headaches, back pain, digestive issues, hair loss, a variety of skin disorders, including problems with our eyes. Nimmi Mistry, a professional services optician at Vision Direct, explains how stress can damage our vision and provides tips on how to take care of your eyes when facing the issue. How does stress affect the eyes? Although stress numbers keep rising in the modern era, stress is a condition that humans have faced for thousands of years, so our bodies can naturally adapt to stressful situations. However, continuous high levels of stress – known as chronic stress – can cause serious disturbances in the autonomic nervous system, which automatically regulates bodily processes such as your heart rate and breathing. Increased stress levels cause our bodies to respond by releasi...

Pakistan squad announced for Azlan Shah Hockey Cup

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Ammad Shakeel Butt will lead the 18-member Pakistan squad in the upcoming Sultan Azlan Shah Hockey Cup, set to be held in Malaysia on May 4. Head coach Roelant Oltmans announced the squad on Sunday, said a statement. “He has been given all the powers to decide on the selection of the Pakistan national squad till the time the government decides on the fate of the Pakistan Hockey Federation.” He selected the final travelling squad in coordination with Deputy Director General of Pakistan Sports Board Shahidul Islam and a representative of the Pakistan Olympic Association Manzoorul Hassan. Around 44 players including 10 from the Karachi camp also attended trials which were conducted in different sessions at the Naseer Bunda Hockey Stadium in Islamabad. Ammad Shakeel Butt has been appointed as the captain of the national hockey team while Abu Bakar will assist Ammad as vice-captain. Seven reserve players have been also included in the squad. Other players include Abdullah, Muneebur R...

PCB pick Gary Kirsten and Jason Gillespie as head coaches for white, red-ball cricket

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Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi on Sunday announced that former South Africa top-order batter Gary Kirsten and ex-Australia fast bowler Jason Gillespie had been appointed the head coaches for the men’s national team for white and red-ball, respectively. He made the announcement while addressing a press conference in Lahore alongside PCB Chief Operating Officer (COO) Salman Naseer and Azhar Mahmood — who was announced as the assistant coach in all formats. A separate press release issued by the PCB said the three appointments had made for a two-year period following a recruitment process. “Kirsten will take charge of the side immediately after completing his assignment in the Indian Premier League,” the PCB said. During his tenure, besides the upcoming ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024 and other bilateral white-ball series, Kirsten will also be in charge of the side for next year’s ICC Champions Trophy 2025 in Pakistan, ACC T20 Asia Cup 2025 and the ICC Men’s T20 Wor...

Three infected with HIV after getting 'vampire facials' in New Mexico

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A cosmetic treatment referred to as "vampire facial" is considered a cheaper and less invasive alternative to facelifts. However, according to a new report, the procedure can pose a significant health risk if performed in unsanitary conditions. Earlier this week, the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) reported that three women possibly contracted human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) after getting vampire facials at an unlicensed spa in New Mexico. These cases are the first known instances of the virus being transmitted during a cosmetic injection procedure, as stated in the report by the CDC, earlier this week, CBS News reported. According to one skin clinic, during a vampire facial, a person's blood is drawn from their arm, and then platelets are separated out and applied to the patient's face using microneedles. The procedure, also called platelet-rich plasma, or PRP, is claimed by proponents as helping to reduce pore size and fine lines as well as rejuvenating ...

World Cup 2024: Ex-Indian cricketer believes Pakistan, India will make it to semis

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As International Cricket Council (ICC) gears up for the upcoming T20I World Cup 2024, which is set to be played in the United States and the West Indies, fans couldn't help but wonder how will different teams perform in the mega event. Expressing his views on the pressing question, former Indian cricketer Yuvraj Singh, who has also been appointed as the World Cup's ambassador, has said that he sees India and Pakistan reaching the semi-finals of the mega event. Other two teams, the former all-rounder believes will reach the eliminators are Australia and England. Yuvraj, who won the 2007 T20 World Cup, will be attending the promotional events in the US before and during the World Cup, including the most-anticipated clash of the tournament between Pakistan and India in New York on June 9. The ex-cricketer further said that he is excited to be part of the event where he etched his name in history by hitting six sixes in an over against England in 2007. "Some of my fonde...

Pakistan post 179-run target in final New Zealand T20I

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Pakistan have posted 178/5 in the final T20I of the series against New Zealand at Lahore's Gaddafi Stadium on Saturday, April 27. The Men in Green will have to defend 179-run target in order to level the series. If New Zealand chase this down, they will win the five-match series 3-1. The hosts had a disappointing start with Saim Ayub only making 1. He was dismissed in the William O’Rourke in the second over. Usman Khan joined captain Babar Azam and the pair recovered well by scoring quickly. Usman, playing his fourth T20, made 31 off 24 balls with the help of four boundaries. Meanwhile, Babar looked solid tonight with his strokes. The 29-year-old registered his 34th fifty in T20Is and also claimed the record for most fours in the history of the format. Babar has now 409 fours in 108 innings, which took him above Ireland’s Paul Stirling who hit 407 fours in 136 innings. His innings was cut short by Ben Sears on 69 off 44 balls. He smacked six fours and two maximums at a stri...

New Zealand opt to bowl first against Pakistan in fifth T20I

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New Zealand have won the toss and elected to bowl first against Pakistan in the fifth T20I of the five-match series here at Gaddafi Stadium on Saturday. PLAYING XIs New Zealand Michael Bracewell (c), Tom Blundell, Mark Chapman, Josh Clarkson, Zak Foulkes, Cole McConchie, James Neesham, Will O’Rourke, Ben Sears, Tim Seifert (wk), Ish Sodhi. Pakistan Babar Azam (c), Saim Ayub, Usman Khan (wk), Fakhar Zaman, Iftikhar Ahmed, Shadab Khan, Imad Wasim, Shaheen Afridi, Usama Mir, Abbas Afridi, Mohammad Amir HEAD TO HEAD Matches 43, Pakistan 22, New Zealand 19, NR 2 via Original Source

Harbhajan Singh reveals his choice for openers in T20 World Cup

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Virat Kohli’s playing position in the upcoming T20 World Cup 2024 has become a talk of the town as former cricketers and experts seem to have different opinions on the 35-year-old’s batting order in what could be his mega event for the Blues. Kohli, 35, was the Player of the Tournament of the 2014 and 2016 T20 World Cup and also finished as the top-scorer of the 2022 mega event. In all those events, he played at number third but this time he could see a change in his batting order. Former BCCI president Sourav Ganguly and others believe that Kohli should be opening the innings alongside skipper Rohit Sharma but former Indian spinner Harbhajan Singh isn’t of the same mind. As per Harbhajan, Yashashvi Jaiswal should open the innings alongside The Hitman while Kohli should continue to play at number 3, where he has excelled in the past as well. “I believe Yashasvi Jaiswal and Rohit Sharma should open for India, and Virat Kohli should come at no.3,” Harbhajan told Star Sports. “I wou...

How to prevent backache?

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Backache can be experienced by anyone, irrespective of age, height, weight or gender. Good posture – Posture plays a very important as in helping our muscles and bones stay within the center of gravity. Avoid sitting, standing or sleeping in a bad posture as it strains both the muscles and the bones which may in-time change the structure of the spine, contributing to back pain. Have a healthy weight - Being overweight causes strain on our bones and joints, which contributes to backache. Try to watch your diet to prevent gaining weight. Have toned muscles – Have toned abdominal and the back muscles. If you have strong muscles, your back will be well supported and this will help you keep a good posture as well. Exercise regularly – Exercising regularly and correctly prevents stiffness of back muscles. This will also help ease our stressed muscles, preventing backache. Lift objects carefully - Most people who throw out their back do so by attempting to lift an object incorrect...

At what age is a person officially considered old?

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A recent survey has revealed that the age at which a person is considered old has increased over time, ABC7 reported. In the survey, researchers found that people in their mid-60s now define old age as starting around 75. They believe that the age has increased as previously, around a decade ago, people of that age defined old age as starting around 71. According to the study, published in the the American Psychological Association's (APA) journal Psychology and Aging, this change reflects, in part, the increase in life expectancy, later retirement ages, and overall better functioning in our golden ages. The age at which people consider themselves old varies depending on their gender, health, and general happiness. Women believe old age starts about two years later than what most men believe. Meanwhile, those who are lonely or have poor health tend to consider themselves old at a lower age than those who are happy and in good health. The study stated that these findings are...

Hafeez questioned the appointment of foreign coaches

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Former Pakistan cricketer Mohammad Hafeez has questioned the appointment of foreign coaches for the national men’s side. While speaking to Geo News in an exclusive interview, Hafeez, who served as director of the team for a brief period of time recently, said that it is unfair to accuse local coaches of nepotism. "The process of removing me as director cricket was unfortunate. I am a qualified level one coach. Coaching courses are an education but not complete eligibility to become a coach. We cannot ignore the experience of international cricket." It must be noted that former chairman of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Najam Sethi had claimed that local coaches make decisions on personal relations. "I'm really disappointed with the statement of former chairman PCB because it is unfair to many former players. Pakistan has got legends of cricket who are admired by the rest of the world,” he said. “This is a slavish mindset of PCB that only a foreign coach shoul...

Best home remedies for appendicitis

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Appendicitis is a condition where the appendix becomes swollen and infected. It affects about 5% of the population across the globe. Appendicitis can be caused by a blockage within the appendix, which causes blood flow issues, inflammation, infection and pressure. The appendix can rupture if not treated on time. The pain caused due to appendicitis should not be ignored, as delay in seeking medical help can lead to the bursting of the appendix, which is a life-threatening complication of appendicitis. Home remedies are of no help in treating this condition. However, you may follow some home remedies for a smooth recovery after Appendicectomy ( a surgical procedure to remove the appendix).   What is appendicitis? The appendix is a small finger-shaped organ connected to the large intestine on the right side of the abdomen. Its exact function is unknown and it is possible to live without one. Appendicitis is a condition that causes the appendix to swell, become inflamed and fill...

ICC T20 World Cup trophy reaches Pakistan

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The International Cricket Council (ICC) World Cup trophy reached Pakistan on Thursday ahead of the mega event, slated to happen jointly in the United States and West Indies from June 1. According to details, Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) officials had welcomed the trophy and the ICC delegation. It is expected that the trophy will be exhibited today at 5:00 p.m. in Shakarparian. Earlier this month, it was reported that the ICC T20 World Cup trophy was expected to reach Pakistan by end of April. The PCB and International Cricket Council (ICC) were looking to finalise the dates for the trophy tour. The PCB was looking to ensure the trophy tour in Pakistan during the forthcoming home series against New Zealand. via Original Source

Bismah Maroof announces retirement from cricket

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Former captain Bismah Maroof announced retirement from cricket with immediate effect on Thursday, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) confirmed in a press release. The left-hander made her ODI debut against India in 2006 and her T20I debut against Ireland in 2009. She featured for Pakistan in 276 international matches, which is the most by any Pakistan women cricketer. She notched up 6,262 international runs, including 33 fifties, and bagged 80 international wickets. “I have decided to retire from the game I love the most. It has been an incredible journey, filled with challenges, victories, and unforgettable memories," Bismah said. “I want to express my gratitude to my family, who has supported me throughout my cricketing journey, from the very beginning until now. “I also want to extend my thanks to the Pakistan Cricket Board for believing in me and providing the platform to showcase my talent. The support from the PCB has been invaluable, particularly in implementing the fir...

Babar rejects wrong impression regarding team bonding

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Pakistan captain Babar Azam on Wednesday rejected the impression that there is no bonding in the team, adding they always play like a unit. The statement comes ahead of the fourth T20I of the ongoing series against New Zealand in Lahore on Thursday. “Our bonding is good. Yes, when we lose, we discuss the merits and demerits and it further strengthens our bonding as a team,” Babar said during a press conference. He also said that the basic purpose behind their ongoing series against New Zealand is to do experiments in order to constitute a solid side for the coming T20 World Cup which will be hosted by the US and West Indies in June. “The basic motive behind this series is to do experiments in order to form a good combination and on the top four slots we will try to give enough chances to players who are going to World Cup,” he said. “And if we switch over any player to a different spot, we will do it by discussing with him. Everything is happening through proper understanding an...

Your nails can say a lot about your health

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There’s a lot more to fingernails and toenails than pruning and polishing. Your nails actually serve as a window to your health. Healthy nails are strong, smooth and pink. Abnormalities such as discoloration, thickening, softening, ridging, pitting and splitting may be signs of underlying health conditions. Changes in your nails don’t always indicate a serious health issue, but you may want to mention them to your primary care provider at your annual health exam, says UH certified nurse practitioner Michelle Twombly, CNP. Here’s what she says to look for: Discoloration Yellow nails can have many causes. It may be a sign of a fungal infection, which also can lead to thickening and crumbling. Yellow nails also can be a symptom of more serious health problems, including thyroid conditions, liver disease, congestive heart failure, lung disease, diabetes and rheumatoid arthritis. Pale nails could indicate anemia or heart failure. Dark lines beneath the nail sometimes result from in...

ICC Rankings: Shaheen clinches title of top-rated T20I bowler

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Shaheen Shah Afridi, Pakistan's most formidable pacer, has become the country's highest-rated T20I bowler as per the latest rankings update by the International Cricket Council (ICC) on Wednesday — once again proving to be the true inspiration to all aspiring cricketers out there. Shaheen went up by two notches to 17th spot among T20I bowlers. “Shaheen rises two spots to 17th overall for T20I bowlers on the back of his strong start to Pakistan's ongoing T20I series at home against New Zealand, where the 24-year-old is the leading wicket-taker for the series through the first three matches,” the ICC said in a press release. “The pacer took the only wicket in the opening match of the series that was ruined by rain and his haul of 3/13 in Pakistan's decisive seven-wicket triumph over the Kiwis in the second game of the series has led to the rise up the rankings and past teammate and fellow quick Haris Rauf in 22nd place.” The number one spot belongs to England's ...

Shaheen moves up, Babar slips down in ICC T20I rankings

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Pakistan's left-arm quick, Shaheen Afridi, has emerged as their highest-rated T20I bowler, after the latest update to the ICC Men's T20I Player Rankings. Shaheen has climbed two spots to secure the 17th position among T20I bowlers globally, following his performances in the first three T20Is against New Zealand. Shaheen's impressive display in the series has been instrumental in his ascent in the rankings. He currently leads the wicket-tally for the series after the first three matches. In the opening game, which was marred by rain, Shaheen managed to grab the sole wicket. However, it was his remarkable performance in the second match, where he claimed figures of 3/13, that significantly contributed to Pakistan's commanding victory over the Kiwis by seven wickets. This outstanding performance not only earned him accolades but also propelled him past his teammate and fellow quick, Haris Rauf, who now sits at 22nd place in the rankings. Despite Shaheen's rise, E...

Shadab Khan talks vice-captaincy, batting order

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Pakistan cricketer Shadab Khan has spoken about various aspects of the team's preparations ahead of the upcoming T20 World Cup, including strike rate, rotation policy, player roles, and the vice-captaincy. Speaking to media, Shadab emphasized the importance of strike rate in modern cricket, particularly against strong opposition. “Strike rate is very important and we are trying [to improve it]. We have to play with a good strike rate against big teams. I believe that the team that scores more boundaries in a match has better chances to win," Shadab told media on Tuesday. The 25 year-old also spoke about the absence of experienced all-rounder Imad Wasim in the first three T20Is against New Zealand due to the rotation policy in place. “It was part of the rotation policy. Management had already talked to all the players. So according to the rotation policy Imad Wasim might get a game now,” he further added. Shadab highlighted the need to establish clear batting positions f...

How does salt affect heart health?

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Many people, especially those who should limit their sodium intake due to heart health concerns, ingest more of this element than is advised daily. This is supported by a recent study that discovered individuals with cardiovascular disease (CVD) were ingesting more than twice as much sodium per day — 1,500 mg— as is advised. The study participants ingested an average of 3,096 mg of sodium daily, with 89% exceeding the recommended daily intake. The results were presented at the Annual Scientific Session of the American College of Cardiology. "Sodium helps to balance the water in your body," explained cardiologist Jayne Morgan, MD, clinical director at the Piedmont Healthcare Corporation in Atlanta, GA. "It even supports the proper functioning of muscles and nerves," added Dr Morgan who was not involved in the study. “This is why salt increases the blood volume in your bodies. The effect of this is an increase in blood pressure. The increased blood pressure th...

5 foods high in omega-3s

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Healthy fats, such as monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, are associated with reduced risk for Type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and even better gut health. They can also help with weight management by increasing satiety and slowing down digestion. The bottom line is that healthy fats boost your health and keep you fuller for longer. Omega-3 fatty acids are a type of polyunsaturated fat that has been extensively studied for their benefits to brain and heart health. A 2022 study found that individuals with high omega-3 fatty acids in their blood were more likely to have better cognitive and brain health in middle age. The study also assessed individual carriers of APOE-e4, a gene associated with a higher risk of Alzheimer’s. These findings are consistent with studies showing brain health benefits with higher omega-3 consumption. In addition to better cognitive health, omega-3 fatty acid consumption has also been associated with better mental health, with studies showing potenti...

Will Haris Rauf play T20 World Cup 2024?

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Pakistan pacer Haris Rauf is currently on the sidelines after suffering a shoulder injury during the Pakistan Super League (PSL) season nine earlier this year. The injury also forced Haris to miss the ongoing five-match T20I series against New Zealand on home soil. However, Rauf has now completed his rehab and has also started doing gym training. The right-armer is on the selection committee’s radar for the T20 World Cup, which begins in June, but they will be keeping a close eye on how he bowls during practice sessions in the coming days. Earlier this month, while speaking at a press conference in Lahore, Pakistan selector Wahab Riaz said that Rauf will “probably be fit for the England series”. The deadline for squad submission for T20 World Cup is May 1 but changes can be made till 25th of next month. After that, approval from the International Cricket Council (ICC) will be needed for any changes in the squad. Pakistan team will play three T20Is against Ireland and four again...

How often should you wash your hair?

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From the hair hacks your friends swear by to the varying rules established by experts, it may seem nearly impossible to figure out how often you should wash your hair. The truth is that several factors influence how often you need to wash your hair. From your unique hair texture to daily activities and lifestyle choices, hair-washing requirements aren’t one-size-fits-all, In this article, we'll delve into valuable insights from hair care professionals, aiming to guide you in customizing your hair-washing routine. The goal is not just to help you keep your hair clean but to ensure it maintains its health and vibrancy. Washing Tips by Hair Type The first step to figuring out how often you should wash your hair is understanding the needs of specific hair types and textures. As dermatologist Dr. Harikiran Chekuri, medical head of ClinicSpots, and founder of Redefine Clinic put it, "There is no universal rule for how often you should wash your hair, but some general guideline...