PSL 2026 Final to Be Played in Front of Fans in Lahore The Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2026 final will mark a significant shift from the tournament’s earlier restrictions, as the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman, Mohsin Naqvi, confirmed that the match will be held in front of a full crowd at Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium. This decision comes after Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif approved the move, allowing spectators to attend the final on 3 May. The event will be the only game of the season to feature fans, following a period of closed-door matches due to an energy crisis triggered by supply disruptions linked to the West Asia crisis. Naqvi announced the decision during a press briefing, stating that the Prime Minister had initially emphasized the need for austerity measures to conserve fuel amid the ongoing crisis. However, the PCB chairman noted that franchise owners had made a compelling case for allowing fans to attend the final, leading to the approval. “I sincerely thank the Prime Minister for this decision and for facilitating the fans,” Naqvi said, highlighting the importance of the event for the sport’s fanbase. The tournament had previously been held behind closed doors since March 22, when Naqvi announced that the PSL 2026 season would be scaled back to just two venues—Lahore and Karachi—due to the energy crisis. At the time, he left the door open for potential crowd attendance in later stages of the tournament, contingent on the resolution of the Iran-related supply disruptions. “Perhaps it ends in 10 days, perhaps 15,” he had said, expressing uncertainty about the timeline for lifting restrictions. Despite the initial plan to limit attendance, the tournament continued with minimal crowds, primarily consisting of special guests and sponsorship-related attendees.#pakistan_cricket_board #pakistan_super_league #gaddafi_stadium #shehbaz_sharif #mohsin_naqvi
Pakistan sends fighter jets to Saudi Arabia amid fragile US-Iran ceasefire | Conflict News | Al Jazeera Pakistan has deployed fighter jets to Saudi Arabia, marking its first visible military action under a mutual defense pact with the kingdom, as it hosts ceasefire talks aimed at ending weeks of regional fighting between the US, Israel, and Iran. The aircraft, a mix of fighter and support jets, landed at King Abdulaziz Air Base in Saudi Arabia’s Eastern Province on Saturday, according to the Saudi Ministry of Defence. The deployment comes under a collective defense agreement signed in September 2025, which obliges both nations to treat an attack on the other as an attack on themselves. The pact was finalized during a visit by Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to Riyadh last September, where he met Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. As the jets arrived in Saudi Arabia, Pakistan was simultaneously facilitating direct negotiations between the United States and Iran in Islamabad. Senior delegations from both countries were present, with Pakistani mediators working to broker an end to the weeks-long conflict. Since Iran launched missile and drone strikes on US targets in Gulf states following the US-Israeli killing of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei on 28 February, Pakistan has been navigating its commitments to both sides. Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar warned Iranian leaders in early March that Islamabad was bound by its obligations to Riyadh under the defense agreement. Iran sought assurances that Saudi territory would not be used to attack it, which Dar claimed he secured. However, Iranian attacks on Saudi targets, including key bases and a US embassy building, have continued.#pakistan #saudi_arabia #shehbaz_sharif #mohammed_bin_salman #king_abdulaziz_air_base
US-Iran War: Has The War Given Pakistan A Diplomatic 'Lifeline' In The Middle East? Pakistan has emerged as a pivotal mediator in the ongoing US-Iran conflict, leveraging its strategic position to broker a 14-day ceasefire between the two warring nations. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif's announcement of the truce, coupled with his invitation for US and Iranian delegations to Islamabad for further negotiations, marks a significant diplomatic milestone for the country. This move has been hailed as a redemption for Pakistan, which had faced a major fallout with its Gulf patrons a decade ago during the 2015 Yemen conflict. The ceasefire, announced on Wednesday, comes amid heightened tensions following President Trump's warning that "an entire civilization will die tonight" if the conflict escalated. Pakistan's role in facilitating this truce has drawn praise from both Tehran and Washington. Trump credited Sharif and Army Chief Field Marshal Asim Munir for their efforts, while Iran's Foreign Minister, Abbas Araghchi, expressed gratitude for Pakistan's tireless mediation. The gesture has also earned endorsements from China, Turkey, and Egypt, underscoring Pakistan's growing influence in regional diplomacy. The 2015 Yemen conflict serves as a critical backdrop to Pakistan's current diplomatic resurgence. At the time, Gulf states, particularly Saudi Arabia and the UAE, intervened militarily to support the internationally recognized government against Iran-backed Houthis. Pakistan, which had previously provided military and policing services to Gulf monarchies in exchange for financial aid, hesitated to commit. Domestic opposition and fears of sectarian divisions within Pakistan constrained the then-government of Nawaz Sharif, who had strong ties to Saudi Arabia through marriage and political asylum.#pakistan #trump #abbas_araghchi #shehbaz_sharif #asim_munir
PSL 11: Hyderabad Kingsmen Target Maheesh Theekshana as Baartman Replacement Debutant franchise Hyderabad Kingsmen are exploring options to replace South African fast bowler Ottniel Baartman for the 11th edition of the Pakistan Super League (PSL), set to begin on 26 March. Sources indicate the team has reached out to Sri Lankan spinner Maheesh Theekshana, though his participation hinges on obtaining a No-Objection Certificate from Sri Lanka Cricket. Baartman, who was acquired by the Kingsmen during the inaugural PSL auction in Lahore on 11 February for PKR 1.1 crore, has withdrawn from the tournament without providing a reason. Neither the player nor the franchise has clarified the circumstances of his absence. Theekshana, a seasoned T20 international, has represented Sri Lanka in 83 matches, taking 82 wickets at an economy rate of 7.08. His inclusion would bolster the Kingsmen’s bowling attack ahead of the tournament. The 11th PSL edition will feature eight teams, including new entrants Hyderabad Kingsmen and Rawalpindi, with 44 matches scheduled over 39 days. However, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has scaled back its plans, confirming matches will be held at only two venues and played behind closed doors. PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi announced the revised format at a media conference, citing discussions with franchise owners and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. Initially, six cities—Multan, Peshawar, Faisalabad, Karachi, Rawalpindi, and Lahore—were considered as host venues. The tournament has now been consolidated to Karachi and Lahore, marking a significant shift from the original plans. The decision reflects ongoing logistical and security challenges amid the evolving circumstances. The PSL’s reduced format has also impacted other teams.#pakistan_cricket_board #shehbaz_sharif #hyderabad_kingsmen #maheesh_theekshana #ottniel_baartman
Iran launches missile strikes against US aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln amid escalating tensions Iran reportedly fired missiles at the US aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln shortly after issuing warnings about its actions. The attack followed reports that President Donald Trump had sent a peace proposal to Iran, which included a request for a month-long ceasefire. The strikes marked a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict, with Iran claiming it forced the carrier to alter its position after the missile attack. The timing of the strikes coincided with global oil market volatility. Brent crude futures fell by 4% to $100.32 per barrel, while US West Texas Intermediate crude dropped 3.4% to $89.24 per barrel, reflecting investor concerns over the conflict’s impact on energy markets. Analysts noted that the drop in oil prices was partly driven by Trump’s claims of diplomatic efforts to de-escalate the situation. Pakistan emerged as a potential mediator, with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif stating that Islamabad was prepared to host peace talks between the US and Iran. Sharif’s announcement was shared by Trump on his social media platform, signaling a shift in the administration’s approach. Trump claimed the US was actively engaged in negotiations, with his envoys Steve Witkoff, Jared Kushner, Marco Rubio, and JD Vance participating in discussions. He emphasized that the talks were focused on preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons, stating, “They want to make a deal so badly, you have no idea how badly they want to make it.” Meanwhile, regional tensions continued to flare. The UAE activated air defenses in response to missile threats, and Saudi Arabia intercepted drones in its eastern region.#iran #donald_trump #international_energy_agency #shehbaz_sharif #uss_abraham_lincoln
Trump Shares Pakistan PM's Iran War Mediation Post, Fuels Speculation President Trump's decision to share an official statement from Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has sparked speculation about potential backchannel diplomacy in the ongoing US-Iran conflict. The post, which highlights Islamabad's willingness to mediate between Washington and Tehran, has drawn attention to the possibility of indirect communication efforts to resolve the regional crisis. Prime Minister Sharif's statement emphasized Pakistan's readiness to facilitate "meaningful and conclusive talks" between the United States and Iran, contingent on mutual agreement from both sides. He described the initiative as a commitment to "peace and stability in the region and beyond," with Islamabad positioned as a neutral host for negotiations. Sharif also reiterated support for broader diplomatic efforts to end the Middle East conflict, framing the proposal as part of a larger strategy for regional security. The move follows Trump's recent announcement of a five-day pause on planned strikes against Iranian energy infrastructure, which he attributed to "productive conversations" with Tehran. While the White House has not confirmed direct negotiations, Trump claimed the US is in contact with a "top person" in Iran. However, Tehran has maintained that no formal talks have occurred since hostilities began. US Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt cautioned against treating unverified reports as definitive, describing the situation as "sensitive" and "fluid." She emphasized that the administration would not engage in public negotiations, urging the public to await formal announcements. Despite this, reports suggest indirect communication is intensifying, with Pakistan serving as a key intermediary.#pakistan #iran #trump #jared_kushner #shehbaz_sharif
Pakistan Raises Fuel Costs by 200% Amid Strait of Hormuz Crisis Pakistan’s government approved a significant increase in the levy on high-octane fuel used by luxury vehicles, raising the per-litre charge from Pakistani Rupees (PKR) 100 to PKR 300. The decision, announced by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif during a high-level meeting, was part of efforts to address rising energy costs amid global market pressures. The move was taken after reviewing fuel pricing and economic relief measures, with senior officials including the Finance Minister, Petroleum Minister, and others present at the meeting. The price hike specifically targets high-octane fuel, which is used in premium vehicles, and will not directly affect public transport fares or air travel costs, according to reports from ARY News. This clarification aims to mitigate public backlash, as the increase comes amid heightened economic strain. Earlier on March 6, the federal government had already raised petrol and diesel prices by PKR 55 per litre, citing surging global oil prices driven by geopolitical tensions, including the US-Israel conflict with Iran. The latest adjustments have led to petrol prices rising to PKR 321.17 per litre from PKR 266.17, while diesel prices climbed to PKR 335.86 per litre from PKR 280.86. These changes were confirmed by Petroleum Minister Ali Pervaiz Malik during a press conference alongside Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb and Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar. The fuel price surge has also impacted the aviation sector. Pakistani airlines announced fare hikes on March 10, with domestic ticket prices increasing by PKR 2,800 to PKR 5,000 for flights between major cities like Karachi, Lahore, and Islamabad. International travel fares saw even steeper increases, with prices rising by PKR 10,000 to PKR 28,000.#pakistan #strait_of_hormuz #shehbaz_sharif #ary_news #ali_pervaiz_malik
Pakistan Fuel Crisis: Middle East Heat Reaches Pakistan, PM Announces Fuel-Saving Measures The ongoing Middle East crisis has intensified global oil supply disruptions, with Pakistan now facing severe fuel shortages. In response, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has announced a series of measures aimed at conserving fuel, including salary cuts, work-from-home policies, and reduced government spending. The measures were discussed during a meeting with federal and provincial authorities, with Sharif stating that “difficult decisions” were necessary due to the escalating situation. Key steps include a 50% reduction in fuel allowances for official vehicles for the next two months, with operational vehicles like ambulances and public buses exempt. Additionally, 60% of government vehicles across federal and provincial departments will be grounded during this period. Federal and provincial cabinet members will also forgo their salaries and allowances for two months, while lawmakers will see a 25% reduction in pay. Higher-ranking officials earning over Rs300,000 will surrender two days’ salary, which will be allocated to public welfare. However, health and education sector officials are exempt from this cut. The government will also cut non-employee-related expenditures by 20% in the fourth quarter, banning purchases of vehicles, furniture, air conditioners, and other items until June 2026. Foreign travel by ministers and officials is restricted, with exceptions only for “essential” trips. Government offices will shift to teleconferencing and online meetings to save fuel, while official dinners and Iftar parties are banned. Seminars and conferences will be held at government premises instead of hotels. Public sector offices will operate four days a week, excluding the banking sector.#pakistan #iran_war #middle_east_crisis #international_monetary_fund #shehbaz_sharif
Pakistan Orders Austerity Measures Amid Oil Crisis Linked to Iran War Pakistan has implemented strict austerity and fuel conservation measures in response to a disruption in oil and gas supplies caused by the U.S.-Israel conflict in Iran and broader Middle East tensions. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif announced the measures during a televised address, warning that disruptions in maritime traffic through the Strait of Hormuz—a critical oil transit route—have placed the country’s economy at risk. The measures include a four-day workweek for government employees, a two-week school closure, and salary cuts for lawmakers and officials. Schools across the country will remain closed from March 16 to the end of the month, though scheduled examinations will proceed. Universities and higher education institutions are shifting to online classes to conserve fuel. Federal and provincial cabinet members are instructed to forgo their salaries and allowances for two months, while legislators face a 25% reduction in pay. Government officials are restricted to essential travel abroad and must use economy class for trips. All in-person meetings in federal and provincial governments are now conducted online, and fuel allowances for offices have been reduced. Public gatherings are also limited, with weddings and parties capped at 200 guests and restricted to one main dish. The measures aim to curb energy consumption amid a severe fuel shortage. Pakistan’s reliance on imported energy has intensified the crisis, as the country depends on oil imports for over 80% of its needs. Between July 2025 and February 2026, oil imports totaled $10.71 billion, compared to $15 billion in 2024. The recent energy crisis has triggered the highest fuel price surge in Pakistan’s history, with petrol costing $1.15 per litre and diesel at $1.#pakistan #strait_of_hormuz #qatar #shehbaz_sharif #amer_zafar_durrani
