England captain Ben Stokes has announced he will retire from international cricket at the end of the ongoing third Test against New Zealand at Trent Bridge, bringing an extraordinary 15 year career to a close. The announcement came while the 35 year old all rounder was bowling during England’s second innings on Sunday. Moments later, Stokes produced another memorable chapter in his career by dismissing Zak Foulkes with the very first ball after his retirement became public. Harry Brook took the catch at second slip as the Trent Bridge crowd rose to applaud their captain. Before the start of play on the fourth day, Stokes informed his England team mates about his decision in an emotional dressing room address. “The reasons can wait, but I’ve had many trips to the well before for this team, for you blokes, for people beforehand and I’ve got one more trip to do. “The only thing that I ask, please, is can everyone do the same. “We’ve got a lot of hard work to do and the only thing I want is to be able to walk off that field, regardless of the result, knowing that I’ve had this group give everything for the last two days. “That’s the only thing I want, for everyone to give it not only for me, selfishly, but also for this team. “I’ve got the emotional side out of it, now it’s time to go to work. Please, everyone else come with me.” Stokes’ retirement comes only weeks after he returned from a suspension linked to a London nightclub incident. He had missed the second Test against New Zealand before leading England again at Trent Bridge. One of England’s greatest match winners Stokes leaves the international game as one of England’s finest all round cricketers. Since making his debut in 2011, he has played 122 Tests, 114 One Day Internationals and 43 Twenty20 Internationals. His Test record currently stands at 7,243 runs and 252 wickets. Only Sir Garfield Sobers and Jacques Kallis achieved the same all round double in Test cricket. Stokes also holds the record for 136 sixes in Test matches. His greatest achievements came during the unforgettable summer of 2019. First, he scored a match winning 84 in the dramatic Cricket World Cup final against New Zealand, helping England lift the trophy for the first time. Just six weeks later, he produced an unbeaten 135 against Australia at Headingley to complete one of the greatest Ashes victories in history. Those performances earned him the BBC Sports Personality of the Year award. Bazball era transformed England’s Test cricket Stokes also changed England’s Test approach after becoming captain in 2022 alongside head coach Brendon McCullum. Their aggressive style, widely known as Bazball, revived a struggling team that had won only one of its previous 17 Tests. England won 10 of their first 11 Tests under the new leadership. Stokes finished with a Test captaincy win rate of almost 56 percent, England’s best in 45 years. His career also included difficult moments. He missed the 2017 Ashes after the Bristol affray case, later receiving acquittal. In 2021, he stepped away from cricket to focus on his mental wellbeing following the death of his father and other personal challenges. He also battled several serious injuries, including long term knee problems and a fractured cheek earlier this year. England are now expected to appoint vice captain Harry Brook as Stokes’ successor before the upcoming Test series against Pakistan in August.
Tragedy Strikes Saudi Aramco as Helicopter Crash Claims 14 Lives
Fourteen Saudi nationals died after a helicopter operated by Saudi Aramco crashed on Sunday morning in Ras Tanura on Saudi Arabia’s eastern coast, according to the Saudi Press Agency. Authorities have launched an investigation, but they have not yet identified the cause of the accident. The helicopter went down at around 6:00am local time in Ras Tanura, a strategic oil hub on the Arabian Gulf, west of the Strait of Hormuz. The Saudi Press Agency reported that all 14 people on board were Saudi nationals. “The relevant authorities have launched a full investigation to determine the cause of the crash,” the state news agency said. Saudi Aramco did not immediately respond to Reuters’ request for comment following the incident. The crash occurred just two days after Aramco resumed crude oil loadings at its Ras Tanura export terminal. The company had suspended operations there for nearly four months before restarting shipments on Friday. Industry analysts linked the earlier suspension to heightened regional security concerns and disruptions in Gulf shipping routes. Ras Tanura is one of the world’s largest oil export terminals. It handles a significant share of Saudi Arabia’s crude exports and plays a vital role in global energy markets. Any incident near the facility attracts close attention from energy traders and governments because of its strategic importance. Investigation begins as questions remain unanswered Saudi authorities have not released details about the helicopter’s flight path, destination or mission. Officials also have not confirmed whether the aircraft was transporting employees, contractors or other personnel. Investigators are expected to examine flight records, weather conditions, maintenance history and technical data to determine what caused the crash. However, officials have urged the public to wait for the findings of the formal investigation before drawing conclusions. The Saudi Press Agency provided no indication that the crash affected operations at the Ras Tanura terminal. Likewise, Aramco has not announced any disruption to oil production or exports following the incident. Saudi Aramco remains the world’s largest oil producer. The company operates extensive upstream, downstream and export infrastructure across the Kingdom. It also manages critical facilities that supply crude oil to customers across Asia, Europe and North America. Crash comes during heightened regional energy activity The accident comes as Middle Eastern energy producers continue to increase oil and gas exports following recent geopolitical developments in the region. Saudi Arabia recently joined other Gulf producers in raising exports after the United States and Iran reached an interim agreement aimed at halting hostilities. Although the helicopter crash has not affected oil exports, it occurred at a sensitive time for regional energy markets. Analysts continue to monitor developments around the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most important maritime routes for global oil shipments. Authorities have not announced when they expect to complete the investigation. Meanwhile, Saudi officials continue to gather evidence and examine the circumstances surrounding one of the deadliest aviation incidents involving Saudi Aramco personnel in recent years.
New UAE Train Will Reach Abu Dhabi in Just 1 Hour 45 Minutes
The UAE will launch its first Etihad Rail passenger service from Fujairah at 5:34am on Tuesday. The journey marks the first phase of the country’s long awaited national passenger railway network. The inaugural train will travel to Mohammed Bin Zayed City in Abu Dhabi. It will complete the journey in just one hour and 45 minutes. Moreover, the train will reach speeds of up to 200 kilometres per hour. Each train will carry up to 400 passengers once the full network becomes operational. Meanwhile, Etihad Rail will introduce passenger services in several phases. Dubai and Al Dhaid stations will join the network on September 30. After that, Al Dhafra stations will begin operations on December 30. Sharjah will follow on March 30, 2027. The passenger launch represents a major milestone for the UAE. In recent years, the country has invested heavily in the national railway project to improve connectivity and reduce dependence on road transport. The network will eventually connect 11 cities and regions across the Emirates. Modern stations and comfortable travel experience Etihad Rail says every station has been designed to provide a seamless travel experience. For example, passengers will find clear signage, dedicated support teams, accessible facilities for people of determination and convenient parking. Likewise, every train will offer complimentary WiFi, charging ports at each seat, fold out tables, overhead luggage racks, dedicated baggage storage and extra legroom. The company believes rail travel offers a better alternative to driving. According to Etihad Rail, “With guaranteed seating, free internet access and a quiet cabin environment, passengers can use journey time to work, relax or avoid the stress of driving.” Furthermore, the operator highlighted the broader purpose of the service. “The real value of rail travel lies in making better use of travel time,” the company said. It added that the network focuses on passenger comfort and connectivity rather than simply moving people between destinations. Passengers can already book tickets through the Etihad Rail mobile app and the company’s website. During the booking process, travellers choose their departure station, travel date, travel class and payment method. Passenger network will connect 11 cities Once fully operational, the railway will connect major residential and economic centres across the UAE. Stations will include Mohammed Bin Zayed City, Al Yalayis, University City, Fujairah, Al Dhaid, Al Mirfa, Al Sila, Al Ruwais, Madinat Zayed, Liwa and Al Faya. The passenger service builds on Etihad Rail’s successful freight operations, which already transport cargo across the country. As a result, the UAE expects stronger connectivity between its major cities. Experts also believe the railway will boost tourism, support business travel and encourage greater use of public transport. In addition, faster journeys could reduce road congestion and improve travel reliability. Overall, the phased rollout reflects the UAE’s long term transport strategy. As more stations open, Etihad Rail is expected to become a key part of daily travel for commuters, families, business travellers and tourists.
Karachi’s Traffic Crisis Sparks Major Underground Rail Proposal
The Pakistan Academy of Engineering (PAE) has proposed an underground railway network for Karachi as a long term solution to the city’s worsening traffic congestion and rising transportation demand. The proposal aims to introduce a modern mass transit system that can serve millions of daily commuters while improving the efficiency of urban mobility. PAE presented the proposal during a symposium on underground transportation. Engineers, urban planners and transport experts from Pakistan, the United States and China attended the event. They discussed international best practices and explored how underground rail systems have transformed major cities around the world. Participants stressed that an underground railway could play a key role in modernising Karachi’s public transport network. They said the project would help the city manage rapid population growth while offering faster, safer and more reliable travel. Experts at the symposium said “an underground rail network could play a vital role in transforming Karachi’s public transport infrastructure.” Karachi, Pakistan’s commercial hub, is home to more than 20 million people. The city faces severe traffic congestion because of rapid urbanisation, increasing vehicle ownership and an overstretched public transport system. Long commuting hours and traffic bottlenecks have become a daily challenge for residents and businesses alike. Two priority routes identified for the first phase As part of the proposed first phase, engineers recommended two priority underground corridors. The first route would connect Numaish Chowrangi with Merewether Tower. The second would run from FTC on Sharea Faisal to I.I. Chundrigar Road and Tower. The proposed routes pass through some of Karachi’s busiest commercial and business districts. Experts believe these corridors can reduce pressure on heavily congested roads while improving connectivity between major economic centres. According to the proposal, the underground railway would significantly reduce travel times, ease traffic congestion, lower carbon emissions and improve connectivity across the city. It would also complement Karachi’s existing transport network instead of replacing it. The project aligns with global urban transport trends. Cities such as London, Beijing, Shanghai, Istanbul and Delhi have expanded underground rail systems to accommodate growing populations and reduce dependence on private vehicles. Experts see long term economic and environmental benefits Transport specialists believe the proposal could support Karachi’s long term economic growth if authorities move towards detailed feasibility studies and implementation planning. Faster commuting can improve business productivity, attract investment and lower fuel consumption across the city. The experts also highlighted environmental benefits. Reduced road congestion can lower vehicle emissions and improve air quality in one of Pakistan’s most densely populated cities. Better public transport can also encourage more people to shift from private cars to mass transit. Karachi already operates the Green Line and Red Line Bus Rapid Transit projects, but transport experts say the city’s expanding population requires additional high capacity systems. They believe an underground railway could become a cornerstone of Karachi’s future transport strategy if the proposal receives government support and funding.
FBR’s New Taftan Decision Could Unlock Billions in Pakistan-Iran Trade
The Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) has declared the Taftan border railway station a Land Customs Station for import and export operations. The decision marks a major step towards expanding formal rail trade between Pakistan and Iran. The new facility covers 11.75 hectares at the border crossing. It can now handle loading, unloading, customs clearance and the processing of imported and exported goods. The FBR has also defined the station’s geographical boundaries and integrated it into Pakistan’s customs network. The decision followed a phone conversation between the heads of Pakistan Railways and the Islamic Republic of Iran Railways. Officials later exchanged correspondence seeking the activation of the Taftan railway crossing. The move aims to speed up rail cargo movement and improve bilateral trade. It also supports lower transport costs and smoother customs procedures. According to the FBR notification, the station can handle “loading, unloading, customs clearance and processing of imported and exported goods.” Reliable reports indicate that both countries coordinated closely before taking the step. Taftan serves as Pakistan’s main land crossing with Iran. Despite its strategic location, the station has operated below its potential for years. Limited infrastructure and the absence of a dedicated railway customs facility slowed cargo movement and discouraged rail based trade. Faster rail trade expected to reduce costs Trade experts believe the new customs station will encourage businesses to shift more cargo to rail transport. They say faster customs clearance and organised cargo handling will reduce transport costs and shorten delivery times. Officials also expect the facility to curb smuggling and undocumented trade. Stronger inspections and better documentation should encourage traders to use formal channels. The station will also strengthen customs oversight and improve revenue collection. The notification comes under the Customs Act, 1969. It formally recognises Taftan Railway Station as a Land Customs Station for rail freight operations. The decision supports Pakistan’s wider efforts to modernise border trade infrastructure and improve trade facilitation. Pakistan and Iran continue push for $5 billion trade target The announcement comes as Pakistan and Iran continue efforts to raise bilateral trade to $5 billion. Leaders from both countries have repeated that goal during recent high level meetings. However, banking restrictions, border infrastructure gaps and logistical challenges have slowed progress. Officials believe the new customs station will help remove some of those barriers. They expect rail transport to play a bigger role in moving agricultural products, minerals, petroleum products and other commercial goods. Better border facilities should also improve supply chain efficiency and reduce business costs. The Taftan initiative reflects growing cooperation between Islamabad and Tehran on trade and connectivity. Analysts say stronger rail links and modern customs facilities can increase formal commerce while reducing dependence on informal trade routes. They also believe the project will unlock more economic potential at one of Pakistan’s most important border crossings.
After Nearly 30 Years, SBP Is Finally Giving Its Website a Complete Makeover
The State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) has announced that it will launch a redesigned official website with a modern interface, improved navigation and easier access to information. The upgrade marks the biggest overhaul of the central bank’s online presence in nearly three decades. In a brief announcement, SBP said the new website will help users find information and services more quickly. The central bank added that the platform offers a better user experience and introduces smart tools for easier navigation. The announcement states that the website has been designed to offer “seamless navigation, quicker access to information, and smart tools to help users find the services and resources they need more efficiently.” The redesigned portal will replace the long running website, sbp.org.pk, which has served as SBP’s primary online platform since the early 2000s. Public domain records also show that the official domain, sbp.org.pk, was first registered on August 25, 1997, making it one of Pakistan’s oldest active government financial websites. The central bank has not announced an exact launch date. However, it says the new platform will improve access to its digital services and public information. Easier access for banks, businesses and researchers The revamped website will serve a wide range of users, including commercial banks, businesses, investors, researchers, students and the general public. Visitors will gain quicker access to monetary policy announcements, exchange rate information, banking regulations, statistical databases, publications and financial reports. SBP regularly publishes monetary policy decisions, inflation reports, banking regulations, circulars and economic indicators on its website. It also provides updates on payment systems, foreign exchange regulations, Islamic banking, digital finance initiatives and financial stability reports. The redesigned platform aims to organise this information more efficiently. Users should spend less time searching for documents and more time accessing the data they need. The upgrade also reflects SBP’s broader digital transformation strategy. During the past few years, the central bank has introduced initiatives such as Raast, expanded digital payments, promoted cashless transactions and launched new online services for financial institutions and consumers. Digital transformation continues across Pakistan’s financial sector The website redesign comes as Pakistan’s financial sector increasingly relies on digital services. Banks, businesses and investors now depend on online platforms for regulations, policy updates, market data and compliance requirements. A faster and more user friendly website can improve transparency and make official information easier to access. Analysts believe the upgrade will also strengthen communication between the central bank and its stakeholders. The redesign supports SBP’s wider efforts to modernise its digital infrastructure. As more financial services move online, the central bank continues to invest in technology that improves public access to information while supporting Pakistan’s evolving digital economy.
Lionel Messi Makes World Cup History, Scores in 7 Straight Games
Lionel Messi celebrated his 39th birthday week with another milestone, coming off the bench to score in Argentina’s 3-1 win over Jordan and extend his remarkable FIFA World Cup scoring streak. Although Argentina had already secured first place in Group J before kickoff, thousands of supporters packed the stadium hoping to see their captain in action. The defending champions rested Messi at the start, but the crowd erupted when he entered the match in the 60th minute. Twenty minutes later, the eight time Ballon d’Or winner delivered another memorable moment. After drawing a foul just outside the penalty area, Messi curled a low free kick through the defensive wall and into the corner of the net to seal Argentina’s victory. The goal made him the first men’s player to score in seven consecutive World Cup matches. It also increased his overall World Cup tally to 19 goals, extending his record as the competition’s highest scoring male player. Another Milestone for Argentina’s Captain The strike also added another chapter to Messi’s remarkable international career. It was the 72nd direct free kick goal of his professional career and his 12th for Argentina. Messi now has 123 international goals in 202 appearances, leaving him second on the all time men’s list behind Cristiano Ronaldo’s 145 goals. https://Twitter.com/itsmeuv10/status/2071078241557733727 His latest free kick also placed him among a select group of players to score multiple direct free kicks in World Cup history. The achievement puts him alongside Pelé, Rivellino, Téofilo Cubillas, Bernard Genghini and David Beckham. Argentina also received an important contribution from Giovani Lo Celso, who opened the scoring with a first half free kick. After the match, Lo Celso praised his captain’s influence on the squad. “I am very happy for him, for the moment he is having,” Lo Celso said. “The truth is that seeing him every day excites, excites and infects a lot. So obviously seeing him like that for us is very important.” Knockout Stage Awaits Messi started on the bench after dealing with a minor hamstring issue before the tournament. Argentina’s coaching staff also had little reason to risk him because the team had already guaranteed top spot in the group, while Jordan had no chance of reaching the knockout stage. Even so, the atmosphere changed the moment Messi began warming up. Supporters repeatedly chanted his name before welcoming him with a standing ovation as he entered the field. Argentina now moves into the Round of 32 as one of the tournament favourites. The team’s knockout campaign begins next Friday in South Florida. Messi also leads the race for the Golden Boot with six goals. He sits two clear of Kylian Mbappé, VinÃcius Júnior and Erling Haaland. With five more matches separating Argentina from another possible World Cup title, Messi’s latest record has only strengthened belief that his extraordinary international career still has more history to make.
