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Clash of titans
The cricketing world is once again abuzz with excitement as Pakistan and New Zealand gear up to face off in a thrilling cricket series. With both teams boasting formidable talent and a rich cricketing history, fans can expect exhilarating matches filled with nail-biting moments and unforgettable performances. The series promises to be a battle of contrasting styles and strengths. Pakistan’s flair and unpredictability against New Zealand’s methodical approach will make for captivating viewing for cricket enthusiasts around the globe.
Both teams have announced their squads for the T20 series, which will consist of five matches where the winner will be decided by the most wins in the series. Both team captains are ready to showcase their captaincy talent and fulfil their promises. Especially, Babar Azam is very excited for this series and fans are already calling him “The return of the king” as he will be playing again as captain for Pakistan. On the other hand, Michael Bracewell is a new talent who will lead the Black Caps on the soil of Pakistan with his young team, where most of the players are new and do not have much experience in international cricket.
Most fans and cricket experts are criticizing New Zealand for sending young and inexperienced players to Pakistan for the upcoming series. On the other hand, Pakistan is analyzing new players as the T20 World Cup is coming this year. The series holds particular significance for both teams as they look to assert their dominance on the international stage. With a blend of experienced stalwarts and promising young talents, Pakistan aims to make a strong statement against their Kiwi counterparts. On the other hand, New Zealand arrives with a reputation as one of the most consistent and well-balanced teams in world cricket. The venue of the PAK vs NZ 1st T20 match will be Rawalpindi Stadium in Rawalpindi, Pakistan.
ABU HAYAN
Islamabad
Indian democracy
at risk
India, the claimant of the world’s largest democracy, will hold its general elections from April 19 to June 1, 2024. The BJP is poised to secure a third consecutive victory for several compelling reasons. Firstly, recent actions such as Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal’s imprisonment for corruption and Rahul Gandhi’s defamation conviction highlight challenges faced by opposition leaders. Secondly, the BJP’s involvement in the Electoral Bond Scam underscores its close ties with the business community, evident through tax exemptions for companies funding the party.
Thirdly, press freedom has diminished under BJP governance, with media attention diverted from crucial socio-economic issues to divisive topics. Fourthly, the BJP’s adept marketing strategies, targeting voters of all ages through various media formats, deserve acknowledgment. Lastly, the BJP’s Hindu ideology resonates with a significant voter base, leveraging sentiments surrounding religious and nationalistic issues.
PM Modi adeptly capitalises on nationalist and religious sentiments, whether through the demolition of the Babri Mosque to build the Ram Mandir or by exerting influence in the Maldives to bolster Lakshadweep’s position. With all the major opposition party leaders in jail, strong connections with business giants, controlled digital and print media, strong media campaigns and provoking nationalism and religiousness, Indian democracy seems to be endangered.
TAHA ABDUL AHAD
Rawalpindi
Oscillation
In the democratic state, the executive is always subordinate to legislature. Pakistan, unfortunately, is an exception. Supremacy of ‘steel-framed’ institutions over political ones has been leading the state into chronic turmoil – a situation that requires revolutionary change.
Our political history bears witness to this mayhem which has been the most prominent cause of persistent decline since the country’s inception. If lessons are still not learnt, history is bound to repeat itself – this time as a tragedy of unprecedented magnitude. In conclusion, power parasites must stop denuding the legislature; otherwise, nobody enjoys impunity when toxic fallouts start miring.
BABAR HUSSAIN
Larkana
Box letter
Literature and life
Literature is more than just words on a page; it’s a reflection of life itself. It encompasses everything from creative works to technical writings but is primarily known for its imaginative expression. Beyond definitions, literature permeates society, culture and human experience, offering insight, knowledge and wisdom. Unlike science, which addresses the external world, literature delves into the human psyche, exploring themes of love, aesthetics and morality. It humanizes us, fostering emotional intelligence and promoting humanitarian values. Through poetry, fiction, novels and drama, literature presents life’s beauty and challenges, instilling optimism and inspiring societal change. It serves as a platform for reform, fostering moral, social and psychological development. Ultimately, literature is inseparable from humanity, enriching our lives with imagination, wisdom and empathy.
Amjad Ali
Malakand
