Untold number of exotic animals are being imported or bred across Pakistan, much to the horror of helpless wildlife officials.

Pakistani elite’s love for big cats makes animal trade a roaring business

Afghanistan's President Ashraf Ghani is in Pakistan on a two-day visit. Ghani also held meeting with Imran Khan, the Prime Minister of Pakistan. So what was being discussed? Why is the visit crucial for both Pakistan & Afghanistan? Here's a report.

Gravitas: Afghan President Ashraf Ghani visits Pakistan

The World Bank has approved $722 million<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-receives-500-from-qatar-231719"> loan for Pakistan</a> that will largely be used for improving civic and public transport facilities in Karachi, according to a media report.

Out of the approved amount, $652 million will be used for the development of Karachi, while the rest $70 million will be used for improving tourism services in the country's northwestern Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa region, The Express Tribune reported on Saturday.

The board of directors of the World Bank approved the<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-signs-375-million-syndicated-loan-with-uae-banks-231580"> loan </a>on Thursday.

The projects in Karachi will focus on urban management, public transport, safe water and sanitation to enhance its liveability and competitiveness, the World Bank said in its statement.

The projects have been approved in light of the findings of the Karachi Transformative Strategy which estimated that infrastructure needed spending worth $9-10 billion over a period of next 10 years for the city to develop.

The study noted that compared to huge financing needs, the city was not generating enough resources to meet these requirements, the report said.

The World Bank has approved $722 million loan for Pakistan that will largely be used for improving civic and public transport facilities in Karachi, according to a media report.

The World Bank has approved $722 million loan for Pakistan that will largely be used for improving civic and public transport facilities in Karachi, according to a media report. Out of the approved amount, $652 million will be used for the development of Karachi, while the rest $70 million will be used for improving tourism services in the country's northwestern Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa region, The Express Tribune reported on Saturday. The board of directors of the World Bank approved the loan on Thursday. The projects in Karachi will focus on urban management, public transport, safe water and sanitation to enhance its liveability and competitiveness, the World Bank said in its statement. The projects have been approved in light of the findings of the Karachi Transformative Strategy which estimated that infrastructure needed spending worth $9-10 billion over a period of next 10 years for the city to develop. The study noted that compared to huge financing needs, the city was not generating enough resources to meet these requirements, the report said.

World bank grants $722 million loan for Pakistan to improve civic facilities

In what comes as a relief to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-signs-375-million-syndicated-loan-with-uae-banks-231580">cash-strapped Pakistan</a>, Qatar has deposited the first tranche of US $500 million in the State Bank of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/those-manufactured-in-the-nursery-of-military-dictatorship-calling-me-selected-imran-khan-231597">Pakistan</a>.

"US $500 million received from Qatar," the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) confirmed to The Express Tribune on Saturday Doha had on June 24 announced that it has decided to invest US $3 billion in Pakistan which is grappling to overcome a severe financial crisis.

This was announced on Monday after a two-day visit of Qatar`s Emir Sheikh Tamim Bin Hamad Al Thani to Pakistan as the Imran Khan-led government continues to battle a ballooning balance-of-payment crisis.

"Upon the directives of HH the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani, HE Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al-Thani announced new investments in the form of deposits and direct investments in the Islamic Republic of Pakistan worth a total of US $3 billion," the Qatar News Agency said.

With this new investment package, the size of the Qatari-Pakistani economic partnership will amount to US $9 billion, it said.

Taking to Twitter, Abdul Hafeez Sheikh, the Pakistan Prime Minister`s financial adviser, said, "Want to thank the Emir of Qatar HRH Sheikh Tamim Bin Hamad Al Thani for announcing US $3 Billion in #deposits and direct #investments for #Pakistan and for #Qatar`s affirmation to further develop relations between the two countries."

Qatar is the fourth country to provide a bailout package to Pakistan, after China, the UAE and Saudi Arabia.

China has given to Pakistan US $4.6 billion in the shape of deposits and commercial loans while Saudi Arabia has announced a bailout package worth US $3 billion in addition to US $3.2 billion oil facility on deferred payments.

The UAE has provided a bailout package of US $2 billion to Pakistan.

Last month, Islamabad had reached an agreement with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) for a bailout package of US $6 billion.&nbsp;

The deal is expected to be approved by the IMF Executive Board on July 3.

Besides the assistance by the global finance body, Pakistan will receive additional funds worth nearly US $2-3 billion from institutions such as the Asian Development Bank and World Bank.&nbsp;

In what comes as a relief to cash-strapped Pakistan, Qatar has deposited the first tranche of US $500 million in the State Bank of Pakistan. "US $500 million received from Qatar," the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) confirmed to The Express Tribune on Saturday Doha had on June 24 announced that it has decided to invest US $3 billion in Pakistan which is grappling to overcome a severe financial crisis.

In what comes as a relief to cash-strapped Pakistan, Qatar has deposited the first tranche of US $500 million in the State Bank of Pakistan. "US $500 million received from Qatar," the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) confirmed to The Express Tribune on Saturday Doha had on June 24 announced that it has decided to invest US $3 billion in Pakistan which is grappling to overcome a severe financial crisis. This was announced on Monday after a two-day visit of Qatar`s Emir Sheikh Tamim Bin Hamad Al Thani to Pakistan as the Imran Khan-led government continues to battle a ballooning balance-of-payment crisis. "Upon the directives of HH the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani, HE Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al-Thani announced new investments in the form of deposits and direct investments in the Islamic Republic of Pakistan worth a total of US $3 billion," the Qatar News Agency said. With this new investment package, the size of the Qatari-Pakistani economic partnership will amount to US $9 billion, it said. Taking to Twitter, Abdul Hafeez Sheikh, the Pakistan Prime Minister`s financial adviser, said, "Want to thank the Emir of Qatar HRH Sheikh Tamim Bin Hamad Al Thani for announcing US $3 Billion in #deposits and direct #investments for #Pakistan and for #Qatar`s affirmation to further develop relations between the two countries." Qatar is the fourth country to provide a bailout package to Pakistan, after China, the UAE and Saudi Arabia. China has given to Pakistan US $4.6 billion in the shape of deposits and commercial loans while Saudi Arabia has announced a bailout package worth US $3 billion in addition to US $3.2 billion oil facility on deferred payments. The UAE has provided a bailout package of US $2 billion to Pakistan. Last month, Islamabad had reached an agreement with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) for a bailout package of US $6 billion. The deal is expected to be approved by the IMF Executive Board on July 3. Besides the assistance by the global finance body, Pakistan will receive additional funds worth nearly US $2-3 billion from institutions such as the Asian Development Bank and World Bank.

Cash-strapped Pakistan receives $500 million from Qatar

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan is expected to visit the US from July 20 during which he would have his first face-to-face meeting with US President Donald Trump, a media report said on Saturday. The

Pak PM to undertake maiden trip to US

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan on Saturday hit out at the Opposition parties for calling him a `selected` prime minister, asserting that those who were "themselves manufactured" during military rule are now using the term to criticise him."Those talking about [me being] `selected` were themselves manufactured in the nursery of military dictatorship," he was quoted by The Dawn as saying while addressing the National Assembly.

Blaming the previous governments for the economic turmoil in the country, Khan said that money laundering is one of the reasons for the devaluation of Pakistani rupee.

"The Opposition is misleading public on the devaluation of the rupee. Shehbaz Sharif delivered a charged address in which he blamed us for the rupee devaluation and economic situation. He did not say why we are here? This government had the largest fiscal deficit. Imports were high, exports very low," he was quoted as saying by The Express Tribune.&nbsp;

"One of the main reasons is money laundering. The ruling elite siphoned off dollars from Pakistan. When rulers do that, then no one can be stopped. We have found out that there are US $10 billion of Pakistanis abroad," the cricketer-turned-politician said.

On June 23, Deputy Speaker of National Assembly Qasim Suri had issued a ruling, banning lawmakers from referring to the Leader of the House as `selected` since it would amount to insulting the House.

The order came after Energy Minister Ayub Khan had raised objections that Khan being referred as `selected` was a violation of House rules.

Khan asserted that when his government took office, all public institutions were facing record losses.

Lashing out at the Opposition, Khan said that people who were making speeches were facing allegations of money laundering. He alleged that the Public Accounts Committee was being chaired by a person accused of graft.

"This (Shehbaz Sharif) Opposition leader`s family was responsible for this mess. How can they accuse us? In western democracies, the parliament protects public interest. Here, people who faced massive corruption charges are lecturing us in the Parliament," he said.

"We have tainted the sanctity of our Parliament through such actions. This Parliament passed a law allowing a convicted person to head a political party," Khan said while referring to Shehbaz Sharif.

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan on Saturday hit out at the Opposition parties for calling him a `selected` prime minister, asserting that those who were "themselves manufactured" during military rule are now using the term to criticise him.

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan on Saturday hit out at the Opposition parties for calling him a `selected` prime minister, asserting that those who were "themselves manufactured" during military rule are now using the term to criticise him."Those talking about [me being] `selected` were themselves manufactured in the nursery of military dictatorship," he was quoted by The Dawn as saying while addressing the National Assembly. Blaming the previous governments for the economic turmoil in the country, Khan said that money laundering is one of the reasons for the devaluation of Pakistani rupee. "The Opposition is misleading public on the devaluation of the rupee. Shehbaz Sharif delivered a charged address in which he blamed us for the rupee devaluation and economic situation. He did not say why we are here? This government had the largest fiscal deficit. Imports were high, exports very low," he was quoted as saying by The Express Tribune. "One of the main reasons is money laundering. The ruling elite siphoned off dollars from Pakistan. When rulers do that, then no one can be stopped. We have found out that there are US $10 billion of Pakistanis abroad," the cricketer-turned-politician said. On June 23, Deputy Speaker of National Assembly Qasim Suri had issued a ruling, banning lawmakers from referring to the Leader of the House as `selected` since it would amount to insulting the House. The order came after Energy Minister Ayub Khan had raised objections that Khan being referred as `selected` was a violation of House rules. Khan asserted that when his government took office, all public institutions were facing record losses. Lashing out at the Opposition, Khan said that people who were making speeches were facing allegations of money laundering. He alleged that the Public Accounts Committee was being chaired by a person accused of graft. "This (Shehbaz Sharif) Opposition leader`s family was responsible for this mess. How can they accuse us? In western democracies, the parliament protects public interest. Here, people who faced massive corruption charges are lecturing us in the Parliament," he said. "We have tainted the sanctity of our Parliament through such actions. This Parliament passed a law allowing a convicted person to head a political party," Khan said while referring to Shehbaz Sharif.

Those manufactured in the nursery of military dictatorship calling me 'selected': Imran Khan

Pakistan signed a $375 million syndicated loan with banks in the United Arab Emirates in June made up of conventional and Islamic banking tranches, the Pakistani government said on Saturday.

The tranches were fully subscribed by a syndicate of leading UAE banks, the government statement said.&nbsp;

Emirates NBD Capital Limited was global coordinator. The transaction was anchored and arranged by Commercial Bank of Dubai, Emirates NBD Bank, Noor Bank, Dubai Islamic Bank, Mashreqbank and Sharjah Islamic Bank.

Pakistan signed a $375 million syndicated loan with banks in the United Arab Emirates in June made up of conventional and Islamic banking tranches, the Pakistani government said on Saturday.

Pakistan signed a $375 million syndicated loan with banks in the United Arab Emirates in June made up of conventional and Islamic banking tranches, the Pakistani government said on Saturday. The tranches were fully subscribed by a syndicate of leading UAE banks, the government statement said. Emirates NBD Capital Limited was global coordinator. The transaction was anchored and arranged by Commercial Bank of Dubai, Emirates NBD Bank, Noor Bank, Dubai Islamic Bank, Mashreqbank and Sharjah Islamic Bank.

Pakistan signs $375 million syndicated loan with UAE banks

Sikhs devotees in India's northern Amritsar city left on Thursday (June 27) on pilgrimage to Pakistan. The week-long programme marking the 180th anniversary of Maharaja Ranjit Singh, leader of the Sikh empire, begins in Lahore.

Indian Sikh devotees leave for Pakistan on pilgrimage

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan is expected to meet US President Donald Trump for the first time to discuss "important regional matters", according to Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi.&nbsp;

Quoting official sources, The Express Tribune reported on Friday that the meeting between the two leaders could take place in September when Imran will travel to US for the annual session of the UN General Assembly.

Relations between Pakistan and the US have remained tense during the Trump's tenure. The US president has publically said that Pakistan has given us "nothing but lies and deceit" and also suspended security and other assistance for backing terror groups.

The US has repeatedly asked Pakistan to end its support to the militant organisations operating from within its territory against India and Afghanistan.

Qureshi told reporters in Islamabad on Thursday that President Trump had extended an invitation to Premier Khan. However, the prime minister could not travel to Washington because of the budget session, the report said.

He said that dates for the expected meeting are being worked out by the two sides.

According to Qureshi, the US president expressed his desire to meet the premier to discuss "important regional matters".

Efforts for arranging the Imran-Trump meeting have been going on for months, the report said.&nbsp;

Some officials linked the two leaders' summit with possible positive outcome of the ongoing efforts seeking peace deal in Afghanistan.

Though the bilateral ties have been hit, the US president has expressed his desire to work with the Imran-led government.

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan is expected to meet US President Donald Trump for the first time to discuss "important regional matters", according to Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi.

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan is expected to meet US President Donald Trump for the first time to discuss "important regional matters", according to Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi. Quoting official sources, The Express Tribune reported on Friday that the meeting between the two leaders could take place in September when Imran will travel to US for the annual session of the UN General Assembly. Relations between Pakistan and the US have remained tense during the Trump's tenure. The US president has publically said that Pakistan has given us "nothing but lies and deceit" and also suspended security and other assistance for backing terror groups. The US has repeatedly asked Pakistan to end its support to the militant organisations operating from within its territory against India and Afghanistan. Qureshi told reporters in Islamabad on Thursday that President Trump had extended an invitation to Premier Khan. However, the prime minister could not travel to Washington because of the budget session, the report said. He said that dates for the expected meeting are being worked out by the two sides. According to Qureshi, the US president expressed his desire to meet the premier to discuss "important regional matters". Efforts for arranging the Imran-Trump meeting have been going on for months, the report said. Some officials linked the two leaders' summit with possible positive outcome of the ongoing efforts seeking peace deal in Afghanistan. Though the bilateral ties have been hit, the US president has expressed his desire to work with the Imran-led government.

Pakistan eyeing first Imran-Trump meeting in September

Maryam Nawaz, the daughter of imprisoned former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif, on Thursday claimed that authorities in Kot Lakhapat jail in Lahore did not allow her father to meet his cardiologist "despite suffering recurring angina or heart ailments."

In a series of tweets, Maryam, who is also the vice president of Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N), said that her father was only allowed to meet five members of his immediate family under strict surveillance, calling it to be a violation of basic human rights.

"Today only five members (close blood relatives) were allowed to meet MNS (Nawaz Sharif), that too under strict surveillance. This is violation of basic human rights. If this is Jaali hakoomat`s response to my conviction and principled stance, I am NOT going to be a passive spectator. Beware," Maryam wrote on Twitter."

Despite recurring angina, MNS`s cardiologist is not being given access to him. Even today he was made to wait outside jail for two hours and sent back without meeting. Shame on Jaali-e-Azam," she added.

Last week, Maryam had claimed that her family was not informed about his third heart attack in Adiala Jail last year.

Maryam showed a discharge certificate which highlighted that the former Prime Minister had suffered a heart attack last July and that the government, along with jail authorities, had been negligent, according to The Express Tribune.

The father-daughter duo was in jail when the incident had occurred last year. She was asked to convince her father to go to the hospital at that time.

Maryam said she was not informed what had happened to her father but was only told that he was kept in the coronary care unit (CCU) for two to three days.

Meanwhile, Prime Minister Imran Khan on Tuesday stated that no country had approached him to strike any concessional deal with Sharif to provide him with a safe exit from Pakistan on grounds of medical health.

Addressing the parliamentary committee here, Khan said no National Reconciliation Ordinance (NRO)-like concession deal would be made with Mr Sharif.&nbsp;

"We will not grant any NRO to Nawaz Sharif and national wealth looted by former rulers will be recovered at any cost," he added.

Khan stated that the opposition was using "pressure tactics" to seek NRO for Sharif and evade accountability for corruption.

The NRO was a controversial ordinance issued by the former President Pervez Musharraf in 2007 granting pardon to politicians, political workers and bureaucrats who were accused of corruption and money laundering.

However, Khan said he was expecting that Turkey would definitely ask him to give some relaxation to the jailed leader who had been convicted of corruption by the accountability court of Islamabad in Al Azizia Steel Mill case, Dawn reported.

Maryam Nawaz, the daughter of imprisoned former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif, on Thursday claimed that authorities in Kot Lakhapat jail in Lahore did not allow her father to meet his cardiologist "despite suffering recurring angina or heart ailments.

Maryam Nawaz, the daughter of imprisoned former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif, on Thursday claimed that authorities in Kot Lakhapat jail in Lahore did not allow her father to meet his cardiologist "despite suffering recurring angina or heart ailments." In a series of tweets, Maryam, who is also the vice president of Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N), said that her father was only allowed to meet five members of his immediate family under strict surveillance, calling it to be a violation of basic human rights. "Today only five members (close blood relatives) were allowed to meet MNS (Nawaz Sharif), that too under strict surveillance. This is violation of basic human rights. If this is Jaali hakoomat`s response to my conviction and principled stance, I am NOT going to be a passive spectator. Beware," Maryam wrote on Twitter." Despite recurring angina, MNS`s cardiologist is not being given access to him. Even today he was made to wait outside jail for two hours and sent back without meeting. Shame on Jaali-e-Azam," she added. Last week, Maryam had claimed that her family was not informed about his third heart attack in Adiala Jail last year. Maryam showed a discharge certificate which highlighted that the former Prime Minister had suffered a heart attack last July and that the government, along with jail authorities, had been negligent, according to The Express Tribune. The father-daughter duo was in jail when the incident had occurred last year. She was asked to convince her father to go to the hospital at that time. Maryam said she was not informed what had happened to her father but was only told that he was kept in the coronary care unit (CCU) for two to three days. Meanwhile, Prime Minister Imran Khan on Tuesday stated that no country had approached him to strike any concessional deal with Sharif to provide him with a safe exit from Pakistan on grounds of medical health. Addressing the parliamentary committee here, Khan said no National Reconciliation Ordinance (NRO)-like concession deal would be made with Mr Sharif. "We will not grant any NRO to Nawaz Sharif and national wealth looted by former rulers will be recovered at any cost," he added. Khan stated that the opposition was using "pressure tactics" to seek NRO for Sharif and evade accountability for corruption. The NRO was a controversial ordinance issued by the former President Pervez Musharraf in 2007 granting pardon to politicians, political workers and bureaucrats who were accused of corruption and money laundering. However, Khan said he was expecting that Turkey would definitely ask him to give some relaxation to the jailed leader who had been convicted of corruption by the accountability court of Islamabad in Al Azizia Steel Mill case, Dawn reported.

Despite recurring angina, cardiologist not allowed to visit Nawaz Sharif, claims his daughter

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) is scheduled to hold its meeting in Washington on July 3 to consider three-year 'extended fund facility' of $6 billion for Pakistan.

Sources familiar with the matter told Dunya News that Pakistan has adopted a tight monetary and fiscal policy stance based on all terms and conditions of the global moneylender in order to secure a three-year bailout package.

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/us-pushes-for-conditionality-in-imf-bailout-package-to-pakistan-228542">bailout package will help Pakistan</a> to pay its external debts, recover from its fiscal deficit, keep foreign exchange reserves to the equivalent of three months of imports and curb further devaluation of the rupee, sources added.

Prime Minister Imran Khan's government in its budget proposals for the next financial year has already added IMF loans worth Rs 357 billion.

An IMF team will visit Islamabad every three months to review the economic indicators of the country.

According to analysts, financial assistance received from 'friendly' countries has not proven to be enough for the Pakistani government to recover its cash-strapped economy.

They are of the view that chances of Pakistan securing the bailout package are high as the country has accepted all terms and conditions; however, the deal would have adverse effects on its economic growth.

US-based Fitch Solutions, the macro research arm of global credit rating agency Fitch Ratings, on Thursday revised the country's real GDP growth for the outgoing fiscal year from 4.4 per cent to 3.2 per cent, and the upcoming fiscal year 2019-20 to come in at 2.7 per cent, down from 4.0 per cent previously, Dawn reported.

Fitch said the tax-based measures to cut the deficit, coupled with constantly rising inflation, would further erode purchasing power and result in a marked decline in consumption.

"Given our expectations for continued upside pressure on consumer prices over the coming months, we believe that the consumers' purchasing power will continue to fall over the coming months, thereby weighing on consumption," it said.

However, it noted that some of the effects of price hikes would be partially offset by the "government's populist measures, such as providing electricity subsidies to consumers who use less than 300 units of electricity per month".

The research firm further gave a bleak forecast on the government's aims to raise tax revenues, compounded by little improvement in net exports weighed down by a global slowdown and the likelihood of imports further increase over the coming months.

"While Pakistan and the IMF have agreed on focusing on tax-based measures to manage the fiscal deficit, according to media reports, we believe that the Pakistani government will fall short of its ambitious revenue targets and will likely have to cut spending to meet the primary deficit target of 0.6 per cent of GDP," it added.

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) is scheduled to hold its meeting in Washington on July 3 to consider three-year 'extended fund facility' of $6 billion for Pakistan.

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) is scheduled to hold its meeting in Washington on July 3 to consider three-year 'extended fund facility' of $6 billion for Pakistan. Sources familiar with the matter told Dunya News that Pakistan has adopted a tight monetary and fiscal policy stance based on all terms and conditions of the global moneylender in order to secure a three-year bailout package. The bailout package will help Pakistan to pay its external debts, recover from its fiscal deficit, keep foreign exchange reserves to the equivalent of three months of imports and curb further devaluation of the rupee, sources added. Prime Minister Imran Khan's government in its budget proposals for the next financial year has already added IMF loans worth Rs 357 billion. An IMF team will visit Islamabad every three months to review the economic indicators of the country. According to analysts, financial assistance received from 'friendly' countries has not proven to be enough for the Pakistani government to recover its cash-strapped economy. They are of the view that chances of Pakistan securing the bailout package are high as the country has accepted all terms and conditions; however, the deal would have adverse effects on its economic growth. US-based Fitch Solutions, the macro research arm of global credit rating agency Fitch Ratings, on Thursday revised the country's real GDP growth for the outgoing fiscal year from 4.4 per cent to 3.2 per cent, and the upcoming fiscal year 2019-20 to come in at 2.7 per cent, down from 4.0 per cent previously, Dawn reported. Fitch said the tax-based measures to cut the deficit, coupled with constantly rising inflation, would further erode purchasing power and result in a marked decline in consumption. "Given our expectations for continued upside pressure on consumer prices over the coming months, we believe that the consumers' purchasing power will continue to fall over the coming months, thereby weighing on consumption," it said. However, it noted that some of the effects of price hikes would be partially offset by the "government's populist measures, such as providing electricity subsidies to consumers who use less than 300 units of electricity per month". The research firm further gave a bleak forecast on the government's aims to raise tax revenues, compounded by little improvement in net exports weighed down by a global slowdown and the likelihood of imports further increase over the coming months. "While Pakistan and the IMF have agreed on focusing on tax-based measures to manage the fiscal deficit, according to media reports, we believe that the Pakistani government will fall short of its ambitious revenue targets and will likely have to cut spending to meet the primary deficit target of 0.6 per cent of GDP," it added.

International Monetary Fund to consider three-year 'extended fund facility' of $6 billion for Pakistan

Afghanistan President Ashraf Ghani arrived in Pakistan on Thursday on a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-president-ashraf-ghani-to-visit-pakistan-in-bid-to-step-up-peace-effort-230645">two-day official visit to the country</a> on the invitation extended by Prime Minister Imran Khan.

This is Ghani's third visit to Pakistan which follows the recently held first review session of the landmark Afghanistan-Pakistan Action Plan for Peace and Solidarity (APAPPS).

The president is being accompanied by a high-level delegation comprising key ministers and senior officials, according to reports.

The Pakistan Foreign Office in a statement said, ''During the visit, President Dr Arif Alvi will have a meeting with President Ghani while Prime Minister Imran Khan will hold delegation-level talks. The wide-ranging talks between the two sides would focus on strengthening bilateral cooperation in diverse areas - including political, trade, economic, security, peace and reconciliation, education and people-to-people exchanges.''

"President Ghani will also travel to Lahore where he will participate in a business forum attended by business representatives from both countries," the statement added.

Ghani had earlier undertaken a bilateral visit to Pakistan in November 2014 and subsequently, came to attend the Heart of Asia - Istanbul Process (HoA) Ministerial Conference in Islamabad in December 2015, Gulf News reported.

Afghanistan President Ashraf Ghani arrived in Pakistan on Thursday on a two-day official visit to the country on the invitation extended by Prime Minister Imran Khan.

Afghanistan President Ashraf Ghani arrived in Pakistan on Thursday on a two-day official visit to the country on the invitation extended by Prime Minister Imran Khan. This is Ghani's third visit to Pakistan which follows the recently held first review session of the landmark Afghanistan-Pakistan Action Plan for Peace and Solidarity (APAPPS). The president is being accompanied by a high-level delegation comprising key ministers and senior officials, according to reports. The Pakistan Foreign Office in a statement said, ''During the visit, President Dr Arif Alvi will have a meeting with President Ghani while Prime Minister Imran Khan will hold delegation-level talks. The wide-ranging talks between the two sides would focus on strengthening bilateral cooperation in diverse areas - including political, trade, economic, security, peace and reconciliation, education and people-to-people exchanges.'' "President Ghani will also travel to Lahore where he will participate in a business forum attended by business representatives from both countries," the statement added. Ghani had earlier undertaken a bilateral visit to Pakistan in November 2014 and subsequently, came to attend the Heart of Asia - Istanbul Process (HoA) Ministerial Conference in Islamabad in December 2015, Gulf News reported.

Afghanistan President Ashraf Ghani arrives in Pakistan on two-day visit

Twenty-seven years and a generation apart, Pakistan's World Cup bears striking similarities with their 1992 campaign -&nbsp;when they started slowly but ended up lifting the trophy in Melbourne.&nbsp;

An identical sequence of wins and losses and other eerie parallels have struck a chord with millions of fans who believe that <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-pakistan-keep-semi-final-hopes-alive-after-defeating-new-zealand-by-six-wickets-230695">Pakistan </a>could be set to come out on top once again.

In both World Cups, Pakistan started with a one-sided defeat to the West Indies, before recovering to win their second game -&nbsp;against Zimbabwe in 1992, and England this time around.

At both tournaments, their third game was rained off and they then went on to lose their next two games and win the following two.

Not only that, but the final win in both sequences was against New Zealand, who were unbeaten in both 1992 and 2019 until they ran into Pakistan.

"It was same, the same sequence of results, points and then we wanted Australia to beat the West Indies for us to qualify," said legendary fast bowler Wasim Akram, who played for Pakistan in 1992.

"Then also we beat New Zealand – who was unbeaten then too. A lot of similarities, I hope the end result is also similar now and we win the World Cup," said Wasim, now a TV commentator.

In another similarity, Wasim was the leading wicket-taker in 1992 with 18 and another Pakistan left-arm pacer, Mohammad Amir, is second on the bowler's chart with 16 so far.

"I am not sure if players are following all these (discussions) but this should motivate them," said Wasim.

But Pakistan skipper <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-saw-my-wife-crying-after-watching-the-fat-shaming-video-sarfaraz-ahmed-230683">Sarfaraz Ahmed</a> played down any parallels with 1992.

"That's history but after we won against New Zealand someone told me that even in 1992 we chased down New Zealand's target with five balls to spare," said Sarfaraz, whose team reached their 238-run target in 49.1 overs on Wednesday.

Fans are now hoping that the similarities don't end there, and even that they continue beyond the World Cup.

"Imran Khan was Pakistan captain in 1992 World Cup and 26 years after that triumph he became country's prime minister, so Sarfaraz should also join politics and become premier in 2045," said one comment on social media.

Twenty-seven years and a generation apart, Pakistan's World Cup bears striking similarities with their 1992 campaign - when they started slowly but ended up lifting the trophy in Melbourne.

Twenty-seven years and a generation apart, Pakistan's World Cup bears striking similarities with their 1992 campaign - when they started slowly but ended up lifting the trophy in Melbourne. An identical sequence of wins and losses and other eerie parallels have struck a chord with millions of fans who believe that Pakistan could be set to come out on top once again. In both World Cups, Pakistan started with a one-sided defeat to the West Indies, before recovering to win their second game - against Zimbabwe in 1992, and England this time around. At both tournaments, their third game was rained off and they then went on to lose their next two games and win the following two. Not only that, but the final win in both sequences was against New Zealand, who were unbeaten in both 1992 and 2019 until they ran into Pakistan. "It was same, the same sequence of results, points and then we wanted Australia to beat the West Indies for us to qualify," said legendary fast bowler Wasim Akram, who played for Pakistan in 1992. "Then also we beat New Zealand – who was unbeaten then too. A lot of similarities, I hope the end result is also similar now and we win the World Cup," said Wasim, now a TV commentator. In another similarity, Wasim was the leading wicket-taker in 1992 with 18 and another Pakistan left-arm pacer, Mohammad Amir, is second on the bowler's chart with 16 so far. "I am not sure if players are following all these (discussions) but this should motivate them," said Wasim. But Pakistan skipper Sarfaraz Ahmed played down any parallels with 1992. "That's history but after we won against New Zealand someone told me that even in 1992 we chased down New Zealand's target with five balls to spare," said Sarfaraz, whose team reached their 238-run target in 49.1 overs on Wednesday. Fans are now hoping that the similarities don't end there, and even that they continue beyond the World Cup. "Imran Khan was Pakistan captain in 1992 World Cup and 26 years after that triumph he became country's prime minister, so Sarfaraz should also join politics and become premier in 2045," said one comment on social media.

Pakistan on identical 1992 World Cup path after beating New Zealand

Pakistan's state-sponsored "large-scale industry of terrorism" prevents its government from behaving like a "normal neighbour", External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said on Wednesday.

India Watch: S.Jaishankar's scathing statement on Pak

New Zealand's Mitchell Santner admitted that his team could not read the pitch properly and missed the services of a second spinner against Pakistan in Wednesday's World Cup match.

Santner said the Kiwis thought the wicket would suit pace bowlers at Edgbaston.

"Obviously, there was a bit of turn out there, probably more than we thought there would be. Obviously at the toss, only going with one spinner, we thought it might be a bit better than that," Santner said.

In the absence of legspinner Ish Sodhi, New Zealand went with the part-time off-spin of skipper Kane Willaimson, who returned with figures of 1-39.

The Kiwis were visibly helpless and frustrated as they could not break the 126-run stand between Haris Sohail and<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-babar-azam-says-belief-is-key-for-pakistan-230779"> Babar Azam</a> until the penultimate over when it was too late as Pakistan needed just two runs off 10 balls.

Santner, however, credited <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pakistan-on-identical-1992-world-cup-path-after-beating-new-zealand-230750">Pakistan's </a>batting in the middle overs.

He also lauded the match-winning partnership between Haris and Babar.

"It's the spinner's role to take wickets on a surface like that but I think credit has to go to the way Pakistan batted throughout the middle. That partnership through the middle there was pretty special. There were a couple of chances there but it's about trying to build up pressure from both ends and stuff like that, but the way they were able to manipulate the field, and get their ones, when you're only chasing 230, is the way to go about it," Santner said.

On the third ball of the 49th over, Haris fell short of his ground as Martin Guptill ran him out.

However, on the first ball of the last over, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-pakistan-keep-semi-final-hopes-alive-after-defeating-new-zealand-by-six-wickets-230695">Pakistan </a>skipper Sarfaraz Ahmed hit the winning boundary in a match that was must-win for the Men in Green.

"I think we fought pretty well to the end and I guess they only got it in the last over. It was obviously a tough surface and we just had to stick at it. If we could put a couple on it, a couple of wickets on throughout that chase it might have been a little bit different," he said.

Had New Zealand won the match they would have booked their spot in the semi-finals.

The Kiwis would aim to beat Australia on June 29 at Lord's to enter the knock-out stage.

New Zealand's Mitchell Santner admitted that his team could not read the pitch properly and missed the services of a second spinner against Pakistan in Wednesday's World Cup match.

New Zealand's Mitchell Santner admitted that his team could not read the pitch properly and missed the services of a second spinner against Pakistan in Wednesday's World Cup match. Santner said the Kiwis thought the wicket would suit pace bowlers at Edgbaston. "Obviously, there was a bit of turn out there, probably more than we thought there would be. Obviously at the toss, only going with one spinner, we thought it might be a bit better than that," Santner said. In the absence of legspinner Ish Sodhi, New Zealand went with the part-time off-spin of skipper Kane Willaimson, who returned with figures of 1-39. The Kiwis were visibly helpless and frustrated as they could not break the 126-run stand between Haris Sohail and Babar Azam until the penultimate over when it was too late as Pakistan needed just two runs off 10 balls. Santner, however, credited Pakistan's batting in the middle overs. He also lauded the match-winning partnership between Haris and Babar. "It's the spinner's role to take wickets on a surface like that but I think credit has to go to the way Pakistan batted throughout the middle. That partnership through the middle there was pretty special. There were a couple of chances there but it's about trying to build up pressure from both ends and stuff like that, but the way they were able to manipulate the field, and get their ones, when you're only chasing 230, is the way to go about it," Santner said. On the third ball of the 49th over, Haris fell short of his ground as Martin Guptill ran him out. However, on the first ball of the last over, Pakistan skipper Sarfaraz Ahmed hit the winning boundary in a match that was must-win for the Men in Green. "I think we fought pretty well to the end and I guess they only got it in the last over. It was obviously a tough surface and we just had to stick at it. If we could put a couple on it, a couple of wickets on throughout that chase it might have been a little bit different," he said. Had New Zealand won the match they would have booked their spot in the semi-finals. The Kiwis would aim to beat Australia on June 29 at Lord's to enter the knock-out stage.

World Cup: Needed a second spinner, says Mitchell Santner after loss to Pakistan

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-president-ashraf-ghani-arrives-in-pakistan-on-two-day-visit-230761">Afghan President Ashraf Ghani</a> held a meeting in Islamabad on Thursday and discussed the Afghan peace process.

"One on one meeting held between Prime Minister Imran Khan and Afghan President Ashraf Ghani in Islamabad. Matters pertaining to bilateral cooperation in various sectors and regional situation were discussed in the meeting," tweeted the government of Pakistan.&nbsp;

Ghani reached Pakistan for his two-day official visit earlier today. He received a guard of honour on arrival at the PM House upon his arrival.

Earlier in the day, Ghani met Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi.

Pakistan Government has claimed that Ghani "appreciated" Pakistan's efforts for the peace process.

Qureshi emphasised that Pakistan wants to play a role in "achieving peace in Afghanistan with sincerity and an open heart".

"For decades now, the people of Afghanistan have suffered due to the security situation and instability prevalent in their country. That must end and Pakistan wants to play its due role in achieving that objective," FM Qureshi said.

"Pakistan has always emphasised the need for result-oriented talks. We firmly believe that is the only way to establish durable peace in Afghanistan," he added.

This visit becomes doubly important after the first Afghan peace conference titled 'Lahore Process' held on June 22 in Bhurban Murree.

According to ARY News, more than 50 delegates, including heads of all Afghan political parties and the political advisor to Ghani, attended the meet.&nbsp;

Former Afghan warlord Gulbuddin Hekmatyar, senators and members of Afghan parliament were also in attendance.

Ghani had earlier undertaken a bilateral visit to Pakistan in November 2014 and subsequently, came to attend the Heart of Asia - Istanbul Process (HoA) Ministerial Conference in Islamabad in December 2015, Gulf News reported.

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan and Afghan President Ashraf Ghani held a meeting in Islamabad on Thursday and discussed the Afghan peace process. "One on one meeting held between Prime Minister Imran Khan and Afghan President Ashraf Ghani in Islamabad.

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan and Afghan President Ashraf Ghani held a meeting in Islamabad on Thursday and discussed the Afghan peace process. "One on one meeting held between Prime Minister Imran Khan and Afghan President Ashraf Ghani in Islamabad. Matters pertaining to bilateral cooperation in various sectors and regional situation were discussed in the meeting," tweeted the government of Pakistan. Ghani reached Pakistan for his two-day official visit earlier today. He received a guard of honour on arrival at the PM House upon his arrival. Earlier in the day, Ghani met Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi. Pakistan Government has claimed that Ghani "appreciated" Pakistan's efforts for the peace process. Qureshi emphasised that Pakistan wants to play a role in "achieving peace in Afghanistan with sincerity and an open heart". "For decades now, the people of Afghanistan have suffered due to the security situation and instability prevalent in their country. That must end and Pakistan wants to play its due role in achieving that objective," FM Qureshi said. "Pakistan has always emphasised the need for result-oriented talks. We firmly believe that is the only way to establish durable peace in Afghanistan," he added. This visit becomes doubly important after the first Afghan peace conference titled 'Lahore Process' held on June 22 in Bhurban Murree. According to ARY News, more than 50 delegates, including heads of all Afghan political parties and the political advisor to Ghani, attended the meet. Former Afghan warlord Gulbuddin Hekmatyar, senators and members of Afghan parliament were also in attendance. Ghani had earlier undertaken a bilateral visit to Pakistan in November 2014 and subsequently, came to attend the Heart of Asia - Istanbul Process (HoA) Ministerial Conference in Islamabad in December 2015, Gulf News reported.

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan, Afghan President Ashraf Ghani hold meeting, discuss peace process

The weather forecast for <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-new-zealands-fiery-ferguson-eager-to-unsettle-west-indies-big-hitters-229435&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiCr4Cqw4bjAhWJvI8KHf_6A9MQFjAGegQIARAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw0hJxbvixGNnEt3PjYkS3Ew">New Zealand</a>&nbsp;vs&nbsp;Pakistan match at Edgbaston in Birmingham looks to please the players and fans as the full game of 50-overs a side is expected without any interruptions by rain.

Kane Williamson's side are undefeated at the World Cup, with five wins in six games, plus one no result and will be looking to seal a spot in the semi-finals with a win at Edgbaston.

In contrast, <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-wanted-to-commit-suicide-mickey-arthur-after-pakistans-defeat-against-india-230449&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwib9NSaw4bjAhVPinAKHQIaBasQFjAGegQIBRAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw1diEjgcS2yHFzvEXQD4GbF">Pakistan </a>must win this&nbsp;match at Edgbaston if they want to maintain a realistic chance of reaching the semi-finals after a poor start to the tournament.

There was rain in Birmingham on Tuesday but the skies are expected to be clear for the match today.&nbsp;

Weather forecasts show that there would be cloud cover in the morning but that they shall clear away around noon and that skies will continue to clear leading up to the match.

The chances of rain are negligible and a full 50-overs a side contest will take place between Pakistan and New Zealand.

The game is likely to be played without any stoppages due to bad weather.

The weather forecast for New Zealand vs Pakistan match at Edgbaston in Birmingham looks to please the players and fans as the full game of 50-overs a side is expected without any interruptions by rain.

The weather forecast for New Zealand vs Pakistan match at Edgbaston in Birmingham looks to please the players and fans as the full game of 50-overs a side is expected without any interruptions by rain. Kane Williamson's side are undefeated at the World Cup, with five wins in six games, plus one no result and will be looking to seal a spot in the semi-finals with a win at Edgbaston. In contrast, Pakistan must win this match at Edgbaston if they want to maintain a realistic chance of reaching the semi-finals after a poor start to the tournament. There was rain in Birmingham on Tuesday but the skies are expected to be clear for the match today. Weather forecasts show that there would be cloud cover in the morning but that they shall clear away around noon and that skies will continue to clear leading up to the match. The chances of rain are negligible and a full 50-overs a side contest will take place between Pakistan and New Zealand. The game is likely to be played without any stoppages due to bad weather.

World Cup: Birmingham weather forecast for New Zealand vs Pakistan clash

Pakistan's win over South Africa at the World Cup on Sunday may be a relief but the presence of two spectators, General Qamar Javed Bajwa, chief of the Pakistan Army, and Major General Asif Ghafoor, the military's senior-most spokesperson has attracted all the wrong attention.

Pakistan Army Chief Trolled Over Match

The crucial&nbsp;World Cup encounter&nbsp;between <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-pakistan-face-battle-of-survival-against-unbeaten-new-zealand-230494">Pakistan and New Zealand </a>at Edgbaston on Wednesday has been delayed due to wet outfield with the toss still not taken place.

The scheduled 10:00am (0900 GMT) toss was put back after an early inspection by on-field umpires Paul Reiffel and Bruce Oxenford of Australia.

Overnight rain had left the outfield wet and there will be another inspection at 10:30 am before taking a final decision on when to start the match.

Unbeaten New Zealand are second on the 10-team table with 11 points, winning five matches and one no result while Pakistan are seventh with just two wins, three defeats and a no result.

The toss is now scheduled for 11:30am (1030 GMT) with the game set to begin at 12:00pm (1100 GMT) with no overs lost.

The crucial World Cup encounter between Pakistan and New Zealand at Edgbaston on Wednesday has been delayed due to wet outfield with the toss still not taken place.

The crucial World Cup encounter between Pakistan and New Zealand at Edgbaston on Wednesday has been delayed due to wet outfield with the toss still not taken place. The scheduled 10:00am (0900 GMT) toss was put back after an early inspection by on-field umpires Paul Reiffel and Bruce Oxenford of Australia. Overnight rain had left the outfield wet and there will be another inspection at 10:30 am before taking a final decision on when to start the match. Unbeaten New Zealand are second on the 10-team table with 11 points, winning five matches and one no result while Pakistan are seventh with just two wins, three defeats and a no result. The toss is now scheduled for 11:30am (1030 GMT) with the game set to begin at 12:00pm (1100 GMT) with no overs lost.

World Cup: Wet outfield delays New Zealand vs Pakistan match

Mike Pompeo's visit to India comes ahead of a meeting between Donald Trump and PM Narendra Modi at the G20 Summit in Japan. Watch full video to know more.

Pompeo meets S Jaishankar: India-US joint statement likely at 2 PM

Pakistan has failed to complete its action plan on terror financing, the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) said, warning Islamabad to meet its commitment by October or face action, which could possibly lead to the country's blacklisting

FATF comes down strongly on Pakistan

The World Cup is alive. Well, three of the top four look safe, but a few wins here and there and we may get a surprise fourth entrant. And hey, now that the rain has held off and we’ve had a several thrillers in the span of a few days, its actually turned out to be a pretty fun tournament.

Hosts and top-ranked England, touted as favourites well before the World Cup began, have been beaten by Pakistan and Sri Lanka, the latter the upset of the tournament. Eoin Morgan‘s team now needs to win two of its remaining three matches to guarantee their place in the semi-finals. Their opponents? Australia, New Zealand and India.

The three teams that with them comprise the World Cup’s top four. New Zealand, who they last beat in a World Cup match back in 1992.

What works in England’s favour is that nobody else can win six matches in a row, so this keeps the home team in the green zone. They also have a good net run-rate (1.457). So, even one win out of three could be enough. On Tuesday, Eoin Morgan’s team plays defending champions Australia. A win for England here will be a big boost. A loss will throw the points table open wider.

Australia, second on the World Cup points table, also have a couple tough matches to play. England won’t be easy, New Zealand always punch above their weight and South Africa, their World Cup over, could be the banana peel. By the time Australia meet New Zealand at Lord’s on June 29, the Blackcaps may already have secured passage to the semi-finals if they beat Pakistan three days earlier at Edgbaston.

Kane Williamson‘s team, having just managed to beat West Indies at Old Trafford on Saturday, now need to win one of their remaining three matches – versus Pakistan, Australia and England – to make the semi-finals.

As they showed in tough chases against Bangladesh and South Africa, New Zealand have the stomach for a scrap. Ross Taylor did it against Bangladesh when the target was 245, Williamson stood up brilliantly to haul them to a last-over win when chasing 241 versus South Africa and against West Indies, both of them combined to put up a match-winning total, but just. For sheer drama, these three wins are right up there. New Zealand have escaped defeat thrice, so don’t expect them to buckle against England or India.

India, along with New Zealand the only team to not lose yet, squeezed past Afghanistan in Southampton. West Indies, Bangladesh, England and Sri Lanka remain. Virat Kohli‘s Indian cricket team must win twice to make it to the semis. Despite the loss of Bhuvneshwar Kumar for at least two matches – he is targeting the England game on June 30 – India have a very fine bowling attack and should make it comfortably. Questions hang over their middle order, which was exposed by Afghanistan’s spinners at The Rose Bowl.

Sri Lanka’s win over England has kept them in the hunt for the semi-finals. On six points, they have to win all three remaining fixtures – versus South Africa, West Indies and India – to get to 12. Two wins will give them 10 points, which may not be enough owing to the top four’s dominance. Other results will have to go their way.

One spot below Sri Lanka are Bangladesh, with five points. Today they play Afghanistan, who beat them at last year’s Asia Cup, India and Pakistan. If they beat Afghanistan in Southampton, Bangladesh will move to seven points. Getting past India will be tough, which means that their clash with Pakistan at Lord’s on July 5 could be make-or-break.

Pakistan, after beating South Africa by 49 runs at Lord’s, have five points. They still need to beat New Zealand, Afghanistan and Bangladesh to finish on 11. For a team that oscillates from the awesome to the absurd, it is a nearly impossible task. But Mickey Arthur, their coach, believes it is possible, with a little help from other teams.

As things look today, Pakistan are competing with one of Australia and England for a spot in the final four. It may not require net run-rate, because England and Australia have even points to Pakistan’s odd.

West Indies, with just three points and games versus India, Sri Lanka and Afghanistan to go, cannot make the semi-finals. South Africa and Afghanistan are eliminated. Each could do damage to others, provided they really lift their games.

Did anyone say this is a dull World Cup?

The World Cup is alive. Well, three of the top four look safe, but a few wins here and there and we may get a surprise fourth entrant. And hey, now that the rain has held off and we’ve had a several thrillers in the span of a few days, its actually turned out to be a pretty fun tournament.

The World Cup is alive. Well, three of the top four look safe, but a few wins here and there and we may get a surprise fourth entrant. And hey, now that the rain has held off and we’ve had a several thrillers in the span of a few days, its actually turned out to be a pretty fun tournament. Hosts and top-ranked England, touted as favourites well before the World Cup began, have been beaten by Pakistan and Sri Lanka, the latter the upset of the tournament. Eoin Morgan‘s team now needs to win two of its remaining three matches to guarantee their place in the semi-finals. Their opponents? Australia, New Zealand and India. The three teams that with them comprise the World Cup’s top four. New Zealand, who they last beat in a World Cup match back in 1992. What works in England’s favour is that nobody else can win six matches in a row, so this keeps the home team in the green zone. They also have a good net run-rate (1.457). So, even one win out of three could be enough. On Tuesday, Eoin Morgan’s team plays defending champions Australia. A win for England here will be a big boost. A loss will throw the points table open wider. Australia, second on the World Cup points table, also have a couple tough matches to play. England won’t be easy, New Zealand always punch above their weight and South Africa, their World Cup over, could be the banana peel. By the time Australia meet New Zealand at Lord’s on June 29, the Blackcaps may already have secured passage to the semi-finals if they beat Pakistan three days earlier at Edgbaston. Kane Williamson‘s team, having just managed to beat West Indies at Old Trafford on Saturday, now need to win one of their remaining three matches – versus Pakistan, Australia and England – to make the semi-finals. As they showed in tough chases against Bangladesh and South Africa, New Zealand have the stomach for a scrap. Ross Taylor did it against Bangladesh when the target was 245, Williamson stood up brilliantly to haul them to a last-over win when chasing 241 versus South Africa and against West Indies, both of them combined to put up a match-winning total, but just. For sheer drama, these three wins are right up there. New Zealand have escaped defeat thrice, so don’t expect them to buckle against England or India. India, along with New Zealand the only team to not lose yet, squeezed past Afghanistan in Southampton. West Indies, Bangladesh, England and Sri Lanka remain. Virat Kohli‘s Indian cricket team must win twice to make it to the semis. Despite the loss of Bhuvneshwar Kumar for at least two matches – he is targeting the England game on June 30 – India have a very fine bowling attack and should make it comfortably. Questions hang over their middle order, which was exposed by Afghanistan’s spinners at The Rose Bowl. Sri Lanka’s win over England has kept them in the hunt for the semi-finals. On six points, they have to win all three remaining fixtures – versus South Africa, West Indies and India – to get to 12. Two wins will give them 10 points, which may not be enough owing to the top four’s dominance. Other results will have to go their way. One spot below Sri Lanka are Bangladesh, with five points. Today they play Afghanistan, who beat them at last year’s Asia Cup, India and Pakistan. If they beat Afghanistan in Southampton, Bangladesh will move to seven points. Getting past India will be tough, which means that their clash with Pakistan at Lord’s on July 5 could be make-or-break. Pakistan, after beating South Africa by 49 runs at Lord’s, have five points. They still need to beat New Zealand, Afghanistan and Bangladesh to finish on 11. For a team that oscillates from the awesome to the absurd, it is a nearly impossible task. But Mickey Arthur, their coach, believes it is possible, with a little help from other teams. As things look today, Pakistan are competing with one of Australia and England for a spot in the final four. It may not require net run-rate, because England and Australia have even points to Pakistan’s odd. West Indies, with just three points and games versus India, Sri Lanka and Afghanistan to go, cannot make the semi-finals. South Africa and Afghanistan are eliminated. Each could do damage to others, provided they really lift their games. Did anyone say this is a dull World Cup?

Cricket World Cup semi-final scenario: Pakistan stay alive, England vs Australia at Lord's key to shaping top four

Haris Sohail smashed a rapid-fire 89 as Pakistan ended South Africa's World Cup hopes with a comfortable 49-run win at Lord's on Sunday.

Sohail's dominant 59-ball knock and a tidy half-century from Babar Azam helped Pakistan reach 308-7, a total that South Africa never threatened to surpass.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/close-all-exit-doors-imran-tahirs-unique-celebration-allows-meme-experts-to-show-creativity-229778">'Close all exit doors': Imran Tahir's unique celebration allows meme experts to show creativity</a>

South Africa captain Faf Du Plessis offered their only real resistance with a 79-ball 63 in another poor batting display from his side.

Wahab Riaz and Shadab Khan took three wickets each as Pakistan condemned South Africa to a fifth defeat of the tournament that left them languishing ninth in the 10-team table.

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With that loss, South Africa are out of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CWC19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CWC19</a> semi-final contention. 
 
Pakistan, meanwhile, move up to No.7. Their knockout hopes are very much alive. 
 
Latest standings ⬇️ <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WeHaveWeWill?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WeHaveWeWill</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PAKvSA?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PAKvSA</a> <a href="https://t.co/WmoHhzvdCN">pic.twitter.com/WmoHhzvdCN</a>
— Cricket World Cup (@cricketworldcup) <a href="https://twitter.com/cricketworldcup/status/1142852444558434305?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 23, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Watch the winning moment:

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The Pakistan team salute their adoring fans as they walk off 👋<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WeHaveWeWill?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WeHaveWeWill</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CWC19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CWC19</a> <a href="https://t.co/BILi2DmlCy">pic.twitter.com/BILi2DmlCy</a>
— Cricket World Cup (@cricketworldcup) <a href="https://twitter.com/cricketworldcup/status/1142851351799635969?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 23, 2019</a></blockquote>
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While Pakistan's slim hopes of reaching the knockout stages stayed alive, South Africa, with three points from their opening seven matches, are unable to secure a spot in the top four - who all advance to the semi-finals.

Match in numbers:
<img alt="Match 30" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2f9635c2-88d1-43ec-b90d-0c6c8dff2d7e" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/match%2030.jpg" />
&nbsp;

Haris Sohail smashed a rapid-fire 89 as Pakistan ended South Africa's World Cup hopes with a comfortable 49-run win at Lord's on Sunday. Sohail's dominant 59-ball knock and a tidy half-century from Babar Azam helped Pakistan reach 308-7, a total that South Africa never threatened to surpass.

Haris Sohail smashed a rapid-fire 89 as Pakistan ended South Africa's World Cup hopes with a comfortable 49-run win at Lord's on Sunday. Sohail's dominant 59-ball knock and a tidy half-century from Babar Azam helped Pakistan reach 308-7, a total that South Africa never threatened to surpass. Also Read: 'Close all exit doors': Imran Tahir's unique celebration allows meme experts to show creativity South Africa captain Faf Du Plessis offered their only real resistance with a 79-ball 63 in another poor batting display from his side. Wahab Riaz and Shadab Khan took three wickets each as Pakistan condemned South Africa to a fifth defeat of the tournament that left them languishing ninth in the 10-team table. With that loss, South Africa are out of #CWC19 semi-final contention. Pakistan, meanwhile, move up to No.7. Their knockout hopes are very much alive. Latest standings ⬇️ #WeHaveWeWill | #PAKvSA pic.twitter.com/WmoHhzvdCN — Cricket World Cup (@cricketworldcup) June 23, 2019 × Watch the winning moment: The Pakistan team salute their adoring fans as they walk off 👋#WeHaveWeWill | #CWC19 pic.twitter.com/BILi2DmlCy — Cricket World Cup (@cricketworldcup) June 23, 2019 × While Pakistan's slim hopes of reaching the knockout stages stayed alive, South Africa, with three points from their opening seven matches, are unable to secure a spot in the top four - who all advance to the semi-finals. Match in numbers:

Pakistan beat South Africa by 49 runs to end Proteas' World Cup dream

Imran Tahir took two wickets during a World Cup match between South Africa and&nbsp;Pakistan on Sunday at Lord's. He dismissed Imam-ul-Haq (44) and Fakhar Zaman (44) to become South Africa's all-time leading wicket-taker in the tournament.&nbsp;

He went past Allan Donald, who had 38 wickets to his name.

Tahir has a habit of running around the ground to celebrate every wicket he takes in any form of cricket.&nbsp;

Tahir's trademark celebration allowed meme experts to have a field day on Twitter.&nbsp;

Here are some of the hilarious reactions on Tahir's unique celebration.&nbsp;

One fan posted a photo of Tahir having a sprint alongside Usain Bolt and captioned the post as "Imran Tahir after taking the 2nd wicket. #PakvsSA #CWC19".

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No body: 
 
Literally nobody: 
 
Imran Tahir after taking wicket or catch: <a href="https://t.co/ltPRJWdtGw">pic.twitter.com/ltPRJWdtGw</a>
— Asad. 🇵🇰 (@GoStudyAsad) <a href="https://twitter.com/GoStudyAsad/status/1142753641784369153?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 23, 2019</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;One user posted a series of photos and captioned the post as "Imran Tahir has reached Kashmir after taking a wicket."

"Imran Tahir has reached Karachi sea view after taking the wicket of Fakhar Zaman and Imam Ul Haq #PAKvSA #CWC19 #PakvSA," one fan tweeted.

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Imran Tahir has reached Karachi seaview after taking wicket of Fakhar Zaman &amp; Imam Ul Haq<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PAKvSA?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PAKvSA</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CWC19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CWC19</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PakvSA?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PakvSA</a> <a href="https://t.co/NraPvtTSPA">pic.twitter.com/NraPvtTSPA</a>
— Aamir Bangash (@aamirsayss) <a href="https://twitter.com/aamirsayss/status/1142753993841696768?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 23, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Imran Tahir has reached kashmir after taking wicket <a href="https://t.co/1vL6oGD8PR">pic.twitter.com/1vL6oGD8PR</a>
— Mazhar Ul Islam (@Chinnttuuu) <a href="https://twitter.com/Chinnttuuu/status/1142787599775522819?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 23, 2019</a></blockquote>
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One user posted, "Breaking: ICC ordered to close all exit doors at Lord`s stadium so Imran Tahir doesn`t run out of the stadium after taking a wicket."

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Imran Tahir has mistakenly crossed Kashmir’s border while celebrating today. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PAKvSA?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PAKvSA</a> <a href="https://t.co/w59puINwky">pic.twitter.com/w59puINwky</a>
— TheBrownGuy ®️ (@Thebrownguy__) <a href="https://twitter.com/Thebrownguy__/status/1142801895725158402?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 23, 2019</a></blockquote>
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"The nearest traffic officer must have stopped Tahir before reaching the nearest Expressway #CWC19 #PAKvSA," one fan tweeted.

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BREAKING NEWS: Imran Tahir spotted on the moon?! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PAKvSA?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PAKvSA</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CricketWorldCup2019?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CricketWorldCup2019</a> <a href="https://t.co/LoyL9vDfYU">pic.twitter.com/LoyL9vDfYU</a>
— ai (@insideyourveinz) <a href="https://twitter.com/insideyourveinz/status/1142801769820545025?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 23, 2019</a></blockquote>
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One Twitter user posted photos of chicken and captioned the post as "Imran Tahir as a chicken."

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Imran Tahir after taking the catch 😆😂😂<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PAKvSA?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PAKvSA</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CWC19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CWC19</a> <a href="https://t.co/tq3YJVY9TN">pic.twitter.com/tq3YJVY9TN</a>
— Syed Ali Sarim 🇵🇰🇵🇰 (@imAviator) <a href="https://twitter.com/imAviator/status/1142789191547465728?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 23, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Imran tahir after taking 2nd wicket.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PakvsSA?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PakvsSA</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CWC19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CWC19</a> <a href="https://t.co/2x1l19wGFy">pic.twitter.com/2x1l19wGFy</a>
— O O P S (@koi_to_rok_lo_) <a href="https://twitter.com/koi_to_rok_lo_/status/1142750582861697029?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 23, 2019</a></blockquote>
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After opting to bat first, Pakistan was able to score 308 runs in the allotted fifty overs, owing to Haris Sohail's knock of 89 runs.

Imran Tahir took two wickets during a World Cup match between South Africa and Pakistan on Sunday at Lord's. He dismissed Imam-ul-Haq (44) and Fakhar Zaman (44) to become South Africa's all-time leading wicket-taker in the tournament.

Imran Tahir took two wickets during a World Cup match between South Africa and Pakistan on Sunday at Lord's. He dismissed Imam-ul-Haq (44) and Fakhar Zaman (44) to become South Africa's all-time leading wicket-taker in the tournament. He went past Allan Donald, who had 38 wickets to his name. Tahir has a habit of running around the ground to celebrate every wicket he takes in any form of cricket. Tahir's trademark celebration allowed meme experts to have a field day on Twitter. Here are some of the hilarious reactions on Tahir's unique celebration. One fan posted a photo of Tahir having a sprint alongside Usain Bolt and captioned the post as "Imran Tahir after taking the 2nd wicket. #PakvsSA #CWC19". No body: Literally nobody: Imran Tahir after taking wicket or catch: pic.twitter.com/ltPRJWdtGw — Asad. 🇵🇰 (@GoStudyAsad) June 23, 2019 × One user posted a series of photos and captioned the post as "Imran Tahir has reached Kashmir after taking a wicket." "Imran Tahir has reached Karachi sea view after taking the wicket of Fakhar Zaman and Imam Ul Haq #PAKvSA #CWC19 #PakvSA," one fan tweeted. Imran Tahir has reached Karachi seaview after taking wicket of Fakhar Zaman & Imam Ul Haq#PAKvSA #CWC19 #PakvSA pic.twitter.com/NraPvtTSPA — Aamir Bangash (@aamirsayss) June 23, 2019 × Imran Tahir has reached kashmir after taking wicket pic.twitter.com/1vL6oGD8PR — Mazhar Ul Islam (@Chinnttuuu) June 23, 2019 × One user posted, "Breaking: ICC ordered to close all exit doors at Lord`s stadium so Imran Tahir doesn`t run out of the stadium after taking a wicket." Imran Tahir has mistakenly crossed Kashmir’s border while celebrating today. #PAKvSA pic.twitter.com/w59puINwky — TheBrownGuy ®️ (@Thebrownguy__) June 23, 2019 × "The nearest traffic officer must have stopped Tahir before reaching the nearest Expressway #CWC19 #PAKvSA," one fan tweeted. BREAKING NEWS: Imran Tahir spotted on the moon?! #PAKvSA #CricketWorldCup2019 pic.twitter.com/LoyL9vDfYU — ai (@insideyourveinz) June 23, 2019 × One Twitter user posted photos of chicken and captioned the post as "Imran Tahir as a chicken." Imran Tahir after taking the catch 😆😂😂#PAKvSA #CWC19 pic.twitter.com/tq3YJVY9TN — Syed Ali Sarim 🇵🇰🇵🇰 (@imAviator) June 23, 2019 × Imran tahir after taking 2nd wicket.#PakvsSA #CWC19 pic.twitter.com/2x1l19wGFy — O O P S (@koi_to_rok_lo_) June 23, 2019 × After opting to bat first, Pakistan was able to score 308 runs in the allotted fifty overs, owing to Haris Sohail's knock of 89 runs.

'Close all exit doors': Imran Tahir's unique celebration allows meme experts to show creativity

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