sports

Three Pakistan players granted NOCs for Big Bash League 2023-24

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has taken a strategic step by issuing no-objection certificates (NOCs) to three talented cricketers – fast bowlers Haris Rauf and Zaman Khan, along with leg-spinner Usama Mir – allowing them to participate in the prestigious Big Bash League (BBL) during the 2023-24 season. This decision is reflective of the PCB's thoughtful approach, considering not only the individual workload of these players but also aligning with the future tours program of the national men's team.

Gakpo fires Liverpool into last 16

LONDON: Liverpool secured a place in the Europa League last 16 with a convincing 4-0 victory over LASK, featuring a double from Cody Gakpo and goals from Luis Diaz and Mohamed Salah. The win, combined with Toulouse's 0-0 draw against Union Saint-Gilloise, ensured Liverpool's top spot in Group E, allowing Jurgen Klopp to rest players in the final pool stage fixture. In another Europa League matchup, Brighton advanced to the knockout round with a 1-0 win at AEK Athens, courtesy of Joao Pedro's penalty. The Seagulls, competing in Europe for the first time, extended their European journey into the New Year.

Lerverkusen’s rise as Bayern hunters faces test

BERLIN: Bayer Leverkusen is set to face Borussia Dortmund on Sunday, occupying the top spot in the Bundesliga table with an impressive record of dropping just two points out of a possible 36 to start the season. Despite being a mere two points ahead of a formidable Bayern Munich, Leverkusen boasts a commanding ten-point lead over Dortmund, highlighting their early-season dominance with only 12 matches played.

Ben Stokes to Miss IPL 2024

Ben Stokes, who signed for CSK for 162.5 million Indian rupees ($1.95 million) in December, 2022, came out of one-day international retirement to participate in the recent ODI World Cup in India.