The former captains urged Pakistani authorities to provide Khan with ongoing medical care from qualified specialists, humane detention in line with international standards, and transparent access to legal processes.

“The wicket was not that easy. Sometimes, you have to believe and focus on your strengths. I was watching the ball, sticking to my strengths and running as much as possible”

The match will be played at the R Premadasa Stadium (RPS) in Colombo, Sri Lanka. The ground is a renowned spin haven, and pace-off bowls have been used as weapons by bowlers in all matches played here this World Cup.

“The players had little choice but to wait outside until accommodation was arranged. Some local Pakistanis in Canberra helped them eventually”

Repeated international warnings that the direct or indirect cultivation of extremist networks — whether for global jihad or against neighbouring India or Afghanistan — would ultimately prove self-destructive for Pakistan are now playing out.

The ICC said it was awaiting formal communication from the PCB but stressed that all member nations share responsibility for the successful delivery of the tournament.

The freeze, due to take effect on 21 January, targets people officials say are likely to become a “public charge” by relying on government assistance.

Two suspects remain at large: 33-year-old Simran Preet Panesar of Brampton, believed to be in India, for whom a Canada-wide arrest warrant and extradition request have been issued; and 36-year-old Prasath Paramalingam of Brampton, who failed to appear in court in August 2024.

The National Day of Mourning in January will allow families further time to lay their loved ones to rest and for communities still recovering to come together in remembrance and resolve.

Analysts note that such associations have implications for regional and global security realities.