Pakistan's captain Azhar Ali thanked Sri Lanka on Tuesday for returning to Pakistan for the first Test tour there in a decade, after a fatal militant attack on their team in 2009 drove international cricket away.
"It's a historic occasion and all the players are excited to be part of this," Azhar, who has played 75 Tests -- but, until now, none at home -- said at a press conference in Rawalpindi with his counterpart, Dimuth Karunaratne.
"We thank the Sri Lankan team for coming here. The last Test was also against them so their visit will send a strong message to the world that we need to support each other," he said.
Eight people were killed and several players and officials were wounded when militants opened fire on the Sri Lankan team bus travelling to a Test in Lahore in 2009.
The attack plunged Pakistan into sporting isolation during its years-long battle with militancy, with all "home" venues played in the United Arab Emirates.
But with security dramatically improving in recent years international cricket began creeping back starting in 2015, albeit only for limited overs.
Sri Lanka will play two Tests under heavy security, one in Rawalpindi and the second in Karachi, ending a decade-long absence for cricket's five-day format.
They will be the first home Tests for all 16 players in the Pakistan squad.
"Cricket is the biggest thing and if the youngsters can't see matches here then it's a big loss for our cricket and budding players," Azhar said.
"I am sure our grounds will host more matches in the years to come."
Karunaratne -- who refused to tour Pakistan for a limited over series in September-October this year -- shared his rival's sentiments.
"I am really excited... The players are excited to be part of this historic occasion," he said.
- Sri Lanka on the rise -
Sri Lanka are on the up in Test cricket after becoming the first Asian team to win a series in South Africa earlier this year.
They then drew a Test series 1-1 against New Zealand at home in August, their first fixture in the World Test championship.
Sri Lanka have not lost a series in Pakistan since 1992 -- winning two and drawing two.
They beat Pakistan 2-0 in their last series in UAE two years ago, a win Karunaratne hoped will motivate them.
"We played good cricket in 2017 so that confidence is with us," he said.
Pakistan, meanwhile, are smarting from a 3-0 defeat in South Africa and 2-0 in Australia this year.
"Test cricket demands discipline and they (Sri Lanka) are a well disciplined side, whether playing at their home or away so we have to play disciplined and good cricket," Azhar said, adding that as captain he has to "lead by example".
He managed just 59 in six innings in South Africa and 62 in four in Australia.
WWE Hall of Famer Hulk Hogan has been hospitalised for ongoing neck and back issues, but representatives have confirmed he is not in critical condition, dismissing online speculation suggesting otherwise.
The 71-year-old wrestling icon, whose real name is Terry Bollea, was reported by TMZ Sports to be undergoing treatment related to injuries sustained during his decades-long in-ring career. His representative said Hogan is already mobile again and “not on his deathbed”, following false claims made on air by Florida radio personality Bubba the Love Sponge.
The speculation began after Bubba stated he had heard Hogan’s health had declined significantly and that family members were being called to say their goodbyes. However, he admitted the information was second-hand and unverified at the time of broadcast.
— (@)
In reality, Hogan’s current hospital stay follows a neck fusion surgery he underwent in May 2025, which was described as successful. He has undergone numerous operations over the years to treat wear and tear from wrestling, particularly to his spine, hips and knees.
Despite his physical challenges, Hogan has continued to make public appearances. His most recent confirmed outing was in January 2025 on WWE Raw, where he promoted his Real American Beer brand during the programme’s Netflix launch. The segment received a mixed reaction from the crowd.
Hogan remains one of the most recognisable figures in professional wrestling, having helped define the industry during the 1980s boom. He held multiple world titles and was central to WWE's rise to global popularity, later moving to WCW and becoming a founding member of the nWo.
His team has confirmed there is no cause for alarm, and that his current hospitalisation is part of ongoing care rather than any emergency. No further surgeries have been announced at this stage.
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Ju Haknyeon exits THE BOYZ following controversy surrounding Tokyo lounge meet
K-pop idol Ju Haknyeon has officially left THE BOYZ following explosive allegations connecting him to a former Japanese adult film actress and an ongoing police investigation. While the singer denied involvement in any criminal activity, the controversy has triggered widespread media attention, emotional fallout among fans, and public apologies from the rest of the group.
Scandal breaks: Photos, police reports, and a contract termination
The storm began when images of Ju Haknyeon alongside ex-AV actress Kirara Asuka at a lounge in Tokyo began circulating online. What initially seemed like a private gathering on 30 May quickly spiralled into a scandal, with Korean media suggesting deeper implications beyond a casual meetup. Shortly after, on 18 June, his agency ONE HUNDRED confirmed the end of his contract, citing a "loss of trust."
Within 24 hours, matters escalated. A citizen filed a formal complaint at Gangnam Police Station accusing Ju of violating South Korea’s prostitution law, specifically Article 4, which pertains to arranging sexual services. The report hinted at potential ties with others in the entertainment industry, demanding a broader investigation. In response, the agency’s CEO Cha Ga Won issued a statement accepting responsibility, admitting the company lacked oversight, and apologised to fans.
Ju, in turn, posted a handwritten message denying all allegations. He acknowledged attending a private drinking session on 30 May but stated, “I have never engaged in prostitution or any illegal activity.” Despite the denial, the damage to his image was irreversible, leading to his removal from the group and all related activities.
THE BOYZ react: Apologies pour in from remaining members
In the aftermath, THE BOYZ members addressed their fandom, THE B, with heartfelt letters. Eric, Kevin, Juyeon, Sunwoo, Younghoon, Q, and others expressed deep remorse, shared personal struggles, and vowed to rebuild trust. They admitted the scandal had weighed heavily on them, with some describing emotional turmoil and fear of losing their fans.
The letters weren’t about defending Ju but about reassuring their audience that they remain committed. Each member promised to reflect, grow stronger, and uphold the group’s values. The group now continues as a 10-member act.
THE BOYZ attend 2022 The Fact Music AwardsGetty Images
Online reactions remain divided, with some fans supporting the group’s decision, while others question the harsh scrutiny idols face, especially over personal relationships. But one thing is clear: THE BOYZ is now in damage control mode, striving to move forward while keeping their fandom close.
TWO sisters studying at the University of Chester have drowned in mountain pools while visiting Snowdonia with university friends, an inquest has heard.
Hajra Zahid, 29, and Haleema Zahid, 25, were pulled from the water at the Watkin Pools at Eryri in the Nant Gwynant area of Gwynedd on June 11.
The sisters, who were born in Pakistan but lived in Maltby, Rotherham, South Yorkshire, were both pronounced dead at the scene, according to reports.
Assistant coroner for north-west Wales Sarah Riley opened inquests into their deaths at the Dafydd Orwig Chamber in Caernarfon on Wednesday (18).
She said: "Hajra and Haleema had travelled to the Nant Gwynant area with friends from university. They have entered the water and sadly both died as a result of drowning."
Emergency services were called to the scene at around 9.30pm after receiving reports that one woman had been pulled from the water while another remained in the pools. Despite efforts by emergency crews to rescue the second woman, both students were tragically pronounced dead at the scene.
The multi-agency response involved Llanberis Mountain Rescue Team, Wales Air Ambulance, and the Coastguard. Jurgen Dissmann, chairman of Llanberis Mountain Rescue Team, said, "On behalf of Llanberis mountain rescue team, I extend our deepest sympathies to the families and friends of the two women who sadly lost their lives. This was a complex and difficult callout for the team."
The pools where the tragedy occurred are part of a series of cascades and plunge pools on Afon Cwm Llan, which have been described on social media as an "absolute dream tucked away in Snowdonia" and "perfect for a refreshing wild swim".
Both women had joined Chester Business School earlier this year to study Master's degrees in International Business.
Vice-chancellor Professor Eunice Simmons said: "The University of Chester community is in mourning for the tragic loss of Haleema Zahid and Hajra Zahid and our heartfelt sympathies are with their families and friends during this incredibly difficult time. They touched the lives of many here at Chester - their friends, the cohort on their course and the staff who taught them - and they will be deeply missed."
Colleagues from Pakistan paid tribute to Haleema, who had previously worked at a telecommunications company in Islamabad. Dr Bilal Saeed described her as "an exceptionally compassionate, hardworking and kind individual" who had "touched the lives of many with her warmth, professionalism and unwavering dedication".
Another former colleague, Sheharyar Shahnawaz, remembered Haleema as an "amazing lady, very lively and energetic, someone you would want in your life". He revealed that she had become the pillar of her family following her father's death last year and had been "really excited for this new chapter" when he saw her before she left for the UK.
Riley added: "Investigations continue in terms of how they came by their death and the inquest is therefore adjourned to allow for completion of those investigations. I offer my sincere condolences to their family, friends and all who knew and loved them."
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Randhir Kapoor had strongly opposed Karisma’s marriage to businessman Sunjay Kapur
In the wake of businessman Sunjay Kapur’s sudden death on 12 June 2025, attention has turned to Karisma Kapoor’s personal life and her past marriage. The former couple, who tied the knot in 2003, split in 2014 and finalised their divorce in 2016 after a long legal battle. Their marriage had been fraught with tension, and Karisma’s father, veteran actor Randhir Kapoor, had openly voiced his disapproval of the union.
‘She doesn’t need to remarry, she’s content being a mother’
Following their split, Karisma’s name was occasionally linked with businessman Sandeep Toshniwal, though neither ever confirmed a relationship. In a 2017 interview, Randhir Kapoor was asked whether Karisma planned to marry again. He replied that she was happy, settled, and completely devoted to her children, Samaira and Kiaan.
Randhir Kapoor once said Karisma is happy and well-settled as a single motherGetty Images
“I think Lolo is very well settled and happy. I have never discussed marriage with her, but if she ever wants to marry again, she will always have my blessings. That said, I don’t think she wants to. She’s a happy mother and there’s no step in that direction,” Randhir had said. He added that Karisma is an “excellent mother” and that her love for her children seemed to fulfil her completely.
Despite growing speculation at the time about a new chapter in Karisma’s life, Randhir’s words reflected a family that supported her decision to live life on her own terms.
Randhir Kapoor once said Karisma Kapoor may never remarry after divorceGetty Images
‘I never wanted her to marry Sunjay’
Back in 2016, during the divorce proceedings, Randhir had spoken about how he never approved of Karisma’s marriage to Sunjay. “Sunjay is a third-class man. We are Kapoors. We don’t need anyone’s money. He never cared for Karisma. He lived with another woman while giving her nonsense,” Randhir had said.
He added that everyone in Delhi knew Sunjay’s reputation, and he didn’t want to say more. Post-divorce, Karisma won custody of her children. Reports stated that Sunjay paid ₹70 crore (£6.6 million) in alimony and set aside ₹14 crore (£1.3 million) in bonds for the children’s future.
Though Sunjay later married Priya Sachdev, Karisma has remained single. She returned to the screen with selective work but kept her personal life private. Through it all, she’s maintained grace, and, as her father once said, she continues to live life the way she chooses.
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India captain Shubman Gill and Ravindra Jadeja during a nets session at Headingley on June 18, 2025 in Leeds. (Photo: Getty Images)
INDIA will begin their Test series in England on Friday with a new captain and without two of their most experienced batters — Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma. Shubman Gill, who takes over from Rohit, will also bat at number four, filling the position vacated by Kohli.
Vice-captain Rishabh Pant confirmed on Wednesday that Gill would bat at four in the first Test at Headingley. “I think Shubman is going to bat at number four and I'm going to stick to number five as of now,” Pant said. “Obviously, it's a new start for us, big people have left. Yes, there will be a gap, but at the same time, it's an opportunity for us to build a new culture from here.”
Kohli announced his retirement from Test cricket days after Rohit stepped down, ending a phase in which the pair led India’s batting for over a decade. Kohli and Sachin Tendulkar together scored over 21,000 runs from the number four position in 278 Tests.
Gill, 25, has a Test average of 35 in 32 matches, which drops to 29 in away games and below 15 in three previous Tests in England. The Headingley match marks the start of a new World Test Championship cycle. India last won a series in England in 2007, with their only other wins coming in 1971 and 1986.
Leadership transition and new combinations
Pant, who has returned to cricket after a serious car accident in 2022, said his close friendship with Gill would help them in leadership roles. “If you're good friends off the field, it eventually comes on the field. Me and him, we get along really well together,” he said.
India will also miss the services of experienced bowlers. Jasprit Bumrah, returning from a back injury, may be rested for two of the five Tests due to the schedule. Mohammed Shami is unavailable due to ankle surgery, and Ravichandran Ashwin has retired from Tests.
The selectors have named several fresh faces. Karun Nair could return to the XI, and Sai Sudharsan may get his debut. All-rounders Nitish Reddy and Shardul Thakur are being considered to strengthen the middle order, while there is also a chance Kuldeep Yadav could be included.
There are decisions to be made in the pace department. Arshdeep Singh, Akash Deep and Prasidh Krishna are in contention to support Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj. Head coach Gautam Gambhir will face his first tactical test in a long series, with several selections yet to be finalised.
England without Anderson and Broad
England, who lost 4-1 in India last year, will be without James Anderson and Stuart Broad, their two most successful Test bowlers with 1,308 wickets combined. Their attack for the first Test will include Chris Woakes, Brydon Carse, Josh Tongue and Shoaib Bashir, with Woakes set to bat at number eight.
Durham’s Carse, who will make his home debut at Headingley, said the changes offer opportunities. “I think it's a good chance for a couple of younger players, with slightly less experience, to stamp down some authority throughout the series.”
Ben Stokes’ side will be without Jofra Archer and Mark Wood due to injury. Broad told The Times: “Looking at England, with all the injuries they've got – where are they getting 20 wickets?”
Pant said India wouldn’t take the new-look England attack lightly. “It feels so good when both of them are not there. But at the same time, they have enough ammunition in the England bowling line-up.”
The series could hinge on key battles, including the one between Bumrah and Joe Root, who has scored over 13,000 Test runs. England will also rely on batters like Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Harry Brook and Ollie Pope.
Squads
England (playing XI): Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Ollie Pope, Joe Root, Harry Brook, Ben Stokes (c), Jamie Smith (wk), Chris Woakes, Brydon Carse, Josh Tongue, Shoaib Bashir.