Pakistan is contemplating the inclusion of a third spinner for the second and final Test against South Africa in Rawalpindi, as they aim to secure a series sweep. Head coach Azhar Mahmood revealed on Sunday that either leg-spinner Abrar Ahmed or uncapped 38-year-old left-armer Asif Afridi could be added to the squad. This decision comes in response to the dry pitch conditions expected at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, which is likely to favor spin bowling as the match progresses. The hosts triumphed in the first Test by 93 runs, with spinners claiming 34 of the 40 wickets on a turning Gaddafi Stadium pitch. Left-armer Noman Ali was particularly effective, taking 10 wickets, while Sajid Khan contributed six. Mahmood emphasized the importance of scoring heavily in the first innings, regardless of the toss outcome, to maximize their chances of victory. South Africa, meanwhile, will welcome back experienced left-arm spinner Keshav Maharaj, who missed the first Test due to a groin strain. Stand-in captain Aiden Markram expressed confidence in Maharaj’s return, highlighting his experience and skill set. Maharaj is expected to partner with Senuran Muthusamy, who impressed with 11 wickets in the opening Test. Markram acknowledged the anticipated spin-friendly conditions but viewed it as an opportunity for his team to level the series. He also praised Tony de Zorzi, who scored a century in the first Test, for his insights into facing Pakistan’s spinners, adding that his confidence would be a valuable asset for the team.
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Israel halts aid to Gaza after strikes, accusing Hamas of attacks
In a dramatic escalation of tensions, Israel has suspended humanitarian aid to Gaza following a series of military strikes on Sunday. The Israeli military accused Hamas of violating a recent US-brokered ceasefire by launching attacks on its forces. The strikes, which targeted Hamas infrastructure including tunnels, weapons depots, and militants, resulted in at least 18 casualties, according to local health authorities and Gaza residents.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu ordered a forceful response to what he described as Hamas’ breach of the ceasefire agreement. The military reported that militants in Rafah fired an anti-tank missile and attacked Israeli soldiers. Despite these developments, Hamas’ armed wing claimed it remained committed to the ceasefire and denied knowledge of the clashes in Rafah.
The suspension of aid has raised concerns about the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, where hundreds of thousands of people were already facing famine as of August, according to the IPC global hunger monitor. The Rafah border crossing, a critical conduit for aid, remains closed, further exacerbating the situation. The UN has emphasized the urgent need for increased humanitarian assistance, even as aid flows through other crossings had improved prior to the suspension.
The ceasefire, which took effect on October 11, had temporarily halted two years of conflict. However, both sides have accused each other of violations, casting doubt on the prospects for lasting peace. Key unresolved issues include Hamas’ disarmament, Gaza’s future governance, the composition of an international stabilization force, and steps toward Palestinian statehood.
Amid the uncertainty, some Palestinians have rushed to stockpile goods, fearing a collapse of the truce. The situation echoes Israel’s response to ceasefire violations by Hezbollah in late 2024, which initially threatened but ultimately maintained a fragile peace. As tensions persist, the path to a durable resolution remains fraught with challenges.
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Morocco beats Argentina to clinch its first Under-20 World Cup title
In a historic triumph, Morocco secured its maiden Under-20 World Cup title by defeating Argentina 2-0 in Santiago, Chile, on Sunday. Striker Yassir Zabrini emerged as the hero of the match, netting two crucial goals in the 12th and 29th minutes. This victory marks Morocco as the first African nation to claim the U20 World Cup since Ghana’s win in 2009. The Moroccan team showcased exceptional skill throughout the tournament, topping their group against formidable opponents such as Spain, Brazil, and Mexico. They continued their dominance in the knockout stages, overcoming South Korea, the United States, and France. For Argentina, this match marked their first defeat in the competition, dashing their hopes of securing a record seventh title. Despite the absence of key players Claudio Echeverri (Bayer Leverkusen) and Franco Mastantuono (Real Madrid), Argentina managed to reach the final, but Morocco’s relentless performance proved insurmountable.
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Saudi Arabia shuts down 10 recruitment firms for violating labour laws
In a significant move to enforce labor regulations, Saudi Arabia has shut down 10 recruitment firms and penalized 27 others for violating labor laws. The Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development conducted nationwide inspections during the third quarter of 2025, uncovering numerous infractions. The suspended firms were found guilty of breaching recruitment and labor service rules, delaying client reimbursements, and failing to address beneficiary complaints effectively. The ministry has urged the public to utilize Musaned, the official national platform for recruitment services, which facilitates direct communication with approved providers and allows for evaluation, reporting, and follow-up. Violations can be reported via the number 920002866 or through the Musaned app. This crackdown underscores Saudi Arabia’s commitment to protecting workers’ rights and ensuring fair labor practices.
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Two dead after cargo plane skids off Hong Kong runway into sea
A tragic aviation incident unfolded at Hong Kong International Airport early Monday morning, resulting in the deaths of two ground staff members. The Emirates flight EK9788, a Boeing 747-481 operated by Turkish cargo airline Air ACT, skidded off the north runway and plunged into the sea shortly after arriving from Dubai at approximately 03:50 local time (19:50 GMT). The aircraft reportedly collided with a vehicle on the runway during the mishap. According to a statement from the Civil Aviation Department, the two ground staff fell into the water during the accident. Despite being rescued, they succumbed to their injuries and were pronounced dead at the hospital, as reported by local media outlets, including public broadcaster RTHK, citing police sources. The four crew members onboard the plane survived the crash and were transported to the hospital for treatment. The affected runway has been closed indefinitely, though the airport’s other two runways remain operational. The Airport Authority has announced a press conference scheduled for 10:00 local time (02:00 GMT) to address the incident. Rescue efforts were bolstered by the Hong Kong Government Flying Service, which deployed helicopters, and the Fire Services Department, which sent vessels to the scene. The accident has disrupted air traffic, with at least 11 cargo flights initially scheduled to arrive at the airport on Monday being canceled, as per the Airport Authority’s website. This incident marks a rare blemish on the safety record of Hong Kong International Airport, which has historically maintained a strong reputation for operational safety.
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World’s finest diamond, duchess tiara: What jewels did Louvre thieves target?
In a daring heist at the Louvre Museum in Paris, thieves executed a meticulously planned break-in on Sunday morning, targeting the renowned Galerie d’Apollon. Using an extendable ladder, the intruders accessed an upper window overlooking the gallery, which houses some of France’s most priceless treasures. While authorities have yet to disclose the exact items stolen, the gallery is home to an array of historic jewels, including the world-famous Regent Diamond, the Hortensia Pink Diamond, and the crowns of Louis XV and Empress Eugenie. The Regent Diamond, weighing 140.64 carats, is considered one of the finest diamonds globally, valued at over $60 million. The Hortensia Diamond, with its storied past of theft and recovery, and the ornate tiaras of French royalty, including the Duchess of Angoulême’s emerald and diamond tiara, were also among the targeted exhibits. The Galerie d’Apollon, commissioned by Louis XIV in 1661, is a masterpiece of Baroque architecture, adorned with gold leaf and paintings, and served as the inspiration for Versailles’ Hall of Mirrors. The thieves reportedly dropped Empress Eugenie’s crown outside the museum during their escape, leaving behind a trail of clues. This audacious theft has raised concerns about the security of one of the world’s most iconic cultural institutions.
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Sheikh Rashed’s Powerful Glory steals the show on British Champions Day
In a breathtaking display of skill and determination, Sheikh Rashed bin Dalmouk Al Maktoum’s Irish-bred colt, Powerful Glory, delivered one of the most astonishing upsets in horse racing history on British Champions Day at Ascot. The three-year-old sprinter, ridden by former British Champion Jockey Jamie Spencer, defied staggering odds of 200-1 to clinch victory in the QIPCO British Champions Sprint Stakes (G1). This triumph marks the longest-priced Group 1 win in Europe since the Flat Pattern began in 1971, eclipsing the previous record held by Qirat’s 150-1 Sussex Stakes victory in 1971. The win was particularly remarkable given Powerful Glory’s recent poor performance, finishing last of five at Beverley just weeks prior. Trainer Richard Fahey, who had seen glimpses of potential in the colt, expressed his astonishment at the result, stating, ‘We’ve finally seen the real Powerful Glory today.’ The victory was sealed by a short neck over the favorite, Lazzat, ridden by James Doyle, who praised Spencer’s tactical brilliance. The day also saw Godolphin’s Trawlerman, owned by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, secure the QIPCO British Champions Long Distance Cup (G1), further cementing the stable’s dominance in staying races. French contender Calandagan, under jockey Mickael Barzalona, rounded off the event with a win in the Champion Stakes (G1), showcasing France’s continued prowess on the international stage. British Champions Day 2025 will be remembered as a day of historic upsets and unforgettable triumphs.
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Pakistan, Afghanistan confirm ceasefire agreement
In a significant diplomatic breakthrough, Pakistan and Afghanistan have formalized a ceasefire agreement aimed at halting cross-border hostilities and fostering mutual respect for territorial sovereignty. The accord, confirmed by officials from both nations on Sunday, marks a pivotal step toward de-escalating long-standing tensions along their shared border. Pakistani Defense Minister Khawaja Asif announced on social media that attacks originating from Afghanistan into Pakistan would cease immediately. Further discussions on the implementation of the ceasefire and enhanced security collaboration are scheduled for October 25 in Istanbul, Türkiye, where delegations from both countries will convene. Afghan government spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid echoed the sentiment, revealing that the bilateral agreement was finalized following negotiations in Doha, Qatar. The pact underscores a shared commitment to peace, mutual respect, and the strengthening of neighborly ties. Both nations have pledged to resolve disputes through dialogue, refraining from targeting each other’s security forces, civilians, or critical infrastructure. This agreement is seen as a cornerstone for regional stability and a potential catalyst for broader diplomatic engagement.
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To hit back at the United States in their trade war, China borrows from the US playbook
In a strategic move mirroring U.S. trade practices, China has expanded its export control regulations, requiring foreign companies to seek Chinese government approval for exporting products containing even minimal amounts of China-originated rare earth materials or those produced using Chinese technology. This policy, announced this month, marks a significant escalation in the ongoing trade tensions between the world’s two largest economies. According to U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer, this rule effectively grants China substantial control over the global technology supply chain, as even a South Korean smartphone manufacturer must now obtain Beijing’s permission to sell devices containing Chinese rare earth materials to markets like Australia. This development underscores China’s adoption of the U.S. foreign direct product rule, a decades-old policy that extends U.S. jurisdiction to foreign-made products, particularly those involving American technology. Neil Thomas, a fellow at the Asia Society Policy Institute’s Center for China Analysis, noted that Beijing is leveraging Washington’s playbook, having witnessed the effectiveness of U.S. export controls in constraining China’s economic and political options. The roots of this strategy trace back to 2018, when former U.S. President Donald Trump initiated a trade war with China, prompting Beijing to develop a robust toolkit of laws and policies to counter foreign sanctions and interventions. Measures such as China’s Unreliable Entity List and the anti-foreign sanction law, both modeled after U.S. practices, have been deployed to retaliate against U.S. trade actions. However, experts like Jeremy Daum of Yale Law School caution that such reciprocal measures risk escalating tensions and creating a race to the bottom, where neither side emerges victorious.
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Empress’s crown covered in over 1,000 diamonds found broken after Louvre robbery
In a shocking turn of events, French authorities discovered a damaged 19th-century crown near the Louvre in Paris on Sunday, October 19, 2025, following a daring robbery at the renowned museum. The crown, once owned by Empress Eugenie, the wife of Napoleon III, is an exquisite piece adorned with golden eagles, 1,354 diamonds, and 56 emeralds, as detailed on the museum’s official website. The theft, which occurred earlier in the day, targeted the museum’s ‘Gallerie d’Apollon’ (Apollo’s Gallery), where three or four thieves reportedly used a furniture hoist to steal ‘priceless’ artifacts from two displays. Interior Minister Laurent Nunez confirmed the incident but did not specify the full extent of the stolen items. Among the treasures typically housed in the gallery are three historically significant diamonds—the Regent, the Sancy, and the Hortensia—as well as an emerald-and-diamond necklace gifted by Napoleon to his wife, Empress Marie Louise. The investigation is ongoing, with authorities working to determine the full scope of the loss and apprehend the perpetrators.