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  • Quantum tech is coming — and with it a risk of cyber doomsday – POLITICO

    Quantum tech is coming — and with it a risk of cyber doomsday – POLITICO

    U.S. tech giant IBM, a frontrunner in quantum tech, recently announced it expects to have the first workable quantum computer by 2029. That underlines the urgency of securing critical data.

    “The fact that we have this roadmap now and that all of the EU member states agreed on this … I think this is really a big step,” said Stephan Ehlen, a cryptography expert at the German cybersecurity agency and one of the authors of the roadmap.

    But making a plan is just the start.

    “This is not only about these algorithms, it’s a huge migration problem … It affects billions and billions of systems,” said Bart Preneel, a cryptographer also from KU Leuven. “It’s a very complex problem that you cannot solve in a few A4s.”

    It’s also a problem that hits home with national governments and their security and intelligence services. Several European governments have imposed export restrictions on quantum technology; the real concern for governments is whether their own communications are affected, and whether “everything they’re doing can be exposed,” Preneel said.

    Some experts have downplayed a doomsday scenario for quantum, arguing that even if computers are developed that can break modern encryption, it still requires a significant amount of work and money to do so.

    The EU has no excuse not to push on, said Manfred Lochter, another official at the German cyber agency. “If you don’t have access to quantum technologies, then you’re lost.”


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  • Air traffic control nightmare looms this summer – POLITICO

    Air traffic control nightmare looms this summer – POLITICO

    “Already last year, the delays in the European aviation network were the worst in 25 years, and the situation this year is likely to deteriorate further,” Transport Commissioner Apostolos Tzitzikostas wrote in a letter to transport ministers in April, seen by POLITICO.

    “Last year, Europe saw 35,000 flights on a busy summer day, this year we expect to reach 38,000,” Tzitzikostas added.

    “High demand puts considerable pressure on Air Navigation Service Providers (ANSPs), some of whom continue to struggle with staff and capacity shortages,” the commissioner acknowledged, calling on governments to start “hiring and training additional controllers where needed.”

    But the problem cannot be solved quickly because training new air traffic controllers takes at least three years. | Thibaud Moritz/AFP via Getty Images

    Calling for more controllers

    But the problem cannot be solved quickly because training new air traffic controllers takes at least three years. On top of that, professional certification to manage air traffic is limited to a specific area of Europe’s fragmented airspace, which is managed by 40 different ANSPs.

    CAE, a Canadian company that specializes in training services, recently forecast that Europe will need the most air traffic controllers of any region over the next decade — 27,000 out of 71,000 globally.

    Meanwhile, airlines are going ballistic.


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  • Late-Night Cheese May Fuel Nightmares – New Study Explains How – SciTechDaily

    1. Late-Night Cheese May Fuel Nightmares – New Study Explains How  SciTechDaily
    2. ‘Eating habit’ may be key culprit behind sleep disruptions affecting millions of Britons  GB News
    3. Can consuming cheese trigger bad dreams?  India Today
    4. Sweet dreams? No dessert, please: Dairy products tied to nightmares, with riders  Telegraph India
    5. Cheese may really be giving you nightmares, scientists find  Frontiers

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  • Saudi Arabia, Indonesia sign several deals worth around $27 billion, state news agency says – Reuters

    1. Saudi Arabia, Indonesia sign several deals worth around $27 billion, state news agency says  Reuters
    2. Saudi Arabia and Indonesia ink $27 billion in deals, reaffirm Palestinian support  Ptv.com.pk
    3. Saudi Arabia and Indonesia agree to bolster bilateral ties  Saudi Gazette
    4. Saudi Arabia, Indonesia sign several deals worth close to $30 bln: SPA  Al Arabiya English
    5. ‘Indonesian Village’ project tops Prabowo’s talks in Saudi Arabia  The Jakarta Post

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  • Hamas is open to a ceasefire. But Netanyahu says there's no room for Hamas in postwar Gaza – The Washington Post

    1. Hamas is open to a ceasefire. But Netanyahu says there’s no room for Hamas in postwar Gaza  The Washington Post
    2. Updates: Israel attacks kill 111; Hamas says considering ceasefire proposal  Al Jazeera
    3. Trump says Israel has agreed to conditions for 60-day Gaza ceasefire  BBC
    4. Netanyahu vows to destroy Hamas to its ‘foundation’  Dawn
    5. Israel said hoping to clinch comprehensive Gaza deal before PM’s US visit next week  The Times of Israel

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  • Madrid oust Juve, BVB reach CWC quarters

    Madrid oust Juve, BVB reach CWC quarters


    ATLANTA:

    Spanish giants Real Madrid beat Juventus 1-0 on Tuesday to set up a Club World Cup quarter-final clash against Borussia Dortmund, who edged Mexican side Monterrey.

    Serhou Guirassy struck twice for the German outfit as they scraped past Sergio Ramos’s side 2-1 in a tight last-16 clash in Atlanta and denied the former Real Madrid skipper a match-up against his former team.

    Youngster Gonzalo Garcia headed home his third goal of the tournament to help Madrid edge Italian side Juventus at the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami earlier.

    It was an impressive display from Xabi Alonso’s Madrid side, unbeaten under the new coach, and they were further boosted by Kylian Mbappe’s return from illness as a substitute.

    “We had a lot of chances in the second half, but their goalkeeper was really good,” said Madrid shot-stopper Thibaut Courtois.

    The first half was a finely-balanced contest with Igor Tudor’s Juventus starting brightly before Real ended it on top.

    Los Blancos kept turning the screw and found their goal when Trent Alexander-Arnold crossed for Gonzalo to head home after 54 minutes.

    Alonso decided to introduce Mbappe to the delight of the 62,149 crowd but the striker did not find any clear openings as Juve pushed for an equaliser.

    Madrid’s coach was pleased with his team’s performance, including that of Gonzalo -— who he had compared to former Real great Raul — but also suggested that Mbappe might be ready for a bigger contribution in the next game.

    “We will keep watching him… I think he will be much better for the quarters,” Alonso said.

    Alonso added that he was satisfied to see Real produce the necessary grit to grind out the result in the second half.

    “We had to be patient, we had to mature into the game,” said the coach.

    “With the players and myself, you know you have to grit your teeth and do what you have to do. And in the end, we had to hold on a bit, and I’m happy about that too.”

    Juve boss Tudor said his team became exhausted as the game developed.

    “In the end there were 10 of them asking to be substituted. Obviously you can’t do that but there was an incredible tiredness,” he said, offering his reasons.

    “There is the tension of the game which burns energy but then there is the heat and humidity,” explained Tudor, also noting they were at the end of a long season.

    Dortmund deny Ramos

    In Atlanta, Guirassy’s brace was enough to help Dortmund past Monterrey in a hard-fought clash, setting them up to play a Madrid side who beat them in the 2024 Champions League final.

    “Real has a great team, they have many good individual players,” Dortmund coach Niko Kovac told reporters.

    “If we put everything on the pitch, (giving) the same performance as we saw today, I think that we will have a good chance.”

    Guirassy netted a first-half double but German Berterame pulled one back for the Mexican side who came close to an equaliser when a late Ramos header span just wide.

    “I think I could have scored at least three goals but I am happy to have helped the team win,” Guirassy told broadcaster DAZN.

    After grinding through several games in the blazing afternoon sun during the group stage, Dortmund were grateful to be at the air-conditioned Mercedes-Benz Stadium and played at a faster pace in Atlanta.

    Karim Adeyemi set up both of Guirassy’s goals as the Guinea international reached 37 for the season across all competitions.

    A booking for Jobe Bellingham means he will be suspended for the clash against his brother Jude’s Real Madrid side.

    However Dortmund almost missed out entirely as Monterrey hit back in the second half, but after Berterame headed home to reduce the gap, goalkeeper Gregor Kobel made several good saves to keep them at bay.

    Ramos, sent up front for the final stages, put a header agonisingly wide in stoppage time as he tried to deliver on his penchant for late, decisive moments, like in Madrid’s 2014 Champions League final triumph.

    “The crowd and our fans and the people who understand about football, they saw that the team gave everything,” Ramos told DAZN, proud of his side’s efforts.

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  • Motorola launches its most intelligent smartphones yet – the motorola razr 60 and motorola edge 60 pro

    Motorola launches its most intelligent smartphones yet – the motorola razr 60 and motorola edge 60 pro

    Packed with powerful AI, innovative software, and cutting-edge hardware, both devices deliver unmatched performance for every user

    SYDNEY, July 3, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Mobile communications leader, Motorola, is introducing two of its most intelligent devices yet to the Australian market, the motorola razr 60 and motorola edge 60 pro. Equipped with moto ai, both devices exemplify Motorola’s leadership in simplifying everyday tasks through intuitive AI. 

    motorola razr 60 (left) and motorola edge 60 pro (right)

    Available from 10 July at RRP $1,199, users can enjoy new AI features including Next Move and Playlist Studio, combined with exceptional hardware, leading software, and modern design.

    The concurrent release of both devices at the same price point comes as Motorola continues to prioritise offering an innovative portfolio for everyone, with devices tailored to the unique needs, preferences, and use cases of its consumers in all markets.  Following the recent successful edge launch and Motorola’s razr model’s recognition as the number one selling flip phone in the world by analyst house IDC, there was no questioning bringing these devices to Australia.

    Praveena Raman, Country General Manager for Australia and New Zealand said, “We’re proud to continue leading the flip phone category and beyond, with devices that aren’t just well designed, but also smart – they bring meaningful AI features to Australians, that genuinely enhance daily life. Whether it’s anticipating your next move, generating the perfect playlist, or summarising your day, we’ve made sure moto ai[1] genuinely makes life easier.”

    “Additionally, the motorola razr 60 is a perfect example of how we’re combining iconic design with intelligent innovation, delivering a foldable experience that’s functional and fashionable, while the motorola edge 60 pro follows the success of its predecessor, featuring AI-powered enhancements and a refined design that lives up to our promise: every detail considered, every angle covered.”

    Stay one step ahead with moto ai

    With these new devices, users can explore the full power and capabilities of moto ai, boosting creativity and productivity by elevating every experience.

    With Motorola’s Next Move, users receive intelligent, real-time suggestions based on what’s on their screen, with helpful, contextual suggestions. If planning a date, Next Move will prompt users to save the date, or even help them create a personalised image inspired by the event. Whether browsing recipes, navigating the day, or managing tasks on the fly, Next Move keeps users one step ahead.

    Moto ai also supports effortlessly capturing next-level photos or videos, complementing the motorola edge 60 pro’s impressive Sony LYTIATM sensor and four pro-grade cameras, and delivering professional-level photos and videos, plus the motorola razr 60’s 50MP camera system, allowing users to capture stunning photos in any light and ultra-smooth videos on the move.

    Complemented by Google Circle to Search[9] and Gemini Live, these devices work to revolutionise everyday tasks, by going beyond a traditional assistant to a proactive, intuitive companion.

    Meet the motorola razr 60: Undeniably iconic and more durable than ever 

    Set to be a favourite for those who create content, Motorola has designed this device to capture content at ease, evident with its latest Air Gesture feature, which simplifies video content creation. Users can start, stop, and pause video recording with simple hand gestures, making staying in frame easy, whether capturing a moment solo or recording content with friends.

    Built for those who want a statement-making smartphone, the razr 60 is compact in form, bold in personality and powerful in performance. Users can access what matters easily, thanks to its 3.6″ external display, offering access to all your favourite apps, without having to flip open the phone.

    As iconic as ever, the razr 60 has been engineered for durability with a next-generation hinge reinforced with titanium, making it up to 4x stronger than surgical-grade stainless steel[3]. The ultra-thin, lightweight design features a reduced gap to minimise potential dust ingress, while the hinge and display have been rigorously tested to deliver up to 35% more folds than the previous generation[4], ensuring it keeps up with your every day needs.

    For creators and everyday users alike, the razr 60 offers an advanced flip camera system, making it effortless to capture standout photos and video. The 50MP main sensor with OIS ensures crisp, blur-free shots, while a 13MP Ultrawide + Macro Vision lens enables everything from sweeping landscapes to detailed close-ups. Flip open the phone to reveal a 32MP front-facing camera for sharp selfies and high-quality video calls. As one of the world’s first flip phones with a Pantone™ Validated[2] display and camera, users can count on colour accuracy and true-to-life visuals in every shot.

    Meet the motorola edge 60 pro: Cinematic entertainment that runs on ample battery life

    The motorola edge 60 pro is built for those who demand all-day performance, power, and immersive entertainment no matter the time of day. Whether you’re binge-watching your favourite series or staying connected around the clock, its massive 6000mAh battery[5],[7] delivers reliable power that keeps up with your lifestyle. When it’s time to recharge, the 90W TurboPower™ charging gives you up to 45 hours of battery life in just minutes[6], so you’re never left waiting. This remarkable battery performance received the Gold Label from DXOMARK and achieved the world’s highest score in their smartphone battery ranking, underscoring its leadership in endurance and fast charging.

    On top of its powerhouse battery, the edge 60 pro offers military-grade durability[12], keeping the device protected from drops or extreme outdoor conditions, while offering the highest level of water and dust protection[13].

    The edge 60 pro features one of Motorola’s brightest, most vibrant displays, with a stunning 6.7″ pOLED HDR10+ display, offering infinite contrast, deeper blacks, and over a billion colours with cinematic accuracy. Plus enjoy more of the visible with the wide DCI-P3 colour range standards, whether you’re streaming, gaming, or browsing, the motorola edge 60 pro ensures every moment looks as brilliant as it feels.

    Additionally, users can enjoy a premier-grade, AI-enhanced display, with Entertainment that comes to life on an immersive 6.7″ Super HD (1220p) display with 4500 nits[10] of peak brightness. AI also transverses into the edge 60 pro’s performance, with a MediaTek Dimensity 8350 Extreme chipset, with an additional 12GB RAM boost[11], and on-device AI processing.

    Finally, the device offers the most in style and comfort, featuring a beautifully quad-curved design, unbelievable thin borders, soft-touch finishes, and PantoneTM -curated colours.

    Availability: 

    The motorola razr 60 is available in PANTONE Gibraltar Sea and PANTONE Parfait Pink, RRP$1,199. Available on pre-sale from 3 July, and on shelves from 10 July, exclusively at JB Hi-Fi.

    The motorola edge 60 pro is available in PANTONE Shadow and PANTONE Sparkling Grape, RRP$1,199. Colour availability varies store-to-store. Available from 10 July at JB Hi-Fi, Harvey Norman, Officeworks, The Good Guys, Mobileciti, Amazon and motorola.com.au.

    Follow Motorola Australia on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok. 

    – ENDS –

    For full pricing information and specifications, visit motorola.com.au for further information or review devices, please contact the Motorola PR team at Zeno Group 

    Legal disclaimers: 

    [1].  [moto ai] Motorola Account login is required to access moto ai features. An internet or cellular connection is needed for functionality. The following languages are supported: English, Spanish, Portuguese. moto ai requires 5G or stable network connectivity to function properly. Availability and performance of these features may vary depending on your network provider, location, and plan. Access to 5G services may require a compatible device and plan, and network performance may be impacted by factors beyond Motorola’s control. Please consult with your carrier for more information on 5G availability and connectivity requirements.
    [2].  [Pantone Validated camera and display] PANTONE Colours generated may not match PANTONE-identified standards. Consult current PANTONE Publications for accurate colour. PANTONE and other Pantone trademarks are the property of Pantone LLC. © Pantone LLC, 2025.
    [3].  [Titanium-reinforced hinge- 4X stronger] Comparison made between the Yield strength of 900 MPa of titanium plate used in device hinge compared to Yield strength of 200 MPa of the 316L surgical-grade stainless steel
    [4].  Testing conducted in a controlled environment at room temperature, using accelerated life testing protocols; many factors, not all of which are included in such testing protocol, affect the durability of a phone; subject to Motorola’s standard limited warranty.
    [5].  [Battery] All battery life claims are approximate and based on the median user tested across a mixed use profile (which includes both usage and standby time) under optimal network conditions. Actual battery performance will vary and depends on many factors including signal strength, network and device settings, temperature, battery condition, and usage patterns.
    [6].  [Charging] Power for the Day In 6 minutes Minutes. Requires Motorola TurboPower™ 90W Charger; sold separately. Median users can get up to 12 hours of battery life in 6 min of charge. Battery must be substantially depleted; charge boost must be “on”; charging rate slows as charging progresses.
    [7].  [Battery capacity (typical vs. rated)] The typical capacity is 6000mAh. Typical value is the estimated average capacity of a batch of batteries based on internal testing, representing the expected performance under normal conditions. Rated capacity is 5800mAh. Rated capacity is the minimum guaranteed capacity of a battery under controlled conditions.
    [8].  [Camera] 32x more focusing with instant all-pixel focus (Omni-dir. PDAF) As compared to traditional phase detection auto focus.
    [9].  [Circle to Search] Circle to Search is a trademark of Google LLC. Service availability may vary by country, language, device model. Requires internet connection. Users may need to update Android and Google app to the latest version. Results may vary depending on visual or audio matches. Accuracy of results is not guaranteed. Works on compatible apps and surfaces, and with ambient music only. Will not identify music coming through headphones or if phone volume is off.
    [10].  [Brightness] 4500 nits (peak brightness value), 1400 nits (HBM value) Motorola lab data. The value refers to the screen’s peak brightness it can reach in specific scenarios, but the actual performance may vary depending on environmental conditions.
    [11].  [Storage/RAM] Available user storage and internal memory is less due to many factors, including operating system, software and functions utilising part of this capacity; may change with software updates.
    [12].  [Certified to Military Grade Standards] The U.S. Department of Defense’s MIL-SPEC standards establish methodologies for testing products against environmental stresses under controlled laboratory conditions. Motorola tests devices against hazardous physical and environmental conditions under select categories and procedures of the MIL-STD-810H standard to determine durability. Such testing is not a guarantee of future performance under these test conditions.
    [13].  [IP68/IP69 Underwater Protection] Water and dust resistance were tested to IP68 and IP69 standards under controlled laboratory conditions. Withstands immersion in up to 1.5 meters of fresh water for up to 30 minutes, and is protected against powerful, high-temperature water jets for up to 30 seconds. Exposure to conditions beyond these ratings are not covered by warranty. Resistance will decrease as a result of normal wear. Not designed to work while submerged underwater. Do not expose to liquids other than fresh water. Do not attempt to charge a wet phone. Designed to provide protection against the ingress of solid foreign objects of any size. Not waterproof.


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  • The truth about Iran’s nuclear programme – podcast | Iran’s nuclear programme

    The truth about Iran’s nuclear programme – podcast | Iran’s nuclear programme

    When the 12-day war against Iran was launched, Israel said it was because the Islamic Republic was on the verge of developing a nuclear bomb. US intelligence reports from earlier in the year told a different story. Now the war is over and confusion remains – has Iran’s nuclear programme been destroyed?

    The Guardian’s diplomatic editor, Patrick Wintour, tells Michael Safi what we know – and why we don’t know more – about what the conflict actually achieved. While Rouzbeh Parsi, a historian who studies Iran’s nuclear programme explains why the ambiguity around Iran’s intentions are partly a deliberate strategy. Yet, he says, it is one that has been a dangerous gamble for the country – and one which seems to have cost them dearly. What will the Iranian regime do next? Could it abandon its programme or will it decide to race towards making a bomb?

    Photograph: IRANIAN SUPREME LEADER’S WEBSITE/AFP/Getty Images

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  • PSL management, stakeholders meet

    PSL management, stakeholders meet


    LAHORE:

    The management of the Pakistan Super League (PSL) headed by Chief Executive Officer, Salman Naseer held workshops with all stakeholders of HBL PSL including representatives of franchises, title sponsor, media rights partners and commercial partners on Wednesday at the National Cricket Academy in Lahore.

    During the meeting, the PSL management presented data and analytics reflecting the league’s growth over the past 10 years. A statistical comparison between the ninth and tenth editions of the league was also shared.

    The 10th edition of the HBL PSL also known as HBL PSL X was played from 11 April to 25 May with four cities — Karachi, Lahore, Multan and Rawalpindi hosting a total of 34 matches. The final of the marquee event was played before a packed Gaddafi Stadium between Lahore Qalandars and Quetta Gladiators, with the former winning the tournament for the third time in past four years.

    PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi: “The Pakistan Super league has not only grown into a premier cricketing brand but has also served as a symbol of resilience, hope and unity during challenging times.

    “From navigating difficult circumstances to bringing international stars to our home grounds, the PSL has remained steadfast in delivering quality cricket and unforgettable moments for millions of fans across the globe. This journey, filled with passion, drama and thrilling performances, truly belongs to our people.

    “I extend my heartfelt gratitude to our franchise owners, HBL — our title sponsor and long-term partner, players, broadcasters, commercial partners, security agencies and of course, our passionate fans. Without their unwavering support and belief, this success would not have been possible.

    “As we look to the future, the PCB remains committed to strengthening and evolving the league further. We envision an even more competitive, inclusive and globally engaging tournament that continues to bring joy to cricket fans and honour to Pakistan.”

    HBL PSL Chief Executive Officer Salman Naseer: “The Pakistan Super League has come a long way since its inception. Marking a decade of cricketing excellence, the 10th edition of the HBL PSL was more than just a milestone – it was a celebration of passion, resilience and unity. HBL PSL X shattered numerous records, from viewership to fan engagement, reaffirming the league’s place as a powerhouse in the world of sports.

    “The substantial growth in digital engagement, particularly the 647 per cent surge in live streaming, is a testament to the league’s increasing popularity among cricket fans.

    “We are proud to present these figures to our long-standing partners, whose continued support has been instrumental in shaping the PSL into one of the most celebrated T20 leagues worldwide. These numbers reflect the trust of our fans and the relentless efforts of everyone involved in the league’s success.

    “The diverse and widespread viewership, both in urban and rural areas, shows that the PSL has become a household name across the country. With 3.4 billion live streaming views and a strong digital following of 22 million, the league continues to set new benchmarks in Pakistan’s sporting landscape.

    “PSL is not just a tournament, it’s a movement that unites fans across the globe. As we look ahead towards the next decade, we cannot wait to unravel new stories and thrilling experiences for the fans. Exciting times ahead!”

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  • Pak, India likely to clash on Sept 7

    Pak, India likely to clash on Sept 7

    The Asia Cup 2025 is likely to be staged in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), with the tournament expected to begin around September four or five and conclude on September 21, Indian media reported on Wednesday.

    According to a report, the much-anticipated clash between arch-rivals Pakistan and India is also likely to take place on September 7 in Dubai.

    The 17th edition of the marquee event will be played in the T20 format and there is a strong possibility of the arch rivals facing off at least twice, once in the group stage and potentially again in the super four round.

    The tournament will feature six teams including India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Afghanistan and the UAE.

    It will follow the traditional group stage followed by a super four format, similar to previous editions.

    An official announcement regarding the final schedule is expected in the second week of July. Meanwhile, promotional activities have already begun, with tournament teasers airing on Indian television networks and circulating widely on social media platforms.

    Earlier, there were speculations that India might withdraw from the tournament due to political tensions. However, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) dismissed those claims, confirming that no such decision has been made.

    Indian media reports further stated that both India and Pakistan will continue to play against each other in ICC and Asia Cup tournaments, and there is no official directive from either cricket board to avoid such contests.

    It is pertinent to mention that India are the defending champions, having won the previous edition played in the ODI format with a dominant 10-wicket victory over Sri Lanka in the final.

    Latif backs Babar for T20Is

    Former Pakistan captain Rashid Latif has endorsed the Pakistan Cricket Board’s (PCB) decision to move on from star cricketers Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan, and Shaheen Shah Afridi in the T20I format.

    In a recent interview on a local YouTube platform, Latif expressed his support for allowing senior players more freedom to pursue opportunities abroad.

    “They’re playing in the Big Bash and will earn decent money, and I don’t think they’d want to return either. That’s just my opinion. The PCB should give them some liberty to explore other leagues. Otherwise, it’s fine,” Latif stated.

    The former wicketkeeper also stressed the importance of investing in new talent.

    “The new players should be given a chance — it’s a great opportunity, especially with the Asia Cup and other upcoming events. It’s all good; the game will keep progressing,” he added.

    It is pertinent to mention that Pakistan pace spearhead Shaheen Afridi was selected as the first overall pick in the Big Bash League (BBL) Season 15 Draft, held on June 19, with Brisbane Heat securing the services of the left-arm fast bowler.

    The highly anticipated BBL player draft was held earlier today, with six out of the eight franchises showing interest in signing national team players.

    Wicketkeeper-batter Mohammad Rizwan was selected as the third platinum pick, while England’s Luke Wood was picked second.

    The 25-year-old Shaheen was the first overall pick in the draft, selected under the platinum category by Brisbane Heat.

    Rizwan was signed by Melbourne Renegades, marking his BBL debut and adding to his experience in foreign leagues, including the BPL.

    Star batter Babar Azam was pre-signed by the Sydney Sixers ahead of the official draft and was set to make his BBL debut. The franchise had used its pre-signing option to secure the services of the former Pakistan captain.

    For the unversed, Shaheen, Rizwan and Babar last featured in a T20I for Pakistan back in 2024 against South Africa.

    They have been out of the shorter format since then and are not part of the plans for the upcoming tours of Bangladesh and the West Indies, or the likely tri-nation series involving UAE and Afghanistan.

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