- Seoul Station is bringing the viral Korean convenience store trend to Pakistan, introducing a self-service shopping experience with a wide range of products, from ready-to-eat meals to beauty items.
- Korean convenience stores are popular worldwide for offering quick, efficient, and diverse products, catering to the fast-paced lifestyle of modern consumers, with features like microwaves, seating areas, and unique product selections.
- This concept is likely to appeal to Pakistan’s urban youth, who are already engaged with Korean pop culture and could become the next big trend after hotpot, offering a fresh, innovative shopping experience.
Ayesal A
Meet Sarah Hamouda, The Woman Behind the Famous Viral Dubai Chocolate!
- Fix Dessert Chocolatier’s viral success: Sarah Hamouda’s Dubai-based brand blends traditional Middle Eastern flavors with modern twists in extravagant chocolate bars, sparking a viral sensation on TikTok.
- Pakistani chocolate makers join the trend: Inspired by Fix, local chocolatiers in Pakistan are creating affordable versions of these unique treats, catering to the growing demand for gourmet chocolates.
- Global chocolate craze: With Fix bars priced at $20, local alternatives make the luxurious chocolate experience accessible, expanding the love for innovative sweets worldwide.
In a world where chocolate has become a canvas for creativity, one brand is making waves like never before. Fix Dessert Chocolatier, the brainchild of the innovative Sarah Hamouda, has taken social media by storm with its extravagant chocolate bars that blend traditional Middle Eastern flavors with modern flair.
These bars, filled with gooey pistachio and crispy kunafa, have not only captured the hearts of chocolate lovers but have also sparked a viral sensation across platforms like TikTok.
The Woman Behind the Sensation
Sarah Hamouda, a 38-year-old culinary visionary based in Dubai, launched Fix in 2021 as a side project inspired by her pregnancy cravings. With a background in hospitality and a passion for dessert innovation, Hamouda meticulously crafts each bar to create an unforgettable experience.
Her dedication to quality and creativity shines through in unique offerings like “Can’t Get Kunafa of It” and “Cereously Chewsy,” which feature rich fillings encased in decadent chocolate. The brand’s meteoric rise can be attributed to a viral TikTok video that showcased the sensory delight of these bars, amassing millions of views and igniting a global chocolate craze.
A Sweet Revolution in Pakistan
But the excitement doesn’t stop there. As the buzz around Fix continues to grow, local chocolatiers in Pakistan have seized the opportunity to bring similar delights to their markets at more accessible prices.
With a burgeoning interest in gourmet chocolates, Pakistani brands like Belco, Coco9 and Bostani are now crafting versions of these viral treats, allowing locals to indulge without breaking the bank. These imitations retain the essence of the original while offering a wallet-friendly alternative that resonates with consumers craving quality sweets.
The rise of these local chocolate makers has sparked an exciting new trend in Pakistan’s dessert landscape, where traditional flavors meet modern techniques. As consumers become more adventurous and discerning, they are eager to explore these new offerings that echo the unique flavors of Fix but at a fraction of the cost.
A Chocolate Craze for Everyone
With prices for Fix bars reaching upwards of $20 each, many fans are thrilled to find similar products available locally for much less. This democratization of gourmet chocolate means that everyone can enjoy the luxurious taste experience without having to travel to Dubai or pay exorbitant prices on resale platforms.
As Sarah Hamouda continues to innovate and expand her brand’s reach, the emergence of local alternatives ensures that the love for unique chocolate experiences is shared far and wide. Whether you’re indulging in a luxurious Fix bar or savoring a local creation inspired by it, one thing is clear: chocolate lovers everywhere are in for an exciting treat!
Stay tuned to WOW360.
Punjab Police Arrest Woman Allegedly Claiming to be Mother of PCG Victim
Update:
A significant development has occurred in the Punjab college case, with authorities arresting a woman who claimed to be the mother of the alleged rape victim, according to ARY News on Tuesday.
Details indicate that the arrested woman was involved in circulating an unverified report on social media, alleging that a first-year female student had been raped at a private college in Lahore.
The woman, identified as Sara Khan, was discovered to have fabricated the incident. She was apprehended in Karachi and later transferred to Lahore for further investigation.
The Gulberg Police Station has filed a case against her under the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA) 2016.
Police officials disclosed that Sara Khan has ties to a political party, and during the initial investigation, she admitted that the video was posted on social media to gain views.
The authorities have stated that the accused will be brought before a Joint Investigation Team (JIT) to provide her statement. So far, four cases have been registered against her for disseminating false information regarding the private college in Lahore.
Update:
Punjab Education Minister Rana Sikandar Hayat revealed that the PGC Campus 10 principal deleted CCTV footage to cover up an incident, leading to the suspension of the campus’s license. This startling discovery has resulted in the suspension of the Punjab Group of Colleges (PGC) license for that particular campus.
Update:
Amid escalating protests over the alleged rape of a female student at Campus 10 of Punjab Group of Colleges (PGC) in Lahore, the institution issued a statement denying the claims.
“We would like to address the recent false claims circulating on social media regarding an alleged incident at one of our campuses. After a thorough and impartial investigation by law enforcement, we can confirm that no such incident has been reported to the police or our administration, and no student, parent, or guardian has raised concerns,” said the official statement released by PGC on Monday.
The statement further emphasized that despite the absence of credible evidence, the institution remains committed to transparency and will cooperate fully with authorities to ensure a fair investigation.
“At Punjab Group of Colleges, the safety and well-being of our students and staff are our highest priority. We have strict security protocols in place that are regularly updated to maintain a safe environment,” the statement added. PGC also urged students, parents, and the community to avoid spreading or believing in “unverified news,” cautioning that it could lead to unnecessary panic.
The allegations, which surfaced on social media, claimed that a first-year student was raped by a security guard named Aun after being accidentally locked in the basement during a lunch break. A male teacher reportedly heard the victim’s cries and discovered her in distress. The guard allegedly fled the scene, sparking widespread anger and demands for action on social media, with netizens highlighting previous inappropriate behavior by the guard towards female staff.
The outcry led to the arrest of the suspect on Sunday. In response, Deputy Inspector General (Operations) Faisal Kamran confirmed that a special team was tasked with apprehending the suspect and investigating the matter. However, he also clarified that the reports were based solely on social media claims, and neither the victim nor her family had come forward.
The police confirmed that no First Information Report (FIR) had been filed, and neither the police nor the college administration had received any formal complaints. Authorities suggested that the viral social media reports might be an attempt to damage the college’s reputation, urging the public to refrain from making assumptions until facts were established.
“The suspect is being questioned to verify the social media reports,” the police statement concluded, noting that despite the viral nature of the claims, no concrete evidence has been found to support them.
In a deeply troubling incident, a security guard at Punjab Group of Colleges (PGC) Campus 10 in Lahore was arrested for allegedly raping a first-year student.
The incident occurred when the student was accidentally locked in the basement during a break, where she was reportedly sexually assaulted by the security guard, identified as Aun, and a van driver.
Her cries for help were eventually heard by a male teacher, who found her in distress and sought help. The accused fled the scene shortly after the assault.
The news of the assault, which quickly spread on social media, sparked widespread outrage, leading to large-scale protests at multiple PGC campuses, including Campus 10 and Campus 16. Students, alongside members of the broader community, gathered to demand justice for the victim, accusing the college administration of attempting to silence them and protect the institution’s reputation.
The protests soon escalated into violent confrontations between demonstrators and campus security, resulting in several injuries, with one student critically injured and hospitalized.
The victim, who is receiving treatment in the intensive care unit (ICU), remains in critical condition. Despite the severity of the case, her family has yet to file a formal First Information Report (FIR), a key step in the legal process.
However, the Lahore police acted swiftly, arresting Aun within 10 hours of the incident on the outskirts of the city. Efforts are still underway to locate the van driver, who remains at large.
Students protested outside PGC campus in Faisalabad in response to a r*p* case.
byu/Ok_Incident2310 inLyallpur
Safety Concerns and Allegations of Cover-Up
The incident has raised serious concerns over the safety of students in educational institutions across Pakistan. Reports have surfaced indicating that Aun had a history of inappropriate behavior towards female staff members, yet no preventive action was taken by the college administration. This failure to act has amplified student frustration, as they accuse the college of prioritizing its reputation over student welfare and transparency. The allegations that the administration is pressuring students to remain silent have further deepened the mistrust and anger among protestors.
Students have vowed to continue their demonstrations until justice is served, with protests showing no signs of subsiding. The incident has drawn attention to the larger issue of sexual violence in educational institutions. According to a 2023 report, over 3,500 cases of child abuse were reported in Pakistan, many of which occurred within schools and colleges. The lack of safety measures, combined with weak accountability systems, continues to fuel public outrage.
Call for Stricter Laws and Accountability
The PGC case has become a flashpoint for a broader movement calling for stricter laws and enforcement to prevent similar incidents in the future. Students across Lahore are demanding greater protection, including improved security measures, thorough background checks for staff, and transparent investigations in cases of misconduct. They have also emphasized the need for educational institutions to prioritize student safety over institutional reputation.
This developing story highlights the urgent need for systemic change within Pakistan’s educational sector. The protests continue, with students and community members standing united in their demand for justice and accountability. As the investigation unfolds, there is mounting pressure on authorities and educational institutions to address the safety concerns that have long been neglected.
A Nation’s Call for Justice
This tragic event serves as a reminder of the vulnerability faced by students, particularly in environments where safety measures are insufficient. The Punjab Group of Colleges case has sparked national attention, with calls for action echoing across the country. Until meaningful reforms are enacted, the threat of similar incidents looms large, leaving students and their families grappling with fear and uncertainty.
The nation now watches closely as the investigation progresses, hopeful that justice will prevail for the victim and that long-overdue changes will be made to safeguard the future of Pakistan’s youth.
Talha Anjum & Umair’s New Track ‘Smile’ is an Ode to Resilient Women
- Talha Anjum and Umair’s music video “Smile,” directed by Shafia Falak, highlights the resilience of women by showcasing their daily struggles, including balancing work, family, and societal pressures, while emphasizing their determination to persevere.
- The lo-fi, hip-hop track from the duo’s EP Ghosts and Goodbyes offers a soothing, reflective mood, encouraging listeners to find strength and hope in difficult times, with the chorus reminding them to smile and keep moving forward.
- The video and song serve as an anthem of empowerment, offering recognition to women whose struggles are often overlooked while promoting a message of hope and resilience.
The official music video for Talha Anjum and Umair’s track “Smile” has been released. It is a tribute to women’s resilience, directed by Shafia Falak. The video highlights the everyday struggles that many women face.
The narrative showcases different characters: a dancer who constantly picks herself up after falling, a waitress and single mother balancing life’s pressures, and an office worker trying to navigate her career and home life while confronting societal expectations. These portrayals illustrate the various forms of oppression women encounter, yet emphasize their determination to persevere.
Anjum shared the music video on Instagram, dedicating the song to all the women silently enduring life’s challenges. He wrote, “This song is for every woman battling quietly against the harsh realities of life. Your strength is unmatched, and the smile you carry each day is a symbol of your resilience. Stay strong!”
He also praised Shafia Falak for her exceptional work on the project, celebrating her directorial debut. “A huge congratulations to Shafia Falak! You’ve done an incredible job, and I’m honored to be part of this journey. Looking forward to more success ahead!”
Also Read:
YouTuber Ducky Bhai, Wife Aroob Jatoi Arrested!
“Smile,” a mellow lo-fi hip-hop track from Anjum and Umair’s latest EP Ghosts and Goodbyes, offers a comforting mood perfect for moments when life feels overwhelming. Instead of high-energy beats, it features a soothing vibe, with lyrics and melody that create a calming, reflective experience. The chorus, “Tou chal ab muskurade [Come on now, smile],” serves as a reminder to keep going and find hope even in dark times.
The track evokes the emotional depth of bands like AUR, focusing more on the message than on elaborate vocals or instrumentation. It’s a humble yet powerful song, reminding listeners that betrayal, corruption, and life’s hardships affect everyone, particularly women. However, the underlying theme remains hopeful — suggesting that, despite the challenges, there is always strength to be found.
The song and its accompanying video serve as an anthem for strong women who continue to rise despite being weighed down by oppressive systems. Whether drawing strength from others or from within, these women face their battles head-on and emerge even stronger.
Instead of downplaying these struggles, the video acknowledges them, offering women a sense of validation and recognition. In a world where their hardships often go unnoticed, “Smile” brings visibility, understanding, and most importantly, hope.
Watch Umair, Taha Anjum’s Smile video below:
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- Strategic Expansion: Al Baik Food Systems Company and Gas and Oil Pakistan Ltd (Go) signed an MoU, facilitated by the Saudi Ministry of Investment, to explore launching Al Baik restaurants in Pakistan as part of Al Baik’s global expansion aligned with Saudi Vision 2030.
- Economic Partnership: The agreement reflects Saudi Arabia’s focus on empowering national brands to expand internationally, with Go supported by a 40% stake from Saudi Aramco, highlighting Saudi Arabia’s commitment to economic diversification.
- Al Baik’s Popularity: Al Baik, known for its popular fried chicken and seafood dishes, is a cultural icon in Saudi Arabia and is expected to receive a positive reception in Pakistan, especially among expatriates and fans of the brand.
A significant partnership was formed between Saudi Arabia’s Al Baik Food Systems Company and Gas and Oil Pakistan Ltd (Go), facilitated by the Saudi Ministry of Investment.
The two companies signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU), aiming to explore opportunities for launching and operating Al Baik restaurants in Pakistan.
This agreement represents a major step forward in Al Baik’s ambitious global expansion, aligning with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, which seeks to promote national expertise and boost exports by expanding the reach of Saudi brands internationally.
The signing event was held under the leadership of Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Investment, Engineer Khalid Al-Falih, with senior officials from both Saudi Arabia and Pakistan in attendance. This agreement reflects ongoing efforts by the Saudi Ministry of Investment to support the global growth of Saudi companies and strengthen the Kingdom’s presence in international markets.
Gas and Oil Pakistan Ltd (Go), a leading player in Pakistan’s oil and gas industry, is backed by Saudi Aramco, which holds a 40% stake in the company. This strategic partnership emphasizes Saudi Arabia’s commitment to economic diversification and the creation of new growth avenues in foreign markets, in line with Vision 2030.
The initiative underscores the importance of the Saudi Ministry of Investment in driving the Kingdom’s economic transformation, helping it become a dominant player on the regional and global stage.
Also Read:
Popular UAE Foodchain ‘BonBird’ is Coming to Pakistan!
Al Baik’s Popularity and Success
Al Baik, a well-known fast-food chain, has become a cultural icon in Saudi Arabia and enjoys immense popularity across the region. Known for its unique fried chicken and seafood dishes, the brand has garnered a loyal following due to its high-quality food, affordable pricing, and quick service. The company’s expansion into Pakistan is expected to be warmly received, as there has been a strong demand for its products in South Asia, particularly among expatriates and frequent visitors to Saudi Arabia who have long appreciated the brand.
Al Baik’s rapid success in the Middle East has set the stage for broader global growth, and its venture into Pakistan is seen as a key move to tap into new markets while continuing to strengthen its international presence.
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Only 1 Pakistani Institute Makes it to Top 500 World University Rankings 2025
- The Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2025 evaluated over 2,000 institutions from 115 countries, with Pakistan having 47 ranked universities, making it the 14th most-represented nation globally.
- Quaid-i-Azam University is Pakistan’s top-ranked institution, remaining in the 401-500 range, while eight Pakistani universities are in the 601-800 band, with only seven showing improvements and 10 declining.
- Globally, the University of Oxford retained its top spot for the ninth consecutive year, while MIT and Harvard took second and third place respectively; Pakistan ranks as the 6th most-represented country in Asia.
This year, the Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings 2025 evaluated over 2,000 institutions from 115 countries and regions, marking a 9.7% increase compared to the previous year. This represents the largest growth in the rankings over the past five years, surpassing last year’s 6% rise.
Pakistan has a total of 47 universities listed in the rankings, placing it as the 14th most-represented country worldwide, sharing this position with Taiwan. The country’s highest-ranking institution, Quaid-i-Azam University, remains in the 401-500 band, retaining its placement from the previous year.
Eight Pakistani universities are ranked within the 601-800 band, an increase of one institution compared to last year. The University of Malakand has moved up to this range from the 801-1,000 bracket, while Abdul Wali Khan University Mardan has dropped in rank. Additionally, Sukkur IBA University has entered the 601-800 band as a newly-ranked institution this year. However, only seven Pakistani universities saw an improvement in their rankings, while 10 experienced a decline.
Pakistani Universities in the Rankings:
University | Rank 2025 | Rank 2024 |
---|---|---|
Quaid-i-Azam University | 401–500 | 401–500 |
Air University | 601–800 | 601–800 |
Capital University of Science and Technology | 601–800 | 601–800 |
COMSATS University Islamabad | 601–800 | 601–800 |
Government College University Faisalabad | 601–800 | 601–800 |
National University of Sciences and Technology | 601–800 | 601–800 |
Sukkur IBA University | 601–800 | Not Ranked |
University of Engineering and Technology, Taxila | 601–800 | 601–800 |
University of Malakand | 601–800 | 801–1000 |
Globally, the University of Oxford maintains its top spot for the ninth consecutive year. The Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) rose to second place, while Harvard University ranks third.
Top Global Universities:
University | Country | Rank 2025 | Rank 2024 |
---|---|---|---|
University of Oxford | United Kingdom | 1 | 1 |
Massachusetts Institute of Technology | United States | 2 | 3 |
Harvard University | United States | 3 | 4 |
Princeton University | United States | 4 | 6 |
University of Cambridge | United Kingdom | 5 | 5 |
Stanford University | United States | 6 | 2 |
California Institute of Technology | United States | 7 | 7 |
University of California, Berkeley | United States | 8 | 9 |
Imperial College London | United Kingdom | 9 | 8 |
Yale University | United States | 10 | 10 |
In Asia, 853 universities from 35 countries are featured, with Pakistan’s 47 institutions making it the 6th most-represented country on the continent.
The 2025 THE World University Rankings are recognized as one of the most detailed and balanced global assessments of research-intensive universities. This year’s rankings evaluated universities using 18 performance indicators across five key categories: teaching, research, knowledge transfer, and international outlook. A total of 2,860 institutions submitted data, representing a 6.9% increase from the previous year. An additional 768 institutions participated as “reporters,” meaning they submitted data but did not meet the criteria to be ranked.
Since its inception with 200 universities, THE’s World University Rankings have expanded to include over 2,000 institutions, making it the largest and most inclusive ranking system globally.
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Here’s How Pakistan’s Zunaira Ansari is Upcycling Fast-Fashion Waste
- Zunaira Ansari, an artist from Karachi, gained significant attention and new customers after Malala Yousafzai shared viral photos of custom-painted shoes created by Ansari.
- Ansari was commissioned by Malala’s husband, Asser Malik, to design shoes with truck art motifs, which he gifted to Malala during their trip to the 2023 Oscars.
- Alongside her custom artwork, Ansari upcycles old clothes, combining creativity with eco-friendly practices to offer unique, sustainable fashion pieces.
Zunaira Ansari, an artist and entrepreneur from Karachi, has experienced a surge in followers and orders after Nobel laureate Malala Yousafzai shared viral photos of custom-painted shoes created by Ansari.
Ansari was commissioned by Asser Malik, Malala’s husband, to paint traditional truck art designs on a pair of shoes that he later gifted to his wife during their trip to Los Angeles for the 2023 Oscars.
Recalling her reaction when Malik first reached out, Ansari said she was in disbelief about the opportunity. “I was so excited to tell my sisters that I’d be painting shoes for Malala,” she shared in an interview with Arab News. “It only felt real when she posted the pictures on Instagram.”
Since Malala’s post, Ansari’s business has flourished, drawing in new customers. “When she shared the photos on Instagram, I started seeing real earnings,” Ansari said.
Malik discovered Ansari’s work on Twitter and explored her website for more designs. Together, they decided on a concept that celebrated both Malala’s heritage and Pakistan’s vibrant truck art tradition.
After receiving the shoes from Malik, Ansari immediately began working on the design.
Reflecting on her artistic journey, Ansari described art as a source of peace and fulfillment. “I’ve been passionate about art from a young age. When people began recognizing the value of my work, I turned it into a business in 2019,” she explained, adding that she transformed her passion into a profession.
Her artwork, which often showcases her love for nature, also highlights her concerns about climate change.
“My room is green because I enjoy painting in a peaceful environment,” Ansari said. “The rising temperatures and environmental issues inspire me to paint more greenery. The world needs to be greener and cleaner.”
In addition to her custom artwork on various mediums, Zunaira Ansari also specializes in upcycling old clothes, a practice that has gained popularity alongside her painted creations. Ansari transforms worn-out garments into unique pieces by incorporating her artistic flair and sustainable ethos.
This initiative not only breathes new life into old textiles but also aligns with her commitment to promoting eco-friendly practices within the fashion industry. Her upcycled clothing line showcases her creativity while offering customers an opportunity to embrace fashion that is both distinctive and environmentally conscious
- Ducky Bhai arrested along with his wife, Aroob Jatoi, for displaying illegal firearms on social media, and they also face accusations of supporting PTI slogans against the government.
- Pakistan has strict laws prohibiting the display of illegal weapons, with penalties that include arrest, fines, and imprisonment, and authorities closely monitor social media for such offenses.
- The couple had previously been victims of a deepfake video, prompting them to raise awareness about cybercrime and call for action, although some criticized their openness about their personal life in family vlogs.
Pakistani YouTuber Ducky Bhai (Saad Ur Rehman) and his wife, Aroob Jatoi, have been detained after allegedly displaying firearms on social media.
Reports indicate that Aroob shared images on Instagram featuring unauthorized weapons, prompting law enforcement to arrest the couple in Bahria Town. They also face allegations of endorsing slogans associated with Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaaf (PTI) against the current government.
According to Samaa News, Saad and Aroob pointed fingers at each other during the investigation. Aroob shared a photo on Instagram, placing the blame on Ducky.
With over eight million subscribers, Ducky’s YouTube channel draws millions of views daily.
This incident follows the arrest of TikToker Nadeem Mubarak, also known as Nadeem Nani Wala, in Lahore for using a fake license plate reading ‘IK 804.’
Laws Against Showcasing Illegal Arms
Pakistan has strict laws regarding the display of illegal arms, particularly on social media. Under the country’s arms control laws, unauthorized possession or display of weapons is a serious offense. The display of illegal firearms on social platforms can lead to criminal charges, including arrests, fines, and imprisonment.
The Pakistan Penal Code (PPC) and the Arms Act prohibit the possession of unlicensed or illegal weapons. Suppose an individual is found guilty of displaying such weapons. In that case, they may be charged under anti-terrorism laws or other relevant sections, as it is considered an act that can incite violence or create public fear. Law enforcement agencies monitor social media closely, and any publicized display of arms can lead to immediate action by authorities.
In recent years, several cases have surfaced where individuals, including influencers and celebrities, were arrested for sharing photos or videos of firearms on platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube, emphasizing the government’s focus on curbing illegal arms display and promoting responsible social media behavior.
Deepfake Video Controversy
Previously, Ducky Bhai and his wife Aroob Jatoi became targets of a deepfake video. Following the incident, the influencer couple released a video asking the public for assistance in identifying the individual responsible for creating the AI-generated deepfake.
The viral video falsely depicted Aroob Jatoi in lingerie, but it was later confirmed to be an AI-manipulated deepfake.
As the video circulated widely on social media, Ducky Bhai addressed the situation, explaining the concept of deepfakes and stressing the importance of raising awareness about cybercrime.
He expressed his distress over the invasion of his wife’s privacy, while Aroob also urged action against such digital threats. Although many supported the couple, some criticized them for sharing their personal lives through family vlogs.
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Meet Fatima Sana – Pakistan Women’s Cricket Team’s New Fast-Bowling Captain
- Fatima Sana’s Leadership: Fatima Sana stepped into captaincy under challenging circumstances, leading Pakistan to their first-ever away win against New Zealand. She has since emerged as a young leader with exceptional all-round abilities, poised to captain Pakistan in the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup.
- Rapid Career Growth: Starting her international career at 17, Sana quickly became Pakistan’s leading fast bowler. Her journey from playing tape-ball cricket in the streets of Karachi to becoming the ICC Women’s Emerging Cricketer of the Year demonstrates her impressive rise in women’s cricket.
- Challenges in Women’s Cricket: Despite her personal success, Sana highlights the struggles of women’s cricket in Pakistan, including limited infrastructure, a lack of dedicated training facilities, and the absence of a franchise-based T20 league, which she believes are obstacles to developing young talent.
Pakistani cricketer Fatima Sana first experienced the pressures of captaincy in less-than-ideal circumstances. Stepping in for Nida Dar, Sana found herself at the crease with Pakistan struggling at 35 for 4 in the second ODI against New Zealand in Christchurch.
With a determined performance, she scored an unbeaten 90 off 104 balls, including seven fours and a six, helping Pakistan post a target of 221. She also claimed crucial wickets, dismissing New Zealand’s top players, Amelia Kerr and captain Sophie Devine. Despite her efforts, Pakistan lost the match. However, just three days later, she led her team to their first-ever away win against New Zealand.
At this moment, Pakistan stumbled upon an unexpected leader in Sana, who, with her all-round abilities, showcased immense potential to change her team’s trajectory.
Fast forward ten months and the 22-year-old will lead Pakistan in the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup in the United Arab Emirates. “When the Pakistan Cricket Board approached me about the captaincy in August, my entire career flashed before my eyes,” Sana shared in an interview with Al Jazeera before the tournament. “I thought about my humble beginnings and was moved to tears when I told my family.”
Sana’s rise has been rapid. She made her ODI and T20 international debut at 17 in May 2019 and quickly became a key figure in Pakistan’s bowling attack. Her tally of 84 wickets in 82 international matches is the highest for a Pakistani pacer since her debut, marking her as one of the team’s standout performers.
Her journey began in the bustling streets of Karachi, Pakistan’s largest city, where she learned the game. “I was about 10 when my brother showed me how to bowl,” she recalled. “I couldn’t get the ball across the pitch, so he told me to run in before bowling, and it worked.”
Like many Pakistani cricketers, Sana grew up playing tape-ball cricket, a popular street version of the game using a tennis ball wrapped in tape for greater control. In the Nazimabad neighborhood of Karachi, where Sana lived, she honed her skills in the same streets that had produced several of Pakistan’s cricket legends.
Her first opponents were her older brothers and their friends, who were always supportive, insisting she play alongside them. Her brother Shehroz, who had given up his own cricket dreams, was especially influential, enrolling her in a local academy and registering her in a zonal women’s tournament. At 11, Sana was the youngest player in the competition, but her fast bowling made her stand out.
During her early training, some coaches suggested she switch to spin bowling, a style more common among women players. But Sana, inspired by fast bowlers like James Anderson and Shoaib Akhtar, refused to give up her dream of becoming a pace bowler.
Sana’s performances led to significant opportunities. By 13, she was playing under-21 cricket, and by 15, she was competing in senior domestic tournaments. Her big break came in 2019 when she was selected by then-captain Sana Mir for a domestic T20 competition, where her seven wickets in seven games caught the attention of selectors.
Former Pakistan cricketer Marina Iqbal, who was part of the selection panel, noted Sana’s determination to succeed. “What stood out was her hunger to become a top player,” Iqbal said. “She was always eager to learn from senior players and showed immense dedication to improve.”
Sana repaid the faith shown in her with stellar performances, earning her the PCB’s Emerging Cricketer of the Year award in 2020. The following year, she achieved international recognition by winning the ICC Women’s Emerging Cricketer of the Year award, the first Pakistani woman to earn such an accolade. This recognition opened doors for her to play in international T20 leagues in the Caribbean, New Zealand, and Dubai, where she gained valuable experience.
Despite her rapid rise, Sana remains grounded, crediting these overseas leagues for helping her grow as a cricketer. “The international players I met helped me identify my strengths and guided me on how to improve,” she explained.
Women’s cricket in Pakistan, however, faces numerous challenges. Though the country was an early participant in women’s international cricket, starting in 1997, its domestic infrastructure lags far behind that of the men’s game. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has increased its budget for women’s cricket, but there are still limited opportunities for female cricketers to train and compete, and the country lacks a franchise-based T20 league for women.
Sana believes this lack of infrastructure hampers the development of young talent. “There’s still a resistance to coaching girls, and not enough facilities for women’s cricket,” she said. Although the PCB had plans to launch a women’s T20 league similar to the men’s Pakistan Super League, the idea was scrapped in 2023, leaving only a smaller domestic T20 competition.
While pace bowling was Sana’s ticket to the international stage, she has worked hard to improve her batting under the guidance of former head coach David Hemp. Now, she has one of the best batting strike rates and averages among Pakistani batters in 2024, making her a valuable all-rounder.
Pakistan’s head coach, Muhammad Wasim, praised her leadership qualities. “Fatima ticks all the boxes as a captain,” he said. “She understands the game well and commands respect from her teammates.”
However, Sana faces a daunting challenge in the upcoming T20 World Cup. Pakistan has never progressed past the group stage, and with tough competition from teams like Australia, India, and New Zealand, they will need a strong performance to advance.
Despite the obstacles, Sana remains optimistic, urging her team to play aggressive cricket, handle pressure, and remain calm in critical moments. She also hopes to inspire the team’s batters to post bigger scores, which has historically been Pakistan’s weakness.
Sana’s leadership style draws inspiration from Sana Mir’s honesty, Heather Knight’s communication skills, and MS Dhoni’s calm demeanor. Though leading Pakistan, a team often under scrutiny, is a tough job, Sana is determined to live in the moment and embrace the challenges ahead. “I just want to give my best and enjoy the responsibility,” she concluded.
Ivana Jokos Baig is Spreading Her Love for Mediterranean Food in Karachi with Kava@8
- Kava@8, owned by Ivana Jokos Baig and her husband, brings authentic Croatian dishes to Karachi, featuring Mediterranean flavors with a focus on fresh ingredients, seafood, meats, and balanced meals.
- The rising popularity of Croatian cuisine in Karachi is driven by a global shift towards healthier, balanced meals and a growing curiosity about foreign cultures, with Croatian-inspired restaurants gaining a strong following.
- Karachi’s love for seafood and Mediterranean flavors, combined with Croatian desserts like fritule and rozata, has solidified Croatian cuisine’s place in the city’s diverse culinary scene.
Serving authentic Croatian dishes to Karachiites, Kava@8 is owned by Ivana Jokos Baig and her husband who want to bring the Mediterranean flavor to your table.
Croatian food is known for its fresh ingredients, balanced flavors, and a focus on seafood, vegetables, and meats cooked with traditional techniques. From succulent burgers and hearty sandwiches to premium steaks cooked to preference, the menu promises to tantalize your taste buds.
Are you craving something classic? The brick-oven pizzas boast the finest ingredients and flavors that will transport you to Italy with every bite. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch or a memorable dinner, Kava@8 offers a wide variety and food range.
The cafe also features a children’s play area to keep all the young ones occupied while the adults enjoy a happening meal. Over the years, Karachi has welcomed several foreigners who brought unique flavors to the city. These amazing people have brought unique experiences to the city’s culinary landscape.
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The rise in popularity of Croatian food can be attributed to several factors. First, the global trend of seeking healthier and more balanced meals has drawn Karachiites toward Mediterranean flavors, with their emphasis on olive oil, fresh herbs, and grilled meats. Croatian cuisine fits perfectly into this narrative, offering flavorful dishes without being overwhelming, and hearty without being heavy.
Secondly, the increasing curiosity about foreign cultures has led to the opening of a few Croatian-inspired restaurants in Karachi, which have quickly gained a following. With their focus on high-quality ingredients and authentic recipes, these eateries offer a unique dining experience that feels both familiar and exotic.
Another aspect contributing to Croatian cuisine’s newfound fame in Karachi is the city’s love for seafood. Croatian dishes like grilled Adriatic fish, calamari, and black risotto (made with squid ink) are hitting the right notes for Karachi’s seafood lovers, who are drawn to the fresh, coastal flavors that remind them of their local seaside fare.
Moreover, Croatian desserts, such as fritule (mini doughnuts) and rozata (a custard pudding), have also found a sweet spot on Karachi’s dessert tables. These treats offer a delightful balance between traditional European baking techniques and the Mediterranean love for simple yet flavorful ingredients.
In a city where culinary trends often reflect a blend of tradition and innovation, Croatian food has made its mark by offering a taste of the Mediterranean in the heart of South Asia. As more restaurants continue to introduce this cuisine and as Karachi’s food lovers explore new flavors, it seems clear that Croatian cuisine is here to stay, adding to the ever-growing tapestry of Karachi’s gastronomic delights.
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