Pakistan endured a crushing 9-wicket defeat against New Zealand in the 1st T20I of the series, triggering a meme fest on social media. The Salman Agha-led side put up a dismal batting performance, getting bowled out for just 91 runs, allowing New Zealand to chase down the target in only 61 balls at Hagley Oval, Christchurch.

Pakistan’s batting collapse shocks fans

Pakistan’s batting lineup failed to withstand New Zealand’s disciplined bowling attack, collapsing in just 17.4 overs. The modest total proved no challenge for the hosts, as they comfortably secured victory with nearly half the overs to spare.

As expected, Pakistan’s disastrous performance became a talking point on social media, with fans expressing their disappointment through memes and criticism.

Agha Salman admits shortcomings, looks ahead

Following the match, Pakistan skipper Agha Salman acknowledged the team’s underwhelming display but remained hopeful for a better performance in the upcoming games. “It was difficult, we weren’t up to the mark, but we need to regather (ahead of Dunedin). They bowled really well, in great areas, there was a bit of seam movement as well,” Agha stated.

He also highlighted the challenge of playing with three debutants in the lineup and expressed confidence in the team’s bowlers to perform better in the next match.

Pakistan look to bounce back in second T20I

Pakistan will aim for redemption in the 2nd T20I, set to take place on Tuesday in Dunedin. With a young squad and a need for improvements, the visitors will have to put up a far more competitive performance to stay alive in the series.

The whitewashing of the historic Jama Masjid in Sambhal, Uttar Pradesh, commenced on Sunday following the Allahabad High Court’s approval on March 12. The court’s decision came with strict guidelines to ensure the work is carried out without altering the mosque’s structure.

A three-member committee, comprising officials from the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), a scientific expert, and a local administration representative, has been formed to oversee the painting work. The move aims to complete the task ahead of the holy month of Ramzan.

Security has been significantly heightened in the Shahi Jama Masjid area to maintain peace during the process. Sambhal Additional Superintendent of Police (ASP) Shrish Chandra stated, “Tight security arrangements have been made around the disputed site. An adequate police force has been deployed, and surveillance is being conducted through CCTV and drones.”

The ASI team conducted measurements and assessments on March 13, following the court’s directive. The contractor assigned by the ASI for the task told ANI that a team of eight workers has begun the whitewashing process, which is expected to be completed within a week. “We have been directed only to whitewash the mosque. The outer part will be painted,” he said.

Jama Masjid Committee secretary Masood Farooqui confirmed the start of the work, stating, “Labourers have come for whitewashing. The outer part will be painted.”

The court’s decision to allow whitewashing and decorative lighting comes amid ongoing tensions in Sambhal following violent clashes on November 24 last year. The riots erupted during an ASI survey of the Mughal-era Shahi Jama Masjid, resulting in four deaths and injuries to several others, including police personnel. The next hearing in the case is scheduled for April 8.

In February, the Uttar Pradesh Police’s Special Investigation Team (SIT) submitted a chargesheet exceeding 4,000 pages in six out of the 12 cases related to the November 24 violence. According to the chargesheet, 80 individuals have been arrested, while 79 remain at large, bringing the total number of accused to 159.

The Allahabad High Court, during its March 12 hearing, emphasized that the whitewashing should not involve any structural changes to the mosque. Justice Rohit Ranjan Agarwal ordered the formation of the oversight committee to ensure compliance with the directive.

Faisal Nadeem, alias Abu Qatal, the nephew of 26/11 mastermind Hafiz Saeed, was shot dead in a targeted attack in Pakistan’s Punjab province, according to multiple reports. Nadeem, a key Lashkar-e-Toiba (LeT) handler, was reportedly behind several terror attacks in Jammu and Kashmir, including the Rajouri attacks in 2023.

Attack details

The incident occurred at the Mangla bypass in Jhelum district, where unidentified gunmen opened fire on the vehicle in which Nadeem was traveling. He was reportedly killed on the spot, though no group has claimed responsibility for the attack yet.

Nadeem’s role in J&K terror attacks

Nadeem was a crucial handler for LeT militants, orchestrating attacks from across the border. He was among the three Pakistan-based operatives named in a chargesheet filed by India’s National Investigation Agency (NIA) in 2023, along with Sajid Jutt and Mohd Qasim. The chargesheet detailed their roles in directing and facilitating the 2023 Rajouri terror attack, which resulted in seven deaths and multiple injuries.

Long-standing involvement in terrorism

Reports suggest that Nadeem was active in Kashmir since 2000, engaging in multiple attacks before shifting back to Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir (PoK). From there, he managed terror launchpads, guiding militants and overseeing infiltration into Jammu and Kashmir.

Uncertainty over perpetrators

While it remains unclear who carried out the attack, the killing of a high-profile terror handler in Pakistan raises speculations about possible internal rivalries, security operations, or targeted eliminations.

Indian security agencies are closely monitoring developments, as Pakistan has previously witnessed several mysterious killings of terrorist operatives in recent years.