Iran war fallout forces Pakistan Super League into empty stadiums and 2-city footprint

ISLAMABAD (AP) — Thewar in Iranis having a flow on impact on the biggest sports spectacle of the year in neighboring Pakistan.

Pakistan PSL Cricket

It'll be like the COVID-19 era revisited for the Pakistan Super League, with no spectators allowed into games in the Twenty20 cricket franchise competition starting Thursday at Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore.

Cricket is the pinnacle of sports in Pakistan, just as it is in India and other parts of a subcontinental region of more than 1.5 billion people.

It's entertainment, it's business, and the PSL is the marquee domestic event. This year, it's starting days before theIndian Premier League, the world's most lucrative cricket competition, and competing to attract star players.

Yet there'll be no opening ceremony, no fans and the tournament will be contained totwo venuesrather than the original six.

The reason? The Middle East conflict has resulted in exorbitanthikes for fuel in the region, and Pakistan's government is urging people to restrict travel and to work from home.

So after years of building up the league, organizers are going back to basics.

Tough call

Pakistan Cricket Board chairman Mohsin Naqvi said it wouldn't be right to have 30,000 fans attending cricket matches every day while the government is asking the public to stay home.

"We decided that as long as this crisis is ongoing, we will not have crowds at matches," he said. "This was a difficult decision, but it needed to be made."

Past troubles

Last year the Pakistan Super League and the Indian Premier League weresuspendedfor a while during heightened military tensions, but both returned to action and completed seasons after the neighboring countries agreedto a ceasefire.

A TV event

T20 cricket is thequickest form of the gameat the elite level, can be finished within three hours and is designed for prime time TV.

That's important, because that's the only way regular fans will get to see the PSL.

As well as the last-minute decision to ban fans from attending, the league's organizers have also reduced the tournament to two cities – Lahore and Karachi – which will split 44 games in 39 days. Rawalpindi, Faisalabad, Peshawar and Multan were scrapped as venues this season.

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"PSL is reducing the wider logistical footprint associated with a multi-city tournament, including transport, venue operations, and utility demands, while ensuring continuity of Pakistan's premier cricket event," the Pakistan Cricket Board said.

That means players from at least three teams – Rawalpindi,Multanand Peshawar – will be away all season.

"It's a real shame that we aren't able to play at home — I guess that's the nature of a few things that are going on in the world," said New Zealander Daryl Mitchell, who was signed by expansion franchise Rawalpindi at the PSL auction.

Mitchell posted back-to-back ODI centuries at the Pindi Cricket Stadium three years ago and said he'd been savoring a chance to play there again.

"A number of us international guys have been part of the COVID bubbles back in the day where there were no crowds," he said, reflecting on the tight security, physical distance regulations and empty stadiums for cricket events staged during the pandemic. "So I'm sure it may feel a little bit like that at times in the first few games.

"Let's hope that toward the end of the tournament we can get some crowds in, and especially hopefully that the final can be packed out."

Returns

The Pakistan Cricket Board has promised refunds for all tickets purchased in advance, and Naqvi said franchise owners would also be compensated.

While cricket fans generally understood the decision to go ahead with the tournament in just two cities, some still wanted to be there.

"I would have traveled to Lahore to support my Rawalpindi team," said Hussain Mustafa, a graduate student. "I know it's tough times for the country because of the fuel crisis, but tickets for at least half of the stadium should have been put on sale."

Players from Australia, New Zealand, England, West Indies, Sri Lanka, South Africa,Bangladeshand Zimbabwe will join local stars competing in the eight-team tournament.

"I'm really looking forward to the new franchise and hopefully winning a few games of cricket for the Pindiz," Mitchell said. "Hopefully we can put plenty of smiles on all the fans' faces."

AP cricket:https://apnews.com/hub/cricket

byAnio Baumeister

in

March 25, 2026

Iran war fallout forces Pakistan Super League into empty stadiums and 2-city footprint

ISLAMABAD (AP) — Thewar in Iranis having a flow on impact on the biggest sports spectacle of the year in neighboring Pak...

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Elina Aarnisalo emerges as North Carolina's X-Factor ahead of Sweet 16

CHAPEL HILL, N.C. ― As the North Carolina Tar Heels turn their attention to the undefeated UConn Huskies in the Sweet 16, sophomore guard Elina Aarnisalo is emerging as a star in March.

Aarnisalo was a member of the UCLA team that lost to UConn in the Final Four last season. As the only Tar Heel player with Final Four experience, Aarnisalo described how her team will need to approach the game against the Huskies.

"We're going to do great preparation," Aarnisalo said. "And that's what we need for that game. We need everyone on the same page and locked in."

UConn advanced to the Sweet Sixteen with an impressive 98-45 win over Syracuse. North Carolina plays the Huskies on Friday in Fort Worth (5 p.m., ESPN).

Aarnisalo played 18 minutes and scored five points in the Bruins' 85-51 beat down at the hands of the Huskies in last year's Final Four.

This tournament has seen Aarnisalo take a more prominent role. She played 39 minutes in North Carolina's 74-66 second-round win over Maryland, scoring 21 points and grabbing six rebounds.

Michigan State's Rashunda Jones (1) walks off the court following a second-round game in the NCAA women's basketball tournament between the Oklahoma Sooners and Michigan State Spartans at Lloyd Noble Center in Norman, Okla., Sunday March 22, 2026.

" style="max-width:100%; height:auto; border-radius:6px; margin:10px 0;" loading="lazy" /> Kamy Peppler #1 of the Green Bay Phoenix reacts against the Minnesota Golden Gophers in the third quarter during the First Round of the Women's NCAA Tournament at Williams Arena on March 20, 2026 in Minneapolis, Minnesota. The Golden Gophers defeated the Phoenix 75-58.

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March Sadness hits hard in the Women's NCAA basketball tournament

Michigan State's Rashunda Jones (1) walks off the court following a second-round game in theNCAA women's basketballtournament between the Oklahoma Sooners and Michigan State Spartans at Lloyd Noble Center in Norman, Okla., Sunday March 22, 2026.

In March, Aarnisalo has increased her scoring output, averaging 17 points across five games, which is seven points higher than her season average.

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During the Tar Heels' win against Maryland, Aarnisalo picked up a fourth personal foul with nearly a full quarter left to play. Head coach Courtney Banghart decided to keep her in the game.

"It's huge, that trust from her and the whole staff to keep me on the court," Aarnisalo said. "We needed to make some adjustments, and it showed off today as beneficial, so it was a good call by her."

The Finland native has become a leader this season, and as the Tar Heels continue to advance, that role is being emphasized. North Carolina lost a lot of production coming into this season. Adding a player with significant postseason experience like Aarnisalo is paying dividends for Banghart and the Tar Heels.

"We've been emphasizing togetherness, just being connected, whatever it is," Aarnisalo. "Enjoying every single moment off the court, enjoying ourselves, but when we're on the court, being super locked in and present."

If North Carolina is going to upset UConn and keep its March run alive, the Tar Heels may need another breakout performance from Aarnisalo on the game's biggest stage.

TJ Frenchis a student in the University of Georgia's Carmical Sports Media Institute.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY:Elina Aarnisalo rising as North Carolina prepares for UConn in women's Sweet 16

byAnio Baumeister

in

March 25, 2026

Elina Aarnisalo emerges as North Carolina's X-Factor ahead of Sweet 16

CHAPEL HILL, N.C. ― As the North Carolina Tar Heels turn their attention to the undefeated UConn Huskies in the Sweet 16...

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Zendaya’s Fully See-Through Ermanno Scervino Dress Is Surprisingly Bold

Zendayacontinued her standout fashion streak in Paris, stepping out in a striking second look for the "The Drama" premiere. Her look leaned into sheer elegance and vintage-inspired glamour. After earlier bridal-inspired styling, the actor switched to a soft blush ensemble that blended delicate lingerie details with statement outerwear.

Zendaya stuns in fully see-through Ermanno Scervino dress for 'The Drama' premiere in Paris

For the evening look, Zendaya wore a fully see-through blush slip dress from Ermanno Scervino's Fall/Winter 2026 collection. The delicate piece featured a silky, semi-transparent fabric layered with intricate lace detailing along the neckline and bodice. A soft baby pink bow-like detail at the center drew attention to the plunging front. The pink hue gave the look a romantic vintage feel while the lightweight fabric allowed the dress to move fluidly as she walked.

She paired the slip dress with a dramatic floor-length pink faux-fur coat. She wore it draped loosely over her shoulders. The plush outerwear added volume and contrast to the delicate silhouette, lending the ensemble a sense of drama. Pointed blush pumps completed the monochromatic palette, keeping the look polished while maintaining the pastel theme.

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Zendaya elevated the outfit with layered diamond necklaces that fell elegantly across her neckline, adding sparkle. She also wore diamond stud earrings that further complemented the overall look. Her hair was styled in a short, vintage-inspired bob with soft waves, adding an old-Hollywood touch to the ensemble. The makeup remained refined and shiny with softly defined eyes, rosy cheeks, and a glossy nude lip.

Zendaya posed against the glittering Paris skyline, with the Eiffel Tower illuminated behind her as she confidently walked toward the camera. The dramatic backdrop added to the cinematic feel of the moment, perfectly complementing the soft, romantic tones of her Ermanno Scervino ensemble.

Originally reported by Viha Shah onThe Fashion Spot.

The postZendaya's Fully See-Through Ermanno Scervino Dress Is Surprisingly Boldappeared first onReality Tea.

byAnio Baumeister

in

March 25, 2026

Zendaya’s Fully See-Through Ermanno Scervino Dress Is Surprisingly Bold

Zendayacontinued her standout fashion streak in Paris, stepping out in a striking second look for the "The Drama" premiere. Her ...

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Kate Moss Wears a $3K Gucci Bag as a Top, Not Just an Accessory

Kate Mossis once again proving why she remains one of fashion's most long-standing icons. In a striking new campaign from Gucci, the supermodel appears in a series of bold images where the brand's newest handbag quite literally becomes the centerpiece of the outfit.

Kate Moss styles a $3450 suede Gucci bag as a top in an unbelievably bold way

Captured by fashion photographers Mert and Marcus, the campaign introduces Gucci's Borsetto bag in an unexpectedly daring way. In one standout image, Kate Moss wears the oversized brown suede Borsetto Boston bag across her chest, styling it almost like a sculptural top. The bag's structured shape and large proportions transform it from a simple accessory into the main focus of the look.

The design itself carries several signature Gucci details. The dark brown suede bag features the house's iconic green and red web stripe running down the center, along with gold-toned Horsebit hardware near the handles. A leather tag hangs from the side, stamped with "Made in Italy," reinforcing the luxury craftsmanship behind the piece. She wears nothing but an underwear in a matching brown tone.

Gucci describes theBorsettoas a clever wordplay that merges the Italian words 'borsa (bag) and morsetto (Horsebit),' referencing the brand's historic equestrian-inspired hardware. Crafted from soft leather and suede, the bag also reveals a Diamante pattern lining drawn from Gucci's archival designs.

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Another image from the campaign shows Moss styling a sleek black leather version of the Borsetto medium Boston bag. In this look, she pairs the bag with tailored black trousers while sitting against a dark textured backdrop. The polished leather finish and gold hardware add contrast to the relaxed styling.

The campaign highlights how the Borsetto bag can shift between different aesthetics. The brown suede version leans into a vintage-inspired feel, while the black leather design offers a sharper, more modern look. Both versions carry the same bold Web stripe and Horsebit hardware that instantly show Gucci's identity.

Retailing at around$3,100 for the medium Boston bagand about $3,450 for the larger suede version, the Borsetto is clearly positioned as a statement accessory. However, in Moss's hands, the bag becomes more than just an accessory; it becomes the entire outfit.

Originally reported by Viha Shah ontheFashionSpot.

The postKate Moss Wears a $3K Gucci Bag as a Top, Not Just an Accessoryappeared first onReality Tea.

byAnio Baumeister

in

March 25, 2026

Kate Moss Wears a $3K Gucci Bag as a Top, Not Just an Accessory

Kate Mossis once again proving why she remains one of fashion's most long-standing icons. In a striking new campaign from Gucci, the s...

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Oilers' Connor McDavid has 401 career goals, but insists scoring doesn't come easy to him

SALT LAKE CITY (AP) — Connor McDavid kept a straight face while making a curious revelation to a group of reporters after surpassing 400 career goals.

"Goal scoring is something that has not come easy to me," the Edmonton Oilers star said Tuesday night after scoring twice in a5-2 win over Utah, giving him 401.

"It's something that I work at, something that I focus on," McDavid added. "I set a goal at the beginning of the year: trying to shoot more pucks."

Jack Roslovic, who also had two goals in the win, couldn't believe McDavid's claim that he's not a natural at scoring. When asked if he agreed, Roslovic looked incredulous and scoffed: "No comment."

Roslovic says his team, which moved into second place in the Pacific Division, follows the longest tenured captain in Oilers history even if he doesn't say a lot.

"It's just the hustle. Everyone watches him, knows what he's doing, and it's inspiring, humbling, motivating," the center said.

McDavid became the fifth player in Oilers history to reach 400 goals when he took a feed from Mattias Ekholm and Evan Bouchard and beat Karel Vejmelka with 7:53 left in the second period.

The go-ahead goal was his 40th of the season and put Edmonton in front 3-2. He scored his 401st goal on an empty-netter with 7.5 seconds remaining.

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McDavid is a three-time winner of the Hart Memorial Trophy as the league's MVP — one of only two unanimous winners, along with Wayne Gretzky — and is known for his extraordinary quickness, recently hitting a top on-ice speed of 24.61 mph in a game.

"Of course, there's his speed, but I don't think he gets enough credit for his shot," Oilers coach Kris Knobaluch said. "He is dangerous when he gets off the circles and he's got a great release and is so difficult to check. He's so determined to get to the net."

McDavid considers himself more of a playmaker. He now has 1,200 points in his career — the third-fastest player to reach the mark behind Gretzky and Mario Lemieux — and needs just one assist to reach 800.

"It's a big number, obviously, and I feel like I got a lot of great years ahead of me still, which is exciting," said McDavid, the No. 1 draft pick in 2015. "These milestones are just a nice time to reflect and I'm just very grateful to have played with so many great players."

Some of them say it's difficult at times to not sit back and watch the show McDavid puts on.

"He's amazing," Roslovic said. "Just really cool for him, obviously, to do that, and then for us to be able to be a part of it and to be able to watch is special."

AP NHL:https://apnews.com/hub/NHL

byAnio Baumeister

in

March 24, 2026

Oilers' Connor McDavid has 401 career goals, but insists scoring doesn't come easy to him

SALT LAKE CITY (AP) — Connor McDavid kept a straight face while making a curious revelation to a group of reporters afte...

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