Latest news with #Tareen
Express Tribune
04-07-2025
- Business
- Express Tribune
Ali Tareen criticises PCB for ‘victory lap' over HBL PSL X
Multan Sultans owner Ali Tareen has sharply criticised the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) for celebrating what it called a successful HBL Pakistan Super League (PSL) season, accusing officials of ignoring pressing issues surrounding the tournament's decline in public interest and operational standards. In a series of posts on social media following the PCB's recent debriefing session in Lahore, Tareen dismissed the board's claims of satisfaction from stakeholders regarding HBL PSL X, saying the league's underlying problems had gone unaddressed. 'Applause? You must be kidding,' he wrote on X, referring to the PCB's video summary that praised the league's performance. Tareen cited poor television ratings, dwindling stadium attendance, and a slowdown in digital engagement as evidence that fan interest has declined significantly. Applause? You must be kidding. 📉 TV viewership is down 📉 Stadium attendance is down 📱 Social media growth has slowed 😵💫 Team logistics were shambolic 🤡 The draft was comical And they want a standing ovation? 🤔 Skip the victory lap and address the slide. Fans notice.… — Ali Khan Tareen (@aliktareen) July 3, 2025 Empty stands in Karachi were among the most visible signs of that disconnect during the 2025 season, yet the PCB has not shared any clear plan to reverse the trend. Tareen also took aim at the tournament's operations, describing logistics as 'shambolic' and branding the player draft 'comical.' Team Logistics was shambolic because every team had to split their own players and staff between 3 different hotels in the same city! 😵💫 Some teams were asked to change the location and date of their games mid season! 😑 (Before the attacks) And don't even get me started on the… — Ali Khan Tareen (@aliktareen) July 3, 2025 He argued that the league's planning failures had undermined its professionalism and damaged its credibility among fans and players alike. 'And they want a standing ovation?' he posted. 'Skip the victory lap and address the slide. Fans notice.' If I own a team or not, I'll always be a huge PSL fan. And seeing its decline hurts. — Ali Khan Tareen (@aliktareen) July 3, 2025 The remarks have reignited tensions between franchise owners and the board. Tareen has previously voiced frustration with the PCB's management of the league and has called for structural changes in how the PSL is run. His latest comments suggest that concerns among stakeholders remain unresolved, despite public attempts by the board to frame the season as a step forward. Exactly what we thought afterwards… No input from franchises, no brainstorming on declining attendance and TV viewership. Just a one-way meeting where the PSL management told us everything is GREAT! 🥰🥳🎉#TeamDelulu — Ali Khan Tareen (@aliktareen) July 3, 2025 While the PCB has promoted PSL X as a milestone year, Tareen's criticism reflects broader unease about the league's direction in a competitive sports market where audience loyalty cannot be taken for granted.
NDTV
11-06-2025
- Business
- NDTV
IPL On Collision Course With Pakistan Super League In 2026: Details Inside
The Pakistan Super League (PSL) next year is set to clash with the high-profile Indian Premier League as the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is mulling to hold the event in the same window as the IPL. The reason being given is that with the ICC World T20 Cup scheduled in February-March next year and some FTP (Future Tours Programme) commitments, it might not be possible again to hold the PSL in its normal window of February-March. "There is a window available to the Pakistan board in December and first half of January but it has already given NOCs to Pakistani players to play in the Big Bash in Australia in this period and has also planned some domestic activities. "So the discussion now with the franchise owners is to prepare for the PSL to be held in April-May just like this year," a source said. An official in the PSL secretariat said that when the PSL was held this year and overlapped with the IPL due to the Champions Trophy in Pakistan in February-March, there was no effect on the viewership or interest which the PSL normally gets every year. "Initially there was some concern that having the PSL in the same window as the IPL might hit our league but surprisingly viewership figures on TV and other media improved and the franchise owners got a chance to sign on some notable overseas players who were not picked in the IPL auction," he added. With 10 editions now completed, the valuation of the existing six franchise teams will also be carried out before the next PSL and the PCB is thinking about a 25 per cent increase in franchise fees. All the franchise owners except Multan Sultans' owner Ali Tareen, teams have confirmed in writing their intent to retain ownership for the next 10-years but Tareen who pays the highest franchise fee wants a review of all franchise fees as he has concerns over financial losses. The next edition of the event is also significant since the PSL secretariat is also set to invite bids for two more new teams, the work for which has already started. Apparently the PCB also wants that the 10-year title sponsorship agreement also needs to be reviewed and renewed and a new deal for live streaming will also be required. Currently, PCB earns about 900 million rupees annually from the title sponsorship. Last year, live streaming rights for Pakistan were sold for approximately 1.8 billion. Local broadcast rights generated around 6.3 billion, while international rights brought in USD 4.6 million. Ground rights were sold for around PKR 2 billion for two years. For TV production, PCB signed a two-year deal worth USD 2.25 million annually. Tenders will be issued for all these agreements, followed by lengthy processes.
NBC News
06-06-2025
- Health
- NBC News
Should you be wearing a UPF Sun hat? Here's why dermatologists say yes
People often underestimate the importance of a hat when spending time outdoors. Yes, hats do a great job of keeping sunlight out of your eyes and making it easier to see, but some of them can also help protect your skin, similar to sunscreen. This is why dermatologists recommend wearing clothing with Ultraviolet Protection Factor (UPF). 'Topical SPF is a great tool, but it also isn't perfect. Chemical sunscreens must be fully absorbed to work, about 30 minutes after application,' says board-certified dermatologist Dr. Dendy Engelman. 'For physical [mineral] sunscreen, if you do not have consistent application or an area rubs off, then you are not adequately protected.' UPF clothing, including hats, is the first line of defense against ultraviolet (UV) radiation, especially for those with sensitive skin. But what exactly is UPF? We consulted experts to understand how UPF works and used their guidance to compile the best UPF hats to shop for. What is the UPF rating? 'UPF stands for Ultraviolet Protection Factor. It shows how well a fabric protects you from UV rays,' according to Dr. Mohiba Tareen, a board-certified dermatologist at Tareen Dermatology. 'These are the rays that can cause skin aging (UVA) and burning (UVB). A UPF rating tells you how much UV radiation can get through the fabric.' As an example, if a hat has a UPF 50 rating, that means that 1/50th (2%) of UV rays pass through, so it blocks 98%.Here's a quick breakdown to determine how protective UPF ratings are: How we picked the best UPF hats When shopping for a UPF sun-protective hat, our experts stress the importance of keeping the following key factors in mind: UPF rating: Although the Skin Cancer Foundation allows a minimum of UPF 30, the most optimal level of protection is 50+, says Tareen. A UPF rating of 30 means the fabric allows 1/30th, or about 3%, of UV radiation to pass through. A garment rated UPF 50 permits only 1/50th, or about 2% of UV transmission. Any fabric that permits less than 2% is labeled UPF 50+. Weave density: The denser the fabric, the better it blocks the rays. For a quick visual check, Dr. Tareen recommends holding the hat up to the sunlight to gauge its transparency. Color: 'The more intense the hue, the better the protection,' according to the Skin Cancer Foundation. Dark or bright colors, including red, black and navy blue, absorb more UV rays than lighter colors, like whites and pastels. Material: Different types of material matter as well, according to our experts. For instance, unbleached cotton, rayon, flax and hemp all consist of natural fibers that absorb UV rays, while shiny polyester, nylon or lightweight satin silks deflect the rays and are considered more protective. In addition, these latter materials are quick-drying, which is another plus, as a study conducted by the National Center for Biotechnology Information found that UV protection appears to be less effective when the material is wet. Coverage: The best sun-protective hats should have a minimum 3-inch brim around the circumference or a minimum 3-inch bill with a permanently attached drape to cover the neck and ears, according to the Skin Cancer Foundation. For baby and toddler hats, the foundation recommends a 2½-inch brim. The best UPF hats to shop in 2025 Below, we rounded up a list of the best UPF hats for men, women, kids and babies that meet the experts' criteria. All provide optimum coverage, have a UPF rating of 50 or more and have the Skin Cancer Foundation's Seal of Recommendation. Many of them also have at least a 4-star average rating from 500 reviews or more on Amazon or at least 100 reviews at a retailer. This unisex wide-brimmed safari hat has UPF 50+ protection to block out 98% of the sun's rays, according to the brand. It has breathable mesh to keep you sweat-free and also includes an adjustable chin strap to keep it in place during windy days. This option also has a 4.5-star average rating from 27,768 reviews on Amazon. This brimmed fishing hat is made from a fast-drying, textured nylon that keeps you cool by pulling moisture to the fabric's surface to keep sweat at bay, according to the brand. It has an adjustable chin strap and toggle for a secure fit during windy days on the water, along with vented sides for increased breathability. The hat is one size fits all, and comes in 32 different colors. Best UPF hat for women This stylish braided straw fedora has UPF 50+ protection, along with a removable drawstring and an adjustable built-in strap to ensure the right fit. Coolibar Etta Shapeable Sun Catcher Hat $49.50 $55.00 Amazon Now 10% off $55.00 Coolibar Coolibar boasts unanimous approval from our experts, and the brand is 'respected in gear quality and longevity, so it's a very safe purchase and one that should invoke confidence in the buyer,' says Minars. With UPF 50+ protection in a fabric that's both breathable as well as shapeable, this adjustable hat is a top pick. Tareen loves this high-end, stylish lightweight option that has the look of a fashionable straw hat without compromising the protection of UPF. Not only does this model come in seven different color options but it's also designed to guard skin from 95% of UVA and UVB rays, according to the brand. Best UPF hat with neck protection This protective sun hat from Sunday Afternoons, which has a 4.6-star average rating from 1,789 reviews at Amazon, has a brim made with foam to help maintain its shape and prevent it from flying away in the wind. The underside of the hat has a dark hue to help absorb reflective light and prevent glare, according to the brand. The inside also has a sweatband and the back of it is extra long to help protect your neck. Best baseball-style UPF hat If you prefer the look of a baseball cap but still want the protection of a UPF hat, this option, which has a 4.4-star average rating from 14,400 reviews on Amazon, is a good choice. It has an adjustable strap and absorbs water and sweat to maintain a cool temperature for up to 2 hours, according to the brand. It's made of a breathable material, ideal for athletic activity and is machine washable. Best fedora-style UPF hat Whether you're out golfing or spending time at the beach, this stylish UPF 50+ hat will help keep you protected from the sun. Recommended for when you want to travel light, according to the brand, the Coolibar Travel Fedora has an interior moisture-wicking sweatband and mesh grommets for increased airflow. It also has a 4.2-star average rating from 310 reviews at Coolibar. Another expert favorite, this UPF 50+ hat lets you stay protected during a day on the water. With a 4.4-star average rating from 389 reviews at Coolibar, this hat provides all-around protection, including around the ears. The convertible style allows you to add extra neck coverage when you want while a covered mesh panel and sweatband help keep you cool. Best mesh UPF hat This versatile, adventure-ready hat has a 4.4-star average rating from 4,233 reviews on Amazon. It's water-resistant, breathable, UPF 50+ and adjustable, according to the brand. With a wide brim, interior sweatband and flap to protect your head, neck and ears, this foldable hat is a solid choice for keeping you covered in the sun this summer and beyond. Best UPF hat for kids This full-coverage sports hat has a 4.6-star average rating from 229 reviews at Amazon and features an attached neck drape for additional protection as kids splash in the water and comes in a quick-drying UPF 50+ material that's both chlorine- and saltwater-resistant, according to the brand. Best bucket UPF hat for kids UV Skinz is one of Tareen's go-to brands, she says. As a mom of five, she appreciates both the safety and practicality of these UPF 50+ hats that she says actually stay on little heads. Plus, this versatile style has a sun flap to cover ears and necks but can also be tucked away. Best UPF hat for 9 to 18 months These Green Sprouts hats give full coverage from the sun to little necks and ears. They are also machine-washable, come in a UPF 50+ water-wicking material and feature an adjustable toggle to grow with the baby. This hat also has a 4.8-star average rating from 123 reviews at Green Sprouts. Best UPF hat for babies With reversible patterns, playful 3D animal details and a range of colors, there's an adorable option for every baby fashionista from Durio. The brand also makes the Summer Beach UPF Hat for toddlers and kids up to 8 years old. These lightweight sun hats block up to 98 percent of UVA and UVB rays with a UPF 50+ cotton and polyester fabric. Best reversible UPF hat for babies Given the amount of time Tareen's five kids have spent in these UPF 50+ sun protective hats, she knows that they aren't only safe but they also stay on with their simple tie. These water-friendly, reversible hats come in both boys and girls versions in an array of patterns and colors. How to shop for a UPF hat Although style is always top of mind — and there are plenty of great options out there to choose from — it's important to invest in a hat that fully protects you and is best for your needs. Fortunately, our experts say there are several key factors that will easily rule out the good from the not-so-good. SCF seal: A good place to start is looking for the Skin Cancer Foundation's Seal of Recommendation, according to our experts. Although the optimal rating is UPF 50+, the foundation grants this seal to fabrics that have a minimum of 30 UPF on the lightest shade in the product range. In addition, the clothing awarded this seal must also pass a number of tests by the American Association of Textile Chemists and Colorists. Brim coverage: As noted above, our experts also said to invest in at least a 3-inch wide brim to shade the face, scalp, neck, shoulders and upper back. Kids' brims should be a minimum of 2.5 inches, according to the Skin Cancer Foundation. Water resistance: If you're planning to wear your hat at the beach or for any other water activity, look for a hat that will dry quickly if it gets wet, as studies have found that UPF hats are less effective when wet. Other key considerations when shopping for a quality UPF sun hat or any other type of UPF clothing, according to our experts, include opting for darker colors and tighter weaves, like polyester and nylon rather than cotton, flax and hemp, which absorb UV rays rather than deflect them. Meet our experts At NBC Select, we work with experts who have specialized knowledge and authority based on relevant training and/or experience. We also take steps to ensure all expert advice and recommendations are made independently and without undisclosed financial conflicts of interest. Why trust NBC Select?
Express Tribune
30-04-2025
- Business
- Express Tribune
Ali Tareen warns HBL PSL will struggle to retain foreign talent due to IPL clash
Listen to article Multan Sultans owner Ali Tareen has expressed serious concerns over the HBL Pakistan Super League (PSL) continuing to clash with the Indian Premier League (IPL) calendar. Tareen warned that such scheduling could jeopardize the league's ability to attract and retain top-tier international talent in the coming years. Taking to X (formerly Twitter), Tareen acknowledged that the HBL PSL has enjoyed remarkable growth since its launch in 2016, thanks in large part to the participation of global T20 stars like Darren Sammy, Shane Watson, Colin Munro, and Rilee Rossouw. But with the IPL drawing away more and more high-profile players each season, Tareen questioned whether the PSL could continue to compete on that level. 'Can we keep attracting players of this calibre for the next decade if we keep clashing with the IPL window?' he asked. 'Or will we keep losing our top performers to the IPL after a season or two?' While Tareen admitted there was initial support for scheduling HBL PSL games during the IPL season—particularly as a way to carve out its own identity—he now suggests that approach may be doing more harm than good. His remarks have reignited an ongoing debate within Pakistan cricket circles about player availability, global visibility, and the broader commercial impact of competing directly with the IPL—the most lucrative and widely watched T20 league in the world. The concerns come as several foreign players have prioritized IPL contracts over PSL appearances this year, prompting league officials and franchises to reassess recruitment strategies and the overall competitiveness of the PSL on the international stage. New Zealand great Kane Williamson reportedly joined Karachi Kings late due to his commentary commitments with IPL earlier this year, having gone undrafted in the IPL draft. Tareen's post also clarified his own commitment to the Multan Sultans, denying recent rumours of his exit from the franchise. But his candid take on the PSL's scheduling dilemma suggests major strategic discussions could be on the horizon.
Express Tribune
26-04-2025
- Business
- Express Tribune
HBL PSL tug-of-war continues off the field
The contract between the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and the franchises will come to an end with HBL PSL 10. After conducting a valuation, PCB will grant the existing teams the right to remain in the league; however, the franchise fees could increase by 25% or more. The most expensive franchise, Multan Sultans, pays approximately PKR 1.08 billion annually in franchise fees alone, with other expenses being additional. The team suffers heavy losses every year, which is why, even before the current edition, owner Ali Tareen had started voicing concerns about the model. Recently, during a media interaction in Multan, Tareen clearly stated that if the franchise fee is increased, they would consider going for re-bidding. According to sources within the board, when the PCB approached the franchises a few months ago to inquire whether they wished to retain their teams, all franchises, including Multan Sultans, expressed their willingness. However, suddenly, Ali Tareen began making stern statements, which surprised many. It now seems that Tareen is preparing the ground for a major decision or trying to exert pressure on the board to reduce the fees. Board sources mentioned that, according to the agreement, a reduction in the franchise fee is not possible. After the valuation, an increase is inevitable. If Multan Sultans decides to leave, the team will be re-bid, though it is still unclear whether the current owner will be able to participate in that process. If any one franchise is allowed a reduced fee, other teams will also demand the same, a situation that the board cannot accept under any circumstances. Meanwhile, some circles are questioning why the PCB has not taken any action against Ali Tareen for his controversial statements, with no show-cause notice being issued. Sources suggest that after the valuation, the annual franchise fee for Multan Sultans could rise to around PKR 1.5 billion. Consequently, the pressure on PSL authorities will increase to sell two new teams for over PKR 2 billion each. Given the current market conditions, this will be very difficult to achieve. Therefore, if the Sultan's franchise fee is reduced or maintained, it may allow new teams to be sold for a little over PKR 1 billion, which could be a reason for the league's leniency. However, board sources have dismissed this perception, saying, "Why would we devalue our league? If anyone is dreaming of buying a franchise at a low price, they will be disappointed. Many parties, both in Pakistan and abroad, are ready to join the PSL."
