Afridi to lead Pakistan in Twenty20s again

          Shahid Afridi has been appointed Pakistan's Twenty20 captain until the 2016 World T20 in India. He has succeeded Mohammad Hafeez, who stood down in April following Pakistan's early exit from the 2014 World T20 in Bangladesh.

ESPNcricinfo understands the choice was between a young player and an experienced hand, but it was decided that none of the youngsters in the team were ready for such a responsibility. The decision was taken with the consent of the selection committee, head coach Waqar Younis and the PCB cricket committee, and it was approved by the PCB chairman Shaharyar Khan, who has the final say in such matters.

"Whatever happened in the past is over and now I have started a new beginning," Afridi said of his relationship with Waqar. "I will develop a fearless approach in the players and eradicate the fear of loss as a captain. This format is not for the chicken-hearted player"

Afridi, 34, had captained Pakistan in 19 Twenty20 internationals between August 2009 and April 2011. Pakistan won eight and lost 11 matches under his leadership. Afridi has not led Pakistan in any format for more than three years and will have one match against Australia and two against New Zealand before the year ends. Over the last 12 months, Afridi has taken 10 wickets at an average of 26.80 in 11 T20 internationals, and scored 173 runs at a strike rate of 150.

Misbah-ul-Haq is Pakistan's Test and one-day international captain and he is expected to continue in the 50-over role until the 2015 World Cup, the PCB reaffirmed while announcing Afridi's appointment.

"In line with my policy of taking decisions democratically I consulted the Cricket Committee and my board members before announcing these decisions," PCB chairman Shaharyar Khan said. "I wish both Afridi and Misbah very good luck in their upcoming assignments."

Afridi's previous stint as captain ended on a bad note in May 2011. He had a public falling-out with the coach Waqar Younis, who was also in his first term at the time, and an outburst against the then PCB chairman Ijaz Butt. The PCB issued him a showcause notice for the breach of discipline and stripped him off the captaincy thereafter.

The board also excluded him from the list of contracted players and refused to issue no-objection certificates (NOC) to allow Afridi to play in domestic Twenty20 leagues. Afridi, however, took the matter to court and both sides eventually came to an agreement: Afridi pleaded guilty to misconduct and paid a fine of Rupees 4.5 million, and the PCB allowed him to play domestic Twenty20 cricket in England.

Afridi then announced a conditional retirement, saying he would return if there were changes in the PCB and the team management. He made himself available for selection again in October 2011, after Waqar quit as national coach and Zaka Ashraf replaced Butt as PCB chairman.

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India's Mars mission to reach Red Planet on Sept. 24

           NEW DELHI, Sept. 16 (Xinhua) -- India's maiden mission to Mars, launched in November last year, will enter the planet's orbit on Sept. 24 as scheduled, a top official of the state-owned space agency has said.

"After cruising through 666 million km across the solar orbit, for over nine months, our spacecraft will be inserted into the Martian orbit on Sept. 24 at 7.30 a.m. (local time)," Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO)'s scientific secretary V. Koteswara Rao told the media late Monday evening.

"India will be the first country in the world to insert a spacecraft into the Martian orbit in its maiden attempt if the operation succeeds, and also the first Asian country to reach the Red Planet's sphere."

The 70 million U.S. dollars worth Mars Orbiter Mission was launched on Nov. 5, 2013, on board a polar rocket from the southern Indian spaceport of Sriharikota in the southern state of Andhra Pradesh.

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7 Reasons to Drink More Water

          In almost every culture in the world, water has been elevated to the status of miracle drug that can cure everything from dull skin to diabetes. This might, however, be pushing the truth. While water is absolutely essential for the body, its celebrated magic qualities need to be taken with a pinch of salt. Here’s a reality check on the most popular water myths.

                                                  

          Myth 1: Drinking water between meals is bad for digestion – This is one line that has been passed down from generation to generation. However, there is no scientific evidence to indicate that it will affect the digestive process. At the most, it will probably fill you up and reduce your appetite for dinner. But besides that, go ahead and enjoy a glass of water with every meal.

                             

          Myth 2: Drink 8 glasses a day for good health – Drinking 8 glasses of water a day is one of the most popular myths in circulation today, despite scientists saying that there is no clear correlation between good health and sipping on water all day. Doctors recommend drinking water only when you are thirsty!

                                

          Myth 3: Drink water, you can never have too much of a good thing! – Recent studies reveal that drinking too much water can in fact, be potentially harmful. Excessive water consumption is dangerous in that it can lower salt concentration in the body. Water intoxication, a life-threatening condition, occurs when there is dilution of blood sodium because the kidneys are over-worked, and unable to excrete the excess water as urine.

                             

    

          Myth 4: Water cleans out the body’s toxins – The toxins in our body are filtered out by the kidneys. And common myth says that drinking more water means clearing out the toxins. Wrong! In truth, drinking large amounts of water will actually reduce the kidneys’ ability to function as a filter.

                               

 

          Myth 5: Drink water for healthy skin – It is widely believed that since our body’s composition is 60% water, drinking a lot of water will give you glowing skin. However, there is little evidence to support this idea. Healthy skin is a result of many things, including diet, weather, pollution and genetics.

                           

          Myth 6: Drinking water can aid weight loss – Water has been touted as the secret drug for all dieters. “Drink water and you’ll shed those pounds like magic.” This is hardly true; as we discussed, water will, at the most, fill up your stomach and reduce your food intake at mealtimes. But water is far from a miracle drug to lose weight.

                             

          Myth 7: Drink as much water as you can during a workout – It is widely believed that a workout increases chances of dehydration, so common myth says you need to increase water intake during exercise. But dehydration sets in only when you lose 2 percent of body weight. Do the math, and it is unlikely a normal workout requires increased water intake. Instead, ensure you are well-hydrated throughout the day, without over-doing it.
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7 Effective Ways to Lose Weight Walking

          There are many great physical and mental benefits of getting in shape. One of the best benefits is definitely a healthy and longer life. If you want to get in shape but don’t like to run every day, you can lose those pounds walking. Walking is an excellent exercise that you can do anytime and anywhere. However, you should also stick to a healthy diet, otherwise all your efforts will be in vain. Check out a few effective ways to lose weight walking.

1. Walking with breaks

                              

          When walking, take short breaks and do 15 pushups, 40 squats and 40 jumping jacks. Adding these higher intensity exercises to your walking routine will help you burn more calories and get in shape faster. This one of the most effective ways to lose weight walking.

2. Fast walking

                    

          The speed at which you walk is extremely important for weight loss. Although walking for distance can help to get in shape faster, the speed is still essential. To burn more calories, try to walk faster. Aim for 45 minutes to an hour of walking for 5-6 days (or each day if needed) a week and you will see the results faster.

3. Relaxing walk

                     

          If you want to relax your mind and body as well as to get in shape, go for a long walk. Walking will help you burn calories, feel better and think clearer. Moreover, walking helps to fight stress and can even improve your mood.

4. Multitasking             

                                           

          When we have busy schedules, it can be difficult to find time to return our phone calls. However, you can walk and return your phone calls at the same time. In fact, I’m against this because this way you won’t relax and clear your mind. But if you don’t have time, this may help you. You can also call your relative or long-distance friend.

5. Long walk

                                               

         If you are going to lose weight walking, be ready to go for a longer walk at least twice a week. I’m sure you are strong and you can walk longer. Try to add a few more miles and you will get closer to your goal. For instance, if you usually walk 3-4 miles, try adding 2-3 miles and you will achieve your fitness goal much faster.

6. Social walk

          Grab your friend, mom, sibling, spouse or neighbor for a social walk. You will have a lot of fun. After all, if you have similar goals, why not set a regular schedule and exercise in pairs? You will bond with your mom or friend and get in shape. From personal experience I can say that it’s an easy and effective way to stay motivated to lose weight walking.

7. Hill walking

                    

          Spice up your walking workout by trying hill walking. Well, it might be a bit hard at first, but it’s worth the effort. Look for nearby hiking trail and don’t be afraid to challenge your body. This is one of the most effective ways to lose weight walking, so why not give it a try?

If you want to lose weight walking, try a few of these tips and admire your hard work in the end. Walking can also boost your mood, fight stress and improve your memory and attention. Are you going to try any of these tips to lose weight walking?

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7 Aloe Vera Face Packs for Fair and Radiant Skin

Everyone wants to put their best look forward, from head to toe. But, dull and dark skin can play spoiler to your otherwise perfect face. So girls, if you are looking for some natural remedies to get your beautiful and radiant skin back, here is a solution. Try out some do-it-yourself facial packs made out of Aloe Vera. Aloe vera is great for every skin type.

So, take a look at the various benefits of this ‘miracle’ plant and how you can include it in your beauty regime.

Benefits of aloe vera gel

                                                                       

• The antibacterial properties of aloe vera gel helps to get rid of skin related problems like acne, pimples, dryness, blemishes, etc.
• Aloe vera helps in moisturising your skin, keeping it hydrated, rejuvenated and glowing.
• It helps in soothing pain, infections and inflammation. It is an excellent plant for treating eczema, cuts, insect bites, sunburns, etc.
• Aloe vera is also known for its anti-ageing properties. It helps in keeping wrinkles and age spots at bay.
• It is a rich source of natural antioxidants that are good for your overall health.

Extracting the gel at home

                                 

Here is the magic formula of extracting gel out of the aloe vera plant. Carefully select the leaves that are thick, juicy and wide. Once you take some leaves, extracting the gel is not a difficult task.

• Just cut the leaves from the base of the plant and hold the leaves upright. This would allow the sap to drain on its own. Once it drains out, wash the leaves.
• Now carefully cut the sides of the leaves that contain thorns.
• Then peel off the green layer from the leaves, and chop the transparent portion into dices. This is the aloe vera gel.
• You can also slice the leaves into two and scrape off the gel with spoon.

Watch this video to know more:
                 
                                       

 

#1. Face pack for tan removal

 

Tanning ruins your natural beauty and is not a pleasing sight. So, take some aloe vera gel and mix a few drops of lemon juice in it. Apply it evenly on your face and neck. Leave it on for 15 minutes. Wash it off with lukewarm water, to see the glow it imparts on your skin.

 

#2. Face pack for treating pigmentation

 

 
Pigmentations and freckles steal away your fairness. To get back to your spotless skin, make a mixture of aloe vera gel and rose water. Apply it on your face and keep it on for 15-20 minutes. Before rinsing off the pack, gently massage it for a few minutes. With this pack you can see pigmentation, age spots, and pimple marks disappearing.  

 

#3. Face pack for oily skin

                                     

Here comes an excellent rejuvenator for oily and greasy skin. Boil the aloe vera leaves in water and then grind it into a paste. But, make sure that you remove the thorns from the leaves before you boil them. Mix some honey in it. Apply the paste for 20 minutes before rinsing it off. It can work wonders for oily skin if followed every week.

 

#4. Face pack for sensitive skin

                                      

If you have sensitive skin, mix some aloe vera gel with cucumber juice, yoghurt, and rose oil. Apply this paste on your face and neck. Keep it on for 15 minutes. You can use any other essential oil, if rose oil is not available. Wash off the pack with cold water. It is an effective pack to get rid of skin rashes, impurities and dirt. 

 

#5. Face pack for dry skin                                    

 
This face pack will quench your skin’s thirst for sure. Prepare a paste of aloe vera gel, cottage cheese, dates and cucumber. Add some lemon juice in it. This is a great home remedy for your dry and dull skin. Apply the paste on your face and neck, leaving it for approximately 30 minutes. Rinse it off to see a prettier you. 

#6. Face pack for detoxification          

                                  

Here is a pack that will give your face a refreshing feel and visible radiance. Just blend some aloe vera gel with mango pulp and lime juice. Apply it on the face for 20 minutes. Rinse it off with cold water. This will refresh your skin and make it glow.

 

#7. Face pack cum scrub for removing dead skin        

                             

Here is an effective scrub to get rid of your dead skin cells. Use this to brighten and enliven your skin. Mix aloe vera gel and cucumber dices into a thick paste. Add oatmeal to this. Apply this on your face, and scrub it in circular motions for 5 minutes. After that let the pack stay for 10 minutes. Wash it off to get rid of those harmful dead cells from your face. 

You can prepare these packs in bulk and refrigerate to use them again. Always store the homemade aloe vera gel and these face packs in an airtight container. So, what are you waiting for? Allow your skin to soak in the goodness of this wonder plant!  

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Lahore Lions bowlers sink listless Mumbai Indians

Lahore Lions 139 for 4 (Akmal 38*, Shehzad 34) beat Mumbai Indians 135 for 7 (Tare 37, Cheema 2-22) by six wickets Scorecard and ball-by-ball details

Mohammad Hafeez had tried to portray Lahore Lions as the underdog, saying he would be content if his team played to potential and enjoyed themselves. As the match wore on however, it was revealed to be a ruse as a bowling line-up that looked fit for an international team confounded Mumbai Indians.

A target of 136 would not bother most T20 champions and Lahore Lions, who had won the Faysal Bank T-20 in 2014, had Ahmed Shehzad at the top and Umar Akmal during the finish to guide them home and leave the defending champions with a tougher path for their place in the main draw.

The top order had been a point of concern through the IPL for Mumbai and those same concerns followed them to the Champions League. Aizaz Cheema's nagging lines forced Mumbai to slip from a sedate 20 for 0 in the third over to 23 for 3 in the fourth.

Cheema induced Lendl Simmons into holing out to mid-off for 7. Jalaj Saxena, on debut for Mumbai, was on the receiving end of a lovely outswinger and edged to slip the very next ball. The hat-trick was denied by Ambati Rayudu, but an optimistic single could have caused problems had Saad Nasim nailed the throw at the non-strikers' end. Lions were not hurt badly by that missed opportunity as Rayudu's swat to midwicket resulted in an edge to the keeper in the next over.

Michael Hussey, who was picked ahead of Corey Anderson, added 44 runs with Aditya Tare to halt the slide. A cracking pull had got Hussey going and he looked imperious while lifting Hafeez over long-off but the pace of Wahab Riaz, melded with a good line outside off, had him nicking to the keeper. Tare trudged on for 37 off 36 balls, his efforts to accelerate stymied by offspinner Adnan Rasool, who conceded only 13 in three overs.

Harbhajan Singh and Praveen Kumar went on a slogging spree in the final few overs but the final score of 135 looked quite light, 18.4 overs later it was proved so.

Nasir Jamshed and Ahmed Shehzad collected 51 for the opening partnership but some smart fielding helped Mumbai hit back. Pollard dived and got under a skew to long-on and Tare displayed good presence of mind to have Jamshed stumped, as the batsman wandered out of his crease without realising the ball had dribbled off his bat and pad to the keeper. Akmal arrived with 55 required off 37 balls and defused the situation with a flurry of boundaries - he helped smack Lasith Malinga for 15 runs in the 18th over and killed the chase with four, six and four.

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8 Best Ways to Burn 100 Calories in 20 Minutes

          Your body is your temple and keeping it fit is the ultimate form of worship. If you think working out in the gym is the only way to lose weight, think again. Actually, there are many activities that you can perform throughout the day, which would help you to burn some cellulite, instantly. Check out some of the most exciting and best ways to burn 100 calories in just 20 minutes.

1. Household Work

                           

          Everyday household chores like mopping the floor, cooking, doing the dishes, cleaning, and dusting can help you lose those stressful calories easily. The best part about this option is that you cannot make anymore excuses about having a busy schedule and no time to exercise. Add some of these activities to your everyday routine to burn 100 calories:
Mopping- 20 minutes.
Cooking- 35 minutes.
Doing dishes- 40 minutes.

2. Go for Bowling

                           

          Wondering about how you and your partner can spend fun time together and loose some calories as well? Take your partner out for a fun date on a bowling alley, 20-25 minutes there and you can say goodbye to 100 calories. Well, you can also go out for a dip in the pool. 15 minutes of swimming will be fun and a good way to burn 100 calories.

 3. Walk the Dog

                                                         

          Pets not only make your home and life more loveable, but also help you to remain fit. Taking your dog out for a walk for just 20 minutes can help you burn 100 calories. So if you are on a tight schedule you might as well run with your dog for 10 minutes.

4. Cycling                                 

          You loved it as a kid, so what is keeping you from getting back to it now? Cycling is a great form of exercise and just 20 minutes of casual cycling can help you burn 100 calories. It tones up your leg muscles really well and helps you to recover from any back pain as well. So if you like exploring new places, a bike ride every morning or evening can be a great option for you.

 

5. Use Stairs

                            

          About time you stop opting for elevators or lifts, and start using those stairs. Taking stairs is one of the best ways to burn calories. 20 minutes of walking up and down the stairs is enough to burn 100 calories, which makes it one of the easiest available exercising equipment. So, next time while getting into your office building or home, or walking in or out of the metro stations, use stairs.

6. Happy Feet

                          

          If you love dancing, there cannot be a better option than shaking your legs to shed weight. Dance is an exercise for your entire body. 20 minutes of moderate pace dancing is an easy way to burn 100 calories. Add some Zumba to your dancing session to make it more about the workout. 10 minutes of Zumba session can make you lose 100 calories. So, stay fit as well as flaunt your moves at a party too.

7. Take Out the Stroller

                                          

          So, you are busy everyday with your kids and don’t get time to exercise? Now turn your excuse into a solution. Two nice strolls of 20 minutes each, while pushing your baby’s stroller, is the easiest way to burn 100 calories. If your kids are slightly older then take them out to the park, where 30 minutes of Frisbee tossing will not only be a fun way to bond but also an easy way to burn calories.

8. Yoga

                              

          Yoga is the ancient practice of improving your flexibility, strength and breathing to boost your physical and mental well-being. It not only helps to burn calories, but also helps in keeping your body in a perfect shape. Yoga can also help you to heal many ailments. Approximately 20 minutes of yoga everyday can help you burn 100 calories.

These are some fun and easy ways to shed kilos, without sweating it out in the gym. So, get up and get going!

From curing dry skin and dull hair to curbing your untimely hunger pangs and burning fat, banana does it all. It is one of the most versatile fruits, which is packed with nutrients that are essential for our body. Besides this, banana is used for many homemade beauty treatments as well. So, take a look at some surprising health and beauty benefits of this amazing fruit.