Under the Islamic fundamentalist group’s rule, the economy has floundered, malnutrition has soared, and more than half a million jobs have been lost. Most women and girls over 12 have been banned from working and attending school.

At the other end, Rahul settled in post-lunch after struggling for timing through most of the first session. Rahul survived an lbw appeal in the 41st over off Saleem - a thin edge saved him. Through the rest of the afternoon, he pounced on shorter deliveries outside off with his cuts and dabs past backward point.

UN Women has warned Afghanistan’s new decree could further undermine the rights and safety of women and girls.

A relative calm has set in along the Afghanistan-Pakistan border, following heavy violence in recent months from both sides. The fighting is rooted in Pakistan’s contention that the regime is sheltering Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) militants who carry out attacks in Pakistan.

Months after Pakistan declared “open war” on Afghanistan, neither side appears ready to back down, despite China’s efforts to mediate.

KL Rahul survived a clear edge and his antics received a special mention by Graeme Swann.

The incident happened on the first ball of the 10th over when Rahul tried to play a square cut off a Ziaur Rahman delivery but instead got a faint outside edge.

Russia and Afghanistan's Taliban government reportedly signed a military cooperation pact, solidifying Moscow's growing alliance in Central Asia.

‘Shameless’ Taliban enlist Russian help in repairing military hardware left by fleeing Soviets - Agreement signed at International Security Forum in Moscow set to bolster Taliban’s military strength