Previously maintaining a stable lifestyle, the Pakistani middle class now belongs to a burgeoning class of “New Poor”, tackling economic vulnerabilities unimaginable before COVID-19.

"Abdul Qadir, Pakistan's former legspinner, echoed the sentiment just as well, only a tad more critically, blaming the batsmen for the poor show. "I don't know what was their hurry," he said.

By Zia ur-Rehman Reporting from Karachi, Pakistan They draw millions of poor Pakistani children with the simple promise of free education, meals and housing. For devout families, they offer ...