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Tag: Pakistan Cricket Team

  • Virender Sehwag Advises Babar Azam: Play Domestic Cricket, Work On Fitness For Comeback | cricket news

    Former India cricketer Virender Sehwag took a dig at Pakistan batsman Babar Azam’s recent performance in international cricket and asked him to work on his fitness. Ahead of the second Test match against England in Multan, Pakistan’s selection committee took everyone by surprise after dropping the former Pakistan captain Babar Azam from the final two long-format matches of the series against the Three Lions.

    Kamran Ghulam was handed his maiden Test cap and placed to fill Babar’s position as Pakistan hunted to level down the series. The batting all-rounder was at the receiving end of criticism from some sections of fans before and during the Test.

    Despite a tough time, the 29-year-old showed grit and resilience against a fierce English bowling line-up to keep Pakistan in the thick of the action. With an array of shots, he kept the opposition on their toes and smashed 118 off 124 deliveries.

    Speaking on Shoaib Akhtar’s official YouTube channel, Sehwag said that Babar should take part in domestic cricket now and then make a comeback in international cricket as a mentally stronger player.

    “Babar Azam should play domestic cricket now. He should work on his fitness, spend some time with family, then come back to international cricket as a physically fitter and mentally stronger player,” Sehwag said.

    The former India cricketer added that the former Pakistan skipper has been more impacted mentally. The 46-year-old also asked Babar to be mentally strong. “With expectations from Babar decreasing and his resignation from captaincy, it seems he has been more impacted mentally than in terms of technique. He needs to stay mentally strong. He’s a talented player, and players like him tend to bounce back quickly,” he added.

    While Ghulam’s knock set the tone of the Test for Pakistan, it was Noman Ali and Sajid Khan who dictated the outcome with their spin prowess.

    The duo took all 20 wickets in the second Test, leaving England completely baffled in the process. While Sajid starred with his figures of 7/111 in the first innings, the plaudits belonged to Noman in the second innings for his splendid effort of 8/46.

    With a 125-run victory, Pakistan leveled the series at 1-1, taking the series decider to Rawalpindi, beginning on October 24.

  • ICC Inspection Team To Visit Pakistan To Assess Preparations For Champions Trophy 2025, India’s Participation Still Uncertain. cricket news

    Champions Trophy 2025: The International Cricket Council (ICC) is expected to send a delegation to Pakistan in the coming weeks to assess the country’s preparations for hosting the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. According to a reports, the ICC team will arrive within the next 10 days to inspect key venues and facilities. This visit will be crucial to determine Pakistan’s readiness to host the prestigious tournament, marking its return to global cricketing events after a long hiatus.

    Following the ICC’s inspection, the governing body is expected to announce the tournament’s schedule and initiate the sale of tickets.

    Major Upgrades Underway at Pakistan’s Key Venues

    The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has been working extensively to ensure world-class facilities for the event. Earlier this year, the PCB allocated Rs 12.80 billion for the upgradation of three key stadiums: Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore, National Stadium in Karachi, and Rawalpindi International Cricket Stadium. These venues will host the matches of the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy, and the upgrades aim to elevate their infrastructure to meet international standards.

    India’s Participation Still Uncertain

    While preparations are in full swing, India’s participation in the tournament remains uncertain due to geopolitical tensions between the two nations. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has stated that it will follow the Indian government’s directives regarding the team’s involvement in the tournament. Relations between India and Pakistan have historically impacted cricketing ties, with India refusing to travel to Pakistan for the 2023 Asia Cup, leading to their matches being held in Sri Lanka.

    PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi confirmed that discussions with the BCCI are ongoing. “We are in touch with the boards of the teams participating in the tournament,” Naqvi was quoted as saying by Geo News. Naqvi also expressed confidence in the smooth execution of the tournament and highlighted that there are no concerns regarding Jay Shah’s recent appointment as the ICC chairman.

    Jay Shah’s New Role As ICC Chairman

    Jay Shah, who was unanimously elected as the new chairman of the ICC last month, will step down from his roles as the president of the Asian Cricket Council (ACC) and the BCCI secretary. His election to the top post is significant, with many eyes now on how India’s role in international cricket evolves under his leadership. Shah’s elevation also signifies the growing influence of Indian cricket on the global stage, as he joins a prestigious list of Indian officials who have headed the ICC.

    PCB Confident Ahead Of Champions Trophy

    The PCB remains optimistic about the success of the Champions Trophy 2025. Despite uncertainties surrounding India’s participation, Naqvi emphasized that preparations are on track and that he is working closely with the ICC and participating boards. “The Champions Trophy will be held in Pakistan, and we are in touch with the boards of the teams participating in the tournament,” he reiterated.

  • Shaheen Shah Afridi’s Unique Wicket Celebration For Newborn Son Goes Viral During Test Against Bangladesh- WATCH | cricket news

    Pakistan’s fast bowler Shaheen Shah Afridi marked the birth of his first child in a memorable way during the opening Test against Bangladesh at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium. Shaheen and his wife, Ansha, welcomed their son, whom they named Ali Yar. Despite initial speculations that Shaheen might skip the Test series for the birth of his child remarks made by Pakistan’s red-ball coach, Jason Gillespie the determined pacer chose to represent his country in the match.

    In the game, Shaheen had to put in considerable effort to claim his wickets as Bangladesh secured a substantial lead of 117 runs in their first innings. Known for his usual celebration style of raising his arms after taking a wicket, Shaheen chose to celebrate differently this time. After claiming his first wicket of the match, he performed a cradling gesture to honor his newborn son, showcasing his happiness and pride. The celebration came after Bangladesh batsman Hasan Mahmud attempted a shot on the on-side, only to edge the ball. Mohammad Rizwan made no mistake in taking the catch, allowing Shaheen to open his wicket tally. Later in the innings, Shaheen dismissed Mehidy Hasan Miraz, ending with respectable figures of 30 overs, conceding 88 runs and taking two wickets.

    – Shaheen dedicated the wicket to his new born baby. pic.twitter.com/vyptUtOR2O — Johns. (@CricCrazyJohns) August 24, 2024

    Following the birth of his child, Shaheen Shah Afridi received a flood of congratulatory messages from the cricket community. Among those extending their well wishes was Arshad Nadeem, the recent gold medalist in men’s javelin at the Paris Olympics 2024. Nadeem, who set an Olympic record with a throw of 92.97 meters, also congratulated Shahid Afridi on becoming a grandfather.

    Congratulations to Shaheen Shah Afridi on the birth of your precious baby boy And heartfelt congratulations to Shahid Afridi @SAfridiOfficial on becoming a grandfather. May Allah bless the little one with health, happiness. Prayers and best wishes to your family… — Arshad Nadeem (@ArshadOlympian) August 24, 2024

    Pakistan Struggling Against Bangladesh

    On the cricketing front, Pakistan displayed an inconsistent performance on what was considered an excellent pitch for batting. While they managed to post a decent score initially, led by Shan Masood, the team’s bowlers struggled to maintain the momentum. Bangladesh capitalized on the favorable batting conditions, with Mushfiqur Rahim scoring a remarkable 191 runs and Shadman Islam contributing a solid 93. These significant innings ensured that Bangladesh comfortably surpassed Pakistan’s total, putting the hosts on the back foot as the match progressed.

  • Pakistan’s Test Captain Shan Masood’s Angry Response To Match-Fixing Allegations At Press Conference | cricket news

    Pakistan Test captain Shan Masood has firmly denied any allegations of match-fixing within the team as they gear up for their two-match Test series against Bangladesh. Following Pakistan’s early exit from the T20 World Cup, rumors of discord and internal conflicts in the dressing room have fueled speculation about possible misconduct. However, Masood was quick to address these rumors, emphasizing the team’s unity and their focus on the upcoming series.

    During a press conference ahead of the Test series, a journalist inquired about Masood’s message to the team in light of Arshad Nadeem’s historic gold medal at the Paris Olympics. The journalist compared Nadeem’s remarkable achievement to the rewards of bringing national pride, suggesting that such honors are far more significant than any illicit gains from match-fixing.

    In his response, Masood stressed the importance of integrity and pride in representing Pakistan. He encouraged his players to draw inspiration from Nadeem’s success and to maintain their focus on excelling on the field.

    “I would never question anyone’s intentions. The term ‘match-fixing’ is completely out of place in our current cricket setup. There is nothing to suggest that such activities are taking place here, and I firmly reject these claims,” ​​Masood stated.

    He also addressed the need to separate different formats of the game, pointing out that the T20 World Cup is now in the past. “You have to look ahead. This is a Test team. Although we played good cricket in the last series, we were unable to secure victories. Now, with the upcoming home series, we have an excellent opportunity to showcase our style of cricket and win matches for Pakistan,” he added.

    Masood also praised Arshad Nadeem, who won the gold medal in the men’s javelin throw at the Paris Olympics, setting a new record with a throw of 92.97 meters. Masood referred to Nadeem as a “national hero” and expressed pride in his achievement. “Nadeem’s success has elevated his status and brought immense pride to the nation. We will certainly draw inspiration from his remarkable accomplishment and aim to achieve similar glory for Pakistan,” Masood concluded.

  • Afghanistan Confirms Participation In Champions Trophy 2025, Boosting Pakistan’s Hosting Prospects: Reports | cricket news

    In a significant boost for the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), Afghanistan has confirmed its participation in the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy. This assurance comes as a relief amid speculations about some countries potentially following India’s lead if the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) decides not to send its team to Pakistan for the event. The confirmation came during the ICC Annual Board Meeting held in Colombo, where Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) President Mirwais Ashraf and CEO Naseeb Khan met with PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi. The Afghan officials expressed their eagerness to participate in the Champions Trophy, marking Afghanistan’s debut in this prestigious tournament.

    Also Read: EXPLAINED: Why Smriti Mandhana Replaced Harmanpreet Kaur As Indian Women’s Team Captain In Match Against Nepal In Women’s Asia Cup 2024

    Naqvi shared the news with optimism, stating, “They told the chairman that Afghanistan is looking forward to sending its team to Pakistan since they are participating in the Champions Trophy for the first time.” This assurance helps counter the prevailing perception that the BCCI’s financial influence could sway other cricket boards, including those of Afghanistan, Sri Lanka, and Bangladesh, to follow its path.

    Overcoming Speculation and Uncertainty

    The cricketing world has been abuzz with speculation about India’s potential non-participation in the Champions Trophy if it is held in Pakistan. A former PCB chairman, Khalid Mehmood, had even suggested in an interview that if India opts out, other teams might insist on relocating the tournament to a different venue.

    However, the ACB’s commitment to participating in the Champions Trophy signifies a positive shift. This development not only bolsters Pakistan’s efforts to successfully host the tournament but also showcases Afghanistan’s commitment to international cricket despite regional politics.

    Historical Significance for Pakistan

    The Champions Trophy 2025 holds immense significance for Pakistan. It will be the first major ICC event hosted by the country since it co-hosted the 1996 World Cup with India and Sri Lanka. This tournament presents an opportunity for Pakistan to reaffirm its capability to host high-profile international cricket events, enhancing its reputation on the global stage.

    Excitement Building for the Champions Trophy

    As the cricketing world gears up for the Champions Trophy in February and March 2025, the anticipation is palpable. Afghanistan’s assurance of participation adds an exciting dimension to the tournament, promising thrilling encounters and standout performances.

    Afghanistan’s cricket journey has been nothing short of remarkable. From gaining full member status with the ICC in 2017 to producing world-class talents like Rashid Khan and Mohammad Nabi, the team has consistently punched above its weight. Their participation in the Champions Trophy will undoubtedly bring fresh enthusiasm and competitiveness to the event.

    Implications for Regional Cricket Dynamics

    Afghanistan’s decision to play in Pakistan despite potential political pressures highlights the growing maturity and independence of cricketing nations in the region. It also underscores the importance of separating sports from politics, allowing cricket to serve as a unifying force.

    The PCB, on its part, has been diligently working to ensure top-notch security and hospitality for all participating teams. Hosting the Champions Trophy successfully would be a testament to Pakistan’s preparedness and resilience, setting the stage for more international cricket in the country.

  • Shaheen Afridi set to be dropped for Bangladesh tour after misconduct in training | Cricket News

    In an unexpected turn of events, Pakistan’s premier fast bowler, Shaheen Afridi, is on the verge of being dropped from the upcoming Test series against Bangladesh. This decision follows reports of his misconduct during training sessions, a development that has sent ripples through the cricketing community. Shaheen Afridi’s troubles began during Pakistan’s recent tour of England. While preparing for the 2024 T20 World Cup, Afridi was found consistently overstepping the crease, bowling no-balls in the nets at Headingley. Mohammad Yousuf, the team’s batting coach, pointed out the issue, hoping to correct the pacer’s technique. However, Afridi’s response was anything but professional. He bluntly told Yousuf, “Let me practice for now and don’t talk in the middle.”

    Also Read: Shaheen Afridi’s Love Story With Wife Ansha Afridi: How Pakistan’s Star Pacer Fell In Love With Shahid Afridi’s Daughter – In Pics

    This dismissive attitude sparked a heated exchange between Afridi and Yousuf, leading to a reprimand from the team’s management. Afridi was eventually made to apologize in front of the entire squad, an action that seemed to close the matter, albeit temporarily.

    A Troubled Year for Shaheen Afridi

    Afridi’s recent conduct appears to be part of a larger pattern of discord. The 2024 cricket season has been particularly tumultuous for him, starting with the loss of his T20I captaincy after just one series. This demotion came amidst allegations from Afridi that the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) had forged quotes in his name on their official website, adding to the growing tensions within the team. Rumours of a rift between Afridi and Pakistan’s star batsman Babar Azam have also been circulating, further fueled by the team’s poor performance at the T20 World Cup. Pakistan’s early exit from the tournament, failing to make it past the group stage, has only intensified scrutiny on the team’s dynamics and leadership.

    PCB’s Response and Future Plans

    In light of these incidents, the PCB is reportedly considering excluding Afridi from the squad for the upcoming Test series against Bangladesh. This series, which is part of the World Test Championship (WTC) cycle, is seen as a crucial opportunity for the team to rebuild and integrate new talent.

    With several senior players, including Afridi, potentially sidelined, the PCB plans to focus on emerging talent from the domestic circuit. A training camp in Rawalpindi is scheduled to identify and prepare these players for the two-match series. This strategic shift is also set to mark the first overseas assignment for Pakistan’s new head coach, Jason Gillespie, and the first Test series under the captaincy of Shan Masood.

    Implications for Pakistani Cricket

    Shaheen Afridi’s potential exclusion represents a significant shift in Pakistan’s cricket strategy. Afridi, who has been a mainstay in Pakistan’s bowling attack, is known for his ability to deliver breakthroughs and maintain pressure on opposing batsmen. His absence will undoubtedly be felt, but it also opens the door for young talent to step up.

    This move could signal a broader attempt by the PCB to instill discipline and professionalism within the squad. By taking a firm stance against misconduct, the board is sending a clear message that no player, regardless of their stature, is above the team’s code of conduct.

  • Shahid Afridi calls for PCB action on Babar Azam’s captaincy after T20 World Cup 2024 debate | Cricket News

    Former Pakistan all-rounder Shahid Afridi has come down heavily on embattled skipper Babar Azam for the team’s poor performance in the T20 World Cup, saying that he had been given enough opportunities to lead the side, and it was time for the PCB to take a call on his captaincy. Former champions Pakistan lost to newcomers USA and arch-rivals India to be eliminated in the group stage of the World Cup held in the USA and West Indies.

    “Babar has got a full open chance to lead Pakistan. He has been given enough time to show his worth as captain. Now whatever surgery the PCB wants to do, they should take their decision,” Afridi told the media in Birmingham where he is taking part in the World Legends Championship.

    “I have also captained Pakistan and so have Younis Khan and Misbah-ul-Haq but whenever the team has performed badly in the World Cups, first thing the captain faces the knife (sic),” he said.

    Babar has led Pakistan in four World Cups and two Asia Cups. Afridi also said that if the PCB decides to appoint a new skipper, he and the two new foreign coaches — Gary Kirsten and Jason Gillespie — should be given enough time to prove themselves.

    “Whatever decision the PCB takes it should take but it should give time to the captain, coach and the system to work,” he added. The former skipper also disagreed with the Pakistan Cricket Board’s decision to sack national selectors Wahab Riaz and Abdul Razzaq.

    The two former Test players were removed from the selection committee in the wake of the team’s disastrous T20 World Cup campaign. “This surgery makes no sense to me… Sacking just two selectors,” said Afridi.

    Afridi’s son-in-law, Shaheen Shah Afridi, has come under the scanner after a television channel claimed that the fast bowler was not at his best behaviour during the World Cup.

    The channel claimed that white-ball coach Kirsten, in his report, had noted that Shaheen was not cooperative with the management and there was a general breakdown of discipline in the team. The channel also claimed that the PCB had been told that senior team manager, Wahab Riaz and manager Mansoor Rana ignored Shaheen’s behaviour and did not bother to talk to him about it.

    There have also been accusations that Wahab and Razzaq even tried to pressure other selectors to pick some players who were not in form at that time.

  • No ‘Qudrat Ka Nizaam’ This Time: Pakistan’s Early Exit From World Cup 2024 Sparks Social Media Meme Fest | Cricket News

    The United States cricket team made history on Friday by qualifying for the second round of the 2024 T20 World Cup in their first WC. Their last group game against Ireland in Lauderhill, Florida, was washed out due to rain, which also led to the elimination of former champions Pakistan. Without a toss, the game was abandoned due to a wet outfield, allowing the USA to advance to the Super Eight stage from Group A along with favorites India. This sparked a meme fest on social media, with many trolling Pakistan for their early exit.

    Pakistan’s Early Exit From WC 2024

    The USA reached the last eight thanks to a surprising Super Over win against 2009 champions Pakistan. Pakistan’s early exit is especially disappointing as they were runners-up in the tournament two years ago. The washout also secured the USA an automatic spot in the 2026 T20 World Cup in India and Sri Lanka.

    This is Pakistan’s earliest exit from a T20 World Cup, having played only three games, with a loss to India and a single win against Canada. They were knocked out in the group stage in 2014 and 2016 but had reached at least the semifinals in other tournaments.

    Pakistan’s Shocking Defeat Against USA

    Pakistan suffered a shocking defeat to the USA in their opening match of the T20 World Cup 2024 at the Grand Prairie Stadium, Dallas. The match went to a Super Over after both teams tied at the end of 40 overs. In the Super Over, the USA set a target of 19 runs for Pakistan, who could only manage 13 in response.

    Pakistan Out Of World Cup 2024: Hilarious Memes

    Babar Azam in T20 world cup 2024 #PakistanCricket pic.twitter.com/5uquvAjxQd

    — human (@humanbeing1857) June 15, 2024

    Bye bye Pakistan pic.twitter.com/cC4zG8WrZr — Kamina (@bittu7664) June 14, 2024

    Pakistan team before leaving newyork #USAvsIREpic.twitter.com/YjnbWsl5lR — Desi Bhayo (@desi_bhayo88) June 14, 2024

    Pakistan Team successfully qualified for a return flight back home #PakistanCricket pic.twitter.com/u5QFBk4HJf — Vertigo_Warrior (@VertigoWarrior) June 14, 2024

    “As a cricketer, you want to play, not sit out due to weather. But there was nothing we could do,” said USA vice-captain Aaron Jones, who was stand-in skipper for the injured Monank Patel.

  • Big Boost For Babar Azam’s Pakistan Ahead Of T20 World Cup 2024 Game Against Team India, THIS All-Rounder Set To Make Comeback | Cricket News

    The air crackles with anticipation as two titans of cricket, Pakistan and India, prepare to reignite their epic rivalry on the grand stage of the T20 World Cup 2024. As the sun sets over the iconic Nassau County International Cricket Stadium in New York, a battle royale looms, one that promises to etch its name in the annals of cricketing folklore. Under the astute guidance of head coach Gary Kirsten, Babar Azam’s Pakistan has weathered early setbacks, including a shocking upset against co-hosts USA. However, like a phoenix rising from the ashes, the Men in Green have rallied, their spirits undeterred, their hunger for glory undiminished.

    Also Read: India vs Pakistan Live Score Updates: Eyes On New York Pitch

    The Return of the Versatile

    Imad Wasim In a major boost for Pakistan’s campaign, Kirsten confirmed the availability of the talismanic all-rounder Imad Wasim, who had been sidelined due to a suspected rib injury during the England T20I series. Wasim’s inclusion promises to add much-needed depth and versatility to Pakistan’s lineup, a factor that could prove pivotal against the formidable Indian batting line-up.

    Babar’s Blazing Willow: Carrying the Weight of a Nation

    All eyes will be on Pakistan’s talisman, Babar Azam, whose willow has scorched pitches and shattered records alike. The elegant right-hander, currently ranked as the world’s best T20I batter, will shoulder the hopes of a nation yearning for cricketing glory. With his sublime timing and a keen eye for the gap, Babar’s performance could well hold the key to unlocking India’s vaunted bowling attack.

    The Pace Battery: Unleashing Thunderbolts

    Pakistan’s potent pace battery, led by the fiery Shaheen Shah Afridi, promises to unleash a barrage of thunderbolts on the Indian batters. Afridi’s searing pace, coupled with the guile of Haris Rauf and the accuracy of Naseem Shah, could prove to be a formidable challenge for even the most accomplished batting line-up.

    The Spin Twins: Weaving a Web of Deception

    While Pakistan’s pace attack garners considerable attention, their spin duo of Shadab Khan and Mohammad Nawaz should not be underestimated. With their ability to extract turn and bounce from seemingly docile surfaces, they possess the potential to bamboozle the Indian batting line-up and strangle the flow of runs.

  • Pakistan Cricket Team Players Host $25 ‘Meet and Greet’ Dinner, Face Backlash From Ex-Pakistani Captain Ahead Of T20 World Cup | Cricket News

    The Pakistan cricket team and its players continue to spark controversies. Just before the start of their T20 World Cup 2024 campaign, they reportedly hosted a ‘private dinner’ in the USA, inviting fans for a ‘meet and greet.’ However, this event wasn’t free or for charity; it had an entry fee of $25, which upset many in the Pakistani cricket community. Rashid Latif, a legendary Pakistan cricketer, took to social media to criticise this event organized by the Pakistan Cricket Board and the players.

    In a video shared by Latif, fans could meet Pakistan players during the private dinner if they paid $25. Latif and others in the video were shocked by this concept.

    “There are official dinners, but this is a private dinner. Who can do this? It’s terrible. That means you met our players for $25. God forbid, if something went wrong, people would say the boys are just making money,” Latif said in the video.

    Let’s Save The Star & Be Stars Unofficial Private Dinner During WC24#T20WorldCup pic.twitter.com/BXEgPyA2p2 — Rashid Latif | (@iRashidLatif68) June 4, 2024

    Presenter Nauman Niaz condemned the ‘sad state of affairs’ in the Pakistan team, while a fan suggested the price should have been higher if they proceeded with the idea. Latif acknowledged the concept of charity dinners but found a private dinner with a fee unacceptable.

    “People tell me that whoever calls the Pakistani players, they just ask, ‘how much money will you give?’ This has become common. Things were different at our time, we had 2-3 dinners but they were official. But this is highlighted because it’s the World Cup. So the players should be careful. The amount of 25 dollars shouldn’t be blatantly used like this. You attend 2-3 dinners, but without the commercial angle. You can go for charity dinners and fundraisers, but this is neither fundraising nor a charity dinner. This is a private function with the name of Pakistan and Pakistan cricket associated with it. Don’t make this mistake,” he added.

    T20 World Cup 2024: Pakistan’s WC campaign to begin from tomorrow against USA

    The Pakistan team will start their World Cup campaign against the USA at the Grand Prairie Stadium in Dallas on Thursday, June 6. The Men in Green aim to begin their campaign with a win against the USA. In the last edition of the T20 World Cup, Pakistan reached the final but lost to England. Tomorrow Against USA.