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Tag: PCB

  • ‘Babar Azam Should Be Dropped’: Ex-Pakistan Legend Calls For Star Batsman’s Exclusion From Test Squad | cricket news

    Former Pakistan cricket legend Zaheer Abbas, famously known as the “Asian Bradman,” has made a bold statement regarding Babar Azam’s place in the Pakistan Test team. Speaking at the Cricket Predicta Conclave in Ajman, UAE, during the 100th episode celebration of the international cricket talk show, Zaheer voiced his opinion on Babar’s recent struggles.

    “Babar Azam should be dropped from the team if he’s not scoring runs. He’s our main batsman, and if he’s out of form, he should be out of the team,” said Zaheer. His remarks come after Babar’s string of low scores in Pakistan’s recent Test series against Bangladesh, where he managed just 0, 22, 11, and 31, contributing to Pakistan’s defeat in the series.

    Adding to the pressure on Babar, his name was recently removed from the ICC top 10 Test batsmen rankings for the first time in years. This slump in form has ignited debates about Babar’s place in the team, especially after Pakistan’s early exit from the 2024 T20 World Cup, where they suffered defeats to the USA and India, leading to their group-stage elimination.

    Zaheer also dismissed ongoing comparisons between Babar and Indian batting maestro Virat Kohli, calling them “pointless” given their current form. “The comparisons are meaningless. Virat Kohli scores in every match; Babar doesn’t score in any match. So how can you compare? The one who scores is the bigger player,” Zaheer added.

    With Pakistan’s next assignment being the Test series against England as part of the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) 2023-25, starting in Multan on October 7, all eyes will be on Babar’s performance.

    Babar Azam Steps Down As White Ball Captain

    In a surprising move that has once again shaken the Pakistan cricket world, star batsman Babar Azam has stepped down as the captain of Pakistan’s ODI and T20I teams for the second time in less than a year. Babar, who announced his resignation on social media on October 2, 2024, cited the increased workload of captaincy as the key reason behind his decision. His departure from the leadership role has ignited widespread discussions about his form, future, and the trajectory of Pakistan cricket.

    In his statement, Babar emphasized his desire to prioritize his performance, stating, “By stepping down, I will gain clarity moving forward and focus more energy on my game.” For Pakistan cricket fans, the hope is that this move will allow Babar to once again rise to the top as one of the game’s premier players.

  • Improve Fitness Or Contract Termination: PCB Warns Centrally Contracted Players | cricket news

    The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has issued a stern warning to 6-7 centrally contracted players, urging them to improve their fitness or risk losing their contracts. The Pakistan team fitness trainer and physiotherapist will conduct another round of fitness tests on Monday in Lahore after some players didn’t meet the required benchmarks in the tests held earlier this month.

    “The players who have central and domestic contracts have been told in clear terms that there will be no compromise on fitness and they have to meet the benchmarks set by the team’s fitness experts,” a board official said.

    The official said that “the two foreign head coaches, Jason Gillispie and Gary Kirsten had told the PCB Chairman that no player should be given any benefit as far as fitness levels are concerned.”

    These fitness tests are aimed at assessing stamina, endurance, muscle strength, and other crucial factors.

    The PCB has delayed the announcement of the list of players eligible for central contracts for the 2024/2025 period, which typically runs from July to July. Last year, the announcement was postponed until September due to changes in board leadership.

    This year it is anticipated that the board will reduce the number of players receiving central contracts from the existing list of 27 as the new coaches are also laying a lot of stress on performance and behavioral evaluations.

    The official said the players found struggling to meet the benchmark in fitness tests earlier this year had been given two months to work on their fitness and the tests on Monday are part of the evaluation process.

    The Pakistan team has frequently faced criticism for its fitness standards compared to other international teams. (‘Retain Virat Kohli’: RP Singh Comes Up With Blunt Advice For RCB Ahead Of IPL 2025 Mega Auction)

    After the World Cup in India last year, team director Muhammad Hafeez and former captain Misbah ul Haq revealed that former head coach Mickey Arthur and captain Babar Azam had instructed the trainer not to pressure players on fitness, allowing them to focus on performance.

  • Babar Azam, Shan Masood Among Senior Players To Attend PCB Workshop On Pakistan Cricket’s Future | cricket news

    Captains Babar Azam and Shan Masood, along with other senior players, will attend a day-long workshop on Monday, convened by the PCB to outline the future vision for Pakistan cricket. The Pakistan Cricket Board has named the day-long workshop the “Strategic Connection Camp,” to be held at a local hotel. Along with captains Babar Azam and Shan Masood, senior players Fakhar Zaman, Mohammad Rizwan, Saim Ayub, Salman Ali Agha, Saud Shakeel, Shadab Khan, and Shaheen Shah Afridi will be in attendance.

    The meeting will also be joined by national team head coaches Jason Gillespie and Gary Kirsten, assistant coach Azhar Mahmood, and High Performance specialist David Reid. (WTC Points Table 2023-25: India Tightens Grip On No. 1 Spot After 280 Run Victory, Bangladesh Slips To 6th Position)

    “We aim to identify key issues, foster open dialogue and collectively agree on a strategic path forward to successfully reshape Pakistan cricket.” PCB chief Mohsin Naqvi said in a statement.

    “The Connection Camp is a critical step toward unifying our approach to restore Pakistan cricket to its former glory. Our aim is to identify key issues, foster open dialogue and collectively agree on a strategic path forward. The PCB remains optimistic that this session, which builds on prior discussions with former cricketers, will lead to a results-driven strategy that improves both player management and team performance.”

    Pakistan Test captain Masood said the session will focus on setting performance benchmarks, developing player development programs, and formulating strategies to enhance grassroots cricket.

    Red-ball head coach Jason Gillespie and white-ball coach Gary Kirsten have also expressed optimism that the meeting will be beneficial.

    “We’re all striving toward the same goal – raising the standard of Pakistan cricket and creating a culture of winning.” Gillispie said. (‘Pakistan Samjhe The Kya,’ Fans Can’t Keep Calm After Team India Crushes Bangladesh In 1st Test)

    Kirsten said the focus is on refining the approach to white-ball cricket, building a team that can consistently perform at the highest level and bringing joy to the fans who support them. The PCB leadership group will also attend the meeting besides the national selectors.

    This is not the first time the PCB is hosting such a meeting/workshop as in the past also previous Chairmanmen have followed the same path in a bid to identify key issues in Pakistan cricket and to reach a consensus on a strategic path forward. Unfortunately the success rate and outcome of such meetings has not been high.

  • Pakistan Cricket Board Chief Mohsin Naqvi Reacts To Jay Shah’s Appointment As ICC Chairman, Says This… | cricket news

    Jay Shah, the Secretary of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), has been unanimously appointed as the new chairman of the International Cricket Council (ICC), replacing outgoing chairman Greg Barclay, who opted not to seek a third term. Shah’s rise to this prestigious position marks a significant milestone in cricket governance, making him the youngest to assume the role. His appointment has drawn considerable attention in the cricketing world, but the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman, Mohsin Naqvi, has expressed no concerns regarding the development.

    Mohsin Naqvi’s Reaction

    Naqvi commented on the appointment, stating, “We are in touch with Jay Shah; there are no concerns about his becoming ICC Chairman. The ACC meeting is on September 8 and 9.” His remarks reflect a positive stance towards Shah’s elevation and suggest that Shah’s new position will not strain relations between the cricket boards of India and Pakistan, despite the political challenges that often surround Indo-Pak cricket ties.

    Shah now joins an illustrious list of Indians who have headed the ICC, including Jagmohan Dalmiya, Sharad Pawar, N Srinivasan, and Shashank Manohar. His new role, effective from December 1, 2024, will see him at the helm of global cricket governance at a critical time as the sport continues to evolve.

    Naqvi Discusses Upcoming ACC Meeting

    Mohsin Naqvi also touched upon the upcoming Asian Cricket Council (ACC) meeting, where a significant decision regarding the selection of the new ACC president is expected to take place. While Naqvi confirmed that he would not be attending the meeting, he assured that PCB’s Chief Operating Officer, Salman Naseer, would represent Pakistan in his stead.

    “The meeting will finalize matters related to the new president,” Naqvi stated, without elaborating further on the potential candidates or Pakistan’s stance on the leadership change within the ACC.

    Pakistan Prepares for ICC Champions Trophy 2025

    In a further demonstration of the PCB’s commitment to maintaining high standards in international cricket, Naqvi provided updates on Pakistan’s preparations for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. The tournament, scheduled to take place from February 19 to March 9, 2025, will see Pakistan hosting the event for the first time since it gained full ICC member status.

    Naqvi confirmed that major cricketing venues across Pakistan, including Karachi’s National Stadium, Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium, and Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, are undergoing extensive upgrades to meet the international standards required to host such a prestigious tournament.

    “We are in touch with the boards of the teams participating in the tournament,” Naqvi remarked, reinforcing Pakistan’s intent to deliver a successful edition of the Champions Trophy. He also confirmed ongoing communication with the BCCI, signaling a hopeful path for Indo-Pak. cooperation in cricketing matters.

    As Pakistan gears up to host the ninth edition of the ICC Champions Trophy, the country’s cricketing infrastructure is being fine-tuned to ensure a smooth and successful tournament. This will be a significant moment for Pakistan cricket, as the nation looks to showcase its hosting capabilities to the international cricketing community.

    With Shah at the helm of the ICC and Naqvi preparing Pakistan for the Champions Trophy, the stage is set for an exciting period in international cricket, with both governance and tournament execution playing pivotal roles in shaping the future of the sport.

  • Pakistan vs Bangladesh: Second Test In Karachi To Be Held Without Spectators- Here’s Why | cricket news

    The Pakistan Cricket Board has decided to hold the second Test against Bangladesh at Karachi’s National Stadium behind closed doors due to ongoing construction work. Ticket sales are suspended, and refunds will be issued.

    |Last Updated: Aug 14, 2024, 05:44 PM IST|Source: PTI

  • 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.

  • Big news: PCB ‘played’ with Babar, Shaheen, Rizwan, this big wish remained unfulfilled…

    Global T20 Canada: Global T20 Canada League is going to start on 25th July. Star players of Pakistan cricket team will not be seen in this tournament which will run till 11th August. Pakistan Cricket Board has refused to give NOC to captain Babar Azam, Shaheen Shah Afridi and Mohammad Rizwan. The reason behind this is the busy schedule of Pakistan cricket. The surprising thing is that during the time when Global T20 Canada League is to be held, Pakistan team will not have a single match. It will not play any series. Even after this, the board did not give permission to these players.

    The Pakistan Cricket Board is keeping in mind the fitness of the players. So that the preparation for the upcoming series and Champions Trophy 2025 can be better. This is the reason why the board had earlier not given NOC to fast bowler Naseem Shah to participate in England’s 100 ball tournament ‘The Hundred’. Since then it was believed that the players will not be allowed to play in the Global T20 Canada League as well, now this news has also been confirmed.

    PCB did not give NOC to these players

    Babar Azam Shaheen Shah Afridi Mohammad Rizwan Naseem Shah

    What did PCB say?

    PCB said in a press release that ‘Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan and Shaheen Afridi along with other players had sent NOC requests for the global T20 event. It has been decided to reject it keeping in mind Pakistan’s busy cricket calendar between August 2024 and March 2025. Discussions have been held with the three players as well as the National Selection Committee in this regard.

    This player plays all three formats

    Actually, Pakistan team captain Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan and fast bowler Shaheen Shah, all three play all formats. Pakistan has to play 9 Tests, 14 ODIs and 9 T20 matches in the next 8 months. After this, Champions Trophy 2025 is also to be held. Therefore, the board wants the players to stay fit and play for the country.

    PCB gave NOC to these 4 players

    Haris Rauf Mohammad Aamir Mohammad Nawaz Asif Ali

    See Pakistan Cricket Board’s tweet:

  • 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.

  • 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.