Tag: Shaheen Afridi

  • PAK vs ENG 3rd Test 2024 Preview: Check Pakistan, England’s Probable XI, Venue, Squads, Live Streaming, Match Details, Timing And More | cricket news

    PAK vs ENG 3rd Test: Pakistan finally ended their 11-match and three-year winless streak at home by defeating England in the second Test at Multan by 152 runs, leveling the series at 1-1. The decisive third Test is set to begin on Thursday, October 24, at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium. With both teams aiming to secure the series, Rawalpindi’s pace-friendly pitch could play a crucial role in shaping the outcome.

    Rawalpindi’s Pace-Friendly Conditions

    After a spin-dominated second Test at Multan, the teams are set to face a completely different challenge at Rawalpindi, where the conditions will favor pace bowlers. This is a welcome relief for England, who struggled against spin in the second Test, losing all 20 wickets to Pakistan’s spinners.

    England’s Changes: Focus on Spin Despite Pace-Friendly Pitch

    Despite Rawalpindi’s reputation for assisting fast bowlers, England have made a surprising choice to bolster their spin attack. Rehan Ahmed, a promising leg-spinner, has been included in the playing XI for the third Test. Brydon Carse and Matthew Potts will make way for Rehan and Gus Atkinson, with the latter returning to add pace firepower to England’s bowling unit. England hopes their aggressive “Bazball” batting approach will be more effective on a quicker surface.

    Pakistan’s Strength in Pace, But Inconsistent Batting Remains a Concern

    Pakistan has traditionally been known for producing quality fast bowlers, and the Rawalpindi conditions should suit the likes of Shaheen Afridi and Naseem Shah. However, their batting lineup has shown signs of inconsistency, which could spell trouble if the England pacers find movement early on. With captain Shan Masood and the experienced Mohammad Rizwan in charge, Pakistan will aim to put up solid batting performances to support their bowling attack.

    Pakistan vs England 3rd Test: Probable Playing XI

    Pakistan Probable XI: Saim Ayub, Abdullah Shafique, Shan Masood (c), Saud Shakeel, Mohammad Rizwan (w), Agha Salman, Kamran Ghulam, Aamer Jamal, Nauman Ali, Naseem Shah, Sajid Khan.

    England Playing XI: Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Ollie Pope, Joe Root, Harry Brook, Ben Stokes (c), Jamie Smith, Gus Atkinson, Rehan Ahmed, Jack Leach, Shoaib Bashir.

    Match Details: Pakistan vs England 3rd Test

    Date: Wednesday, October 24, 2024 Venue: Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, Rawalpindi Toss Time: 10:00 AM IST Match Start: 10:30 AM IST

    ENG vs PAK 3rd Test: Live Telecast And Streaming Information

    Unfortunately, the Pakistan vs England 3rd Test will not be available for live telecast in India. However, fans can catch the action live through streaming on the FanCode app and website. With the series on the line, both teams will look to exploit the pace-friendly conditions in Rawalpindi, setting up an intriguing decider between Pakistan and England.

  • Shaheen Afridi Should Go And Play First-Class Cricket: Former Pakistan Cricketer Basit Ali Blasts After Big Loss To Bangladesh | cricket news

    Former Pakistan cricketer Basit Ali feels Shaheen Afridi should be rested after he delivered yet another underwhelming performance in the 10-wicket loss against Bangladesh in the opening Test. In the opening Test against Bangladesh, Shaheen picked up two wickets in the first innings while giving away 88 runs.

    After failing to make an impact with the new ball, Shaheen’s two scalps came towards the tail end. He opened his account by removing Mehidy Hasan Miraz and sent Hasan Mahmud back for an 18-ball duck.

    His dwindling form stretches back to the T20 World Cup earlier this year. The 24-year-old failed to deliver the goods and ended the campaign with five wickets in four matches, averaging 21.00.

    “Shaheen Afridi should be rested 100 per cent. He should go and play first-class cricket. He should be rested. Ali S put in a lot of effort. Pakistan failed in bowling, fielding and batting. They beat us in all departments. It is wrong to say that the team had a bad day,” Basit said on his YouTube channel.

    While Pakistan tried to figure out the various aspects that went wrong for them, Bangladesh celebrated a landmark moment in their history. Bangladesh’s win came after 14 encounters with Pakistan, where the Tigers had suffered 12 defeats and managed just one draw.

    India and South Africa are now the only teams that Bangladesh has yet to defeat in Test cricket.

    The match had a delayed beginning caused by a wet outfield, but by the fifth day, the entire affair had transformed into an enticing action-packed thriller.

    The emphatic 10-wicket triumph provided Bangladesh with a significant boost in the ICC World Test Championship standings. They leapfrogged Pakistan and South Africa to the sixth spot, tied on point percentage with Sri Lanka (40 per cent). As a result of the loss, Pakistan slipped down to eighth place with a 30.56 point percentage.

    After trailing 1-0, with an aim to go level in the series, Pakistan will face Bangladesh in the second Test at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium on August 30.

  • Not Shaheen Afridi Or Babar Azam, This Cricketer Should Captain Pakistan In All Formats Says Salman Butt. cricket news

    Former Pakistan opener Salman Butt has voiced his opinion on the future leadership of the Pakistan men’s cricket team, advocating for Shan Masood to take over as captain across all formats, replacing Babar Azam. Butt’s recommendation follows Pakistan’s disappointing performance in the T20 World Cup 2024, where they failed to advance to the Super 8s.

    Butt bypassed other notable candidates, including star pacer and former T20I captain Shaheen Shah Afridi, wicketkeeper-batter Mohammad Rizwan, and former T20I vice-captain Shadab Khan, placing his confidence in the 34-year-old Masood. Butt shared his views on his YouTube channel, expressing concerns about the current leadership’s attitude and lack of effective execution despite their evident skills.

    “There is some fuss because of which, despite having skill, players haven’t been able to execute. There is someone who doesn’t have any strategy for planning, but still has a lot of attitude. To silence that attitude, I would definitely make Shan Masood the captain,” Butt said.

    Shan Masood’s appointment as Pakistan’s Test captain came after Babar Azam decided to step down from the role following the team’s early exit in the 2023 ODI World Cup. However, Babar was reinstated as the white-ball skipper ahead of the recently concluded 2024 T20 World Cup, a decision that did not yield the desired results.

    Currently leading Pakistan’s Test team, Shan Masood also captains Yorkshire in the County Championship and Karachi Kings in the Pakistan Super League (PSL). Babar Azam resigned from Pakistan’s captaincy in all formats following a disappointing performance in the ODI World Cup. Shaheen Afridi briefly took charge of the T20I team but was removed after a series loss in New Zealand.

    Upon becoming the PCB chairman, Mohsin Naqvi reinstated Babar as the white-ball captain. However, Pakistan’s early exit from the 2024 T20 World Cup, with losses to the USA and India, has increased the pressure to replace him.

    Naqvi plans to consult white-ball head coach Gary Kirsten and former players before making a final decision on the leadership. Other captaincy candidates, such as Shaheen Afridi and Mohammad Rizwan, remain in consideration. Babar’s performance in the T20 World Cup also drew criticism; he scored 122 runs in 4 matches at an average of 40.66 but with a strike rate of 101.66, which was deemed insufficient by experts.

  • 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.

  • ‘Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli should be considered our friend’: Fans engage in fun banter with Shaheen Afridi ahead of India vs Pakistan clash | Cricket News

    The Indian fans have sent a fun message to Pakistan pacer Shaheen Shah Afridi ahead of the high-voltage clash between both sides in the ongoing T20 World Cup in New York on Sunday. Nerves are a constant factor when two of the oldest cricket rivals appear on the same field. Emotions run high, adrenalin rush kicks in, and tension starts to escalate through the roof are some of the things that are easily visible during the India-Pakistan clash.

    Fans usually spend time debating about the better side and better players. But in a video that recently went viral on social media, India fans had a fun banter with Pakistan ace Shaheen. They joked that Shaheen should consider India’s stalwart duo of Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma as his friends.

    “Consider Rohit and Virat as your good friends,” a fan was heard saying. (Big Boost For Babar Azam’s Pakistan Ahead Of T20 World Cup 2024 Game Against Team India, THIS All-Rounder Set To Make Comeback)

    Check out the video here…

    Indian fans to Shaheen Afridi :

    “I don’t want to bowl well tomorrow”

    “Consider Rohit and Virat as your good friends”

    pic.twitter.com/20jG1zL3ip

    aaraynsh (@aaraynsh) June 8, 2024

    In the past, Shaheen has caused trouble for India batters with his left-arm inswinging deliveries. A fan wanted Shaheen to bowl below his standards and jokingly said, “Kal acchi bowling nahi karni hai.”

    India and Pakistan will step into New York’s Nassau County International Cricket Stadium to add a new chapter to their historic rivalry. In the previous edition of the tournament, India needed magic from Kohli’s bat to seal a thrilling win at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground in 2022. This time Pakistan will look to take revenge for their slump and clinch their first win of the tournament.

    The video looks the day before the India vs Pakistan match is scheduled to play as fan is heard telling to not bowl well tomorrow in the game. Afridi is a key player for his team just like Kohli and Rohit, he will surely look to trouble the Indian duo this time as well.

    India T20 WC squad: Rohit Sharma (c), Hardik Pandya, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Rishabh Pant, Sanju Samson, Shivam Dube, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Yuzvendra Chahal, Arshdeep Singh, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj. (With ANI inputs)

  • 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.

  • Sachin Tendulkar Set To Boost Team India’s Spirits At T20 World Cup 2024 Clash Against Pakistan In New York | Cricket News

    The anticipation for the T20 World Cup 2024 is reaching fever pitch, and Indian cricket fans have another reason to celebrate. Legendary cricketer Sachin Tendulkar is expected to be present at India’s highly anticipated match against arch-rivals Pakistan. This epic showdown is scheduled for June 9 at the Nassau County International Cricket Stadium in New York.

    Sachin Tendulkar is likely to attend the India vs Pakistan match at New York in the T20I World Cup. [PTI] pic.twitter.com/ihjcVVvLeK — Johns. (@CricCrazyJohns) May 28, 2024

    Also Read: Kevin Pietersen Calls Ambati Rayudu A ‘Joker’ After IPL 2024 Final, Video Goes Viral – Watch

    The Master Blaster’s Presence: A Morale Booster

    The confirmation of Tendulkar’s attendance comes from a reliable source close to the International Cricket Council (ICC). The source revealed, “Yes, if all goes well, Sachin will be watching the match in New York and cheering the Indian team.” While it’s still uncertain whether Tendulkar will interact with the players before the match, his presence alone is expected to significantly boost the morale of the Indian team.

    Rohit Sharma and his squad will undoubtedly draw inspiration from seeing one of cricket’s greatest icons in the stands. Tendulkar, who remains the highest run-scorer in both Tests and One-Day Internationals (ODIs), has always been a beacon of excellence and motivation for Indian cricketers. His illustrious career, spanning over two decades, set the benchmark for the sport, and his support could be a pivotal factor in such a crucial game.

    Historic Rivalry Rekindled in a New Arena

    The India-Pakistan cricket rivalry is legendary, often transcending the sport to become a cultural phenomenon. Matches between these two teams are always high-stakes affairs, laden with pressure and excitement. This year, the T20 World Cup has added a unique twist by hosting the marquee clash in New York, marking the first time these two teams will face off on American soil in a World Cup match.

    The Nassau County International Cricket Stadium, situated on the outskirts of New York, is expected to be filled to capacity. Fans from both nations, along with a vibrant diaspora, will converge to witness this historic match. The electric atmosphere, combined with Tendulkar’s presence, promises an unforgettable experience.

    Standout Performances to Watch

    While Tendulkar’s presence is a major highlight, the players on the field will be the ultimate focus. Captain Rohit Sharma, known for his explosive batting and strategic acumen, will lead the Indian team. Jasprit Bumrah, returning from injury, will spearhead the bowling attack with his lethal pace and precision. Suryakumar Yadav and Yuzvendra Chahal are also key players expected to make significant contributions.

    Pakistan, on the other hand, will rely on their own stars to counter India’s challenge. Babar Azam, one of the world’s top batsmen, will be crucial in anchoring his innings. Shaheen Afridi, with his fiery pace and ability to swing the ball, will aim to unsettle the Indian batsmen early on. The match is poised to be a thrilling contest of skill and nerve.

    Tendulkar’s Enduring Legacy

    Sachin Tendulkar’s involvement in cricket extends beyond his playing days. He has frequently been associated with the ICC and other cricketing bodies, often serving as a brand ambassador. His presence at key matches, such as the 2015 and 2023 World Cups, underscores his enduring influence in the sport. Even in retirement, Tendulkar continues to inspire millions. His journey from a young prodigy to a cricketing legend is a testament to his dedication, talent, and passion for the game. His upcoming appearance in New York is not just about watching a cricket match; it symbolizes the connection and respect he maintains with the sport and its global fanbase.

  • ‘Babar Azam could not finish’; Blame Game In Pakistan Camp As Shaheen Afridi Reacts After Loss In 3rd T20I Vs New Zealand

    Babar Azam shone for Pakistan for the third consecutive time but failed to close the game for visitors. Shaheen Afridi has now reacted to the losses vs New Zealand.

  • NZ Vs PAK 1st T20I: Finn Allen Hits Shaheen Afridi For 24 Runs In An Over As Pacer Records Most Expensive Over In T20Is

    Shaheen Afridi was at not at his best with the ball in the 1st T20I as captain against New Zealand as Finn Allen smashed him for 24 runs in an over.

  • Australia Vs Pakistan 2nd Test: Shaheen Afridi Out, Saim Ayub IN As PAK Announce Playing 11 For Sydney Pink Test | cricket news

    Pakistan have made two big changes in their playing 11 for the third and final Test match vs Australia in Sydney. In a decision that has surprised many, captain Shan Masood and head coach Mohammad Hafeez decided to rest Shaheen Afridi and give a chance to young Saim Ayub in place of Imam-ul-Haq.

    Imam has been struggling for runs in this tour and has rightly been dropped from the playing 11, giving away to young Ayub, known for his attacking batting.

    Shaheen is not injured but given a rest as he is going to lead Pakistan non-stop in the next few months. Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is not taking any chance with his fitness as Shaheen is crucial for Pakistan in this year with T20 World Cup 2024 to be played in June.

    Shaheen has been replaced by spinner Sajid Khan in the playing 11 as Pakistan aims to win the third Test and return with first Test win on Australian soil in more than thirty years.

    Saim, who made his T20I debut in March last year comes into the team on back of impressive List A performances for Karachi. This will be his first Test match. In the 8 T20Is he has played so far, he has scored 123 runs at an average of 17.57.

    Australia has confirmed their playing XI for the upcoming game, sticking with the same lineup as the last Test. Notably, this match marks David Warner’s farewell appearance in Australian colours. Scheduled in Sydney from 3rd to 7th January, this third Test comes with Australia already securing an unbeatable 2-0 lead in the series. Furthermore, Australia holds the third position on the ICC World Test Championship table.

    Interestingly, Warner lost hus Baggr Green cap on his way to Sydney from Melbourne. He posted a video on Instagram, pleading to the person who took his backpack from the luggage at the airport to return it as the Cap was of immense importance to him.

    Pakistan Playing XI for third Test: Saim Ayub, Abdullah Shafique, Shan Masood (c), Babar Azam, Saud Shakeel, Mohammad Rizwan (wk), Salman Ali Agha, Sajid Khan, Hasan Ali, Mir Hamza, Aamer Jamal.

    Australia XI to take on Pakistan at the SCG: Pat Cummins (c) David Warner, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Steve Smith, Travis Head, Mitch Marsh, Alex Carey, Mitchell Starc, Nathan Lyon, Josh Hazlewood