Danish Kaneria: Virat Kohli Clearly Superior to Babar Azam

Danish Kaneria: Virat Kohli Clearly Superior to Babar Azam

The debate over who is the better batter between Virat Kohli and Babar Azam has been a hot topic among cricket fans for some time now. While both players have had their ups and downs, the conversation over who is superior continues to rage. However, former Pakistan spinner Danish Kaneria believes that there is no comparison between the two players and that Virat Kohli is clearly the better player.

In an interview with Sports Tak, Kaneria said that people should look at both of their records and it clearly shows that Virat is the better batter. “Who is comparing them? I am tired of hearing that people compare them. When you’re talking about comparing, look at the runs Virat has scored. He has scored runs all around the world. He is a massive player,” Kaneria said.

Kaneria also said that the presence of Kohli is enough to have an impact on the field – something that Babar is currently missing. He added that the comparisons were mainly created by the media. “Look at his stature, when he walks onto the field, his aura itself is different and he (Babar) does not come close, forget comparing them. All that is created by the channels to sell their product. I have had a lot of questions comparing them, but I have never done it. Look at the stats. When both of them retire, do take a look at the stats,” he mentioned.

Kaneria’s comments come at a time when both Kohli and Babar are in good form. Kohli has recently scored a century in the ongoing Asia Cup, while Babar has also been in good touch. However, Kaneria believes that Kohli is still the better player and that there is no comparison between the two.

PCB Appoints Mentors for Champions Cup, Aiming to Bridge Domestic-International Gap

PCB Appoints Mentors for Champions Cup, Aiming to Bridge Domestic-International Gap

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has appointed five mentors for the upcoming Champions Cup, a series of domestic tournaments aimed at bridging the gap between domestic and international cricket. The mentors, Misbah-ul-Haq, Sarfaraz Ahmed, Saqlain Mushtaq, Waqar Younis, and Shoaib Malik, will provide guidance and support to the players, helping them develop their skills and prepare for the rigors of international cricket.

Misbah-ul-Haq, the former Pakistan captain and coach, believes that the key to success lies in maximizing a player’s potential. He emphasizes the importance of assessing a player’s fitness, technical abilities, and potential without preconceived notions. By doing so, the mentors can identify the specific roles that each player can fulfill within the team.

The mentors’ vision is to reduce the gap between domestic and international cricket. They aim to prepare players to adjust to the higher level of competition and performance required at the international stage. This requires hard work and dedication from both the mentors and the players.

The mentor roles have come under scrutiny due to the high salaries involved. Each mentor is reportedly earning around PKR 5 million (approx. USD 18,000) per month on three-year contracts. These salaries have raised eyebrows, as they exceed the earnings of all but the most elite Pakistani cricketers.

The PCB has not yet announced a tangible commercial inflow for the Champions Cup or a broadcaster. It has advertised for team partners/sponsors but has not disclosed any agreements. The total cost of the mentor salaries alone is estimated to be half of the PCB’s entire broadcast deal for bilateral international cricket at home over the next 30 months.

Despite the concerns, the PCB maintains that the investment in mentors is necessary to improve Pakistan cricket. The organization believes that the mentors’ expertise and guidance will help develop a stronger and more competitive national team.

Shamsi Jokes About Controversial World Cup Catch, Sparks Debate

Shamsi Jokes About Controversial World Cup Catch, Sparks Debate

South African spinner Tabraiz Shamsi has sparked a debate on social media after jokingly suggesting that a controversial catch in the 2024 T20 World Cup final could have been ruled not out if an unconventional method of measurement had been used.

In a playful post on X (formerly Twitter), Shamsi shared a video from a local village game where a rope was used to determine whether a catch was legitimate. He quipped that if this method had been employed in the World Cup final, Suryakumar Yadav’s decisive catch might have been deemed not out.

Shamsi’s comment stemmed from the final over of the T20 World Cup, where South Africa needed 16 runs off the last six balls. David Miller’s powerful shot off a Hardik Pandya full-toss was caught by Yadav near the boundary cushion.

Yadav, in a remarkable display of fielding brilliance, caught the ball, threw it in the air as he crossed the boundary line, and then quickly re-entered the field to complete the catch. This play proved pivotal in India’s World Cup triumph and has since become a highlight of the tournament.

However, Shamsi’s joke drew mixed reactions on social media. Some users criticized him for downplaying the significance of Yadav’s catch, while others defended his playful intent.

In response to the backlash, Shamsi posted a clarification on X, stating, “In case some people don’t understand that it’s meant to be a joke and no one is crying… let me explain it to you like a 4-year-old child. It’s A Joke.”

Despite the controversy, Yadav’s catch remains a celebrated moment for Indian fans, encapsulating a key highlight of their victorious campaign. The debate over the catch, including suggestions that the boundary cushion may have been intentionally moved, only added to the high-octane drama of the World Cup final.

Central Sparks Thrash Southern Vipers to Shake Up Rachael Heyhoe Flint Trophy

Central Sparks Thrash Southern Vipers to Shake Up Rachael Heyhoe Flint Trophy

Central Sparks’ dominant performance against Southern Vipers has shaken up the Rachael Heyhoe Flint Trophy standings. Sparks’ seven-wicket victory at Worcester propelled them to the top of the table, while Vipers’ lead has been significantly reduced.

Vipers, depleted by international call-ups, struggled to post a competitive total. Georgia Elwiss’ valiant 64* was a lone bright spot amidst a potent Sparks bowling attack. Emily Arlott and Charis Pavely wreaked havoc, claiming four wickets each.

Sparks’ chase was a clinical display of batting. Eve Jones (54) and Ami Campbell (48) laid the foundation with a 95-run opening partnership. Despite losing Campbell, Sparks cruised to victory with 64 balls to spare. Katie George’s quickfire 38* sealed the deal.

Vipers’ struggles began with the loss of Rhianna Southby and Ella McCaughan to Arlott’s incisive bowling. Georgia Adams and Emily Windsor also fell cheaply, leaving Elwiss to anchor the innings. However, Sparks’ spinners proved too strong, with Hannah Baker, Pavely, and Georgia Davis chipping away at the Vipers’ batting lineup.

Sparks’ victory highlights their potential, which has been hindered by inconsistent performances throughout the season. Vipers, on the other hand, face an uphill battle to qualify for the knockout stages.

India's Champions Trophy Participation in Pakistan Uncertain Amid Safety Concerns

India’s Champions Trophy Participation in Pakistan Uncertain Amid Safety Concerns

The participation of the Indian cricket team in the 2025 Champions Trophy in Pakistan remains uncertain amidst ongoing political tensions between the two nations. Former Pakistan spinner Danish Kaneria has expressed his belief that India should not travel to Pakistan for the tournament, citing safety concerns.

Kaneria emphasized that the safety of players should be paramount and that the current situation in Pakistan does not provide a conducive environment for the Indian team. He suggested that Dubai would be a more suitable venue for the event.

“Looking at the situation in Pakistan, I have to say that the Indian team should not go to Pakistan,” Kaneria said. “The safety of the players is the first priority. Respect is the second priority.”

Kaneria acknowledged that the Pakistan team traveled to India for the 2023 ODI World Cup, but he noted that the situation in India is more stable than in Pakistan. He believes that the BCCI is making the right decision by not providing any guarantees for the Champions Trophy.

“I think BCCI is doing a great job,” Kaneria said. “I think all the countries will accept the final decision. I think it will be a hybrid model.”

Kaneria also pointed out that the financial benefits of hosting the Indian team are a major factor in the ongoing discussions. However, he stressed that safety and respect should take precedence over financial considerations.

“The main issue is that money will come,” Kaneria said. “But you see the other grey area which you are fixing right now. If you think positively, your mind that the situation is not good, security concerns are there.”

The ICC is expected to make a final decision on the venue for the Champions Trophy in due course. The tournament is scheduled to take place from February 26 to March 18, 2025.

Yorkshire Appoints Mitesh Velani as Chief Financial and Operations Officer

Yorkshire Appoints Mitesh Velani as Chief Financial and Operations Officer

Yorkshire County Cricket Club has appointed Mitesh Velani as its new Chief Financial and Operations Officer, effective September 16. Velani joins Yorkshire from Saracens, where he held various leadership roles, including Finance Director and Chief Executive.

Velani’s appointment comes amidst significant changes at Yorkshire, both on and off the field. The club is currently searching for a new Director of Cricket and Head Coach, and is also considering demutualization, which would require a 75% vote from members.

Velani’s experience at Saracens, which was fined and docked points for breaching the English Premiership’s salary cap, has been noted by Yorkshire. However, the club has emphasized Velani’s contributions to Saracens’ success, including “transformation and innovation” during a decade of sustained success.

Velani expressed his excitement about joining Yorkshire, stating his intention to “use everything I have learned to help support Yorkshire at this exciting time.” He aims to “deliver success at Headingley and produce exceptional results, underpinned by robust commercial foundations.”

Yorkshire also announced the appointment of Sanjay Patel as Interim Chief Executive, effective next month. Patel, who was instrumental in the creation of The Hundred, will join Yorkshire’s board, which has been led by Colin Graves since February.

Graves has been vocal about the need for demutualization, citing financial concerns and the interest of potential investors. He has stated that “Yorkshire’s going to fall into these financial problems time and time again” if members do not vote in favor of demutualization.

Yorkshire’s recent appointments signal a period of transition and ambition for the club. Velani and Patel bring a wealth of experience and expertise, and their contributions will be crucial as Yorkshire navigates its current challenges and strives for future success.

PCB Secures Billion-Rupee Deal for Gaddafi Stadium Naming Rights

PCB Secures Billion-Rupee Deal for Gaddafi Stadium Naming Rights

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has secured a lucrative deal worth PKR 1 billion with a private bank for the naming rights of the iconic Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore. The five-year agreement will see the stadium, previously named after Libyan leader Muammar Gaddafi, bear the bank’s name.

This move follows a similar deal for the National Stadium in Karachi, which is now known as the National Bank Cricket Arena. The PCB has yet to officially announce the Gaddafi Stadium deal, but insiders have confirmed its completion.

“The deal is for one billion rupees, while the board had sold naming rights for the Karachi stadium for 450 million dollars,” said an insider.

The initiative to sell naming rights for cricket stadiums in Pakistan began in 2021 under former PCB chairman Ramiz Raja. The deal for the Karachi stadium was completed during his tenure.

Now headed by Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi, the PCB aims to use the revenue from such deals to manage renovation costs for three main stadiums in the country ahead of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. Additionally, Naqvi seeks to increase revenue streams to support domestic cricket, which is expected to benefit Pakistan cricket overall.

“Naqvi also wants to increase revenue streams to support domestic cricket, which will benefit Pakistan cricket,” the source added.

The Gaddafi Stadium, built in 1959, is one of the most iconic cricket venues in Pakistan. It has hosted numerous international matches, including the 1996 Cricket World Cup final. The stadium has a capacity of over 27,000 spectators and is known for its lively atmosphere.

The naming rights deal is a significant development for the PCB as it seeks to generate additional revenue to support its operations and invest in the development of cricket in Pakistan.

Ahmed Shehzad Blasts PCB, Withdraws from Domestic Cricket

Ahmed Shehzad Blasts PCB, Withdraws from Domestic Cricket

Ahmed Shehzad, a former Pakistani cricketer who was once compared to Indian batting maestro Virat Kohli, has ignited a firestorm in the cricketing world with his scathing criticism of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB). In a series of tweets, Shehzad announced his withdrawal from the Domestic Cricket Champions Cup and expressed deep frustration with the current state of Pakistan cricket.

Shehzad, now 32, accused the PCB of favoritism, false promises, and injustice towards domestic players. He criticized the board for squandering resources on “mentors for doing nothing” and rewarding players who, in his view, have contributed to Pakistan cricket’s “all-time low.”

“In a time when Pakistan is struggling with inflation, poverty, and massive electricity bills, the PCB is wasting 5 million Rs on mentors for doing nothing and rewarding failed players in the current team who brought Pakistan cricket to an All-time Low,” Shehzad tweeted.

He further added, “As a Pakistani and true cricket lover, I cannot support a system that has no value for merit. I refuse to be a part of this failed setup.”

Shehzad’s outburst came in the wake of Pakistan’s humiliating 10-wicket defeat to Bangladesh in Rawalpindi, marking Bangladesh’s first-ever Test victory over Pakistan on their home soil. Shehzad described the defeat as a “new low” for Pakistan cricket, expressing disbelief over the team’s current state.

“Pakistan cricket has reached a point where today Bangladesh defeated Pakistan on home soil for the first time ever. I have never seen Pakistan cricket sink so low in my life,” Shehzad said in a video posted on Twitter.

Shehzad argued that the problem lies not with the players but with the PCB’s lack of vision and poor selection policies. He suggested that the board’s short-term decisions have pushed the team towards a decline similar to that of Pakistan’s once-great hockey team.

“I don’t blame the players. The fault lies with the Pakistan Cricket Board,” he asserted.

Shehzad’s comments have sparked a debate about the future of Pakistan cricket and the role of the PCB in its decline. It remains to be seen whether the board will respond to Shehzad’s criticism and take steps to address the issues he has raised.

Rohit Sharma to Stay Loyal to Mumbai Indians, Says Ashwin

Rohit Sharma to Stay Loyal to Mumbai Indians, Says Ashwin

Ravichandran Ashwin, the star Indian off-spinner, has expressed his belief that Rohit Sharma will remain loyal to the Mumbai Indians franchise in the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 season. Ashwin’s comments come amidst speculation about Rohit’s future with the team following his removal as captain last year.

“Even if you think like Rohit, it’s not wrong at all. I don’t want any headache. I have been a captain for India. I have captained Mumbai many times. Even if I am not a captain, I am going to Mumbai happily. If I play for Mumbai, it’s super. I am sure most players are like that. After a stage, money doesn’t matter for some of those players. That’s the thing,” Ashwin said on his YouTube channel.

Rohit has been an integral part of the Mumbai Indians since joining the franchise in 2011. He has led the team to five IPL titles and two Champions League T20 titles. Despite being replaced as captain by Hardik Pandya last year, Rohit remains a key player for the franchise.

In the 2024 IPL season, Rohit scored 417 runs at an average of 32.07 and a strike rate of 150. He scored a century and fifty, with the best score of 105*. His performances suggest that he is still a valuable asset to the Mumbai Indians.

Ashwin’s comments echo the sentiments of many fans who believe that Rohit will continue to play for the Mumbai Indians. The franchise has been his home for over a decade, and he has a strong bond with the team and its supporters.

It remains to be seen whether Rohit will remain with the Mumbai Indians beyond the 2025 season. However, Ashwin’s comments suggest that the veteran batter is committed to the franchise and is not looking to move elsewhere.

Shakib Al Hasan to Play for Surrey Before India Tour

Shakib Al Hasan to Play for Surrey Before India Tour

Shakib Al Hasan, the star all-rounder from Bangladesh, is set to make a brief appearance in the English County Championship for Surrey before joining his national team for their upcoming tour of India. The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has granted Shakib a No Objection Certificate (NOC) for the match against Somerset, scheduled for September 9 in Taunton.

Surrey will be without their England players during that round due to the ongoing Sri Lanka Test series and the start of the Australia white-ball series. Shakib’s inclusion will provide a much-needed boost to Surrey’s squad.

After his stint with Surrey, Shakib will fly to Chennai to join the Bangladesh team for their first Test against India, starting on September 19. The tour will also include two more Tests and three T20Is before Bangladesh returns home for a series against South Africa in October.

Shakib’s participation in the County Championship comes amidst ongoing legal proceedings in Bangladesh. He is among 147 people charged in connection with an alleged murder during protests in early August. However, the BCB has stated that Shakib can continue playing for Bangladesh as the investigation is still in its early stages.

The ECB has the authority to withhold Shakib’s registration to play in England even if he is granted a UK visa. However, Bangladesh’s Law, Justice, and Parliamentary Affairs adviser, Asif Nazrul, has expressed confidence that Shakib will not be arrested.

Shakib’s recent performances for Bangladesh have been impressive. He played a crucial role in their historic Test victory over Pakistan in Rawalpindi, taking three important wickets on the fifth day. He is also part of the ongoing second Test, which has been affected by rain.

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