Waqar Younis Set to Become Pakistan Cricket's Chief Cricket Officer

Waqar Younis Set to Become Pakistan Cricket’s Chief Cricket Officer

Waqar Younis, the legendary fast bowler, is poised to assume the newly created position of Chief Cricket Officer (CCO) at the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB). This development marks a significant shift in the PCB’s leadership structure, as Younis will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of Pakistani cricket.

Younis’ appointment comes after he joined the PCB as an advisor to the chairman of cricket affairs on a temporary basis. However, sources close to the matter have revealed that he has now been offered a paid position as the CCO. This position is modeled after the role held by Rob Key in the English Cricket Board.

As the CCO, Younis will be responsible for overseeing all cricket-related matters, including international and domestic schedules, player development, and the selection of national teams. He will also be involved in the negotiation of central contracts with players.

Younis’ extensive experience in international cricket, both as a player and a coach, makes him an ideal candidate for this role. He has represented Pakistan in 87 Tests and 262 One-Day Internationals, taking over 700 wickets across both formats. He has also served as the bowling coach and head coach of the Pakistan team on multiple occasions.

Younis’ appointment is expected to bring stability and direction to the PCB, which has faced criticism in recent years for its inconsistent performances and lack of long-term planning. His knowledge of the game and his ability to inspire players will be invaluable assets to the board.

The PCB’s Board of Governors is expected to approve Younis’ appointment in the coming weeks. Once he assumes his new role, he will begin working on a comprehensive plan to revitalize Pakistani cricket and restore its former glory.

Trudy Lindblade Navigates Challenges as Cricket Scotland CEO

Trudy Lindblade Navigates Challenges as Cricket Scotland CEO

Trudy Lindblade, a seasoned sports administrator, has taken on the daunting task of leading Cricket Scotland through a period of turmoil and rebuilding. Despite the organization’s recent history of racism and sexism allegations, Lindblade is determined to navigate the challenges and restore its reputation.

Lindblade’s journey to Cricket Scotland began after overseeing the successful UCI Cycling World Championships in Glasgow. However, she quickly realized the complexities of her new role, which has been marked by ongoing legal and human rights issues.

One of Lindblade’s first tasks was to address the McKinney Report, which revealed a culture of sexism and misogyny within Scottish cricket. She acknowledges the shock of the report’s findings but emphasizes that Cricket Scotland is committed to addressing these issues.

The organization has also faced allegations of racism, including from former Scotland seamer John Blain and retired player Hamza Tahir. Lindblade stresses that Cricket Scotland is open to dialogue and mediation to resolve these cases fairly.

Despite the challenges, Lindblade is optimistic about the future of Scottish cricket. She is working on a four-year strategy that prioritizes women and girls, equality, and rebuilding trust. While not ruling out a future push for Full Membership, Lindblade believes the organization must first establish a solid foundation.

Lindblade’s experience in sports administration, including her work at the Carlton Australian Football Club and Cricket Australia, has prepared her for the challenges ahead. She draws on her strong character and the support of male leaders who have given her opportunities.

Lindblade recognizes the importance of female leadership in cricket and is part of a group of female CEOs among Associate Members. She believes that women can bring different perspectives and empathy to leadership roles.

As Cricket Scotland works to move forward, Lindblade acknowledges the ongoing hurt and anger but emphasizes the need for self-awareness and unity. She believes that the strategy will provide a path forward and that the organization can emerge from this period stronger than ever.

PCB Adopts Silence on India's Champions Trophy Participation

PCB Adopts Silence on India’s Champions Trophy Participation

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has adopted a policy of silence regarding India’s participation in the ICC Champions Trophy next year. PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi has instructed his office and colleagues to refrain from issuing any statements on the matter.

This approach aims to avoid unnecessary controversy and allow the ICC to handle the situation independently. The PCB has already submitted the draft schedule and all necessary documents, including security plans for each team, to the ICC.

Naqvi’s strategy is to continue preparations for the tournament assuming India will attend. The PCB’s main focus is currently on renovating the three match venues—Karachi, Lahore, and Rawalpindi—ahead of an ICC venue inspection team’s visit in September.

Sources within the PCB indicate that Naqvi is coordinating with the government to finalize a strategy in case India refuses to send its team. However, he is keeping any reactions to India’s decision behind closed doors.

Naqvi, who is also the federal minister of interior, has emphasized the importance of avoiding unnecessary controversies on mainstream or social media platforms about the India-Pakistan cricket issue.

The PCB’s silence on the matter is a departure from its previous stance. In the past, the board has been vocal in its criticism of India’s refusal to play bilateral series in Pakistan. However, Naqvi’s approach suggests a more pragmatic and diplomatic approach.

The ICC Champions Trophy is scheduled to be held in Pakistan from September 14 to October 15, 2023. India’s participation is crucial for the tournament’s success, both financially and in terms of fan interest.

The PCB’s decision to remain silent on the matter is a sign of its commitment to hosting a successful tournament and its willingness to work with the ICC to resolve any outstanding issues.

Welsh Fire Chase Down Spirit's 150 to Secure First Defeat

Welsh Fire Chase Down Spirit’s 150 to Secure First Defeat

Welsh Fire’s relentless pursuit of 151 runs at Lord’s culminated in a thrilling six-wicket victory over London Spirit, marking the visitors’ highest-ever chase in the women’s Hundred. The triumph also snapped Spirit’s unbeaten streak in this year’s competition.

West Indies star Hayley Matthews emerged as the game-changer, blasting an unbeaten 78 off 46 deliveries, her highest score in the tournament. Her innings was a masterclass in power-hitting, featuring 11 boundaries and two towering sixes.

Spirit’s total of 150 for 5 was built on a late surge of aggression from Danni Gibson and Deepti Sharma. Gibson’s 25-ball 41 included six boundaries and a six, while Sharma’s unbeaten 39 off 26 balls showcased her power-hitting prowess.

Former Spirit right-armer Freya Davies played a crucial role for Fire, claiming the key wickets of Meg Lanning and Heather Knight. Her 2 for 19 helped restrict Spirit’s total.

The chase began with a setback for Fire as skipper Tammy Beaumont was trapped lbw by Tara Norris on review. However, Matthews’ brilliance kept the visitors in the hunt. She was dropped on 36, a costly error that proved pivotal.

With 69 runs needed from 40 balls, Matthews took control, finding the boundaries with ease. Eva Gray’s spilled chance when Matthews was on 36 proved costly, as the West Indian star went on to reach her half-century from 37 balls.

Despite losing Jess Jonassen to Sarah Glenn, Matthews continued to dominate, smashing Sharma for a straight six to leave 10 needed off nine. Fittingly, she sealed the victory with another boundary, securing a second win for Welsh Fire.

Spirit’s batting depth was on display as they chased a third straight win. Lanning’s 31 off 20 balls and Gibson’s 41 set the platform, while Sharma’s late fireworks added impetus.

ICC Approves USD 70 Million Budget for Pakistan Champions Trophy

ICC Approves USD 70 Million Budget for Pakistan Champions Trophy

The International Cricket Council (ICC) has approved a substantial budget of approximately USD 70 million to host the Champions Trophy in Pakistan in early 2023. This decision was made after a thorough review by the ICC’s financial and commercial committee, led by BCCI secretary Jay Shah.

The budget, jointly submitted by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and the ICC finance department, includes an additional USD 4.5 million allocated for unforeseen expenses. This has raised speculation that the backup funds may be intended to cover the potential relocation of matches if India decides not to send its team to Pakistan.

However, sources close to the ICC have indicated that the additional amount is insufficient to cover the costs of moving matches from Pakistan. The tentative format for the tournament places India and Pakistan in the same group, potentially leading to a second match in the super four stage and a third in the final if both teams qualify.

Despite concerns over venue changes and additional expenses during the 2023 Asia Cup held in Pakistan and Sri Lanka, the Asian Cricket Council (ACC) managed to make a profit. This was largely attributed to the high-profile matches between India and Pakistan.

Jay Shah, who also chairs the ACC, presided over the decision to award the T20 format Asia Cup to India in 2025 and the 50-over format Asia Cup to Bangladesh in 2027.

CSK Explores Uncapped Status for Dhoni in IPL 2025

CSK Explores Uncapped Status for Dhoni in IPL 2025

Could MS Dhoni Return as an Uncapped Player for CSK in IPL 2025?

During a recent meeting between the IPL and its ten franchises, Chennai Super Kings (CSK) proposed the reintroduction of a rule that could allow retired international players to be classified as uncapped players. This rule, which existed from 2008 to 2021, would significantly reduce the cost of retaining such players.

CSK is reportedly keen on retaining MS Dhoni, who retired from international cricket in 2020, as an uncapped player. If the IPL approves this proposal, Dhoni could be retained for a mere INR 4 crore, compared to the INR 12 crore he cost CSK in 2022.

However, the majority of other franchises are opposed to this move. They argue that it would disrespect retired internationals and set a wrong precedent, as uncapped players bought at the auction could earn more than former internationals retained as uncapped players.

Sunrisers Hyderabad owner Kavya Maran believes that retired players should be part of the auction, where their value would be determined by the market. Other franchises also expressed the view that former internationals should not be considered uncapped regardless of their retirement status.

The question of Dhoni’s future in the IPL remains uncertain. After undergoing knee surgery in 2023, he stepped down as CSK captain and played a limited role with the bat. Dhoni has stated that he will wait for the player retention rules to be finalized before making a decision on playing in 2025.

Meanwhile, the franchises unanimously agreed that Indian players who have not played international cricket for five years should be allowed to lower their base price at the auction. This move aims to increase the chances of such players being bought at the auction.

Suryakumar Yadav's Blunder Nearly Costs India T20I Victory

Suryakumar Yadav’s Blunder Nearly Costs India T20I Victory

India’s T20I captain Suryakumar Yadav’s costly blunder almost handed Sri Lanka a victory in the third and final T20I of the series in Pallekele on Tuesday. Chasing 138 runs, Sri Lanka’s poor batting performance towards the end saw India stage a remarkable comeback.

With Sri Lanka needing 5 runs off the final two balls, Chamindu Wickramasinghe slammed Suryakumar’s fuller delivery to long-off and attempted to steal a couple. The throw from long-off came at the non-striker’s end, where Asitha Fernando could have been caught well short of his crease. However, Suryakumar’s mistake allowed the Sri Lanka batters to save their wickets and complete the double.

The missed run-out proved pivotal, as Sri Lanka took the game into Super Over. However, India’s dominating performance in the Super Over secured them the victory.

Reflecting on the match, Suryakumar acknowledged the team’s character in overcoming the early setbacks. “When we were around 30/4 and 48/5, how the boys showed character in the middle and took the game away from them … I felt 140 was a par score on that track,” he said.

Suryakumar emphasized the importance of embracing both victories and setbacks. “If you are enjoying hitting 200-220s and winning games, you should enjoy 30/4 and 70/5 as well because that creates balance in your life and that’s how you move on and just be humble,” he added.

Paarl Royals Retain Miller, Ngidi, Phehlukwayo for SA20 2025

Paarl Royals Retain Miller, Ngidi, Phehlukwayo for SA20 2025

Paarl Royals, one of the six franchises in the South African T20 league (SA20), have retained ten South African players for the upcoming 2025 season. Captain David Miller, fast bowler Lungi Ngidi, and all-rounder Andile Phehlukwayo are among the notable names on the list.

The Royals have also retained Kwena Maphaka and Lhuan-dre Pretorius, who were impressive signings in the inaugural edition of the SA20 in 2024. However, the franchise has released four players to make room for new additions: Dane Vilas, Evan Jones, Wihan Lubbe, and Ferisco Adams.

To bolster their squad, the Royals have traded seam-bowling allrounder Dayyaan Galiem from Joburg Super Kings in exchange for Tabraiz Shamsi. The final squad, including overseas signings and released players, will be confirmed after the auction.

“We are delighted to go into the upcoming auction with a very formidable core of capped and uncapped South African players,” said Kumar Sangakkara, Royals’ Director of Cricket. “After the disappointment of last season where we faltered towards the latter stages of the tournament, it was important to re-look at the squad and make certain changes.”

Meanwhile, MI Cape Town, another SA20 franchise, has retained Kagiso Rabada, Dewald Brevis, Rassie van der Dussen, Ryan Rickelton, George Linde, Delano Potgieter, Thomas Kaber, and Connor Esterhuizen. They have released Beuran Hendricks, Duan Jansen, Grant Roelofsen, and Neelan van Heerden.

The new SA20 season is set to begin on January 9, 2025.

South Africa A to Face Sri Lanka A in August-September Series

South Africa A to Face Sri Lanka A in August-September Series

Neil Brand, the former Test captain who led a second-string South African side in New Zealand earlier this year, has been appointed to lead a South Africa A team against Sri Lanka A next month. The series, which runs from August 31 to September 18, will include three one-day games and two four-day matches.

The one-day squad, captained by Test wicket-keeper Kyle Verreynne, features several promising young players, including David Bedingham, who scored a Test century in New Zealand under Brand, and Tristan Luus, who played at the Under-19 World Cup. The four-day squad includes two players from the current Test tour to West Indies: Matthew Breetzke and Nandre Burger. Dewald Brevis, the breakout star from the 2022 under-19 World Cup, is in both squads.

Notably, the number of black African players in the squads exceeds the national target of two players per XI. This is a positive step towards Cricket South Africa’s goal of developing more black African batting talent ahead of the home ODI World Cup in 2027.

The selection of Mihlali Mpongwana, who is currently captaining a South African Emerging squad in Zimbabwe, in both squads is a testament to his all-round abilities. Lutho Sipamla, who has been capped 17 times across all formats internationally, is also included in both squads despite recent injury struggles.

The series will be overseen by Test coach Shukri Conrad, with white-ball coach Rob Walter involved with the national team on trips to West Indies and the UAE. All three one-day games will be played in Potchefstroom, while the four-day matches will be held in Kimberley and Benoni.

MS Dhoni's IPL Future Hinges on Rule Changes

MS Dhoni’s IPL Future Hinges on Rule Changes

MS Dhoni, the legendary Indian cricketer and former captain of the Chennai Super Kings (CSK), is adopting a cautious approach regarding his future in the Indian Premier League (IPL). With the IPL governing council currently formulating plans for the 2025 season, including auction and retention strategies, Dhoni is keen to observe the rule changes, particularly those related to player retention, before making a decision on his participation.

“There is ample time for that,” said Dhoni, who recently turned 43, at an event in Hyderabad. “We need to ascertain the decisions they make on player retention and other matters. Currently, the decision-making authority lies with them.”

“Once the rules and regulations are finalized, I will make a decision that aligns with the best interests of the team,” he added.

The IPL governing council recently convened a meeting with franchise owners and officials in Mumbai to discuss various rule changes. Among the topics on the agenda were the Impact Player rule, the number of players to be retained, and the frequency of the mega auction.

Questions about Dhoni’s IPL future have been raised consistently over the past few years. Earlier this year, he addressed one aspect of these concerns by handing over the CSK captaincy to Ruturaj Gaikwad before the start of the season.

Under Gaikwad’s leadership, CSK narrowly missed out on a playoff berth, finishing fifth on the table with 14 points, equal to RCB but behind on net run rate.

During the previous season, Dhoni assumed the role of a six-hitting specialist in the death overs. He typically entered the crease in the final stages of the CSK innings and amassed 13 sixes and 14 fours in the 73 balls he faced, resulting in a boundary every three balls. His impressive strike rate of 220.54 marked the first season where he surpassed 200, and he remained unbeaten in eight of his 11 innings.

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