Pakistan Pacer Khurram Shahzad Rattles Babar Azam in Intense Net Session

Pakistan Pacer Khurram Shahzad Rattles Babar Azam in Intense Net Session

Pakistan’s star batter Babar Azam faced a challenging net session ahead of the upcoming Test series against Bangladesh, as pacer Khurram Shahzad rattled him with an inswinging delivery that struck him near the abdominal region. The incident, captured on video and shared on social media, has sparked concern among fans.

Shahzad’s delivery left Azam visibly in pain, and he struggled to time the ball effectively throughout the session. The video shows Azam getting clean bowled on the very next delivery he faced from the same bowler.

The incident occurred during a training session in Rawalpindi, where the Pakistan team is preparing for the two-match Test series against Bangladesh, starting August 21. The series will mark the first assignment for Jason Gillespie as Pakistan’s Test coach.

Pakistan has opted for a pace-heavy lineup for the series, with five fast bowlers and just one frontline spinner, Abrar Ahmed. Saud Shakeel has been appointed as the new vice-captain.

The Pakistan squad for the Test series includes: Shan Masood (captain), Saud Shakeel, Aamir Jamal (subject to fitness), Abdullah Shafique, Abrar Ahmed, Babar Azam, Kamran Ghulam, Khurram Shahzad, Mir Hamza, Mohammad Ali, Muhammad Hurraira, Mohammad Rizwan, Naseem Shah, Saim Ayub, Salman Ali Agha, Sarfaraz Ahmed, and Shaheen Shah Afridi.

Bangladesh, on the other hand, will be led by Najmul Hossain Shanto. Their squad includes Mahmudullah, Zakir Hasan, Shadman Islam, Mominul Haque, Mushfiqur Rahim, Shakib Al Hasan, Litton Das, Mehidy Hasan Miraz, Taijul Islam, Nazmul Hossain, Nurul Hasan, Ebadot Hossain, Hasan Mahmud, Taskin Ahmed, and Khaled Ahmed.

The first Test will be played at the Pindi Cricket Stadium from August 21 to August 25, while the second Test will be held in Karachi from August 30 to September 3. Spectators will not be allowed during the second Test due to ongoing renovations at Karachi’s National Stadium.

Babar Azam to Bat at Number Four in Pakistan's Test Series Against Bangladesh

Babar Azam to Bat at Number Four in Pakistan’s Test Series Against Bangladesh

Pakistan’s former cricketer Salman Butt has lauded Babar Azam’s fitness and consistent performance over the past two years. Butt emphasized the importance of maintaining fitness, especially after Pakistan’s disappointing performance at the 2024 T20 World Cup.

Sources have revealed that Babar Azam will bat at number four in Pakistan’s upcoming two-match Test series against Bangladesh. Captain Shan Masood will bat at number three, while Abdullah Shafique’s position as opener remains secure.

Butt praised Azam’s ability to score runs in both the first and second innings, demonstrating his fitness and adaptability. He expressed concern over the team’s fitness issues, which have been a topic of discussion since the T20 World Cup.

The two-match Test series against Bangladesh will commence on August 21 at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium. Jason Gillespie will make his debut as Pakistan’s Test coach during the series. The second Test will be played in Karachi from August 30 to September 3.

Due to ongoing renovations at the National Stadium in Karachi, spectators will not be allowed during the second Test match.

Babar Azam's ODI Ranking Retention Sparks Controversy

Babar Azam’s ODI Ranking Retention Sparks Controversy

Babar Azam’s ODI Ranking Retention Draws Criticism from Former Pakistan Cricketer Basit Ali

Former Pakistan cricketer Basit Ali has expressed his disapproval of the International Cricket Council’s (ICC) decision to retain Babar Azam as the top-ranked ODI batter despite his prolonged absence from the format. Ali questioned the logic behind the ranking system and suggested that the ICC may be intentionally hindering Azam’s performance.

Ali’s criticism stems from the fact that Azam has not played an ODI since November 2023. Despite this, he has maintained his position at the top of the rankings, ahead of Indian stars Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill, and Virat Kohli. Ali believes that this ranking is undeserved, especially considering the absence of other top-performing batters like Travis Head (Australia) and Rachin Ravindra (New Zealand).

“When I saw the ICC ranking (ODI batters), Babar Azam was at the top, number two was Rohit Sharma, number three was Shubman Gill, and then there was Virat Kohli at number four. I did not find it necessary to read the remaining names because I couldn’t see Travis Head and Rachin Ravindra. I think the ICC wants that Babar doesn’t perform. He would be happy with being the number one-ranked batter in ODIs. Who gives these rankings? On what basis are Babar Azam and Shubman Gill there?” Ali said on his YouTube channel.

Ali further questioned the ranking system, highlighting the absence of star batters like Travis Head (Australia) and Rachin Ravindra (New Zealand). He pointed out that these players had performed exceptionally well in the recent ODI World Cup, scoring multiple centuries.

Meanwhile, India captain Rohit Sharma has made a significant jump in the rankings, climbing to the second spot after his impressive performance in the three-game ODI series against Sri Lanka. Sharma ended the series as the top scorer with 157 runs, including two half-centuries.

Pakistan Cricket Team Reshuffles Batting Order, Babar Azam to Bat at Number Four

Pakistan Cricket Team Reshuffles Batting Order, Babar Azam to Bat at Number Four

Pakistan’s cricket team is undergoing a strategic overhaul ahead of their upcoming two-match Test series against Bangladesh. The most notable change is the decision to have captain Babar Azam bat at the unfamiliar number four position. This move is part of a broader tactical adjustment by the team management, which aims to solidify the top order and provide stability to the middle order.

Azam’s usual batting position in limited-overs cricket has been in the top three, but he has experimented with the number four spot in Test cricket before. During Pakistan’s tour of Sri Lanka in 2022, he batted at number three, and he retained that position for the second Test against England later that year. However, his move to number four for the Bangladesh series suggests a more permanent shift in the team’s long-term strategy.

The decision to move Azam down the order has opened up opportunities for other players. Abdullah Shafiq’s position as opener remains secure, while captain Shan Masood will take on the crucial number three role. This new batting order aims to provide a solid foundation for the team and allow Azam to play a more influential role in the middle order.

The series against Bangladesh also presents an opportunity for new talent to emerge. Batsman Muhammad Huraira is a strong contender for a debut appearance, signalling the team management’s intent to introduce fresh faces into the Test arena.

On the bowling front, Pakistan are expected to capitalize on the anticipated bowler-friendly conditions at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium. A three-pronged pace attack comprising Shaheen Afridi, Naseem Shah, and Mir Hamza is likely to be deployed, with one spinner completing the bowling lineup.

The two-match Test series, commencing on August 21st in Rawalpindi, holds added significance as it marks the first assignment for newly appointed Test coach, Jason Gillespie. Gillespie’s arrival signals a new chapter for Pakistan’s Test cricket, and his guidance will be crucial in shaping the team’s approach against Bangladesh and beyond.

The second Test, scheduled from August 30th to September 3rd in Karachi, will unfortunately be played without spectators due to ongoing renovations at the National Stadium. While the absence of a home crowd might be a slight setback, the team remains focused on delivering a strong performance and securing a series victory against Bangladesh.

Pakistan Retains Senior Trio for Bangladesh Test Series

Pakistan Retains Senior Trio for Bangladesh Test Series

Pakistan’s Test squad for the upcoming two-match series against Bangladesh has been announced, with senior players Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan, and Shaheen Shah Afridi retained despite calls for a significant overhaul following a disappointing T20 World Cup performance.

The decision to retain the experienced trio was influenced by the advice of foreign head coaches Jason Gillespie and Gary Kirsten, who recommended a more gradual approach to rebuilding the team. The PCB had initially indicated a need for “major surgery” after Pakistan’s early exit from the T20 World Cup, but has opted to avoid drastic measures for now.

Shan Masood will continue as captain for the red-ball format, with Saud Shakeel promoted to vice-captain in place of Shaheen Shah Afridi. The squad includes two uncapped players, Mohammad Huraira and Kamran Ghulam, who have been rewarded for their consistent performances in domestic cricket.

Kamran Ghulam, who was previously included in the Test squad but did not make his debut, has been recalled. Pacer Mohammad Ali, after playing only two Tests against England in 2022, has also been selected again. Most of the squad for Pakistan’s opening Test series of the 2024-25 season remains consistent with the 13 players involved in the last series against Australia at the end of 2023-24.

Players dropped from the previous Test series include opener Imam ul Haq, spinners Noman Ali, Muhammad Nawaz, and Sajid Khan, all-rounder Faheem Ashraf, and pacer Hasan Ali. Mohammad Waseem junior is unavailable due to injury. All-rounder Aamir Jamal has been included in the squad, pending his clearance of fitness tests.

Pakistan will face Bangladesh in two Tests beginning August 21 as part of the ICC Test Championship schedule. In the upcoming season, the national team is set to play nine Tests, 14 T20 Internationals, and 17 One-Day Internationals at home and abroad.

Pakistan Cricket in Crisis: Afridi Slams PCB's Constant Changes

Pakistan Cricket in Crisis: Afridi Slams PCB’s Constant Changes

Pakistan’s dismal performance at the T20 World Cup 2024 has sent shockwaves through the cricketing world. The Babar Azam-led side crashed out of the competition in the group stages, suffering humiliating defeats against the United States and India. Despite victories against Canada and Ireland, it was too little too late for Pakistan.

The result has sparked a massive backlash from fans and prompted significant changes within the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB). Wahab Riaz and Abdul Razzaq have been sacked as selectors, while Babar Azam’s future as captain remains uncertain.

Former Pakistan captain Shahid Afridi has criticized the PCB’s constant changes, arguing that they have negatively impacted the team’s performance. Afridi emphasized the need for stability and consistency, stating that teams require time to adapt to new systems.

“When you change or bring in any new structure, you must give the system time. Every year, a new chairman comes, and a new system is introduced. Things don’t work this way,” Afridi told Sports24.

Afridi called for a collaborative approach, involving senior board members and players, to develop a long-term plan for the team. He believes that frequent changes create confusion and hinder progress.

Meanwhile, the PCB has denied No Objection Certificates (NOCs) to Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan, and Shaheen Shah Afridi to participate in the Global T20 League. The board cited Pakistan’s busy international schedule as the reason for the decision.

The PCB’s decision has raised concerns about the availability of key players for the upcoming season of the Pakistan Super League (PSL). The PSL is a major domestic tournament that attracts top players from around the world.

Pakistan’s poor performance at the T20 World Cup and the subsequent changes within the PCB have raised questions about the team’s future. The PCB must address the concerns raised by Afridi and other former players to ensure that Pakistan regains its status as a cricketing powerhouse.

Ahmed Shehzad Clean Bowled Thrice in Humiliating Street Cricket Game

Ahmed Shehzad Clean Bowled Thrice in Humiliating Street Cricket Game

Ahmed Shehzad’s Street Cricket Humiliation: Former Pakistan Captain Clean Bowled Thrice

Former Pakistani cricketer Ahmed Shehzad, who has been critical of current captain Babar Azam, has faced a humiliating experience on the streets of Chitral. A viral video shows Shehzad batting in a street game, using a chair as a wicket.

Despite boasting of hitting sixes, Shehzad was clean bowled three times out of four deliveries by a local bowler who was not even in proper cricket attire. The former Pakistan batsman only managed to play one ball, which was a mistimed shot.

Shehzad’s performance in the street game is a stark contrast to his international career, where he played 13 Tests, 81 ODIs, and 59 T20Is for Pakistan. He scored 982, 2605, and 1471 runs in these formats, respectively. However, his career has been marred by controversies and inconsistent form.

Shehzad’s recent criticism of Babar Azam has drawn attention to his own struggles. During the T20 World Cup, he had questioned Azam’s captaincy and accused him of favoritism.

The video of Shehzad’s street cricket humiliation has sparked a flurry of reactions on social media. Some have criticized him for his poor performance, while others have defended him, saying that he is still a talented player.

Despite his recent setbacks, Shehzad remains a popular figure in Pakistan. He is known for his aggressive batting style and his ability to hit big shots. However, he will need to improve his consistency and discipline if he wants to regain his place in the national team.

Ramiz Raja Questions Saim Ayub's Consistency, Defends Rizwan-Azam Opening Duo

Ramiz Raja Questions Saim Ayub’s Consistency, Defends Rizwan-Azam Opening Duo

Former Pakistan cricketer Ramiz Raja has expressed his concerns about the inconsistent performances of opener Saim Ayub, questioning the decision to break the established opening duo of Mohammad Rizwan and Babar Azam.

Ayub, who struggled in the recent T20I series against New Zealand, showed signs of improvement in the first T20I against Ireland with a quick-paced knock of 45(29). However, he failed to maintain consistency in the second T20I, falling for a score of 6.

Raja believes that Ayub’s inconsistent performances do not justify breaking the successful opening partnership of Rizwan and Azam. “I don’t think Saim Ayub gives you security, he shows flashes of brilliance. If you don’t score 50 off 30 balls then breaking Rizwan and Babar’s opening duo doesn’t make any sense,” Raja said on his YouTube channel.

In four matches against New Zealand, Ayub scored 52 runs at an average of 14.25, with 32 as his highest score. Before Ayub’s inclusion, Babar and Rizwan were the designated openers for Pakistan and were one of the most prolific opening pairs in white-ball cricket.

The duo forged a record-breaking 105-run stand in the 2022 Men’s T20I World Cup, setting a new record for the most century partnerships as an opening duo in the tournament’s history.

Raja’s comments highlight the importance of consistency and reliability in opening partnerships. While Ayub has shown glimpses of his potential, his inconsistent performances have raised questions about his ability to provide a solid foundation for Pakistan’s batting lineup.

The third and final T20I between Pakistan and Ireland will be played on Tuesday, with the series currently tied at 1-1. The match will be a crucial test for Ayub and the Pakistan team as they look to secure a series victory and build momentum ahead of the upcoming T20 World Cup.

Babar Azam Becomes Most Successful T20I Captain with Record-Breaking 45th Win

Babar Azam Becomes Most Successful T20I Captain with Record-Breaking 45th Win

Pakistan’s Babar Azam has etched his name in the annals of T20I cricket history by becoming the most successful captain in the format. With a remarkable 45 wins under his leadership, Azam has surpassed all others, including Aaron Finch of Australia and Brian Masaba of Uganda.

Azam’s record-breaking achievement came after Pakistan’s emphatic victory over Ireland in the second T20I of their three-match series. Chasing a challenging target of 193/7, Pakistan showcased their batting prowess, with Mohammad Rizwan and Fakhar Zaman leading the charge.

Rizwan, who remained unbeaten on 75, and Zaman, who contributed a blistering 78, forged a formidable partnership of 140 runs, laying the foundation for Pakistan’s triumph. Despite Azam’s early dismissal, Rizwan and Zaman’s dominance ensured that Ireland’s hopes of victory quickly faded.

Fakhar Zaman’s six towering sixes were a testament to his power-hitting abilities, while Rizwan played a steady hand, anchoring the innings. Azam Khan’s explosive unbeaten 30 from just 10 deliveries sealed the deal for Pakistan, ensuring their victory with more than three overs to spare.

Azam’s 45th T20I win as captain places him ahead of Aaron Finch, who has 40 victories, and Brian Masaba, who has 44 wins in all men’s T20Is. Other notable captains on the list include Eoin Morgan (42 wins), MS Dhoni (41 wins), Rohit Sharma (41 wins), and Asghar Afghan (42 wins).

Pakistan’s victory over Ireland was a testament to their team’s resilience and determination. Despite Azam’s early departure, Rizwan, Zaman, and Khan stepped up to the plate, showcasing their exceptional talent and ensuring Pakistan’s dominance in the series.

Younis Khan Urges Pakistan to Adapt to Modern Cricket Demands

Younis Khan Urges Pakistan to Adapt to Modern Cricket Demands

Pakistan’s former captain Younis Khan has urged the current team, led by Babar Azam, to adapt to the demands of modern cricket. Speaking at an event in Karachi, Khan emphasized the need for top-order batters like Azam, Mohammad Rizwan, and Fakhar Zaman to improve their strike rates and make better use of the power play. He also stressed the importance of bowlers being prepared to perform under pressure.

Khan’s comments come amidst concerns about Pakistan’s recent performances, including a shock defeat to Ireland in a T20 International. Former national team colleague Rashid Latif believes that frequent captaincy changes have disrupted the team’s environment. He criticized the decision to remove Shaheen Shah Afridi as captain after just one series, arguing that it undermined Babar Azam’s authority.

Pakistan’s new head coach, Gary Kirsten, faces the challenge of restoring stability to the dressing room. His experience working with players from the subcontinent, both with the Indian team and in the Indian Premier League, could prove valuable.

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman, Mohsin Naqvi, is expected to meet with the players in Dublin to address their concerns. The team is yet to announce its 15-member squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup.

Kirsten’s appointment is seen as an attempt to bring about a change in Pakistan’s fortunes. His task will be to instill a winning mentality and create a cohesive team environment. With his experience and knowledge, Kirsten is expected to play a key role in Pakistan’s preparations for the T20 World Cup.

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