Sidra Nawaz Prefers Virat Kohli Over Babar Azam in India-Pakistan Debate

Sidra Nawaz Prefers Virat Kohli Over Babar Azam in India-Pakistan Debate

Former Pakistan skipper Sidra Nawaz has weighed in on the long-standing debate between fans of India and Pakistan regarding the superiority of Virat Kohli and Babar Azam. Nawaz expressed her preference for Kohli, citing his exceptional career and achievements.

Kohli, a 35-year-old batting maestro, has established himself as one of the greatest batters in cricket history. With over 500 appearances across all three formats, he has amassed an impressive 13,906 runs in ODIs alone. His dominance in ODIs earned him the ICC Men’s ODI Cricketer of the Year 2023 award.

Nawaz acknowledged Babar Azam’s rise to the top of the ODI rankings in April 2021, but noted that Kohli had held the number one spot for an extended period of 1258 days. Azam regained the top spot in December 2023, but Nawaz believes Kohli’s legacy remains unmatched.

With the Women’s T20 World Cup underway, Nawaz expressed her belief that Pakistan’s momentum could pose a challenge to India in their upcoming match. Despite India’s historical dominance in the fixture, Pakistan’s impressive victory over Sri Lanka in their opening encounter has given them an edge.

Nawaz emphasized the importance of bilateral series between India and Pakistan, stating that it would benefit both teams. She urged India to visit Pakistan for the 2025 Champions Trophy, highlighting that many countries have recently toured Pakistan, including England.

Nawaz’s career spanned from 2014 to 2023, during which she represented Pakistan in numerous ODI and T20 World Cups. She captained the Pakistan A team in 2021 and is widely regarded as a leader and icon of the national side.

Saeed Ajmal Calls for India-Pakistan Cricket Matches in Respective Countries

Saeed Ajmal Calls for India-Pakistan Cricket Matches in Respective Countries

Pakistan and India Should Play Cricket Matches in Each Other’s Countries, Says Saeed Ajmal

Former Pakistan off-spinner Saeed Ajmal has called for the resumption of bilateral cricket matches between India and Pakistan, emphasizing the immense love between the two nations. Ajmal believes that such matches would foster goodwill and strengthen the bond between the neighboring countries.

Pakistan last toured India in 2012/13 for a limited-overs series, while India’s last visit to Pakistan was for the 2008 Asia Cup. Since then, political tensions have prevented the two teams from playing bilateral series, with their encounters limited to multi-nation tournaments.

“Even if the India versus Pakistan match happens on the moon, it will be huge,” said Ajmal at the launch of the GloFans High School Cricket Cup. “There is a lot of love between India and Pakistan, and we must go to each other’s countries.”

Ajmal, who represented Pakistan in 35 Tests, 113 ODIs, and 64 T20Is, also stressed the importance of promoting Test cricket. “There is a need to promote long-format cricket,” he said. “The ones who play the longest format can play any other format.”

The former spinner praised the current crop of star batters, including Virat Kohli, Joe Root, Babar Azam, and Rohit Sharma. He also lauded India’s fast-bowling spearhead Jasprit Bumrah, who was named Player of the Tournament in India’s triumph at the 2024 Men’s T20 World Cup.

“Bumrah is a very intelligent bowler, and intelligence is required with speed,” Ajmal concluded.

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.

India-Pakistan Bilateral Series: Kamran Akmal Questions BCCI's Reluctance

India-Pakistan Bilateral Series: Kamran Akmal Questions BCCI’s Reluctance

The absence of bilateral cricket series between India and Pakistan has left fans yearning for the return of those thrilling encounters. The last such instance was in 2012-13, with the two teams only facing each other in multi-nation tournaments since then.

Recently, Cricket Australia expressed interest in hosting an India-Pakistan series in Australia, but it didn’t garner much interest from the two boards. In the 2024 T20 World Cup, India secured a narrow victory over Pakistan in the group stage, eventually winning the trophy.

Former Pakistan wicketkeeper-batsman Kamran Akmal has questioned the BCCI’s reluctance to travel to Pakistan, highlighting that teams like Australia have done so. He emphasized the love and support Indian cricketers have received in Pakistan, and the mutual desire for a bilateral series.

Akmal, who toured India several times, believes that political matters should be kept aside to allow cricket to flourish. He pointed out that Pakistan has worked hard to bring cricket back to the country, and that both governments should facilitate the resumption of bilateral series.

The upcoming Champions Trophy in Pakistan is also in doubt due to political tensions. Akmal urged both governments to prioritize cricket over politics, allowing the tournament to take place in Pakistan.

Regarding Pakistani players in the IPL, Akmal acknowledged the BCCI’s rules but expressed that the debate would end if bilateral series resumed. He emphasized that Pakistan has its own PSL and is not dependent on the IPL.

India's Champions Trophy Participation Uncertain Amid Political Tensions

India’s Champions Trophy Participation Uncertain Amid Political Tensions

India’s participation in the 2025 Champions Trophy, scheduled for February-March next year, remains uncertain due to political tensions with Pakistan. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has stated that the decision will depend on the Indian government’s approval.

Despite the ongoing political impasse, Indian spinner Kuldeep Yadav expressed his willingness to play in Pakistan if given the opportunity. “As cricketers, we will play wherever we are sent. I have never been to Pakistan before, so I am excited. The Pakistani people are great, and whenever we get the chance, we will definitely go and play there,” Yadav said.

Meanwhile, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has dismissed reports that the Champions Trophy could be rescheduled due to security concerns. PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi clarified that the tournament will take place in Pakistan as planned, with the dates potentially subject to minor adjustments.

To prepare for the event, the PCB has initiated a major renovation project at three iconic venues: National Stadium in Karachi, Rawalpindi International Cricket Stadium, and Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore. The project, estimated to cost Rs 12.8 billion, aims to upgrade the stadiums to international standards.

Naqvi emphasized the need for improved facilities, stating, “There’s a huge difference in international stadiums and those of ours […] none of our stadiums are of international standard.” He expressed confidence that the stadiums will be ready for the Champions Trophy, with the PCB coordinating closely with security agencies.

The PCB has submitted a draft schedule to the International Cricket Council (ICC), proposing dates from February 19 to March 9, 2025. The board remains committed to hosting a world-class event and providing an unforgettable experience for cricket fans.

ICC Champions Trophy Fate Uncertain Amid India-Pakistan Standoff

ICC Champions Trophy Fate Uncertain Amid India-Pakistan Standoff

The fate of the ICC Champions Trophy remains uncertain as the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) remain at loggerheads over the tournament’s hosting. Pakistan is adamant about hosting the entire event at home, while India is unwilling to send its team across the border.

The BCCI has proposed that India’s matches be held in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) or Sri Lanka. Pakistan has countered with a proposal to host all of India’s matches in Lahore. However, no resolution has been reached, and the ICC has reportedly prepared a contingency plan in case India refuses to travel to Pakistan.

According to a report in Cricbuzz, the ICC’s Chief Executives Committee (CEC) has approved a budget for the tournament, including an estimate of the increased costs if matches need to be played outside Pakistan. The ICC has also shared a draft schedule with stakeholders, including broadcasters and participating teams.

In the draft schedule, all of India’s matches are set to be held in Lahore, including the high-profile India-Pakistan match scheduled for March 1. However, this schedule is subject to change if India does not agree to travel to Pakistan.

The ICC has allocated $35 million for the tournament itself, $20 million for participation and prize money, and $10 million for production costs. The tournament is scheduled to feature 15 matches over 20 days.

The deadlock between the PCB and BCCI has cast a shadow over the tournament, and it remains to be seen whether a compromise can be reached. If India does not agree to travel to Pakistan, the ICC will have to implement its contingency plan and find alternative venues for India’s matches.

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

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

The upcoming ICC Champions Trophy in Pakistan has sparked a debate over whether the Indian cricket team will participate. India has not played cricket in Pakistan for over a decade due to security concerns.

Former Indian spinner Harbhajan Singh has expressed concerns about India’s potential visit to Pakistan, citing the volatile security situation. However, ex-Pakistan pacer Tanvir Ahmed has challenged the Indian team to visit Pakistan, referring to Pakistan’s own visit to India for the ODI World Cup last year.

In a viral video clip, Tanvir Ahmed commended the Pakistan team for being “brave and fearless” for traveling to India to play cricket. He extended an invitation to the Indian team to come to Pakistan, reassuring them of their safety.

“We are lions, we came and played cricket in your country. Come here and show… We are inviting you to come and play. We will provide security, we will give you everything. Just come once,” said Tanvir Ahmed.

Pakistan has assured that all matches involving the Indian team in the tournament will be held in Lahore, and the Indian team will stay at the same hotel throughout their visit. This arrangement is intended to enhance security measures.

Last year, the Indian cricket team refused to travel to Pakistan for the Asia Cup, leading to India matches being staged in Sri Lanka instead. Since 2012, the two nations have not played any bilateral series, with the Indian government limiting cricket encounters between Pakistan and India to ICC or ACC events.

The decision of whether India will participate in the Champions Trophy in Pakistan remains uncertain. The security situation and political tensions between the two countries will likely play a significant role in the decision-making process.

Shoaib Malik Urges India to Prioritize Sports Over Politics for Champions Trophy

Shoaib Malik Urges India to Prioritize Sports Over Politics for Champions Trophy

Former Pakistan captain Shoaib Malik has implored the Indian cricket team to prioritize sports over politics and participate in the 2025 Champions Trophy, which Pakistan will host.

India’s participation in the tournament has been uncertain due to political tensions between the two nations. India has not toured Pakistan for a bilateral series since 2012/13, and its last visit to the country for any cricket match was in 2006.

Malik emphasized that political disputes should not interfere with sporting events. “Any issues or disputes between the two countries are a separate matter and should be resolved separately in whatever way is necessary. Politics should not come into sports,” he said.

He highlighted that the Pakistan team visited India for the ICC ODI World Cup last year and expressed his belief that the Indian team should reciprocate. “I think many players in the Indian team have never played in Pakistan, so this would be a good opportunity for them. We are very hospitable people, and I am sure the Indian team should definitely come,” Malik stated.

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has reportedly left the matter of India’s participation in the hands of the International Cricket Council (ICC). The PCB has submitted a draft schedule and format for the tournament, including a proposal to host all of India’s games in Lahore.

The ICC is yet to finalize the schedule and format of the Champions Trophy. However, the PCB has fulfilled its responsibilities as the host nation by submitting the necessary documents.

Malik’s plea for India’s participation in the Champions Trophy underscores the importance of separating politics from sports. He believes that the tournament should be an opportunity for both countries to showcase their cricketing prowess and foster goodwill.

India's Participation in Pakistan-Hosted Champions Trophy Uncertain Amid Political Tensions

India’s Participation in Pakistan-Hosted Champions Trophy Uncertain Amid Political Tensions

Pakistan’s hosting rights for the ICC Champions Trophy have ignited uncertainty over India’s participation due to ongoing political tensions between the two nations. Bilateral cricket between India and Pakistan has been suspended since 2013, leaving the BCCI facing the prospect of not receiving travel clearance from the Indian government for the tournament in Pakistan.

However, Pakistan’s recent visit to India for the 2023 fifty-over World Cup has sparked discussions about a potential thaw in relations. The initial Champions Trophy schedule designates Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium as the venue for all of India’s matches, including the highly anticipated clash against Pakistan.

Amidst the ongoing debate, former Pakistan captain Younis Khan has implored India to travel to Pakistan, emphasizing that it is the “only thing left” in Virat Kohli’s illustrious career. Kohli, who made his international debut in 2008, has never played a Test match against Pakistan and has not played a bilateral series in the country since 2006.

The BCCI has reportedly proposed a hybrid model similar to the one used for last year’s Asia Cup, where India’s matches were held in Sri Lanka. The PCB has entrusted the ICC with the responsibility of persuading the BCCI to send its team to Pakistan for the Champions Trophy.

According to a PCB source, the budget for the tournament has been approved, but the schedule and format have yet to be finalized. The PCB has proposed hosting all of India’s games in Lahore, including a potential semi-final and final if India qualifies.

The outcome of the Champions Trophy hosting rights for Pakistan hinges on the BCCI’s decision, which will be influenced by the political climate between the two countries. If India does not participate, it would be a significant blow to the tournament and a missed opportunity for fans to witness some of the world’s best cricketers in action.

Shoaib Malik Invites India to Champions Trophy 2025 in Pakistan

Shoaib Malik Invites India to Champions Trophy 2025 in Pakistan

Pakistan’s seasoned all-rounder Shoaib Malik has extended an invitation to the Indian cricket team to participate in the Champions Trophy 2025, scheduled to be held in Pakistan. Malik’s invitation underscores the importance of separating politics from sports, emphasizing that bilateral issues between India and Pakistan should be addressed independently of their cricketing engagements.

“Whatever reservations there are between the countries, that’s a separate issue and should be solved separately. Politics shouldn’t come into sports. The Pakistan team went to India last year, and now it’s a good opportunity for the Indian team too. I think there are many players in the Indian team who haven’t played in Pakistan, so it would be great for them. Hum bahut acche log hai (we are good people). We’re very hospitable people, so I’m sure the Indian team should definitely come,” Malik told Cricket Pakistan.

Despite Malik’s welcoming stance, reports indicate reluctance from the Indian cricket team regarding their travel to Pakistan for the tournament, primarily due to ongoing political tensions between the two nations. It has also been suggested that the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) might seek to have their matches relocated to alternative venues such as Sri Lanka or Dubai.

This development comes amidst a longstanding hiatus in bilateral cricket series between India and Pakistan, with the last series on Pakistani soil taking place during the 2008 Asia Cup. Since then, encounters between the two teams have been confined to ICC tournaments and Asia Cups, with their most recent bilateral series occurring in India from December 2012 to January 2013.

The Champions Trophy 2025 promises to be a significant event, with Pakistan aiming to replicate their success from the 2017 edition of the tournament. India, on the other hand, will be looking to add to their victories from 2013 and the shared triumph in 2002.

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