Babar Azam Faces Challenge to Hit Three Consecutive Sixes in T20 World Cup

Babar Azam Faces Challenge to Hit Three Consecutive Sixes in T20 World Cup

Pakistan’s T20I captain Babar Azam is gearing up for the team’s upcoming tours of Ireland and England, which will serve as preparation for the 2024 T20 World Cup. Pakistan has been placed in a group alongside India, USA, Ireland, and Canada for the marquee event.

Azam was reinstated as captain after Pakistan’s disappointing performance at the 2023 ODI World Cup. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has placed its faith in Azam to lead the team to glory at the T20 World Cup.

However, former Pakistan cricketer Basit Ali has issued a peculiar challenge to Azam. Ali, likely referring to Azam’s low strike rate in T20Is (129.41), stated that if Azam hits three consecutive sixes against top teams (excluding USA and Thailand), he will shut down his YouTube channel. Ali also suggested that if Azam cannot accept this challenge, he should not open the batting at the T20 World Cup.

Azam has recently expressed that the team will be devising specific tactics to counter India’s star batter Virat Kohli in their high-profile clash at the T20 World Cup. During their previous T20 Cup encounter in 2022, Kohli played a pivotal role in India’s victory, scoring an iconic 82* off 53 balls.

Speaking at a media conference, Azam acknowledged that while the team does not plan specifically against individual players, they will be preparing for Kohli, whom he described as “one of the best players.”

“We do not plan anything against one player. We plan for all 11 players. We do not know much about the conditions in New York and we will plan accordingly. He [Virat Kohli] is one of the best players and we will plan against him as well,” Azam said.

Mohammad Amir Granted Visa for Pakistan's Ireland T20I Series

Mohammad Amir Granted Visa for Pakistan’s Ireland T20I Series

Pakistan’s Mohammad Amir Granted Visa for Ireland T20I Series

Pakistan cricket authorities have received a sigh of relief as the Irish consulate has granted a visa to Mohammad Amir, clearing the way for his potential inclusion in the team for the second T20I in Dublin on May 12.

The opening match of the three-match T20I series is scheduled for Friday at the Clontaff ground. A source within the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) confirmed that they have been informed about Amir’s visa approval and are currently arranging his travel from Lahore to join the squad.

While the rest of the team departed for Dublin on Tuesday, Amir remained in Lahore awaiting his visa clearance. After a period of impasse, the breakthrough came following discussions between the PCB and Cricket Ireland regarding the delay in visa issuance.

Although the Irish consulate did not provide a specific reason for the delay, the source indicated that it was due to technical issues, which have since been resolved.

“Obviously, the PCB was unhappy with the visa delay as it affects the team management plans for the (T20) World Cup and also has a bearing on the affected player who has returned from retirement to international cricket after four years,” the source said.

After the series against Ireland, Pakistan will move to England for four T20Is starting from May 22 at Leeds. Interestingly, Amir was readily issued a visa to play in Ireland’s inaugural Test match against Pakistan back in 2018.

Amir’s inclusion in the team will be a significant boost for Pakistan, as he is a seasoned campaigner with a wealth of experience in international cricket. His return to the national team after a four-year absence has been met with much anticipation, and his presence in the squad will undoubtedly strengthen Pakistan’s chances of success in the upcoming T20I series and the T20 World Cup later this year.

Babar Azam Eyes T20I Run-Scoring Record on Ireland-England Tour

Babar Azam Eyes T20I Run-Scoring Record on Ireland-England Tour

Pakistan’s upcoming tour of Ireland and England presents a golden opportunity for captain Babar Azam to surpass Indian batting legends Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma as the leading run-scorer in T20 internationals.

With 3823 runs in 114 matches, Babar currently trails Rohit Sharma (3974 runs in 151 matches) by 151 runs and Virat Kohli (4037 runs in 117 matches) by 214 runs. Pakistan’s seven-match T20I schedule provides ample scope for Babar to bridge this gap.

The tour begins with three T20Is in Ireland from May 10, followed by four T20Is in England. These matches will serve as crucial preparation for the T20 World Cup, which will be co-hosted by the US and West Indies from June 2 to 29.

Pakistan is placed in the same group as India, and the highly anticipated clash between the archrivals is scheduled for June 9 in New York. Babar’s performance in the lead-up to this marquee match will be closely scrutinized.

The Pakistan squad currently comprises 18 players, but it will be trimmed to 15 for the T20 World Cup as per ICC regulations. Babar’s leadership and batting prowess will be vital for Pakistan’s success in the tournament.

Mohammad Amir's Ireland Visa Delay Puts T20I Series Participation in Doubt

Mohammad Amir’s Ireland Visa Delay Puts T20I Series Participation in Doubt

Mohammad Amir’s absence from Pakistan’s tour of Ireland has raised concerns about his participation in the upcoming T20I series. The left-arm pacer, who holds permanent residency in the United Kingdom, applied for an Ireland visa alongside his teammates. However, while the rest of the squad received their visas before departing for Dublin on Tuesday, Amir’s application remained pending.

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has been in contact with Cricket Ireland regarding the issue, emphasizing that it is the host board’s responsibility to facilitate and provide visas for the visiting team in a timely manner. Given the short duration of the tour, with Pakistan scheduled to play three T20Is from May 10 to 14, Amir’s involvement in the series is now in jeopardy.

As of now, there is no information on when Amir’s visa is expected to be approved. Mohammad Yousaf, a member of Pakistan’s management team, also experienced a delay in his visa approval but managed to receive it just in time to join the squad. It is unclear whether Amir’s visa delay is related to the timing of his application, although the PCB maintains that he applied simultaneously with the rest of the team.

Amir has previously visited Ireland as part of Pakistan’s squad for the country’s inaugural Test match in Malahide in 2018. After retiring from international cricket in 2020, he reversed his decision earlier this year and made his return in the recently concluded home series against New Zealand.

The Pakistan squad is expected to arrive in Dublin on Wednesday morning, with all three T20Is scheduled to be played at the same venue. Following the Ireland tour, Pakistan will travel to the UK for four T20Is ahead of the World Cup in the USA and the West Indies.

Pakistan Captain Babar Azam, Allrounder Imad Wasim Involved in Heated Confrontation

Pakistan Captain Babar Azam, Allrounder Imad Wasim Involved in Heated Confrontation

Amidst reports of a rift between Pakistan captain Babar Azam and allrounder Imad Wasim, a video has emerged from the team’s training session in Ireland that has fueled speculation. The footage shows Wasim confronting Azam on the sidelines of the net session at the Clontarf Cricket Club in Dublin.

The incident has raised concerns about the team’s unity ahead of a crucial T20I series against Ireland and England. Wasim has previously denied any disagreement with Azam, who was reappointed as captain after stepping down following Pakistan’s disappointing performance at the ODI World Cup last year.

“We have no issues with Babar. He is the captain of the team and we are all supporting him. Maybe Babar has become captain again because he will lead us to the (T20) World Cup trophy,” Wasim was quoted as saying in a report on ‘geosuper.tv’.

However, the video suggests otherwise. Wasim appears animated and confrontational as he engages in a heated discussion with Azam. The incident has raised questions about the team’s leadership and the potential impact on their performance in the upcoming matches.

Pakistan will play three T20Is in Ireland, followed by a four-match T20I series in England. After that, the team will travel to the US for the T20 World Cup, which will be co-hosted by the West Indies from June 2 to 29.

India and Pakistan are clubbed in Group A and will face each other on June 9 in New York. The outcome of the match could have significant implications for both teams’ chances of advancing to the knockout stages.

The video of the confrontation between Azam and Wasim has cast a shadow over Pakistan’s preparations for the T20 World Cup. The team’s unity and leadership will be crucial factors in their quest for success in the tournament.

Babar Azam Confident of Pakistan's T20 World Cup Chances, Addresses Squad Selection

Babar Azam Confident of Pakistan’s T20 World Cup Chances, Addresses Squad Selection

Pakistan’s captain, Babar Azam, recently addressed the media ahead of the team’s departure for Ireland and the UK, their final preparatory stop before the T20 World Cup. As usual, Babar faced questions about Pakistan’s chances, squad selection, and top-order concerns.

Regarding Pakistan’s trophy aspirations, Babar reiterated his belief in his team’s ability to bring home the title. He emphasized that their aim has always been to win the World Cup, and they remain confident in their chances.

One of the key talking points was the inclusion of Haris Rauf and the absence of Mohammad Haris. Babar praised Rauf’s fitness and determination, expressing confidence that he will make a strong comeback. However, he acknowledged that Mohammad Haris has not received the opportunities he may have expected after the last T20 World Cup.

Babar explained that the top order already includes Mohammad Rizwan, Fakhar Zaman, Saim Ayub, and himself. While Haris belongs in the top order, he has not been able to execute his plans effectively in recent times. The team has opted for the best possible combination, which does not currently include Haris.

Another controversial selection was the recall of Hasan Ali, who last played a T20I in 2022. Babar clarified that Hasan is primarily there as backup and is not guaranteed a spot in the World Cup squad. His experience was a factor in his selection.

Babar also addressed questions about his own place in the top order. While acknowledging the potential of dynamic players like Saim Ayub, he defended his own track record, highlighting Pakistan’s consistent high scores in the Powerplay.

The captain emphasized that team goals will take precedence over individual preferences. He is in constant communication with the newly appointed white-ball coach, Gary Kirsten, who is working towards the same objective.

Babar concluded by expressing his hope that the team will continue to inspire the nation. He acknowledged the responsibility they carry and promised to give their best at the World Cup.

Afridi, Erasmus, Waseem Shortlisted for ICC Player of the Month Award

Afridi, Erasmus, Waseem Shortlisted for ICC Player of the Month Award

Pakistan’s Shaheen Shah Afridi, Namibia’s Gerhard Erasmus, and UAE’s Muhammad Waseem have been nominated for the ICC Men’s Player of the Month award for April 2024.

Afridi’s nomination stems from his exceptional bowling performances in Pakistan’s drawn T20I series against New Zealand. He was instrumental in both of Pakistan’s victories, taking 3-13 in the second T20I and 4-30 in the fifth and final match. His eight wickets in the series at an average of 10.00 earned him the Player of the Series award.

Erasmus played a pivotal role in Namibia’s series victory in Oman. He amassed 145 runs and picked up eight wickets, including two Player of the Match performances. In the second match, he scored a controlled half-century, while in the decider, he blasted an eye-catching 64 not out in 29 balls and took two wickets to seal the series win.

Waseem, UAE’s opening batter, impressed in his side’s run to ACC Premier Cup triumph. He scored 269 runs at an average of 44.83, including a century in the final against Oman. His consistent performances throughout the tournament have earned him a nomination for the ICC Men’s Player of the Month award.

The winner of the award will be announced on May 10, 2024.

Basit Ali Challenges Babar Azam to Hit Three Consecutive Sixes

Basit Ali Challenges Babar Azam to Hit Three Consecutive Sixes

Former Pakistan cricketer Basit Ali has issued a bold challenge to current captain Babar Azam, demanding that he hit three consecutive sixes straight down the ground against top-tier teams. Ali has vowed to delete his YouTube channel if Azam succeeds.

“If Babar Azam hits three straight sixes against top teams, not against the likes of the USA or Ireland, but against top teams, I will shut down my YouTube channel,” Ali declared. “If he accepts this challenge, he should say that he accepts it. And if he can’t hit those sixes in the World Cup, then he shouldn’t open the batting.”

Azam, 29, was recently reappointed as the white-ball captain of the Pakistan men’s cricket team for the upcoming T20 World Cup 2024. The decision came after Azam had initially stepped down from the role in November, leading to Shaheen Shah Afridi’s appointment.

The PCB’s selection committee unanimously recommended Azam’s reinstatement, which was approved by PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi.

In the lead-up to the World Cup, Pakistan, having drawn a T20I series 2-2 against an inexperienced New Zealand, are set to face Ireland and England in the shortest format of the game over the coming weeks.

Ali’s challenge has sparked a debate among cricket fans and experts. Some believe that Azam is capable of meeting the challenge, while others question whether he has the consistency to hit three consecutive sixes against top-tier bowling attacks.

If Azam accepts the challenge and succeeds, it would be a major boost to his confidence and the team’s morale ahead of the World Cup. However, if he fails, it could raise questions about his ability to lead the team to success in the tournament.

Pakistan Players to Receive USD 100,000 Each for T20 World Cup Victory

Pakistan Players to Receive USD 100,000 Each for T20 World Cup Victory

Pakistan’s cricket board has announced a hefty incentive for its T20 World Cup squad, promising each player a staggering USD 100,000 if they emerge victorious in the tournament scheduled for June in the Americas. The announcement was made by PCB chief Mohsin Naqvi during a meeting with the team before their departure for the away T20 series against Ireland and England.

Naqvi emphasized that the prize money was secondary to the ultimate goal of lifting the trophy, expressing his confidence in the team’s ability to bring glory to Pakistan. “Chairman PCB Mohsin Naqvi announced to give 100,000 dollars prize to every player for winning the T20 World Cup,” the PCB posted on social media.

The PCB chief urged the players to focus solely on their performance and teamwork, assuring them that victory would follow. He also expressed his belief in the unity of the team and the exceptional abilities of fast-bowler Shaheen Shah Afridi. “The country has a lot of expectations from you. You have to fulfill them,” Naqvi told the players.

During his visit, Naqvi also recognized the achievements of wicketkeeper-batter Mohamad Rizwan and pacer Naseem Shah, presenting them with special shirts for reaching milestones of 3,000 T20 runs and 100 T20 wickets, respectively.

The announcement of the prize money has generated excitement among the players and fans alike, raising expectations for Pakistan’s performance in the upcoming T20 World Cup. The team will be looking to build on their recent successes, including their victory in the Asia Cup 2022, as they aim to bring home the coveted trophy.

Mohammad Amir Hungry to Prove Worth at T20 World Cup After Comeback

Mohammad Amir Hungry to Prove Worth at T20 World Cup After Comeback

Mohammad Amir, the enigmatic Pakistani pacer, is eager to prove his worth at the upcoming T20 World Cup after making a remarkable comeback to the national side. Despite a controversial past, Amir is determined to silence his critics and showcase his talent on the global stage.

Amir’s career has been marked by both brilliance and adversity. His involvement in the 2010 spot-fixing scandal led to a five-year ban from the International Cricket Council (ICC). However, upon his return in 2016, he played a pivotal role in Pakistan’s ICC Champions Trophy triumph in 2017.

Despite his past transgressions, Amir insists that he has paid his dues and moved on. “I have done penance for that big mistake,” he said. “I have lost nine years of my career, but I accept it as God’s will.”

Amir’s return to the national side has been met with mixed reactions. Some former cricketers have questioned his selection, citing his lack of recent domestic cricket experience. However, Amir maintains that his performances in the Pakistan Super League (PSL) justify his inclusion in the T20I squad.

“Imad and I have played and performed in the PSL besides appearing regularly in other leagues,” he said. “So what is wrong with selecting us for the T20 format?”

Amir’s determination to prove his worth is evident in his recent performances. In the second T20I against New Zealand last month, he took three wickets for 13 runs, demonstrating his ability to swing the ball and deceive batsmen.

As Pakistan prepares for the T20 World Cup, Amir is confident that he can make a significant contribution to the team’s success. With his experience, skill, and unwavering determination, he is poised to silence his critics and cement his legacy as one of Pakistan’s greatest bowlers.

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