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.

Gary Kirsten Appointed as Pakistan's White-Ball Head Coach

Gary Kirsten Appointed as Pakistan’s White-Ball Head Coach

World Cup-winning coach Gary Kirsten has been appointed as the white-ball head coach of the Pakistan men’s cricket team for a two-year term. Pakistan will participate in two T20 World Cups (2024 and 2026) and one Champions Trophy during Kirsten’s tenure.

Upon assuming his role, Kirsten outlined his vision for the team’s future, emphasizing the importance of winning major ICC tournaments. “If you can win one of those three ICC Events, that will be an amazing achievement on its own,” he said. “My job is to make sure that the team operates at its best, and if the team is operating at its best, we will always have a good chance of winning a trophy.”

However, former Pakistan player Ahmed Shehzad criticized Kirsten’s statements, questioning his understanding of the team’s dynamics. “Gary Kirsten is a renowned coach, but he will be fed information by those who will select the team,” Shehzad said. “He does not have a base in Lahore nor has he grown up in Pakistan to understand the nature of different players.”

Shehzad also expressed concern over Kirsten’s cautious approach, stating that “he is keeping himself in a safe position” by suggesting that Pakistan may not win the upcoming T20 World Cup but could perform better in the future. “This is not how a winner talks,” Shehzad added.

Despite Shehzad’s criticism, Kirsten remains confident in his ability to guide Pakistan to success. He has a proven track record of success, having coached India to the 2011 World Cup title and South Africa to the top of the ICC Test rankings.

Kirsten’s appointment is part of a broader restructuring of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), which has also seen the appointment of former captain Shahid Afridi as the chief selector. The PCB is hoping that these changes will help Pakistan regain its status as a cricketing powerhouse.

Gary Kirsten's Virtual Coaching Sparks Controversy in Pakistan

Gary Kirsten’s Virtual Coaching Sparks Controversy in Pakistan

Gary Kirsten, the former South African cricketer and renowned coach, has been appointed as the head coach of Pakistan’s white-ball team. However, his virtual interaction with the players has sparked controversy among fans.

Kirsten, who is currently in India as the batting coach of Gujarat Titans in the Indian Premier League (IPL), conducted a virtual meeting with the Pakistani players. This move has drawn criticism from fans, who question the effectiveness of online coaching.

“How do players learn from a coach through a laptop screen?” one fan asked. “Like Mickey Arthur, he will also do online coaching. PCB, is this cricket or is it a joke?” another fan commented.

Despite the criticism, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has defended Kirsten’s virtual coaching. A PCB official stated that if Gujarat Titans fail to qualify for the IPL playoffs, Kirsten will be available from the start of the T20 series against England.

Until Kirsten joins the team, Azhar Mahmood, the former Test all-rounder, will lead Pakistan on its tour of Ireland and England. Mahmood, who has been appointed as the assistant coach to Kirsten, will act as head coach in the interim.

The PCB has also appointed Muhammad Yousuf, the former Test batsman, as the batting coach, and Saeed Ajmal, the legendary spinner, as the spin bowling coach.

Kirsten’s appointment has been met with mixed reactions. Some fans believe that his experience and expertise will benefit the Pakistani team, while others are skeptical about the effectiveness of virtual coaching.

Amir Tired of Criticism Over Spot-Fixing Scandal

Amir Tired of Criticism Over Spot-Fixing Scandal

Mohammed Amir, the Pakistani fast bowler who served a five-year suspension and a four-year international hiatus for his involvement in the 2010 spot-fixing scandal, has expressed his frustration over the constant criticism he faces from former Pakistani stars.

Amir, who was only 19 at the time of the scandal, was banned along with fellow pacer Mohammed Asif and former skipper Salman Butt for deliberately over-stepping at the behest of Butt. All three were briefly jailed in the UK, where fixing is a crime.

“I have done penance for that big mistake,” Amir said. “I was banned from 2010 to 2015 and took retirement from 2020 to 2024. I have lost nine years, but I accept it all as God’s will and I have moved on.”

Amir made a successful return to international cricket in 2017 and was a key player in Pakistan’s Champions Trophy triumph over India. However, he retired from all forms of international cricket in 2020 after differences with then-PCB chief Ramiz Raja.

Raja and other Pakistani players have been vocal about the Pakistan cricket establishment giving Amir a second chance after his involvement in corruption. Amir has also faced criticism for being brought out of retirement and directly given entry into the Pakistan team without playing domestic cricket.

“There has been a lot of criticism by some people on me and Imad being selected without playing domestic cricket,” Amir said.

Amir countered the criticism by pointing out that he and Imad Wasim have regularly played in the Pakistan Super League (PSL), which he considers a domestic tournament.

“I ask them what is Pakistan’s premier domestic T20 event? The PSL. And both of us (Imad) have played and performed in the PSL besides appearing regularly in other leagues. So what is wrong with selecting us for the T20 format?”

Amir emphasized that if the selectors had picked him and Imad for Tests or ODIs, it would have been wrong.

“I myself have always said players must get experience in domestic first class and other events to be considered for the national team. But in our case, we are only playing T20 cricket and our form and fitness is there for all to see.”

Amir also revealed that former Test captain Muhammad Hafeez had called him last year to inquire about his willingness to come out of retirement.

“It was nice of him (he was director of Pakistan team) and he said I could still play for Pakistan, but I told him that given the uncertainty in the cricket board and team, I would prefer to remain out of international cricket.”

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