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Home / Tagged "PakistanCricket" (Page 35)

Tag: PakistanCricket

Babar Azam Set to Reclaim Pakistan White-Ball Captaincy

Babar Azam Set to Reclaim Pakistan White-Ball Captaincy

By March 29, 2024 0

Shaheen Shah Afridi’s brief tenure as Pakistan’s T20I captain is nearing its end, with Babar Azam set to reclaim the white-ball captaincy. PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi has offered the role to Babar, who has yet to accept.

Babar’s reluctance stems from his removal as captain across all formats following Pakistan’s disappointing 2023 ODI World Cup campaign. He has requested the PCB to appoint him captain in all three formats if he is to return.

Afridi’s leadership has come under scrutiny after Pakistan’s 4-1 T20I series loss to New Zealand and Lahore Qalandars’ dismal performance in the PSL, where they finished bottom of the table. However, Afridi may feel aggrieved, given Naqvi’s previous comments about Pakistan seeking a long-term captain.

Babar’s demand to be Test captain could put pressure on Shan Masood’s position as red-ball skipper. Masood has also led Pakistan for just one series, with the team losing all three games in Australia.

The captaincy saga highlights the PCB’s instability over the past 18 months. Multiple chief selectors and selection committees have been appointed, with Zaka Ashraf’s decision to sack Mickey Arthur and Grant Bradburn being the most high-profile.

The current selection committee consists of four selectors, with no chief selector. Decisions are made by vote, with 4-3 majorities carrying the day.

Pakistan’s next series, against New Zealand in April, is expected to be led by Babar. The PCB is still searching for a head coach, with Jason Gillespie and Gary Kirsten among the candidates being considered.

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Pakistan to Tour Ireland for Three T20Is in May

Pakistan to Tour Ireland for Three T20Is in May

By March 29, 2024 0

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has announced the schedule for Pakistan’s three-match T20I tour of Ireland. The matches will be played at Castle Avenue in Dublin on May 10, 12, and 14. This series is part of Pakistan’s 12-match preparation for the T20 World Cup in the USA and the West Indies.

Before heading to Ireland, Pakistan will host New Zealand for five T20Is in April, with the first match scheduled for April 18. The final game of the series will take place on April 27. Following the New Zealand series, Pakistan will embark on a tour of England, where they will play four T20Is starting May 22.

Pakistan’s last T20I outing was against New Zealand in January, where they played a five-match series in New Zealand. Ireland, on the other hand, recently faced Afghanistan in the UAE, losing both the ODI and T20I series. However, they secured a historic first Test win in Abu Dhabi.

The T20I series against Pakistan will be Ireland’s first international matches since their tour of the UAE. Pakistan was initially scheduled to play three T20Is against the Netherlands in May, but the series was postponed indefinitely due to scheduling conflicts and concerns about player workload.

The PCB is actively seeking an alternative window to reschedule the Netherlands series. The upcoming T20I series against Ireland will provide Pakistan with valuable preparation for the T20 World Cup. The team will be looking to fine-tune their skills and build momentum ahead of the global tournament.

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Shahid Afridi Defends Shaheen Shah Afridi Amidst Captaincy Rumors

Shahid Afridi Defends Shaheen Shah Afridi Amidst Captaincy Rumors

By March 27, 2024 0

Former Pakistan captain Shahid Afridi has vehemently defended his son-in-law, Shaheen Shah Afridi, amidst rumors of his potential removal as the national T20 captain. Afridi emphasized the importance of providing Shaheen with ample time to prove his worth.

“If you appoint someone as captain and entrust them with responsibility, you must also grant them time,” Afridi asserted. He criticized the tendency in Pakistani cricket to overhaul the system with every change in leadership. “Whoever takes charge believes their approach is the best for Pakistan cricket,” he lamented.

Afridi believes Shaheen deserves a fair chance to demonstrate his capabilities. “If you change the captain, it implies either the initial decision to appoint him was flawed or the current decision to replace him is misguided,” he reasoned.

Afridi played a pivotal role in Shaheen’s appointment as T20 captain after Pakistan’s disappointing performance at the 2023 ODI World Cup. Babar Azam was subsequently removed as white-ball captain, and he later resigned from the red-ball captaincy.

Afridi also advocated for the appointment of a high-profile foreign coach, such as Andy Flower, who possesses a proven track record. However, he stressed the importance of having a Pakistani support staff to foster the development of local talent.

Regarding the inclusion of Imad Wasim and Muhammad Amir in the national training camp, Afridi expressed reservations about their fitness. “It would have been prudent to assess their fitness first,” he said. However, he acknowledged that if they can endure the rigorous two-week camp in Kakul, they will emerge as exceptional players.

Amir, who recently returned from retirement, has also voiced his support for Shaheen as T20 captain. “Shaheen is not lacking in ability, and I believe he should be given time to prove himself,” he tweeted.

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PCB Narrows Head Coach Search to Former Australia-New Zealand Star Luke Ronchi

PCB Narrows Head Coach Search to Former Australia-New Zealand Star Luke Ronchi

By March 27, 2024 0

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has identified former Australia and New Zealand wicketkeeper-batter Luke Ronchi as its preferred candidate for the vacant head coach position. Extensive discussions have been held with the 42-year-old, who has also coached Pakistan Super League side Islamabad United.

The PCB’s search for a high-profile coach has been hampered by a lack of interest from potential candidates, many of whom are already committed to other leagues or have reservations about working in Pakistan. Ronchi, who retired from professional cricket in 2019, has since worked as a batting consultant and coach for the New Zealand team.

Sources within the PCB indicate that a contract with Ronchi is expected to be finalized in the coming days, ahead of Pakistan’s home T20 series against New Zealand in April. Ronchi has reportedly requested ironclad assurances that he will be given a sufficient time frame to work with the Pakistan team, regardless of the results.

The PCB has faced criticism in the past for its handling of foreign and local coaches, which may have contributed to the reluctance of some candidates to accept the position. PCB chief Mohsin Naqvi recently blamed the leakage of salary details and other aspects of a possible coaching contract with Shane Watson for the Australian’s withdrawal from discussions.

Despite the challenges, the PCB has begun its training camp at the Kakul army base in preparation for the T20 World Cup in June. Ronchi, who has the unique distinction of representing both Australia and New Zealand in international cricket, is seen as a potential solution to the PCB’s coaching woes.

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Pakistan Summons UAE's Usman Khan to Training Camp, Eyes T20 World Cup

Pakistan Summons UAE’s Usman Khan to Training Camp, Eyes T20 World Cup

By March 25, 2024 0

UAE’s top-order batter Usman Khan, born in Pakistan, has been summoned to Pakistan’s training camp with the army in Kakul. This move signals Pakistan’s eagerness to entice him to represent the country of his birth in international cricket. Usman joins 28 other players for the camp, which runs from March 26 to April 8.

Despite the PCB’s silence on Usman’s inclusion or any official change in his status as a UAE player, his selection for the camp is a clear indication of Pakistan’s intentions. In the recent PSL, Usman played as a registered overseas player, amassing the second-highest run tally. Prior to that, he participated in the ILT20 and Abu Dhabi T10 as a local player for the UAE.

In an interview with ESPNcricinfo earlier this month, Usman downplayed his chances of playing for Pakistan in the near future, expressing his determination to complete the residency period to qualify for the UAE. However, he still has 14 months to go before becoming eligible for the UAE.

Usman had previously cited the uncertainty in Pakistan and the ease of obtaining no-objection certificates from the Emirates Cricket Board as reasons for switching allegiances. However, since he has not yet played for the UAE, he can still return to Pakistan without any waiting period.

Given the rapid developments at the PCB, it is highly likely that Usman will be included in Pakistan’s squad for the upcoming five-match T20I series against New Zealand. This move is part of Pakistan’s preparations for the T20 World Cup in the West Indies and the USA in June.

The training camp also marks the return of two players who recently reversed their retirement decisions: Imad Wasim and Mohammad Amir. Imad’s success in the PSL and CPL makes him an attractive prospect for Pakistan, while Amir remains hopeful of representing his country again. Haris Rauf, who is recovering from a shoulder injury, has also been included after his central contract was reinstated by the PCB.

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Mohammad Amir Reverses Retirement, Available for T20 World Cup

Mohammad Amir Reverses Retirement, Available for T20 World Cup

By March 24, 2024 0

Mohammad Amir, the enigmatic Pakistani fast bowler, has made a sensational U-turn on his international retirement, declaring his availability for selection for the upcoming T20 World Cup. Amir’s last appearance for Pakistan was in a T20I against England in 2020, after which he abruptly announced his retirement from international cricket, citing mental torture.

However, in a recent social media post, the 31-year-old Amir expressed his renewed desire to represent his country. “I still dream to play for Pakistan!” he wrote. “After positive discussions with the PCB, I feel that I am needed and can still contribute to the team. I am available to be considered for the upcoming T20 World Cup.”

Amir’s decision comes after a successful stint in the 2024 Pakistan Super League (PSL), where he claimed 10 wickets in nine games for the Quetta Gladiators. His impressive performances have reignited hopes that he can still be a valuable asset to the Pakistani team.

Amir’s announcement follows a similar move by all-rounder Imad Wasim, who also reversed his retirement to make himself available for the T20 World Cup. The return of these experienced players is a major boost for Pakistan, who will be looking to make a strong impact in the tournament.

Amir’s return to international cricket is a testament to his resilience and determination. Despite the challenges he has faced, he remains committed to representing his country and contributing to its success. His experience and skill will be invaluable to Pakistan as they aim to lift the T20 World Cup trophy for the second time.

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Afridi's T20 Captaincy in Jeopardy as PCB Defers Decision

Afridi’s T20 Captaincy in Jeopardy as PCB Defers Decision

By March 24, 2024 0

Shaheen Shah Afridi’s tenure as Pakistan’s T20 captain hangs in the balance after Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi declined to confirm his continuation in the role. Naqvi stated that the newly appointed selection committee will determine the captaincy, leaving Afridi’s future uncertain.

Afridi’s appointment in November 2023 was met with skepticism after Pakistan’s 4-1 series loss to New Zealand under his leadership. His tactical decisions were questioned, and his PSL franchise Lahore Qalandars’ disastrous campaign further fueled speculation about his suitability as captain.

Naqvi’s comments suggest that Afridi’s performance during the upcoming fitness camp in Kakul will be crucial in determining his fate. The PCB’s decision to defer a decision until after the camp provides them with additional time to evaluate his fitness and leadership abilities.

Afridi’s potential removal as captain would mark the third T20 skipper change in five months for Pakistan. Babar Azam’s resignation in November paved the way for Afridi’s appointment, but his recent struggles have cast doubt on his long-term prospects.

Naqvi emphasized the PCB’s desire for a long-term solution, indicating that Afridi’s tenure could be cut short if he fails to meet expectations. The 23-year-old’s appointment was seen as an opportunity for him to develop as a leader, but his recent performances have raised concerns about his readiness for the role.

The PCB’s decision to recall Imad Wasim from international retirement was also addressed by Naqvi. He stated that the all-rounder’s return was deemed necessary to strengthen the team ahead of the T20 World Cup. Wasim has clarified that his return is only until the end of the tournament and that he does not expect a central contract.

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PCB Reinstates Haris Rauf's Central Contract After Acknowledgment of Error

PCB Reinstates Haris Rauf’s Central Contract After Acknowledgment of Error

By March 24, 2024 0

PCB Reinstates Haris Rauf’s Central Contract After Acknowledgment of Error

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has reinstated fast bowler Haris Rauf’s central contract after he acknowledged his mistake in writing. Rauf’s contract was terminated in February due to disciplinary reasons, as he declined to participate in the Test tour of Australia, citing workload and Big Bash commitments.

PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi clarified that there was a misunderstanding regarding Rauf’s decision. “After receiving his written reply, the board has decided to restore his central contract,” Naqvi stated.

In his response, Rauf expressed his unwavering commitment to playing for Pakistan and acknowledged that his viewpoint had been misunderstood. “I accept my mistake,” he wrote.

Naqvi emphasized the importance of Rauf’s fitness, noting that he sustained an injury during the Pakistan Super League (PSL). “We need to take proper care of him,” Naqvi said.

Rauf’s reinstatement comes as a relief for the PCB, which values his contributions to the national team. The fast bowler has been a key member of Pakistan’s bowling attack in recent years, showcasing his pace and wicket-taking abilities.

The PCB’s decision to reinstate Rauf’s contract is a testament to the board’s commitment to fostering a positive and productive relationship with its players. It also highlights the importance of open communication and the willingness to resolve misunderstandings.

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Imad Wasim Reverses Retirement, Available for Pakistan T20I Selection

Imad Wasim Reverses Retirement, Available for Pakistan T20I Selection

By March 23, 2024 0

Pakistan’s versatile all-rounder Imad Wasim has reversed his retirement from T20I cricket, making himself available for selection ahead of the 2024 ICC T20 World Cup.

In a statement on social media, Wasim expressed his delight at declaring his availability for Pakistan in the T20I format leading up to the World Cup. However, he clarified that his availability does not extend beyond the tournament, which begins on June 1.

Wasim’s return to the international fold comes after a successful 2024 Pakistan Super League (PSL) season, where he played a pivotal role in Islamabad United’s title triumph. His impressive performances, including a five-wicket haul in the final, sparked speculation about his potential return to the national team.

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) reportedly approached Wasim earlier this week to reconsider his retirement, and the all-rounder agreed without any conditions.

Wasim’s all-round abilities and his impressive record in the Caribbean Premier League (CPL) make him a valuable asset for Pakistan. In the CPL, he has amassed 61 wickets at an average of 18.88 and an economy rate of 6.20.

With the majority of the 2024 T20 World Cup scheduled to be played in the West Indies, Wasim’s experience in the CPL could prove invaluable for Pakistan.

While Wasim is not currently interested in a central contract, his availability until the T20 World Cup represents a mutually beneficial arrangement for all parties involved.

Wasim has represented Pakistan in 66 T20Is, scoring 486 runs at a strike rate of 131.70 and claiming 65 wickets with an economy of 6.26. His return to the national team is expected to bolster Pakistan’s chances of success in the upcoming T20 World Cup.

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New Zealand to Tour Pakistan for Five T20Is in April

New Zealand to Tour Pakistan for Five T20Is in April

By March 13, 2024 0

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has confirmed New Zealand’s tour of Pakistan for a five-match T20I series in April 2024. The Black Caps will arrive in Islamabad on April 14 and play three matches in Rawalpindi from April 18 to 21, followed by two more at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore on April 25 and 27.

This tour marks New Zealand’s third visit to Pakistan since December 2022, highlighting the growing camaraderie between the two cricketing nations. The visitors played two Tests and three ODIs in Pakistan at the turn of that year, before returning in April 2023 for a series of ten white-ball games.

The upcoming T20I series will serve as New Zealand’s final international engagement before the T20 World Cup in June. It will also be a crucial part of Pakistan’s preparations for the global event, with the hosts set to play a total of 12 T20Is ahead of the tournament.

However, the series clashes with the Indian Premier League (IPL), which means several of New Zealand’s leading T20 cricketers may be unavailable. Daryl Mitchell, Mitchell Santner, Kane Williamson, Rachin Ravindra, Trent Boult, Glenn Phillips, and Lockie Ferguson are all contracted by IPL teams this season.

Despite the potential absence of some key players, the PCB is confident that the series will be highly competitive. “This tour symbolises the deep-rooted ties and mutual respect that define the relationship between our two cricketing nations,” said Usman Wahla, the PCB’s director of international cricket.

The series will take place shortly after the holy month of Ramzan and the Eid holidays, with games scheduled to begin at 7pm local time. The final few games of the Pakistan Super League (PSL) have necessitated a late start because of Ramzan, taking place at 9pm.

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