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Tag: Azmatullah Omarzai

  • IPL 2025: Punjab Kings’ best playing XI and impact players

    IPL 2025: Punjab Kings’ best playing XI and impact players

    As anticipation builds for the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025, Punjab Kings (PBKS) are set to leave a strong impact in the the tournament with a renewed squad and well-thought-out leadership.

    With Shreyas Iyer at the helm, who has a wealth of experience from past seasons in the league, PBKS looks to end their title wait since their lone final participation in 2014. The franchise has spent big on a combination of experienced internationals and young guns, including dynamic all-rounders Glenn Maxwell and Azmatullah Omarzai, and young hopefuls like Prabhsimran Singh and Shashank Singh. Under the coaching of Ricky Ponting, the team aims to develop an integral unit to fight for the championship.

    Punjab Kings’ best playing XI for the IPL 2025

    1. Prabhsimran Singh 

    • Role: Opening wicketkeeper-batter
    • Description: Prabhsimran Singh is recognized for his strong batting and capability to score rapidly in the top-order. As a wicketkeeper, he enhances the batting depth while making sure that there is a consistent back-up available behind the wickets.
    • Impact: His batting at the top of the order will have significant repercussions for the success of the innings. A good beginning can take pressure off the middle order, which makes him an important player to observe.

    2. Josh Inglis

    • Role: Top-order batter
    • Description: An Australian explosive batter, Inglis adds power to the top order. He is capable of boosting the scoring rate and anchoring innings if needed.
    • Impact: His spin-playing skills will be crucial in Indian conditions, particularly during middle overs where games can be won or lost.

    3. Shreyas Iyer 

    • Role: Middle-order batter and captain
    • Description: Shreyas Iyer is an experienced player with plenty of experience playing in high-pressure games. His captaincy skills and batting talent make him a pillar of the PBKS squad.
    • Impact: As captain, Iyer’s tactical choice will decide the matches. His capability to anchor games while ramping up when the situation calls for it will be pivotal for PBKS’s victories.

    Also READ: IPL 2025 – Punjab Kings captain Shreyas Iyer discloses his preferred batting position for the franchise

    4. Glenn Maxwell 

    • Role: All-rounder
    • Description: With his destructive hitting and useful off-spin all-round, Maxwell is one of the most potent players of T20 cricket. His experience in international leagues brings insightful dimension to the team.
    • Impact: Maxwell can change games single-handedly with his batting; his ability to bowl crucial overs makes him an invaluable asset, especially in tight matches.

    5. Azmatullah Omarzai 

    • Role: All-rounder
    • Description: Omarzai is an emerging talent who can contribute with both bat and ball. He adds depth to the squad with his all-round capabilities.
    • Impact: His performances can provide crucial support in both innings, especially if top-order batsmen fail to deliver.

    6. Shashank Singh

    • Role: Lower middle-order batter
    • Description: A young emerging player, Shashank has a finishing role and can score big shots in the death overs.
    • Impact: His finishing role will prove crucial in closely fought games when runs have to be scored at a brisk rate towards the end of the innings.

    7. Suryansh Shedge 

    • Role: Lower middle-order batter
    • Description: Another young talent with potential in domestic leagues, Shedge should deliver when required.
    • Impact: His capacity to rotate strikes and form alliances will be crucial in steadying innings during tough periods.

    8. Marco Jansen

    • Role: All-rounder
    • Description: At 6 feet 9 inches, Jansen can get extra bounce from the pitches, which makes him a difficult bowler for batters. Apart from his bowling skills, he is not too shabby with the bat either, providing useful runs under pressure situations frequently.
    • Impact: Jansen’s ability to play in multiple roles brings immense depth to the Punjab team. With the ball, he can provide match-winning breakthroughs, particularly in death overs and on bouncy surfaces. As a batter, he offers explosive hitting possibilities in the lower order, which can turn the tide of close games.

    9. Harpreet Brar 

    • Role: Spin bowler
    • Description: Brar is famous for his left-arm orthodox spin, which proves useful on turning pitches. He introduces diversity into PBKS’s bowling arsenal.
    • Impact: His ability to take wickets during middle overs can shift momentum in favour of PBKS.

    10. Arshdeep Singh 

    • Role: Fast bowler
    • Description: Arshdeep has become one of the finest death bowlers in recent years because of his capability to deliver yorkers and slower balls in pressure situations.
    • Impact: His performances in do-or-die situations can win or lose matches, and hence he is an important player for PBKS.

    11. Yuzvendra Chahal 

    • Role: Spin bowler
    • Description: A seasoned spinner with wicket-taking skills and variations, Chahal brings experience and control to PBKS’s bowling department.
    • Impact: The ability of Chahal to take wickets at important moments in the match can have a major impact on the result.

    Also READ: Punjab Kings batter Shashank Singh reveals his all-time IPL XI; picks Yuzvendra Chahal as only spinner

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    TAGS: Arshdeep Singh Azmatullah Omarzai Glenn Maxwell Indian Premier League IPL 2025 Marco Jansen PBKS Punjab Kings Shreyas Iyer Yuzvendra Chahal

    CATEGORY: Featured IPL Punjab Kings Shreyas Iyer

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  • Azmatullah Omarzai’s arrival to Punjab Kings delayed ahead of IPL 2025

    Azmatullah Omarzai’s arrival to Punjab Kings delayed ahead of IPL 2025

    Punjab Kings (PBKS) are gearing up for the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 season with renewed hope and revamped leadership. However, their preparations have hit a minor snag as Afghanistan’s star all-rounder Azmatullah Omarzai’s arrival has been delayed due to personal reasons. Omarzai, one of the central figures in PBKS’ plans, is likely to arrive in the team on March 21, only a few days before their season-opener against the Gujarat Titans on March 25. Although this delay may raise some eyebrows, PBKS have sufficient depth in their team to handle the situation well.

    Azmatullah Omarzai: A rising star in international cricket

    Omarzai is no run-of-the-mill cricketer. At the age of only 24, he has already established himself on the global platform. In 2024, he became the first-ever Afghan cricketer to be awarded the coveted ICC ODI Player of the Year award. His all-round performances with bat and ball played a crucial role in Afghanistan’s victories, such as four successive ODI series wins against strong teams like South Africa and Bangladesh. With 417 runs at a rate of 52.12 and 17 wickets at an economy of 20.47 in 14 games last season, Omarzai solidified his position as one of cricket’s most promising young stars.

    PBKS acquired Omarzai for INR 2.4 crore in the IPL 2025 mega-auction, seeing his potential to be a game-changer. His capability to deliver in all aspects of the game makes him an asset for any team.

    The delay: A cause for concern?

    Omarzai’s arrival has been postponed due to personal reasons, leaving him with limited time to acclimatize before PBKS’ first match. While most of PBKS’ overseas players reported to the camp on March 17, Omarzai will join four days later, potentially impacting his preparation and integration into the team. Given his importance to PBKS’ strategy, this delay could pose challenges for head coach Ricky Ponting and captain Shreyas Iyer.

    However, PBKS have options to mitigate his absence during practice sessions. The squad boasts experienced all-rounders like Glenn Maxwell and Marco Jansen, who can step in if needed. Maxwell’s ability to deliver under pressure and Jansen’s versatility provide a safety net for PBKS as they await Omarzai’s arrival.

    Also READ: Punjab Kings batter Shashank Singh reveals his all-time IPL XI; picks Yuzvendra Chahal as only spinner

    Punjab Kings: A team seeking redemption

    Punjab Kings have been a long way from achieving steady success in the IPL. Despite possessing powerful lineups and big players season after season, they have not made it to the playoffs for a decade now (2015-2024). Their best years have been reaching semifinals in 2008 and reaching the runners-up position in 2014. This year, with the advent of new leadership—Ponting as head coach and Iyer as captain—PBKS are looking to rewrite its history.

    Iyer comes with huge expectations following his success in leading Kolkata Knight Riders to the IPL trophy last season. His batting and leadership abilities will be very important for PBKS this season. Also joining is Yuzvendra Chahal at INR 18 crore, who will provide fire power to their bowling unit.

    PBKS’ first match against Gujarat Titans on March 25 will determine the tone of their campaign. The team has already started intense training at Dharamsala’s Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium under Ponting’s supervision. The emphasis is on team bonding and strategy improvement before what looks like a competitive season.

    Also READ: Harsha Bhogle names his probable XI for Punjab Kings in IPL 2025

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  • Twitter reactions: Azmatullah Omarzai, Mohammad Nabi centuries in vain as Pathum Nissanka’s double ton guides Sri Lanka to victory over Afghanistan in the 1st ODI

    Twitter reactions: Azmatullah Omarzai, Mohammad Nabi centuries in vain as Pathum Nissanka’s double ton guides Sri Lanka to victory over Afghanistan in the 1st ODI

    In a riveting encounter at the Pallekele International Stadium, Sri Lanka showcased a batting spectacle on the back of Pathum Nissanka‘s spectacular double ton, overshadowing Azmatullah Omarzai and Mohammad Nabi‘s gritty centuries, to secure a commanding victory over Afghanistan by 42 runs in the first ODI of the three-match series.

    Sri Lanka’s dominant display

    The Sri Lankan innings unfolded as a masterclass in batting supremacy, spearheaded by Nissanka’s monumental double century. Nissanka’s breathtaking innings of 210 runs off 139 balls, adorned with 20 fours and 8 sixes, illuminated the stadium with sheer brilliance. Avishka Fernando‘s contribution of a solid 88 runs laid the foundation for a formidable total. Despite facing a couple of early setbacks, Sadeera Samarawickrama‘s aggressive 45 ensured Sri Lanka posted an imposing 381/3 in their alloted 50 overs.

    Pathum Nissanka’s historic achievement

    Nissanka’s double century not only anchored the Sri Lankan innings but also etched his name in the record books as the first Sri Lankan to achieve this milestone in ODIs. His innings was a perfect blend of elegance and power, dismantling the Afghan bowling attack with consummate ease.

    Afghanistan’s struggle in bowling

    The Afghanistan bowlers found it challenging to contain the Sri Lankan batters, with Fareed Malik being the only successful bowler, picking two wickets. The rest of the bowling unit, including Fazalhaq Farooqi, Omarzai and Gulbadin Naib, went wicketless, conceding significant runs.

    Afghanistan’s dismal start and fight from Azmatullah Omarzai, Mohammad Nabi

    In pursuit of a daunting target, Afghanistan faced early setbacks, finding themselves at 55/5 at one stage. However, a remarkable fightback ensued, spearheaded by Omarzai and Nabi. Omarzai played a sensational innings, scoring 149 runs off 115 balls, complemented by Nabi’s gritty 136 off 130 balls. The duo stitched a remarkable 242-run partnership for the sixth wicket, bringing Afghanistan back into the contest.

    Also READ: Sri Lanka vs Afghanistan, ODI series: Date, Match Time, Venue, Squads, Broadcast and Live Streaming details

    Sri Lanka’s bowling resilience

    Despite the Omarzai-Nabi partnership, Sri Lanka’s bowlers displayed resilience. Pramod Madushan was exceptional, claiming four crucial wickets for 75 runs. Dushmantha Chameera contributed with two wickets, ensuring the required run rate kept escalating for Afghanistan. In the end, Afghanistan fell short of the target, finishing at 339/6 in 50 overs.

    Player of the Match

    Nissanka’s historic double century rightfully earned him the Player of the Match accolade, steering Sri Lanka to a memorable victory. His exceptional innings showcased the class and talent that will be etched in the memories of cricket enthusiasts. The series promises more thrilling encounters as both teams gear up for the subsequent ODIs

    Here’s how Twitter reacted:

    Also READ: SL vs AFG 2024: Afghanistan’s best playing XI for the ODI series against Sri Lanka</h3



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  • SL vs AFG 2024, 1st ODI: Match Prediction, Dream11 Team, Fantasy Tips & Pitch Report | Sri Lanka vs Afghanistan 2024

    SL vs AFG 2024, 1st ODI: Match Prediction, Dream11 Team, Fantasy Tips & Pitch Report | Sri Lanka vs Afghanistan 2024

    Following the one-off test match, Sri Lanka and Afghanistan are set to engage in a three-game ODI series, commencing this Friday at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium in Pallekele.

    Kusal Mendis will take charge as the captain of the Sri Lankan side, while Hashmatullah Shahidi will lead the Afghan side. Riding the momentum from their triumph in the solitary Test match, Sri Lanka will aim to kick off the 50-over series with a victory. Meanwhile, Afghanistan, returning to the ODI format for the first time since the World Cup 2023 , will be eager to put up a strong fight against the hosts.

    Afghanistan tour of Sri Lanka 2024, 1st ODI:

    • Date and Time: February 9, 2024, 02:30 pm local time/ 10:00 am GMT/ 02:30 pm IST
    • Venue: Pallekele International Cricket Stadium, Pallekele

    Pallekele International Cricket Stadium Pitch report:

    The Pallekele Cricket Stadium is home to a batting-friendly pitch, well-known for its favorable conditions for batters. This surface doesn’t offer significant support to fast bowlers, creating an enticing setting for batters to showcase their skills and enjoy fruitful innings. Once batters find their groove and get accustomed to the conditions, they can take advantage of numerous opportunities to accumulate substantial runs. As the game progresses, the pitch tends to evolve, developing additional grip that plays into the hands of spin bowlers. Consequently, winning the toss often prompts captains to choose batting first, aiming to exploit the favorable conditions that the Pallekele pitch offers throughout the fixture.

    SL vs AFG Dream11 Prediction Picks:

    • Wicketkeepers: Kusal Mendis, Rahmanullah Gurbaz
    • Batters: Hashmatullah Shahidi, Ibrahim Zadran, Pathum Nissanka
    • All-rounders: Mohammad Nabi, Wanindu Hasaranga, Azmatullah Omarzai, Dunith Wellalage
    • Bowlers: Mujeeb Ur Rahman, Maheesh Theekshana

    SL vs AFG Dream11 Prediction Captain and Vice-Captain:

    • Choice 1: Wanindu Hasaranga (c), Azmatullah Omarzai (vc)
    • Choice 2: Kusal Mendis (c), Mohammad Nabi (vc)

    Also READ: SL vs AFG 2024: Afghanistan’s best playing XI for the ODI series against Sri Lanka

    SL vs AFG Dream11 Prediction Backups:

    Dushmantha Chameera, Dilshan Madushanka, Gulbadin Naib, Qais Ahmad

    SL vs AFG Dream11 Team for today’s match (Feb 9, 9:00 am GMT)

    SL vs AFG, Dream11 Team (Image Source: Screenshot Dream11)

    Squads:

    Sri Lanka: Kusal Mendis (c), Charith Asalanka (vc), Pathum Nissanka, Avishka Fernando, Sadeera Samarawickrama, Janith Liyanage, Wanindu Hasaranga, Maheesh Theekshana, Dushmantha Chameera, Dilshan Madushanka, Pramod Madushan, Sahan Arachchige, Akila Dananjaya, Dunith Wellalage, Chamika Karunaratne, Shevon Daniel

    Afghanistan: Hashmatullah Shahidi (c), Rahmat Shah (vc), Rahmanullah Gurbaz (wk), Ikram Alikhil (wk), Ibrahim Zadran, Riaz Hassan, Azmatullah Omarzai, Mohammad Nabi, Gulbadin Naib, Qais Ahmad, Noor Ahmad, Mujeeb Ur Rahman, Fazalhaq Farooqi, Naveed Zadran, Farid Ahmad

    Also READ: SL vs AFG 2024: Sri Lanka’s best XI for ODI series against Afghanistan

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  • Irfan Pathan picks his best five youngsters of the ODI World Cup 2023

    Irfan Pathan picks his best five youngsters of the ODI World Cup 2023

    As the group stage of the ICC ODI World Cup 2023 comes to a thrilling end, the tournament has not only witnessed the dominance of cricketing giants but has also showcased the emergence of young talents who have left an indelible mark on the cricketing world and won hearts of many veteran cricketers, fans and experts.

    Among all those lauding the exceptional young talent that took centre stage in ODI World Cup 2023 was former Indian cricketer Irfan Pathan, who recently shared his list of the top five youngsters who have shone in the ICC showpiece event.

    It is worth mentioning that Irfan has been an integral part of India’s many historic triumphs, including the 2007 T20 World Cup and the 2013 Champions Trophy. He represented the country in 173 international games, taking an impressive 301 wickets. The veteran all-rounder also contributed with the bat and has overall 2821 international runs to his name.

    Irfan Pathan unveils the list of his best five youngsters of the ODI World Cup 2023

    Irfan revealed his picks for the five best youngsters in the ODI World Cup by taking to his official X (formerly Twitter) handle following the conclusion of the tournament’s last league-stage match

    1) Rachin Ravindra – New Zealand’s young maestro

    Irfan’s first pick comes as no surprise, as he selected New Zealand’s rising star, Rachin Ravindra. The young Kiwi batter has etched his name in history by becoming the player with the most World Cup centuries before the age of 25. Ravindra’s three centuries in nine games, accumulating a total of 565 runs, have not only broken records but have also made him a vital asset for New Zealand in their World Cup campaign.

    2) Shreyas Iyer – Backbone of India’s middle-order

    Irfan’s second choice is India’s dynamic batter Shreyas Iyer. Despite a shaky start to the World Cup, Iyer showcased his resilience by bouncing back brilliantly. With 421 runs in nine games, including one century and three half-centuries, he has been a crucial pillar in India’s batting line-up. Iyer’s ability to adapt and perform under pressure has undoubtedly impressed the former Indian cricketer.

    Also READ: From Jos Buttler to Haris Rauf – Flop playing XI of the ODI World Cup 2023

    3) Marco Jansen – Proteas’ all-round dynamo

    The third spot on Irfan’s list goes to South Africa’s all-rounder, Marco Jansen. Making significant contributions in both the batting and bowling departments, Jansen amassed 157 runs in eight matches, complemented by a remarkable tally of 17 wickets. His all-round performance has been instrumental in South Africa’s journey through the tournament.

    4) Azmatullah Omarzai – Afghanistan’s emerging star

    Irfan’s fourth pick is Afghanistan’s versatile talent, Azmatullah Omarzai. Making a name for himself as the best asset for Afghanistan, Omarzai showcased his prowess in both batting and bowling. With 353 runs and seven wickets in the tournament, the young Afghan cricketer has proven to be a valuable asset for his team.

    5) Dilshan Madushanka – Sri Lanka’s bowling sensation

    Rounding off Irfan’s top five is Sri Lanka’s bowling sensation, Dilshan Madushanka. With an impressive tally of 21 wickets in nine games, Madushanka emerged as a standout bowler in the tournament. His ability to consistently trouble batters and take crucial wickets has made him a force to be reckoned with in the Sri Lankan line-up.

    Also READ: South Africa legend Herschelle Gibbs gearing up to meet Kannada superstar Kiccha Sudeep in India; actor confirms re-union



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