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Tag: Pakistan

  • Mohsin Naqvi ordered to take strict action against Mohammad Rizwan for ‘insulting PCB’

    Mohsin Naqvi ordered to take strict action against Mohammad Rizwan for ‘insulting PCB’

    Former Pakistan cricketer Sikander Bakht lashed out at captain Mohammad Rizwan for not playing in the National T20 Cup. He said that the keeper-batter gets 60 lahks per month and he should play in the tournaments the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is organising.

    Pakistan ODI captain Mohammad Rizwan has come under massive scanner over the last few months. The keeper-batter failed both as a skipper as well as the batter in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, where Men in Green faced group stage exit and lost all the games.

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    Mohammad Rizwan denies playing in National T20 Cup, features in club cricket

    Rizwan failed to score big in the entire tournament and also, as a leader, wasn’t active. Following his poor performances in the ODIs of late, the batter was dropped from the T20I Team for the New Zealand series along with some other senior players.

    Rizwan then didn’t feature in the National T20 Cup, which is organized by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), and instead has been playing club cricket. This move has been criticised a lot by the former stars and the latest to join the bandwagon is Sikander Bakht.

    They get 60 lakh per month, so they must play in the tournaments the PCB is organising – Sikander Bakht on

    Sikander Bakht said that Mohammad Rizwan is getting 60 lakhs per month and he should’ve played in the National T20 Cup. He added that the PCB should make sure that players are available for the competition, adding that the ODI captain is insulting the board. Speaking on Geo News, he said:

    “They are employees of the Pakistan Cricket Board. They get 60 lakh per month, so they must play in the tournaments the PCB is organising. The buck stops with PCB. They have to make sure that players are available. If you are playing club cricket and not playing the tournament the board has organised, it means you are insulting the PCB.”

    Stop their central contracts – Sikander Bakht on Mohammad Rizwan on playing National T20 Cup

    Sikander Bakht added that PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi needs to be strict on these players. He urged him to cancel the central contracts of the players if they didn’t agree to play. He explained:

    “This shouldn’t happen. Mohsin Naqvi needs to be strict. He comes off as a polite person, but he needs to change his ways. You have to ask what is happening. Be strict. Stop their central contracts.”

    Mohammad Rizwan will be next seen in action when Pakistan takes on New Zealand in the three-match ODI series. The skipper will be keen to make a strong comeback after scoring just 49 runs in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025.

    Pakistan are currently playing the T20I series against New Zealand. Under the leadership of Salman Agha, they lost the first two games of the series.

    Also read: Watch: Haris Rauf EXPLODES at presser after loss to NZ, defends young Pakistan players

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  • NZ vs PAK Head-to-Head Records- 2nd T20I, Pakistan tour of New Zealand 2025

    NZ vs PAK Head-to-Head Records- 2nd T20I, Pakistan tour of New Zealand 2025

    High-flying New Zealand will be confident of beating Pakistan once again when both teams take on each other in the second T20I of the ongoing five-match series. The match is scheduled to be played on Tuesday (March 18) at the University Oval, Dunedin.

    Even though Pakistan has a better head-to-head record against New Zealand in T20Is, it did not matter much. New Zealand completely outplayed Pakistan to take the lead in the series.

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    Bowling first, New Zealand bowled out the tourists for a paltry total of 91 runs. Kyle Jamieson gave New Zealand a stunning start and finished the game with figures of 3 for 8. He was also adjudged Player of the Match. Jacob Duffy impressed with the ball too, taking 4 for 14.

    For Pakistan, only three batters managed to reach double-digit figures with Khushdil Shah (32) being the top run-scorer.

    With the bat, New Zealand chased down the total in just 10.1 overs. With both teams now set for the second T20I, we are taking a look at their head-to-head record in the shortest format of the game.

    NZ vs PAK Head-to-Head Records- 2nd T20I, Pakistan tour of New Zealand 2025:

    Stats Matches NZ won PAK won Draw Tied NR
    Overall 45 20 23 0 0 2
    At University Oval, Dunedin 1 1 0 0 0 0
    In the last 5 matches 5 3 2 0 0 0
    In ongoing series 1 1 0 0 0 0
    In New Zealand 21 13 8 0 0 0
    In 2025 1 1 0 0 0 0

    NZ vs PAK Head-to-Head Records: Key Statistics

    According to NZ vs PAK head-to-head records in T20Is, both teams have played 45 games against each other so far. Out of those 45 games, Pakistan have won 23 games while New Zealand have won 20. The two other games ended with no result.

    While the overall record is on Pakistan’s side, New Zealand have a better record at home. Out of the 21 games played between the two teams in New Zealand, the home side has won 13 while Pakistan have won eight.

    Both the teams have only played one T20I at the University Oval in Dunedin, the venue for the upcoming game. New Zealand won that game by 45 runs and will be fancying their chances of winning the second T20I too.

    NZ vs PAK Head-to-Head Records: Last 5 matches

    Out of the last five T20Is between the two teams, New Zealand have won three while Pakistan have won two.

    Result of last 5 NZ vs PAK T20Is:

    • New Zealand won by 9 wickets, 16 March 2025
    • Pakistan won by 9 runs, 27 April 2024
    • New Zealand won by 4 runs, 25 April 2024
    • New Zealand won by 7 wickets, 21 April 2024
    • Pakistan won by 7 wickets, 20 April 2024

    NZ vs PAK Head-to-Head Records: Best performers

    The record for most runs in NZ vs PAK T20Is is held by former Pakistan captain Babar Azam. The former world number one T20I batsman has scored 880 runs in 26 games against New Zealand so far. He has hit one century and eight fifties against the Black Caps in the shortest format of the game.

    For New Zealand, their former captain Kane Williamson has scored the most runs against Pakistan in T20Is. Williamson has played 21 T20Is against Pakistan and has scored 667 runs with the help of six half-centuries.

    Among the bowlers, the record for taking the most wickets in NZ vs PAK T20Is belongs to New Zealand’s Tim Southee. The former New Zealand pace spearhead picked up 38 wickets in 23 T20Is against Pakistan. For Pakistan, the record is held by Shaheen Afridi who has taken 33 wickets in 22 games.

    Conclusion:

    With form on their side, New Zealand will be looking to win the upcoming game as well and improve their head-to-head record against Pakistan in T20Is.

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  • NZ vs PAK Weather Report And Pitch Report Of Dunedin- 2nd T20I, Pakistan tour of New Zealand 2025

    NZ vs PAK Weather Report And Pitch Report Of Dunedin- 2nd T20I, Pakistan tour of New Zealand 2025

    New Zealand will be eyeing another win when they take on Pakistan in the second game of the ongoing five-T20I series. The match is scheduled to be played at the University Oval in Dunedin on Tuesday (March 18).

    BlackCaps have taken the lead in the series after beating Pakistan by nine wickets in the series opener. New Zealand completely outplayed Pakistan to go 1-0 up in the series.

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    Asked to bat first, Pakistan’s batters looked completely clueless in the swinging conditions. Both of their openers departed for a duck and the visitors just could not recover after that. They were eventually bowled out for just 91 runs with only three batsmen reaching double-digit figures.

    Of those three batters, only Khushdil Shah (32) managed to cross the 20-run mark. For New Zealand, Kyle Jamieson and Jacob Duffy were the pick of the bowlers. Jamieson picked up 3 wickets for just 8 runs while Duffy claimed 4 for 14.

    In reply, New Zealand chased down the total in just 10.1 overs with Tim Seifert smashing 44 runs. With both the teams now set for the second T20I, we are taking a look at the weather and pitch report.

    NZ vs PAK Weather Report And Pitch Report Of Dunedin- 2nd T20I, Pakistan tour of New Zealand 2025:

    NZ vs PAK, weather report of Dunedin:

    Rain will be a big threat during the game in Dunedin on Tuesday. Weather forecast has predicted a rainy day and it would not be surprising if the second NZ vs PAK T20I loses a considerable number of overs. The temperature is likely to hover between 10-13 degrees Celsius throughout the game.

    NZ vs PAK Pitch report:

    Here are the stats of the University Oval, Dunedin:

    Matches Played 3
    Matches Won by Home Side 3 (100.00%)
    Matches Won by Touring Side 0
    Matches Won by Neutral Side 0 (0.00%)
    Matches Won Batting First 2 (66.67%)
    Matches Won Batting Second 1 (33.33%)
    Matches Won Winning Toss 1 (33.33%)
    Matches Won Losing Toss 2 (66.67%)
    Matches Tied 0 (0.00%)
    Matches with No Result 0 (0.00%)
    Highest Team Innings 224/7 (New Zealand)
    Lowest Team Innings 141 (Sri Lanka)
    Highest Run Chase Achieved 146/1 (New Zealand)
    Average Runs per Wicket 28.1
    Average Runs per Over 9.89
    Average Score Batting First 195

    The venue for the second NZ vs PAK T20I, the University Oval has hosted only three T20Is so far. Although it is still very early to judge the ground early signs show that it is a high-scoring venue.

    In the first game played at the venue, both New Zealand and Australia had scored more than 200 runs. New Zealand chased down 142 runs against Sri Lanka in less than 15 overs in the 2nd match.

    The third and last T20I at the venue was played between New Zealand and Pakistan and took place last year. In that game, New Zealand scored 224/7 before Pakistan scored 179/7. So, the upcoming NZ vs PAK match is also expected to be a high-scoring game.

    Conclusion:

    With form on their side, New Zealand will be looking to win the second T20I as well to maintain their winning streak at the University Oval. They have won all three T20Is at the venue so far and will be confident of winning the upcoming game as well.

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  • Here’s the reason why Aamer Jamal was fined PKR 1.4 million by PCB

    Here’s the reason why Aamer Jamal was fined PKR 1.4 million by PCB

    The world of cricket often witnesses moments of brilliance, but it is not immune to controversies. Recently, Pakistan all-rounder Aamer Jamal found himself at the center of a storm after being fined a staggering PKR 1.4 million by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB). The incident has sparked debates about the intersection of sports and politics, raising questions about discipline and freedom of expression within the game.

    The incident: A political statement on the field

    Jamal, a talented all-rounder, was fined during Pakistan’s home Test series against England in October 2024. The controversy arose when Jamal was spotted wearing a cap with “804” written on it during an interview. This seemingly innocuous number carried significant political connotations—it referred to the prisoner identification number of Imran Khan, Pakistan’s former Prime Minister and cricket legend, who is currently incarcerated in Adiala Jail in Rawalpindi.

    Supporters of Imran have often used “804” as a symbol of solidarity, chanting slogans such as “Tera Yaar, Mera Yaar Qaidi Number 804” (Your friend, my friend, prisoner number 804). By displaying this number on his cap, Jamal appeared to express his support for Imran, a move that did not sit well with the PCB.

    PCB’s stance: Politics has no place in cricket

    The PCB has long maintained that cricket should remain apolitical. In response to Jamal’s actions, the board imposed a hefty fine of PKR 1.4 million—the largest among recent disciplinary measures against Pakistani players. The PCB justified its decision by stating that political expressions on the field violate its code of conduct and undermine the sport’s integrity.

    This fine was part of a broader crackdown on disciplinary breaches by Pakistani cricketers. Between the England series and the South Africa tour, the PCB imposed fines totaling PKR 3.3 million for various infractions, including curfew violations and tardiness. However, Jamal’s case stood out due to its political undertones.

    Also READ: NZ vs PAK 2025: Pakistan’s best playing XI for the T20I series against New Zealand

    Repercussions for Aamer Jamal

    The consequences for Jamal extended beyond financial penalties. Reports suggest that his political expression may have influenced his exclusion from Pakistan’s squad for the recently ended ICC Champions Trophy 2025. This decision reflects the PCB’s firm stance against mixing politics with cricket.

    Other disciplinary actions: A string of fines

    Jamal was not the only player penalized during this period. Several other cricketers faced fines for breaching team protocols. Salman Ali Agha, Saim Ayub, and Abdullah Shafique were fined PKR 500,000 each for returning late to their hotel during Pakistan’s white-ball tour of Australia. Whereas, Sufiyan Muqeem, Abbas Afridi, and Usman Khan were fined $200 each for curfew violations during the South Africa series. These incidents highlight growing concerns about discipline within Pakistan’s cricket team, especially following their disappointing early exit from the ICC Champions Trophy 2025.

    Jamal’s fine has reignited debates about whether athletes should be allowed to express political views while representing their country. Supporters argue that players are entitled to freedom of expression, especially when addressing issues, they deeply care about. Critics, however, contend that such actions can polarize fans and distract from the game.

    The PCB’s decision underscores its commitment to maintaining discipline and neutrality in cricket. By penalizing Jamal and other players, the board aims to set a precedent that ensures players focus solely on their performance on the field.

    Also READ: Mickey Arthur lambasts Pakistan cricket’s chaos while backing Jason Gillespie in feud with Aaqib Javed

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  • ‘Nobody has achieved in ODIs what Babar Azam has’ – Imad Wasim blames Aaqib Javed for career destruction

    ‘Nobody has achieved in ODIs what Babar Azam has’ – Imad Wasim blames Aaqib Javed for career destruction

    Former Pakistan cricketer Imad Wasim talked about Babar Azam being asked to open the innings in the ODIs. He lashed out at the critics, saying that what the right-hander has achieved, nobody has done that and he has the best skills in Pakistan.

    Pakistan National Cricket Team batter Babar Azam has come under a massive scanner for his poor form. The right-hander has looked torrid with the bat and is yet to score big runs, which has seen many questioning his place in the team across the formats.

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    Ahead of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, Babar Azam was given the new role to open the innings. The right-hander started the new role during the tri-series against South Africa and New Zealand but he couldn’t set the stage on fire in the entire series.

    Babar Azam was dropped from the Pakistan team in the T20I format

    It was expected that Babar would then come up with a better performance in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. But that, too, wasn’t the case as he failed in the tournament. The batter hit fifty in the game against New Zealand but was criticized a lot for batting slow. Then, against India, he again bagged a low score.

    Following his poor show in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, Babar Azam then was dropped from the Pakistan team in the T20I format. He has been named in just the ODI squad for the New Zealand tour but there is no clarity about his batting role.

    Nobody has got the skills that Babar Azam has got in one-day cricket – Imad Wasim

    While talking about Babar, Imad Wasim said that the batter’s skills in the ODIs are unmatched. He talked about his changed batting position, saying that he was the only player who used to bat 40 overs, and his position was changed. Speaking to the media, he said:

    “Now you are saying, I was watching the criticism, now you are saying that you should drop Babar Azam from one-day cricket, which is going on in our country. Look, nobody has got the skills that Babar Azam has got in one-day cricket. I am specifically talking about one-day cricket. Whatever he has achieved, nobody has achieved so far.

    “The problem is, you had only one player who used to play 40 overs. You made him open, and you brought in another type of players around him. You keep him at no. 3. You don’t have openers in the whole of Pakistan.”

    We are just not moving in the right direction – Imad Wasim

    Imad Wasim added that he is surprised with the logic that is being used by the Pakistan management. He pointed out every new appointment in the management is making new decisions, adding that they are not moving in the right direction. He explained:

    “I mean, I am surprised that logically, I cannot understand them. Whoever comes on the chair, he changes. Whoever comes, he makes things very different. So, we are just not moving in the right direction. We are just moving backwards. Eventually, I am afraid that if you keep playing like this, you will not qualify for the next Champions Trophy.”

    Also read: Varun Chakravarthy’s Test selection on the cards? Spinner makes huge revelation

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  • NZ vs PAK 2025, T20I series: Broadcast & Live Streaming details – When and where to watch in India, Pakistan, New Zealand, UK and other countries

    NZ vs PAK 2025, T20I series: Broadcast & Live Streaming details – When and where to watch in India, Pakistan, New Zealand, UK and other countries

    The cricketing world is abuzz as Pakistan, under the leadership of Salman Ali Agha, prepare to face Michael Bracewell’s New Zealand in a five-match T20I series. The much-anticipated series kicks off on Sunday, March 16, at the picturesque Hagley Oval in Christchurch. With fresh faces and revamped squads, both teams are set to bring an exciting brand of cricket to fans worldwide.

    A fresh start for Pakistan: New leadership and bold choices

    The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has made significant changes to its T20I setup. Following a disappointing exit from the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, the PCB decided to drop experienced players Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan, popularly known as “RizBar,” from the T20I squad. Criticized for their conservative batting during powerplays, their omission marks a shift toward a more aggressive approach. Salman has been appointed captain, with Shadab Khan as vice-captain, signaling a new era for Pakistan’s white-ball cricket.

    The squad also includes three uncapped players—Abdul Samad, Hasan Nawaz, and Mohammad Ali—who earned their spots through stellar performances in domestic tournaments. This bold selection strategy reflects Pakistan’s focus on grooming young talent ahead of major tournaments like the Asia Cup 2025 and ICC T20 World Cup 2026.

    New Zealand’s squad: A mix of experience and opportunity

    New Zealand enter the series without several key players such as Devon Conway, Mitchell Santner, and Glenn Phillips, who are committed to IPL duties. In their absence, Bracewell leads a squad featuring a mix of established names and returning stars. Notably, Kyle Jamieson will feature in the first three games before making way for Matt Henry and Zak Foulkes in the latter matches.

    The Black Caps’ squad includes exciting talents like Finn Allen and Daryl Mitchell alongside seasoned campaigners Ish Sodhi and Jimmy Neesham. This blend of youth and experience positions New Zealand as a formidable opponent despite the absence of some regulars.

    Also READ: NZ vs PAK 2025: Pakistan’s best playing XI for the T20I series against New Zealand

    Pakistan tour of New Zealand 2025 Schedule

    The five-match T20I series will be played across some of New Zealand’s most iconic cricket grounds:

    • March 16: 1st T20I at Hagley Oval, Christchurch
    • March 18: 2nd T20I at University Oval, Dunedin
    • March 21: 3rd T20I at Eden Park, Auckland
    • March 23: 4th T20I at Bay Oval, Mount Maunganui
    • March 26: 5th T20I at Sky Stadium, Wellington

    Following the T20Is, the teams will compete in a three-match ODI series from March 29 to April 5.

    Squads

    New Zealand: Michael Bracewell (c), Finn Allen, Mark Chapman, Jacob Duffy, Zak Foulkes (games 4 and 5 only), Mitch Hay, Matt Henry (games 4 and 5 only), Kyle Jamieson (games 1, 2 and 3 only), Daryl Mitchell, Jimmy Neesham, Will O’Rourke (games 1, 2 and 3 only), Tim Robinson, Ben Sears, Tim Seifert, Ish Sodhi

    Pakistan: Salman Ali Agha (captain), Shadab Khan (vice-captain), Abdul Samad, Abrar Ahmed, Haris Rauf, Hasan Nawaz, Jahandad Khan, Khushdil Shah, Mohammad Abbas Afridi, Mohammad Ali, Mohammad Haris, Muhammad Irfan Khan, Omair Bin Yousaf, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Sufyan Moqim and Usman Khan

    Broadcast and Live streaming details

    • India: Sony Sports Network, Sony Liv, Fancode
    • New Zealand: TVNZ 1, TVNZ+
    • Pakistan: Ten Sports
    • Australia: Kayo Sports
    • UK: TNT
    • South Africa: SuperSport Grandstand

    Also READ: NZ vs PAK 2025: New Zealand’s best playing XI for the T20I series against Pakistan

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  • NZ vs PAK 2025: Pakistan’s best playing XI for the T20I series against New Zealand

    NZ vs PAK 2025: Pakistan’s best playing XI for the T20I series against New Zealand

    As the cricket world gears up for another thrilling series, Pakistan are set to face New Zealand in a five-match T20I series starting on March 16, 2025. The series opener will be held at the historic Hagley Oval in Christchurch, a venue known for its rich cricketing heritage and challenging conditions. Pakistan, under the leadership of Salman Ali Agha, will be looking to make a strong statement after a disappointing ICC Champions Trophy 2025 campaign.

    With several key players benched, including Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan, Pakistan have made bold decisions to revamp their line-up.

    A new era for Pakistan cricket

    Pakistan’s decision to bench Babar and Rizwan is a clear indication of their intent to experiment and build towards the future. This series against New Zealand serves as a crucial warm-up for the T20 World Cup next year, and Pakistan will be keen to test their depth and talent. The inclusion of new faces like Abdul Samad and Hasan Nawaz adds excitement and unpredictability to the team.

    Challenges for Pakistan

    Pakistan also face a tough challenge against a New Zealand side that, despite being a second-string squad, is well-versed in home conditions. Michael Bracewell will lead the Kiwis, who have included experienced players like Ish Sodhi and Ben Sears. The absence of key players due to IPL commitments means New Zealand will rely on their depth and adaptability.

    Also READ: Mickey Arthur lambasts Pakistan cricket’s chaos while backing Jason Gillespie in feud with Aaqib Javed

    Pakistan’s top-choice playing XI for the T20I series against New Zealand

    1. Mohammad Haris
    • Role: Opening batter
    • Expectations: Provide explosive starts and set the tone for the innings.
    • Strengths: Haris is known for his aggressive batting style, which can quickly change the momentum of the game. His ability to hit big shots early on can put pressure on the opposition bowlers and set a strong foundation for the rest of the batting lineup.
    1. Omair Bin Yousaf
    • Role: Opening batter
    • Expectations: Offer stability alongside Haris and build a strong foundation.
    • Strengths: Omair can bring a mix of aggression and defensive solidity, making him an ideal partner for Haris. His ability to rotate the strike and play smart cricket can help stabilize the innings if Haris falls early.
    1. Abdul Samad
    • Role: Top-order batter
    • Expectations: Play a crucial role in stabilizing the innings and accelerating when needed.
    • Strengths: Abdul Samad is a talented young batter with the ability to play big shots and rotate the strike effectively. His presence in the middle order can help maintain the momentum of the innings and provide a solid platform for the finishers.
    1. Khushdil Shah
    • Role: Middle-order batter
    • Expectations: Provide big-hitting ability in the middle order and finish games.
    • Strengths: Khushdil is known for his powerful hitting, which makes him a game-changer in the latter stages of the innings. His ability to clear the boundary with ease can help Pakistan accelerate and post a competitive total.
    1. Salman Ali Agha (c)
    • Role: All-rounder/Captain
    • Expectations: Lead from the front with his batting and strategic decisions.
    • Strengths: As captain, Salman needs to balance his batting responsibilities with leadership duties. He must ensure the team stays focused and motivated, while also contributing with the bat to stabilize the innings if needed.
    1. Shadab Khan (vc)
    • Role: All-rounder
    • Expectations: Contribute with both bat and ball, providing depth to the batting lineup and wicket-taking options.
    • Strengths: Shadab is a versatile player who can bat aggressively and bowl effectively. His ability to hit big shots in the lower order and pick up crucial wickets with his leg-spin makes him a valuable asset in T20 cricket.
    1. Jahandad Khan
    • Role: All-rounder
    • Expectations: Offer batting depth and provide support with his bowling.
    • Strengths: Jahandad can bat in the middle order and contribute with his left-arm medium-fast bowling, adding depth to the team. His ability to bat and bowl makes him a useful asset in the lower order.
    1. Mohammad Abbas Afridi
    • Role: All-rounder
    • Expectations: Offer batting depth and provide support with his bowling.
    • Strengths: Afridi’s ability to bat and bowl makes him a useful asset in the lower order. He can provide additional batting depth and support the main bowlers by picking up wickets or controlling the run rate.
    1. Shaheen Shah Afridi
    • Role: Fast bowler
    • Expectations: Take early wickets and set the tone for the bowling attack.
    • Strengths: Shaheen is one of Pakistan’s premier fast bowlers, known for his ability to swing the ball and pick up crucial wickets. His presence at the top of the bowling attack can put pressure on the opposition from the start.
    1. Haris Rauf
    • Role: Fast bowler
    • Expectations: Deliver under pressure and provide wicket-taking options in the middle overs.
    • Strengths: Haris is a skilled pacer who can bowl at high speeds and trouble batters with his variations. His ability to take wickets in the middle overs can disrupt the opposition’s momentum.
    1. Abrar Ahmed
    • Role: Spinner
    • Expectations: Trouble batters with his spin variations and control.
    • Strengths: Abrar’s ability to spin the ball both ways makes him a challenging bowler to face, especially in T20 conditions. His control and variations can help Pakistan restrict the opposition’s scoring rate.

    Also READ: New Zealand announces squad for the T20I series against Pakistan; appoints a new captain

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  • “Pakistan Cricket is a jungle” – Mickey Arthur after Jason Gillespie’s expose on Aaqib Javed

    “Pakistan Cricket is a jungle” – Mickey Arthur after Jason Gillespie’s expose on Aaqib Javed

    Former Pakistan coach Mickey Arthur shared his take on the feud between Aaqib Javed and Jason Gillespie, which has been hogging the headlines for a while. He said that Pakistan Cricket shot itself in the foot and its worst enemy.

    Pakistan National Cricket Team was hit by another fuss after they had a horrendous outing in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. The Mohammad Rizwan-led side, despite being the host of the tournament, failed to win a single game and faced a group-stage exit after losing to New Zealand and India.

    Jason Gillespie called Aaqib Javed a clown

    Following the poor outing in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, head coach Aaqib Javed blamed the change in management as a reason behind Pakistan’s poor performances. He pointed out that the PCB changed 16 coaches and 26 selectors, which hampered the confidence of the team.

    However, Jason Gillespie, who was the red-ball coach of Pakistan before Aaqib Javed, called the current coach clown, said that he was undermining him and Gary Kirsten (white-ball coach of Pakistan before Javed) behind the scenes to be the coach in all formats.

    Sharing his take on the same, Mickey Arthur said that Pakistan Cricket is its enemy. He pointed out that the country has wonderful talent, and when Gary Kirsten and Jason Gillespie were appointed as coaches, he thought they were on the right track. Speaking to Talksport, he said:

    “I love this quote to be brutally honest. Jason Gillespie is a wonderful coach and a wonderful man. Pakistan cricket just continues to shoot itself in the foot. It is its worst enemy. There are so many good players; they’ve got the resources now; there’s so much young talent.

    “They have incredible skill. And yet it’s still so chaotic. It’s really disappointing to see. I thought when they signed Gillespie and Kirsten, they had gone down exactly the right route, and they had got some really good players. Because ultimately it’s the players that lose out.”

    It’s a jungle out there and I feel desperately sorry for Gary and Jason – Mickey Arthur on Pakistan cricket

    Mickey Arthur pointed out that Pakistan has good coaches but admitted that running agendas against each other is something that is putting them on the back. He added that Pakistan Cricket is a jungle and said that he has no doubt that Jason Gillespie and Gary Kirsten were undermined. He elaborated:

    “They had got some really good coaches who could take them forward. But then that machine that works in Pakistan, that just keeps undermining and agendas are driven in the media.

    “It’s a jungle out there and I feel desperately sorry for Gary and Jason. There’s no doubt in my mind that they were undermined because it’s to the detriment of the players and ultimately to the detriment of Pakistan cricket.”

    Also read: Rohit Sharma’s Test career over as Gautam Gambhir takes a special flight to find his replacement

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  • Mohsin Naqvi, PCB officials boycotted Champions Trophy final presentation ceremony? Truth revealed

    Mohsin Naqvi, PCB officials boycotted Champions Trophy final presentation ceremony? Truth revealed

    The International Cricket Council (ICC) is facing criticism over the absence of Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) officials from the Champions Trophy 2025 presentation ceremony. No PCB official was seen during the trophy presentation in Dubai on Sunday, March 9, despite Pakistan being the host nation.

    Pakistan was the official host nation for the event, but India played all their matches, including the final, in Dubai. India won the title with a four-wicket victory over New Zealand. Notably, the final was scheduled to be held in Lahore, but the match was played in Dubai since India reached the final.

    PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi Not Present at Final Presentation Ceremony

    According to a Geo News report, PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi was expected to attend but could not travel to Dubai due to health reasons.

    However, PCB’s Chief Operating Officer (COO) and Tournament Director Sumair Ahmed Syed was present at the final in Dubai, but the ICC did not include him in the presentation ceremony. This decision has been viewed by many as a deliberate snub.

    “The chairman couldn’t travel, but COO Sumair Ahmed Syed was there and attended the final. He should have been on stage to represent the PCB,” a source close to the matter said.

    Meanwhile, an ICC spokesperson told India Today that only PCB office bearers could attend the post-match ceremony and no one was present in Dubai.

    “Mr Naqvi was unavailable and didn’t travel. As per understanding, only office bearers can be called for trophy presentation, so from PCB no office bearer was available for the same. And they (PCB) were the hosts, they should have been there,” said the ICC spokesperson.

    Former Australian Captain Aaron Finch Brings the Trophy onto the Stage

    ICC Chairman Jay Shah presented the Champions Trophy to winning captain Rohit Sharma, while BCCI President Roger Binny handed over the white blazers to the Indian team. Other dignitaries on stage included former Australia captain Aaron Finch, former New Zealand player Roger Twose and BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia.

    Aaron Finch brought the trophy onto the stage instead of Sarfaraz Ahmed, the Pakistan captain who won the previous edition of the Champions Trophy.

    The report added that the ICC had full authority in deciding the composition of the presentation party for the Champions Trophy final. However, the governing body has not yet issued any official statement regarding the controversy.

    “According to the sources, it was the ICC that had full authority to decide the composition of the presentation party. They’ve yet to issue any statement on the matter,” the report added.

    Pakistan Failed to Win a Single Match at the 2025 Champions Trophy

    Pakistan had a disastrous campaign in the 2025 Champions Trophy. They failed to win a single match and suffered a group-stage exit, despite being the host nation and defending champions.

    They began their campaign in the tournament with a 60-run loss to New Zealand in Karachi. The Mohammad Rizwan-led team lost to India by six wickets in Dubai. Their final Group A match against Bangladesh in Rawalpindi was washed out due to rain.

    This tournament was the first major ICC event in Pakistan after 29 years. However, the team played only one match at home, making their early exit even more disappointing for fans.

    Also read: Watch: Matt Henry left in tears after failing fitness test ahead of Champions Trophy 2025 final

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  • India or New Zealand? Wasim Akram and Misbah-ul-Haq predict the winner of Champions Trophy 2025 final

    India or New Zealand? Wasim Akram and Misbah-ul-Haq predict the winner of Champions Trophy 2025 final

    The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 has reached its thrilling conclusion, with India and New Zealand set to battle it out for the coveted title. The summit clash is scheduled to take place in Dubai on March 9, where the cricketing world will witness two top-tier teams fight for supremacy. India secured their spot in the final with a dominant victory over Australia, while New Zealand triumphed over South Africa in the semifinals to book their place in the grand finale.

    Wasim Akram picks his favourite

    Legendary Pakistan pacer Wasim Akram has shared his insights on the highly anticipated final, highlighting India’s slight edge over New Zealand. Akram acknowledged that while India holds a higher chance of winning, New Zealand’s prior experience in Dubai and their strong spin attack could pose a threat to the Indian batting lineup. He suggested that India’s victory is not a certainty, as New Zealand’s ability to exploit the conditions might tilt the balance in their favor.

    “I believe that this match will be 60-40. 60% India and 40% Kiwi team will be the contenders to win this match. I believe that New Zealand has played in Dubai and they know what the conditions are here. New Zealand also has three spinners who can trouble the Indian batsmen against India. In such a situation, it is difficult to say that India is going to win the final,” said Akram on Ten Sports.

    Misbah-ul-Haq weighs in on the final

    Former Pakistan captain Misbah-ul-Haq also shared his thoughts on the high-stakes encounter, acknowledging the strength of both teams. Misbah highlighted that both teams have performed exceptionally well and possess a well-balanced squad suited to the conditions. While he considered India the favorite, he warned that New Zealand has the capability to spring a surprise, making the final a tightly contested battle rather than a one-sided affair.

    “The two best teams are playing in the final. Both are balanced teams; both have played good cricket. The balance of both the teams is very good according to the situation. India is definitely the favorite; India has also played good cricket. They are full of confidence. They are understanding the situation of Dubai well. But the team in front, New Zealand, is a team that can defeat India. Seeing the way the Kiwi team has played, I feel that this match will be a close contest,” said Misbah.

    Also READ: Temba Bavuma explains reasons behind South Africa’s defeat in the semifinal of Champions Trophy 2025 against New Zealand

    Fans eagerly await the grand finale

    With the Champions Trophy 2025 final just around the corner, cricket fans across the globe are buzzing with excitement. The clash between two formidable teams promises to be a nail-biting encounter, with star players from both sides set to showcase their skills on the grand stage. Social media platforms are abuzz with predictions and debates, as fans eagerly await what could be one of the most thrilling finals in recent history.

    Also READ: Wasim Akram picks the ‘Jonty Rhodes’ of modern-day cricket

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