Cricket

Babar Azam's ODI Ranking Retention Draws Criticism from Former Pakistan Cricketer Basit AliFormer Pakistan cricketer Basit Ali has expressed his disapproval of the International Cricket Council's (ICC) decision to retain Babar Azam as the top-ranked ODI batter despite his prolonged absence from the format. Ali questioned the logic behind the ranking system and suggested that the ICC may be intentionally hindering Azam's performance.Ali's criticism stems from the fact that Azam has not played an ODI since November 2023. Despite this, he has maintained his position at the top of the rankings, ahead of Indian stars Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill, and Virat Kohli. Ali believes that this ranking is undeserved, especially considering the absence of other top-performing batters like Travis Head (Australia) and Rachin Ravindra (New Zealand)."When I saw the ICC ranking (ODI batters), Babar Azam was at the top, number two was Rohit Sharma, number three was Shubman Gill, and then there was Virat Kohli at number four. I did not find it necessary to read the remaining names because I couldn't see Travis Head and Rachin Ravindra. I think the ICC wants that Babar doesn't perform. He would be happy with being the number one-ranked batter in ODIs. Who gives these rankings? On what basis are Babar Azam and Shubman Gill there?" Ali said on his YouTube channel.Ali further questioned the ranking system, highlighting the absence of star batters like Travis Head (Australia) and Rachin Ravindra (New Zealand). He pointed out that these players had performed exceptionally well in the recent ODI World Cup, scoring multiple centuries.Meanwhile, India captain Rohit Sharma has made a significant jump in the rankings, climbing to the second spot after his impressive performance in the three-game ODI series against Sri Lanka. Sharma ended the series as the top scorer with 157 runs, including two half-centuries.

Pakistan's cricket team is undergoing a strategic overhaul ahead of their upcoming two-match Test series against Bangladesh. The most notable change is the decision to have captain Babar Azam bat at the unfamiliar number four position. This move is part of a broader tactical adjustment by the team management, which aims to solidify the top order and provide stability to the middle order.Azam's usual batting position in limited-overs cricket has been in the top three, but he has experimented with the number four spot in Test cricket before. During Pakistan's tour of Sri Lanka in 2022, he batted at number three, and he retained that position for the second Test against England later that year. However, his move to number four for the Bangladesh series suggests a more permanent shift in the team's long-term strategy.The decision to move Azam down the order has opened up opportunities for other players. Abdullah Shafiq's position as opener remains secure, while captain Shan Masood will take on the crucial number three role. This new batting order aims to provide a solid foundation for the team and allow Azam to play a more influential role in the middle order.The series against Bangladesh also presents an opportunity for new talent to emerge. Batsman Muhammad Huraira is a strong contender for a debut appearance, signalling the team management's intent to introduce fresh faces into the Test arena.On the bowling front, Pakistan are expected to capitalize on the anticipated bowler-friendly conditions at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium. A three-pronged pace attack comprising Shaheen Afridi, Naseem Shah, and Mir Hamza is likely to be deployed, with one spinner completing the bowling lineup.The two-match Test series, commencing on August 21st in Rawalpindi, holds added significance as it marks the first assignment for newly appointed Test coach, Jason Gillespie. Gillespie's arrival signals a new chapter for Pakistan's Test cricket, and his guidance will be crucial in shaping the team's approach against Bangladesh and beyond.The second Test, scheduled from August 30th to September 3rd in Karachi, will unfortunately be played without spectators due to ongoing renovations at the National Stadium. While the absence of a home crowd might be a slight setback, the team remains focused on delivering a strong performance and securing a series victory against Bangladesh.

Pakistan's Test squad for the upcoming two-match series against Bangladesh has been announced, with senior players Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan, and Shaheen Shah Afridi retained despite calls for a significant overhaul following a disappointing T20 World Cup performance.The decision to retain the experienced trio was influenced by the advice of foreign head coaches Jason Gillespie and Gary Kirsten, who recommended a more gradual approach to rebuilding the team. The PCB had initially indicated a need for "major surgery" after Pakistan's early exit from the T20 World Cup, but has opted to avoid drastic measures for now.Shan Masood will continue as captain for the red-ball format, with Saud Shakeel promoted to vice-captain in place of Shaheen Shah Afridi. The squad includes two uncapped players, Mohammad Huraira and Kamran Ghulam, who have been rewarded for their consistent performances in domestic cricket.Kamran Ghulam, who was previously included in the Test squad but did not make his debut, has been recalled. Pacer Mohammad Ali, after playing only two Tests against England in 2022, has also been selected again. Most of the squad for Pakistan's opening Test series of the 2024-25 season remains consistent with the 13 players involved in the last series against Australia at the end of 2023-24.Players dropped from the previous Test series include opener Imam ul Haq, spinners Noman Ali, Muhammad Nawaz, and Sajid Khan, all-rounder Faheem Ashraf, and pacer Hasan Ali. Mohammad Waseem junior is unavailable due to injury. All-rounder Aamir Jamal has been included in the squad, pending his clearance of fitness tests.Pakistan will face Bangladesh in two Tests beginning August 21 as part of the ICC Test Championship schedule. In the upcoming season, the national team is set to play nine Tests, 14 T20 Internationals, and 17 One-Day Internationals at home and abroad.

Pakistan's dismal performance at the T20 World Cup 2024 has sent shockwaves through the cricketing world. The Babar Azam-led side crashed out of the competition in the group stages, suffering humiliating defeats against the United States and India. Despite victories against Canada and Ireland, it was too little too late for Pakistan.The result has sparked a massive backlash from fans and prompted significant changes within the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB). Wahab Riaz and Abdul Razzaq have been sacked as selectors, while Babar Azam's future as captain remains uncertain.Former Pakistan captain Shahid Afridi has criticized the PCB's constant changes, arguing that they have negatively impacted the team's performance. Afridi emphasized the need for stability and consistency, stating that teams require time to adapt to new systems."When you change or bring in any new structure, you must give the system time. Every year, a new chairman comes, and a new system is introduced. Things don't work this way," Afridi told Sports24.Afridi called for a collaborative approach, involving senior board members and players, to develop a long-term plan for the team. He believes that frequent changes create confusion and hinder progress.Meanwhile, the PCB has denied No Objection Certificates (NOCs) to Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan, and Shaheen Shah Afridi to participate in the Global T20 League. The board cited Pakistan's busy international schedule as the reason for the decision.The PCB's decision has raised concerns about the availability of key players for the upcoming season of the Pakistan Super League (PSL). The PSL is a major domestic tournament that attracts top players from around the world.Pakistan's poor performance at the T20 World Cup and the subsequent changes within the PCB have raised questions about the team's future. The PCB must address the concerns raised by Afridi and other former players to ensure that Pakistan regains its status as a cricketing powerhouse.

Ahmed Shehzad's Street Cricket Humiliation: Former Pakistan Captain Clean Bowled ThriceFormer Pakistani cricketer Ahmed Shehzad, who has been critical of current captain Babar Azam, has faced a humiliating experience on the streets of Chitral. A viral video shows Shehzad batting in a street game, using a chair as a wicket.Despite boasting of hitting sixes, Shehzad was clean bowled three times out of four deliveries by a local bowler who was not even in proper cricket attire. The former Pakistan batsman only managed to play one ball, which was a mistimed shot.Shehzad's performance in the street game is a stark contrast to his international career, where he played 13 Tests, 81 ODIs, and 59 T20Is for Pakistan. He scored 982, 2605, and 1471 runs in these formats, respectively. However, his career has been marred by controversies and inconsistent form.Shehzad's recent criticism of Babar Azam has drawn attention to his own struggles. During the T20 World Cup, he had questioned Azam's captaincy and accused him of favoritism.The video of Shehzad's street cricket humiliation has sparked a flurry of reactions on social media. Some have criticized him for his poor performance, while others have defended him, saying that he is still a talented player.Despite his recent setbacks, Shehzad remains a popular figure in Pakistan. He is known for his aggressive batting style and his ability to hit big shots. However, he will need to improve his consistency and discipline if he wants to regain his place in the national team.

Pakistan's star cricketers Babar Azam, Mohammed Rizwan, and Shaheen Afridi are likely to be denied No Objection Certificates (NOCs) to participate in the upcoming Global T20 Canada tournament, according to sources. The decision stems from the PCB's policy of prioritizing international commitments and safeguarding player fitness.Despite the tournament schedule not conflicting with Pakistan's international fixtures, the sources indicate that the players will not receive NOCs. Pakistan is set to play a two-match Test series against Bangladesh starting August 21, while the Global T20 Canada runs from July 25 to August 11.The PCB's stance is driven by the hectic schedule ahead for the players, particularly those involved in all formats. Star pacer Naseem Shah was also denied an NOC last week to feature in The Hundred due to concerns about his injury history.Apart from the star trio, other Pakistani players with Global T20 Canada contracts include Mohammad Amir, Mohammad Nawaz, Asif Ali, and Iftikhar Ahmed. PCB chairman Naqvi had earlier stated that NOCs would be granted based on specific criteria, including fitness and performance.However, Pakistan's red-ball head coach Jason Gillispie has hinted at the possible unavailability of Shaheen Afridi for the Test series against Bangladesh due to the impending birth of his first child.The PCB's decision to prioritize international commitments and player fitness is a significant development in Pakistani cricket. It reflects the board's commitment to building a strong and competitive team for the future.

Pakistan cricket has been in a state of turmoil following a string of disappointing performances in major tournaments. The team's struggles have been attributed to a combination of factors, including poor player form and administrative changes within the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB).One of the most criticized players has been captain Babar Azam, who has failed to live up to expectations as both a batsman and a leader. Azam's poor form was evident during the recent ODI World Cup and T20 World Cup, where he failed to produce any significant knocks.To add insult to injury, a video has emerged on social media showing Azam struggling against Ubaid Shah, the younger brother of star pacer Naseem Shah. The video highlights Azam's current lack of form and has raised further questions about his ability to lead the team.Former Pakistan captain Shahid Afridi has been among the most vocal critics of Azam, stating that he has been given ample opportunities to prove himself but has failed to deliver. Afridi believes that the PCB should consider making changes to the captaincy if the team's performance does not improve.The PCB has also come under fire for its handling of the team's recent struggles. The board has made several changes to the coaching staff and management, but these moves have yet to yield positive results.As Pakistan prepares for a two-match Test series against Bangladesh, the pressure is mounting on Azam and the PCB to turn things around. The team desperately needs a strong performance to restore confidence and silence the growing chorus of criticism.

Pakistan's rich tradition of producing exceptional fast bowlers continues with the emergence of Ubaid Shah, the younger brother of renowned pacer Naseem Shah. Ubaid, a right-arm medium-fast bowler, has impressed with his skills at the domestic and international levels.In a recent training session, Ubaid showcased his talent against Pakistan captain Babar Azam. With precise wristwork, he delivered a ball that swung in sharply, forcing Azam to miss and narrowly avoid being bowled. Azam's subsequent attempt to hook a short-pitched delivery also proved unsuccessful, as the ball struck his body.Ubaid's prowess was not limited to Azam. Left-handed batsman Fakhar Zaman also struggled against his bowling, narrowly missing the edge of his bat as the ball moved away and went straight to the keeper.Ubaid's impressive performances have earned him recognition at the international level. He was named in the ICC team of the tournament after claiming 18 wickets at an average of less than 14 runs per wicket in the 2024 Under-19 Cricket World Cup in South Africa.At just 18 years of age, Ubaid is poised to make his international debut for Pakistan's senior cricket team. His exceptional pace, control, and ability to swing the ball make him a formidable prospect for the future of Pakistan's bowling attack.

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has reaffirmed its trust in Shan Masood as the Test captain for the upcoming international season. The decision was made during a meeting attended by senior board officials, national selectors, and coaches Jason Gillespie, Gary Kirsten, and Azhar Mahmood.Masood, who took over the Test captaincy ahead of the tour to Australia earlier this year, has received a complete vote of confidence. He will lead Pakistan in Test series against Bangladesh, England, South Africa, and the West Indies between August and January.However, the decision on Babar Azam's white-ball captaincy has been put on hold. Babar's performance as captain and batsman came under scrutiny during the recent T20 World Cup, where Pakistan suffered a disappointing exit.Sources indicate that Babar faced criticism for his lack of leadership skills and strength under pressure. The PCB is considering options and will make a decision on his white-ball captaincy in the future.Meanwhile, former Pakistan pacer Sarfraz Nawaz has called for the sacking of the entire selection committee, citing their collective incompetence in the T20 World Cup and the build-up to it. Nawaz specifically criticized the appointment of Wahab Riaz, who held various roles within the selection committee and management.The PCB is expected to announce a comprehensive blueprint for the national team in both red and white-ball formats in the coming days. The focus will be on improving performance and rebuilding the team's confidence after a disappointing T20 World Cup campaign.