Cricket

Amidst reports of a rift between Pakistan captain Babar Azam and allrounder Imad Wasim, a video has emerged from the team's training session in Ireland that has fueled speculation. The footage shows Wasim confronting Azam on the sidelines of the net session at the Clontarf Cricket Club in Dublin.The incident has raised concerns about the team's unity ahead of a crucial T20I series against Ireland and England. Wasim has previously denied any disagreement with Azam, who was reappointed as captain after stepping down following Pakistan's disappointing performance at the ODI World Cup last year."We have no issues with Babar. He is the captain of the team and we are all supporting him. Maybe Babar has become captain again because he will lead us to the (T20) World Cup trophy," Wasim was quoted as saying in a report on 'geosuper.tv'.However, the video suggests otherwise. Wasim appears animated and confrontational as he engages in a heated discussion with Azam. The incident has raised questions about the team's leadership and the potential impact on their performance in the upcoming matches.Pakistan will play three T20Is in Ireland, followed by a four-match T20I series in England. After that, the team will travel to the US for the T20 World Cup, which will be co-hosted by the West Indies from June 2 to 29.India and Pakistan are clubbed in Group A and will face each other on June 9 in New York. The outcome of the match could have significant implications for both teams' chances of advancing to the knockout stages.The video of the confrontation between Azam and Wasim has cast a shadow over Pakistan's preparations for the T20 World Cup. The team's unity and leadership will be crucial factors in their quest for success in the tournament.

Pakistan's captain, Babar Azam, recently addressed the media ahead of the team's departure for Ireland and the UK, their final preparatory stop before the T20 World Cup. As usual, Babar faced questions about Pakistan's chances, squad selection, and top-order concerns.Regarding Pakistan's trophy aspirations, Babar reiterated his belief in his team's ability to bring home the title. He emphasized that their aim has always been to win the World Cup, and they remain confident in their chances.One of the key talking points was the inclusion of Haris Rauf and the absence of Mohammad Haris. Babar praised Rauf's fitness and determination, expressing confidence that he will make a strong comeback. However, he acknowledged that Mohammad Haris has not received the opportunities he may have expected after the last T20 World Cup.Babar explained that the top order already includes Mohammad Rizwan, Fakhar Zaman, Saim Ayub, and himself. While Haris belongs in the top order, he has not been able to execute his plans effectively in recent times. The team has opted for the best possible combination, which does not currently include Haris.Another controversial selection was the recall of Hasan Ali, who last played a T20I in 2022. Babar clarified that Hasan is primarily there as backup and is not guaranteed a spot in the World Cup squad. His experience was a factor in his selection.Babar also addressed questions about his own place in the top order. While acknowledging the potential of dynamic players like Saim Ayub, he defended his own track record, highlighting Pakistan's consistent high scores in the Powerplay.The captain emphasized that team goals will take precedence over individual preferences. He is in constant communication with the newly appointed white-ball coach, Gary Kirsten, who is working towards the same objective.Babar concluded by expressing his hope that the team will continue to inspire the nation. He acknowledged the responsibility they carry and promised to give their best at the World Cup.

Pakistan's limited-overs skipper, Babar Azam, expressed optimism about the appointment of Gary Kirsten as the head coach of the white-ball side, believing it will significantly enhance the team's performance. Kirsten, a seasoned coach with experience guiding India and South Africa, has been contracted for two years.Azam highlighted Kirsten's extensive experience and his proactive approach in planning for the upcoming World Cup. He revealed that Kirsten is actively involved in strategy discussions with the team management and is providing valuable insights. The skipper emphasized that Kirsten's daily communication with the team ensures constant feedback and support.Addressing concerns over team selection, Azam dismissed any internal rifts and stated that the squad for the Ireland tour will be finalized based on form and fitness. He clarified that the top-order batting positions are not set in stone and decisions will be made in the best interests of the team.Azam also acknowledged the need to provide opportunities for young players like Ayub, Azam, Irfan Khan, and Usman Khan. He emphasized that these players require time to settle into international cricket and the management will fully support them in the lead-up to the World Cup.Regarding Pakistan's strategy against India's star batter, Virat Kohli, Azam emphasized that the team plans against all eleven players and does not focus solely on one individual. He acknowledged Kohli's exceptional abilities but stressed that Pakistan will devise a comprehensive plan to counter his threat.Azam expressed confidence in the team's unity and his own leadership abilities. He attributed his previous success as captain to the support of his teammates and expressed gratitude for the board's backing.

Former Pakistan cricketer Basit Ali has issued a bold challenge to current captain Babar Azam, demanding that he hit three consecutive sixes straight down the ground against top-tier teams. Ali has vowed to delete his YouTube channel if Azam succeeds."If Babar Azam hits three straight sixes against top teams, not against the likes of the USA or Ireland, but against top teams, I will shut down my YouTube channel," Ali declared. "If he accepts this challenge, he should say that he accepts it. And if he can't hit those sixes in the World Cup, then he shouldn't open the batting."Azam, 29, was recently reappointed as the white-ball captain of the Pakistan men's cricket team for the upcoming T20 World Cup 2024. The decision came after Azam had initially stepped down from the role in November, leading to Shaheen Shah Afridi's appointment.The PCB's selection committee unanimously recommended Azam's reinstatement, which was approved by PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi.In the lead-up to the World Cup, Pakistan, having drawn a T20I series 2-2 against an inexperienced New Zealand, are set to face Ireland and England in the shortest format of the game over the coming weeks.Ali's challenge has sparked a debate among cricket fans and experts. Some believe that Azam is capable of meeting the challenge, while others question whether he has the consistency to hit three consecutive sixes against top-tier bowling attacks.If Azam accepts the challenge and succeeds, it would be a major boost to his confidence and the team's morale ahead of the World Cup. However, if he fails, it could raise questions about his ability to lead the team to success in the tournament.

Pakistan's cricket selectors have made significant changes to the squad for the upcoming T20 series against Ireland and England. Leg-spinner Usama Mir has been dropped, while fast bowler Haris Rauf has been recalled.The selectors, Muhammad Yousuf, Abdul Razzaq, and Wahab Riaz, explained that the World Cup squad will be selected based on performances in these matches. They also justified the recall of pacer Hasan Ali, stating that he is a backup for Rauf.Rauf has been out of action since February due to an injury sustained during the Pakistan Super League. Razzaq explained that Mir has been dropped because Pakistan already has Shadab Khan and Abrar Ahmed in the squad.Yousuf defended the recent 2-2 result in the T20 series against New Zealand, emphasizing that it was the first time Pakistan had fully implemented a rotation policy. He also acknowledged that some players need to improve their shot-making.Wahab Riaz stressed the importance of removing insecurity and fear of failure from the players' minds. He also stated that the playing eleven will be selected by the captain, with no interference from the selectors.The selectors defended Babar Azam's captaincy, highlighting his improvement in leadership during the New Zealand series. They expressed confidence in his ability to become a better captain.

Pakistan's Babar Azam has made significant strides in the ICC Men's T20I batter rankings, closing the gap on India's Suryakumar Yadav at the summit. Azam's impressive performance in the recently concluded series against New Zealand, where he amassed 125 runs in four innings, has propelled him to fourth place in the rankings.Azam's consistent batting displays have earned him a 10-point boost in his rating, bringing it to 763. He now trails Yadav by just 98 rating points, setting the stage for an intriguing battle for the top spot ahead of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup in June.Azam's teammate Fakhar Zaman has also made notable progress, climbing 10 places to 62nd position. Zaman's aggressive batting style yielded 104 runs in the series, showcasing his ability to contribute to Pakistan's batting lineup.New Zealand's Tim Seifert has emerged as a standout performer in the latest rankings update. The right-hander's impressive 85 runs in the series, compiled at a strike rate of 144.06, have seen him jump seven places to equal seventh position.The T20I bowler rankings have also witnessed some notable changes. Pakistan's pace spearhead Shaheen Afridi has moved up three places to 14th position after claiming eight wickets in four matches against New Zealand.With the ICC Men's T20 World Cup approaching, the latest rankings update provides a glimpse into the form and potential of the world's leading T20I players. Babar Azam's resurgence and the rise of other talented individuals promise an exciting tournament filled with intense competition and thrilling performances.

Pakistan cricket captain Babar Azam's frustration with former pacer Wahab Riaz has become a viral sensation on social media. The incident occurred during a six-hitting challenge between Pakistan's senior men's cricket team and its support staff.Riaz, who is the chief selector of the Pakistan men's cricket team but not part of the support staff, requested Babar to allow him to bat during the contest. However, the skipper visibly displayed his annoyance. Azhar Mahmood, Pakistan's head coach for the recently-concluded New Zealand T20I series, intervened and pushed Riaz away.The video of the incident, shared by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) on April 25, has sparked discussions about the dynamics within the team. Some have speculated that Babar's frustration may stem from Riaz's role as chief selector, while others have suggested that it could be a reflection of the competitive nature of the challenge.Meanwhile, Pakistan's T20I squad has been in impressive form, with skipper Babar Azam leading the charge. In the recently concluded fifth and final T20I against New Zealand, Azam scored a solid half-century (69 off 44 balls), while spearhead Shaheen Shah Afridi claimed four wickets (4-30). Pakistan ultimately emerged victorious by nine runs, squaring the series at 2-2.The series provided both teams with valuable preparation for the upcoming Twenty20 World Cup, which will be held in the United States and the West Indies in June. While Pakistan may be disappointed not to have secured a series win against a depleted New Zealand side, the visitors gained confidence from their bench strength.

Pakistan's captain Babar Azam and pace spearhead Shaheen Shah Afridi played pivotal roles in securing a thrilling nine-run victory over New Zealand in the fifth and final Twenty20 International (T20I) in Lahore on Saturday.Azam's solid half-century (69 off 44 balls) and Fakhar Zaman's contribution (43 off 33 balls) propelled Pakistan to a competitive total of 178 for 5 in their allotted 20 overs. Afridi then showcased his exceptional bowling skills, claiming four wickets for 30 runs, restricting New Zealand to 169 all out in 19.2 overs.The match remained tense until the final over, with New Zealand's Josh Clarkson threatening an upset with his unbeaten 38. However, two crucial run-outs in Mohammad Amir's over sealed the victory for Pakistan, much to the delight of the packed crowd at Gaddafi Stadium.The series, which ended in a 2-2 draw, served as valuable preparation for both teams ahead of the upcoming Twenty20 World Cup in the United States and West Indies in June. While Pakistan would have preferred a series win, they gained valuable insights into their squad's strength and areas for improvement.Afridi's impressive performance continued in the final match, as he dismissed Tom Blundell for four in his first over, marking his 15th wicket in his opening over of a T20I and his 50th overall in T20 matches. Tim Seifert provided some resistance for New Zealand with a quickfire 33-ball 52, but Pakistan's spinners, Usama Mir and Shadab Khan, played a crucial role in derailing the visitors' chase.Azam expressed his satisfaction with the team's performance, highlighting their efforts to test different combinations and assess their bench strength ahead of the World Cup. New Zealand's stand-in captain, Micheal Bracewell, acknowledged the competitive nature of the series and expressed his team's satisfaction with the draw.

Former Pakistan all-rounder Mohammad Hafeez has sparked a debate by questioning the reliance on star openers Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan to carry the entire team's batting burden. Hafeez, who served as Pakistan's team director in 2020, believes that the team needs a more balanced batting lineup.During his tenure, Hafeez made a controversial decision to break up the Azam-Rizwan opening partnership, replacing Rizwan with Saim Ayub and dropping Azam to the number three spot. He argued that this change was necessary to spread the responsibility and create a more dynamic batting order."Babar and Rizwan are great players, but they do not represent the whole Pakistan team," Hafeez said. "They cannot take the whole responsibility of the team upon their shoulders. I felt Saim Ayub as an opener was a solution for us."Hafeez explained that Azam has been batting at number three for several years and that moving him down the order would not significantly impact his performance. He also praised Ayub's potential as an opener, despite his early failures."Saim must play as an opener in the T20 World Cup 2024 despite early failures," Hafeez said. "He has the talent and the ability to succeed at the highest level."Hafeez's comments come as Pakistan struggles in their ongoing T20I series against New Zealand. After winning the second match, Pakistan has lost two consecutive games, giving New Zealand an unassailable 2-1 lead.The team's batting has been inconsistent, with Azam and Rizwan failing to replicate their usual dominance. Hafeez's suggestion to diversify the batting lineup could be a potential solution to Pakistan's current struggles.