Cricket

Former Pakistan cricketer Basit Ali has strongly advocated for Mohammad Rizwan to replace Babar Azam as the captain of the Pakistan cricket team. Ali believes that Rizwan's exceptional leadership skills, particularly his ability to read the pitch and adapt his tactics accordingly, make him the ideal candidate for the role.Ali's endorsement of Rizwan stems from his observations of Rizwan's captaincy during the Champions One-Day Cup match between Markhors and Stallions. Rizwan's astute decision-making and tactical adjustments played a pivotal role in Markhors' impressive 126-run victory.After posting a modest total of 231, Markhors faced an early setback when Babar Azam struck five consecutive fours off Shahnawaz Dahani's bowling. However, Rizwan swiftly changed tactics, denying Dahani further overs and introducing a mix of spinners and pacers.This strategic move proved highly effective. Naseem Shah dismissed Shan Masood, triggering a collapse in the Stallions' batting lineup. The spin duo of Zahid Mahmood and Salman Ali Agha then ran through the remaining batters, securing a comprehensive victory for Markhors.Ali praised Rizwan's ability to read the pitch and adjust his tactics accordingly, a skill that he believes neither Babar Azam nor Test captain Shan Masood possess. He emphasized that Rizwan's leadership qualities were evident in his ability to inspire his team and make quick, decisive decisions."The way Rizwan led the side, he proved there is no better skipper than him," Ali said. "He has shown it with his captaincy. He read the pitch; it is a big thing. Even Babar can't do that. I am not even talking about Shan. If you don't make him captain at this time, then it is a loss for Pakistan. This is the best time you should make Rizwan the captain."Ali's comments have sparked a debate among fans and former cricketers, with some supporting his view and others expressing reservations. However, Rizwan's impressive leadership record and his ability to adapt to different situations make him a strong contender for the captaincy role.

The Panthers roared to their maiden victory in the Champions One-Day Cup, crushing the Dolphins by 50 runs on the back of a century from Usman Khan and a five-wicket haul by Mohammad Hasnain.Batting first, the Panthers amassed a formidable 328, thanks to Usman's 111, Shadab Khan's 65, and Haider Ali's 63. The Dolphins' chase got off to a promising start with a 68-run opening stand, but Hasnain's pace and accuracy proved too much to handle.Usman and Haider's 103-run partnership laid the foundation for the Panthers' imposing total. Usman's century was a masterclass in timing and placement, while Haider's quickfire knock kept the scoreboard ticking.The Dolphins' bowlers struggled to contain the Panthers' onslaught, with Usman Qadir's three wickets in the final over coming too late to make a significant impact.In response, the Dolphins showed resilience, with Qasim Akram and Sahibzada Farhan scoring half-centuries. However, Hasnain's devastating spell of 5-74 shattered their hopes.Hasnain's pace and bounce proved too much for the Dolphins' middle order, as he ripped through the heart of their batting lineup. His five-for was a testament to his skill and determination.The Panthers' victory was a testament to their all-round strength. Usman's century provided the foundation, while Shadab and Haider's contributions kept the momentum going. Hasnain's five-wicket haul was the icing on the cake, securing the win for his team.

In the inaugural match of the Champions One-Day Cup, Markhors, led by Mohammad Rizwan, emerged victorious over Shadab Khan's Panthers by a commanding 160 runs.Panthers, after winning the toss, opted to field first. Markhors' innings was anchored by Kamran Ghulam's masterful 115 off 102 deliveries, laying the foundation for their formidable total of 347 for 6. Abdul Samad's blistering 25-ball 62 in the final overs propelled Markhors to a daunting score.Panthers' chase faltered from the outset as Naseem Shah's incisive opening spell reduced them to 52 for 6. Shah's 3-27, complemented by Shahnawaz Dahani's two wickets, shattered Panthers' hopes of a competitive chase.Despite a valiant 72 from Amad Butt, Panthers were unable to recover from their early collapse. Mubasir Khan and Usama Mir's half-century partnerships provided some resistance, but the Markhors' dominance was unyielding.The victory marked a successful start for Markhors in the tournament, while Panthers will seek redemption in their upcoming matches. The opening game showcased the high-octane action and competitive spirit that the Champions One-Day Cup promises to deliver.

Pakistan's domestic 50-over competition, the Champions One-Day Cup, has unveiled its captains and mentors, with each side led by a Pakistan international. Shaheen Shah Afridi (Lions), Mohammad Rizwan (Wolves), Shadab Khan (Panthers), Saud Shakeel (Dolphins), and Mohammad Haris (Stallions) will lead their respective teams.Haris' appointment as Stallions captain, chosen by mentor Shoaib Malik, marks a significant return to favor with the PCB. After being left out of Pakistan's World Cup squad and losing his place in the T20 side, Haris now captains a team that includes Babar Azam, Pakistan's white-ball captain.Unlike previous tournaments, the PCB has ensured maximum participation of its top players. With no international cricket coinciding with the competition, almost every fit centrally contracted player is taking part. Misbah-ul-Haq, mentor of the Wolves, emphasized that unfit players would be excluded.All games will be played in Faisalabad from September 12-29, with playoffs instead of semi-finals. The tournament concludes eight days before the start of the first Test between Pakistan and England.Each side has announced extended squad lists, which will be trimmed by September 10. The teams do not have affiliated city names but have historical links to previous domestic cup sides: Lahore for Lions, Karachi for Dolphins, Peshawar for Panthers, Faisalabad for Wolves, and Sialkot for Stallions.Sarfaraz Ahmed is the only player-mentor, operating with the Dolphins. Misbah (Wolves), Malik (Stallions), Saqlain Mushtaq (Panthers), and Waqar Younis (Lions) are the other mentors.