Cricket

Former Pakistan captain Wasim Akram has expressed optimism that India will participate in the Champions Trophy in Pakistan next year, emphasizing the positive vibes from the Indian government and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). Akram believes that India's presence would be a significant boost for cricket and Pakistan.The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has proposed hosting all of India's matches in Lahore, which is close to the Indian border, to facilitate logistics and security. The PCB has also pledged to provide 17,000 visas to Indian fans.Akram highlighted the importance of people-to-people contact in the current era of social media negativity. He believes that India's participation would foster goodwill and promote cricket.India has not played an international match in Pakistan since 2008, and the UAE is considered a potential alternative venue if any part of the Champions Trophy is moved out. However, the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has stated that the tournament will not proceed without India's involvement.The Champions Trophy will feature eight teams, including Afghanistan, Australia, Bangladesh, England, India, New Zealand, Pakistan, and South Africa. The tournament will be played in a group stage format followed by semi-finals and a final.

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has proposed a novel plan to address security concerns and facilitate India's participation in the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy. Under the proposal, the Indian team would return to India after each match played in Pakistan, either to Chandigarh or Delhi. This arrangement would allow Team India to travel to Pakistan for their games while mitigating concerns about staying in the host country for the tournament's duration.The Champions Trophy is scheduled to take place from February 19 to March 9, with matches to be held in Lahore, Rawalpindi, and Karachi. The PCB has planned all of India's matches in Lahore due to logistical considerations and security concerns. The city's proximity to the border makes it easier for Indian fans to attend the games.The PCB's proposal aims to address the Indian government's reservations about touring Pakistan. The decision on whether the Indian team will travel to Pakistan ultimately rests with the Indian government. However, recent developments, including discussions during External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar's visit to Pakistan, indicate ongoing efforts to address security and logistical concerns.The ICC has distributed the tournament schedule to all parties involved, including the participating teams. Local media outlets have reported that the broadcaster has requested a change in the venue for the India-New Zealand match, with the PCB suggesting Rawalpindi as a potential replacement. However, both the broadcaster and the ICC have denied any knowledge of such a request.India's participation in the Champions Trophy is crucial for the global cricketing community. The event's significance would be greatly diminished if India chooses not to participate. The ICC and PCB have devised a backup plan to organize India's matches outside of Pakistan in case the Men in Blue are unable to make the trip.

The Indian cricket team is embracing a fearless approach under the leadership of coach Gautam Gambhir and captain Suryakumar Yadav. This aggressive mindset is part of a strategic plan to prepare the team for the upcoming challenges of the Champions Trophy, Asia Cup, and T20 World Cup in the next 18 months.Assistant coach Ryan ten Doeschate emphasized the team's commitment to pushing the limits of their abilities. This was evident in the recent Test match in Kanpur, where India's attacking batting approach led to a decisive victory despite challenging weather conditions.The team's fearless approach extends to their batting, where they aim to expand their game and move cricket forward. Players like Sanju Samson are encouraged to take risks and push the boundaries, even in high-pressure situations.Another key aspect of India's strategy is the emphasis on multi-skilled players. In the second T20I against Bangladesh, India used seven bowlers, with each taking at least one wicket. This versatility provides the team with greater flexibility and depth in their bowling attack.With the T20I series against Bangladesh already sealed, India is expected to rotate their squad and give opportunities to players on the bench. This will allow them to assess their depth and prepare for the upcoming challenges.Despite the high-scoring nature of the pitch in Hyderabad, where the third T20I will be played, ten Doeschate cautioned against relying solely on data. The team will carefully assess the wicket and adjust their approach accordingly.

The International Cricket Council (ICC) is considering three options for the hosting of the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy, which is scheduled to be held in Pakistan. The tournament is set to commence in February 2025.According to sources, the ICC is exploring the following options:1. Hosting the tournament in Pakistan as planned: This would mark Pakistan's first major ICC event since the 1996 ODI World Cup, which it co-hosted with India and Sri Lanka.2. Hybrid model: Under this scenario, matches involving India and the knockout stages would be held in Dubai, United Arab Emirates (UAE), while the remaining matches would take place in Pakistan.3. Hosting the tournament outside Pakistan: If this option is chosen, potential hosts include Dubai, Sri Lanka, or South Africa.Pakistan has not hosted any major ICC events since the 2009 terror attack on the Sri Lankan team bus. The 2011 Champions Trophy was subsequently moved to India, Sri Lanka, and Bangladesh.India has not toured Pakistan since the 2008 Asia Cup, but Pakistan has visited India on three occasions since then: for a white-ball series in 2012-13, the 2016 ICC T20 World Cup, and the 2023 ODI World Cup.The ICC's decision on the hosting of the 2025 Champions Trophy is expected to be made in the coming months.

England's former white-ball captain Eoin Morgan has urged the team to recall Joe Root and Ben Stokes for next year's Champions Trophy in Pakistan. Morgan believes that the experienced duo's presence is crucial for England's success in the tournament.Root and Stokes last played ODIs at the 2023 World Cup, where England suffered a disappointing group-stage exit. While they will not feature in the upcoming series against West Indies, England have indicated that they remain in contention for selection.Morgan emphasized the importance of Root and Stokes' experience and leadership qualities. He pointed out that England's recent series defeat against Australia exposed the team's lack of depth in the absence of key players."When you put them up against a side that didn't have Archer, Wood, Stokes, Root, and Buttler, that's half your England team," Morgan said. "The younger players have found a template, but they need to continue with that and look ahead to the Champions Trophy."Morgan believes that the West Indies series will provide an opportunity for younger players to prove themselves, but he expects McCullum to recall the senior players when he takes over as white-ball coach in January."The younger players have an opportunity in front of them, but that opportunity can be quickly taken away when those big names come back," Morgan said. "Stokes and Root are in the best team, and they need to be there for the Champions Trophy."England have only six more ODIs before the Champions Trophy, and Morgan believes that the team must use this time wisely to find the best possible combination.

India's participation in the upcoming Champions Trophy in Pakistan remains uncertain, contingent upon approval from the Indian government. However, Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi expressed confidence that all teams, including India, will attend the tournament.During a press conference at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore, Naqvi provided updates on the ongoing renovations at the venue in preparation for the Champions Trophy. He emphasized the PCB's readiness to host the event and asserted that all teams would participate.When questioned about the potential visit of Jay Shah, the newly elected ICC Chairman, Naqvi stated that the details of his meetings were yet to be finalized. He reiterated his belief that there were no factors that would prevent the Indian team from participating.India has not yet confirmed its participation, with speculation that the tournament could adopt a hybrid format, with India's matches potentially being played at a venue outside Pakistan, similar to the Asia Cup.The PCB has reportedly expressed willingness to accommodate the logistical needs of the Indian team and fans by hosting all India matches in Lahore, which is conveniently located near Amritsar.The Champions Trophy, which returns to the ICC calendar after a seven-year hiatus, is scheduled to take place in February-March 2023. The tournament will feature the top eight ODI teams in the world, competing for the coveted trophy.

Adil Rashid, England's premier legspinner, has dismissed any notion of retirement, expressing his unwavering desire to continue playing international cricket. Despite England's recent struggles in ODIs, Rashid remains an integral part of the team's future, with his sights set on the upcoming Champions Trophy, T20 World Cup, and 50-over World Cup.Rashid's 200th ODI wicket at Headingley marked a significant milestone for the Yorkshireman, making him the first Englishman to achieve the feat. However, the achievement was overshadowed by England's consecutive defeats to Australia, highlighting the team's transitional phase.Despite the setbacks, Rashid remains optimistic about England's prospects. He believes that the team's young players have the potential to become world-beaters, and he is eager to share his experience and knowledge with them."I've got no eye yet on retiring or anything like that - that's not even crossed my mind," Rashid said. "It's about enjoying the game and still giving it everything I've got."Rashid's commitment to the team is particularly important given the recent departures of experienced players like Moeen Ali. As the most senior spinner in the squad, Rashid will now assume a greater leadership role, mentoring and guiding the younger players."With Mo not being there my input will obviously be a little bit more, speaking to the youngsters and them coming to me," Rashid said. "That's the ultimate aim. Whatever I've got in terms of experience, form, ups and downs, the knowledge I have, I can pass that on."Rashid's evolution into a world-class spinner was facilitated by a consistent schedule and selection. However, the demands of the modern game mean that the next generation of players may not have the same level of continuity.Despite the challenges, Rashid believes that England can regain their status as one of the top teams in the world. With his experience and skill, he remains a vital asset for the team as they embark on a new era under Brendon McCullum.

As the cricketing world shifts its focus from the T20 format to the upcoming ODI series between England and Australia, the significance of this five-match encounter cannot be understated. With an eye on next year's Champions Trophy, both teams will field key multi-format players, making this series a crucial stepping stone in their preparations.Despite the absence of Jos Buttler due to injury, England will be led by Harry Brook, a promising young captaincy prospect. The return of Jofra Archer, after an 18-month absence from 50-over cricket, will be a major boost for the hosts. Australia, on the other hand, welcomes back senior players Steven Smith, Marnus Labuschagne, Glenn Maxwell, and Mitchell Starc.The series will also mark the international debut of Mahli Beardman, a 19-year-old fast bowler who has impressed with his talent and pace. The influx of experienced players and the emergence of young talent add an intriguing dynamic to this highly anticipated series.Both England and Australia have contrasting recent ODI records. England lost 2-1 in the West Indies last year, while Australia emerged victorious 3-0 against the same opposition in February. The upcoming series will provide an opportunity for both teams to assess their strengths and weaknesses ahead of the Champions Trophy.Jofra Archer and Glenn Maxwell will be the players to watch in this series. Archer's return to 50-over cricket is a significant milestone in his rehabilitation, while Maxwell's presence adds experience and dynamism to the Australian batting lineup.England's opening partnership will be a key area of interest, with Ben Duckett set to make his ODI debut as an opener. Australia, meanwhile, will be searching for a long-term replacement for David Warner at the top of the order.Trent Bridge, the venue for the first match, has historically been a batting paradise, but the ball can also swing, giving bowlers a chance to make an impact. The sunny weather forecast is expected to favor the batsmen.With Australia on a 12-match winning streak in ODIs, a victory in Nottingham would put them joint second with Sri Lanka in the all-time list. Adam Zampa will also play his 100th ODI, a testament to his consistent performances for Australia.

ICC Delegation to Inspect Pakistan for Champions Trophy PreparationsA five-member delegation from the International Cricket Council (ICC) will arrive in Karachi on September 17, 2024, for an inspection visit ahead of next year's Champions Trophy in Pakistan. The delegation includes top officials from the ICC's Events and Security Departments, as well as the General Manager Cricket and Production Manager.The ICC delegation's primary objective is to discuss the tentative schedule for the tournament, which was prepared and submitted by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) several months ago. A key aspect of the schedule is the allocation of matches to Lahore, where the Indian team is expected to play all their games.The delegation will also address the possibility of the Indian government not allowing the Indian team to travel to Pakistan. In such a scenario, alternative arrangements will need to be considered.During their visit, the delegation will inspect ongoing construction work in Karachi and review team hotel arrangements. They will also travel to Islamabad and Lahore for similar inspections.The ICC Security Manager will hold briefings with Pakistani security officials to assess the security measures in place for the tournament.The ICC's decision on the final schedule and tournament arrangements will be announced in due course.