Cricket

Pakistan's Fakhar Zaman has vehemently defended teammate Azam Khan's selection in the national T20I squad, following criticism from a journalist.During a press conference after Pakistan's 23-run defeat to England in the second T20I, a reporter questioned Azam's place in the team, suggesting he was chosen based on recommendations rather than merit.Zaman, visibly upset, strongly condemned the reporter's comments, emphasizing that Azam had earned his spot through impressive performances in various T20 leagues, including the Caribbean Premier League (CPL)."If you make a team then don't pick him. The team is picked by Gary Kirsten and Babar Azam. What you said is disrespectful towards a player. You've to see how he managed to find a spot for himself in the team. He has been selected due to his performances in the CPL," Zaman said.Zaman further clarified that the team selection process is based on merit and is carried out by the captain and coach. He advised the journalist to conduct proper research before attending press conferences and asking such questions."Please do some research on how a player like Azam Khan fought his way into the playing XI. Even I can say that you came here by recommendation. So, do some research before coming to the press conference," he added.Azam, a right-handed wicketkeeper-batsman, has yet to establish himself on the international circuit, scoring just 88 runs in 12 matches at an average of 11.00. However, Zaman believes that Azam has the potential to succeed at the highest level."He is a young player and he is learning. He has a lot of talent and he will improve with time. We have to support him and give him confidence," Zaman said.Pakistan's next T20I against England is scheduled for Tuesday in Karachi.

Pakistan's recent loss to Ireland has prompted a shift in their batting strategy, with the team now aiming to adopt a more aggressive approach when batting first. This new mindset is expected to be showcased in the upcoming T20I series against England, the reigning T20I world champions.Pakistan's top order has come under scrutiny for their lack of intent when batting first, with the team struggling to post competitive totals. However, after the Ireland defeat, the team has resolved to target scores of 200 or more when batting first.Central to this new approach will be captain Babar Azam, who has been urged to play with greater freedom. Incoming coach Gary Kirsten has praised Azam's abilities but believes he can be even more effective if he is allowed to express himself more fully.Despite the team's recent struggles, Fakhar Zaman remains confident in their ability to turn things around. He believes that the team's new mindset and the arrival of Kirsten will help them improve their performances.Zaman has also highlighted the emergence of Saim Ayub at the top of the order, which has allowed him to move down to the No. 4 position. He believes that this new role will allow him to make a greater impact on the team's performance.With the T20 World Cup approaching, Pakistan is eager to find their best form. The upcoming series against England will provide a crucial test for the team's new approach and will give them an opportunity to fine-tune their preparations for the tournament.

Ireland vs Pakistan 3rd T20I: A Thrilling Series DeciderThe third and final T20I between Ireland and Pakistan promises to be a thrilling encounter as the series is poised at 1-1. The match will be played at the Clontarf Cricket Club Ground in Dublin on Tuesday.In the second T20I, Pakistan bounced back from their defeat in the first match to win by seven wickets. Fakhar Zaman and Mohammad Rizwan were the stars for Pakistan, scoring 78 and 75 not out respectively. Ireland will be looking to level the series and secure a morale-boosting victory ahead of the upcoming T20 World Cup.Ireland's batting lineup has been in good form throughout the series. Paul Stirling, Andrew Balbirnie, and Harry Tector have all made significant contributions. However, their bowling has been a concern, with the likes of Mark Adair and Josh Little struggling to contain the Pakistani batsmen.Pakistan, on the other hand, will be confident after their impressive performance in the second T20I. Their batting lineup is packed with experience and quality, with the likes of Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan, and Fakhar Zaman all in good form. Their bowling attack, led by Shaheen Afridi and Haris Rauf, has also been impressive.The match is expected to be a close contest, with both teams having a chance to win the series. Ireland will need to improve their bowling and field with greater intensity, while Pakistan will need to continue their good form with the bat.The winner of the third T20I will not only win the series but also gain valuable momentum ahead of the T20 World Cup. Both teams will be eager to put in a strong performance and secure a positive result.

Pakistan's Babar Azam has etched his name in the annals of T20I cricket history by becoming the most successful captain in the format. With a remarkable 45 wins under his leadership, Azam has surpassed all others, including Aaron Finch of Australia and Brian Masaba of Uganda.Azam's record-breaking achievement came after Pakistan's emphatic victory over Ireland in the second T20I of their three-match series. Chasing a challenging target of 193/7, Pakistan showcased their batting prowess, with Mohammad Rizwan and Fakhar Zaman leading the charge.Rizwan, who remained unbeaten on 75, and Zaman, who contributed a blistering 78, forged a formidable partnership of 140 runs, laying the foundation for Pakistan's triumph. Despite Azam's early dismissal, Rizwan and Zaman's dominance ensured that Ireland's hopes of victory quickly faded.Fakhar Zaman's six towering sixes were a testament to his power-hitting abilities, while Rizwan played a steady hand, anchoring the innings. Azam Khan's explosive unbeaten 30 from just 10 deliveries sealed the deal for Pakistan, ensuring their victory with more than three overs to spare.Azam's 45th T20I win as captain places him ahead of Aaron Finch, who has 40 victories, and Brian Masaba, who has 44 wins in all men's T20Is. Other notable captains on the list include Eoin Morgan (42 wins), MS Dhoni (41 wins), Rohit Sharma (41 wins), and Asghar Afghan (42 wins).Pakistan's victory over Ireland was a testament to their team's resilience and determination. Despite Azam's early departure, Rizwan, Zaman, and Khan stepped up to the plate, showcasing their exceptional talent and ensuring Pakistan's dominance in the series.