Cricket

Pakistan's remarkable comeback series victory against England was marred by a post-match controversy involving legendary commentator Ramiz Raja and skipper Shan Masood. Raja's interview with Masood drew criticism on social media, prompting a strong reaction from pacer Mohammad Amir.After Pakistan's opening Test defeat to England, they rallied to win the next two matches and secure a 2-1 series triumph. However, Raja's post-match interview with Masood raised eyebrows."There are two things that you will see. One is how to play on seaming conditions and the other thing is if it is a one-off. How did you achieve this, six losses in a row?" Raja asked Masood.Masood responded: "Ramiz bhai, we needed this win. The nation needed this win and I am really happy for Pakistan."The interview sparked outrage on social media, with many fans criticizing Raja's tone and questioning his motives. Amir also took to Twitter to express his displeasure, calling Raja's comments "unprofessional."Raja later issued a clarification, stating that his intention was not to belittle Masood but to highlight the team's struggles in recent months.Masood, breaking his silence on the matter, said he holds no grudges against Raja. "There are no hard feelings from my side," he told BBC Stumped. "I've always been an open book in front of the media and tried to conduct myself in the best possible way."Masood also addressed the absence of Babar Azam from the second and third Tests against England. He expressed hope that the break would benefit Azam in the upcoming white-ball series against Australia.

Former Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman Ramiz Raja has defended his post-match comments to Test team captain Shan Masood, which sparked controversy and criticism. Raja's remarks, particularly his question about Pakistan's six consecutive losses, drew flak from fans and former players, including pacer Mohammad Amir.Raja, speaking on his YouTube channel, clarified that his intention was not to undermine the team's achievement but to explore how they overcame recent struggles. He dismissed the backlash as part of the social media landscape, saying, "Pakistan zinda hi social media pe hai" (Pakistan lives on social media).Raja expressed frustration with how people misinterpret his comments, adding, “If I lived my life based on social media narratives, I wouldn’t be in this field. There are many uninformed opinions from people who haven’t played cricket but act like experts.”He also underlined that he did not intend to question Shan Masood's captaincy and expressed disbelief at how quickly the conversation spiralled into controversy. "When Bangladesh won 2-0, I didn’t ask for anyone to be removed. Why would I question Shan's captaincy after a series win?" Raja argued.Earlier, Mohammad Amir had publicly criticized Raja for his remarks, suggesting that the former chairman should have focused on celebrating the series win rather than bringing up past failures. In a viral video, Amir remarked, “You should celebrate the series win. There is a series-winning captain sitting next to you. You should have asked him about the win, next plans. But you are making fun of him. Have some respect. You are literate people and you should behave like one as well. Where the credit is due, you should give it. I was feeling so bad for Shan. Ramiz has been doing on-air duties for so long now and he has no idea what to ask a winning captain."Raja's comments have sparked a debate about the role of former players in criticizing current teams and players. Some believe that former players have a responsibility to provide constructive criticism, while others argue that they should be more supportive and avoid undermining the team's achievements.

Pakistan's recent victory over England in the second Test at Multan has sparked a mix of jubilation and controversy. The triumph ended a string of Test defeats, but it also reignited criticism of former captain Babar Azam and alleged favoritism during his tenure.After Pakistan's loss in the first Test, the Pakistan Cricket Board's (PCB) new selection panel, led by former pacer Aaqib Javed, dropped Babar from the Test squad. Other notable omissions included fast bowlers Shaheen Shah Afridi and Naseem Shah, as well as wicketkeeper Sarfaraz Ahmed.The move proved fruitful as debutant Kamran Ghulam scored a century, while the spin duo of Noman Ali and Sajid Khan played a pivotal role in Pakistan's 152-run victory within four days. Noman and Sajid claimed all 20 English wickets, with Noman taking 11 and Sajid claiming nine.However, the win has fueled further criticism of Babar, prompting veteran pacer Mohammad Amir to speak out. "Please end these petty talks that the team won because Babar or other players were not in the team," Amir wrote on social media. "We played with better planning, took the home advantage, and won."Amir urged fans to focus on performance rather than personal attacks on players. The three-match series is now level at 1-1, with the deciding Test scheduled to begin on October 24 in Rawalpindi.

Pakistan's Mohammad Amir Fumes at Imad Wasim's Lackluster Fielding in CPLPakistan fast bowler Mohammad Amir expressed his frustration during the Caribbean Super League after a lackluster fielding effort by his compatriot Imad Wasim. The incident occurred during a match between the Antigua and Barbuda Falcons, where both Amir and Wasim play, and the Barbados Royals.Amir bowled a short-pitched delivery to Quinton De Kock, who guided it towards the third-man boundary. Wasim, fielding at deep backward point, initially ran towards the ball but then eased up, allowing it to go for a four. Amir was visibly agitated and was heard shouting at Wasim to run. His fielding position was changed on the next ball.The Royals ultimately emerged victorious, with De Kock scoring 87 runs off just 45 deliveries. The incident sparked criticism on social media, with many questioning Wasim's commitment to the game.Pakistan's Test Coach Explains Exclusion of Shaheen Afridi and Naseem ShahMeanwhile, Pakistan's Test head coach Jason Gillespie has revealed the reasons behind the exclusion of star pace duo Shaheen Afridi and Naseem Shah from the playing XI for the second Test against Bangladesh.Bangladesh is in a commanding position after Day 4, needing just 143 runs to complete a historic clean sweep. Despite a strong performance in the first innings, Pakistan's bowling attack struggled against Bangladesh's openers.Gillespie explained that the team selection was based on an analysis of the pitch conditions. "We looked at conditions and what we thought was the best combination," he said. "We had Bangladesh in a bit of trouble in the first innings, but we need to improve our line and length."

Former Indian opener Virender Sehwag has launched a scathing attack on Pakistan cricket, accusing chief selector Wahab Riaz of bias and favoritism. Riaz, a former Pakistan pacer, was appointed to the role in November 2022, coinciding with the return of veteran pacer Mohammad Amir to the national squad.Amir, who played alongside Riaz, was part of Pakistan's squad for the ongoing T20 World Cup but failed to impress, leading to widespread criticism of the team's performance and selection decisions. Sehwag believes that Riaz's personal connection with Amir has influenced his selection."Wahab Riaz and Mohammad Amir, these are two names who criticized Pakistan team on the same TV channel, giving their comments...Today, one of them is a selector (Riaz) and one is in the playing eleven (Amir)," Sehwag said on a Cricbuzz show."So the same persons who were criticizing, if today they have power, became the selector, what have they done first up? 'Mohammad Amir was with me, let's select him'. It's like if Ajit Agarkar is chairman (of BCCI selection committee) today, he will say 'come Viru, come Zak (Zahir Khan)', I will facilitate your comeback'," he added.Sehwag urged Pakistan selectors to prioritize the future of the team rather than personal connections. "You have become a selector, you have to look at the future. You have a job, make the right use of it, don't do favours. That hard step selectors will have to take," he said.Pakistan's disappointing performance at the T20 World Cup has raised questions about the team's fitness and selection policies. Sehwag's comments have added fuel to the fire, highlighting the need for transparency and objectivity in the selection process.

Former Pakistan cricketer Danish Kaneria has launched a scathing attack on Wasim Akram and other ex-Pakistan cricketers who have criticized the current Pakistan team. Kaneria believes that instead of criticizing from the outside, Akram and other cricketers should instead come and help the side.Pakistan were knocked out of the 2024 T20 World Cup at the group stage, after losses to India and the USA. Kaneria's reaction comes after Wasim Akram had put out a public rant on social media, demanding a new team be formed for Pakistan."Wasim Akram and other people can only preach from the outside. Why don't they come help the Pakistan side?" asked Kaneria. "Why did Wasim Akram not pose the question about Mohammad Amir's selection immediately?" Kaneria told Sports Now."Shoaib Malik is a better player than these guys (the current squad)," he added.The former leg-spinner said that Pakistan's preparations leading up to the 2024 T20 World Cup had not been up to the mark. He raised special concern over the selections of Mohammad Amir and Azam Khan."They (Pakistan) should've picked 20-22 players in the camp, and then picked the best 15," said Kaneria. "Where were Mohammad Amir and Azam Khan six months ago?" blasted Kaneria.Kaneria slammed the Pakistan team's management of not being able to make firm decisions."They will wake up in the morning and say one thing, and then take a U-turn in the evening. They're the masters of the U-turn," said Kaneria."They're egoistic and think they cannot make mistakes," he added.Kaneria also criticized the decision to hand back captaincy to Babar Azam, and suggested that he should bat at no. 3 in T20Is, letting Fakhar Zaman open the innings with Mohammad Rizwan.Babar Azam scored 122 runs in four matches at the 2024 T20 World Cup, but at a strike rate of just 101.

Pakistan's T20 World Cup campaign ended in disappointment, with the team failing to qualify for the Super Eight stage. Following their underwhelming performance, skipper Babar Azam and five other players have opted to extend their stay in London before returning home.Mohammad Amir, Imad Wasim, Haris Rauf, Shadab Khan, and Azam Khan will join Azam in London for a brief vacation. The players intend to spend time with loved ones and potentially participate in local cricket leagues in the UK.Meanwhile, head coach Gary Kirsten and assistant coach Azhar Mahmood will return to their respective homes, as the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has granted them leave due to the lack of upcoming engagements.Pakistan's T20 World Cup journey was marred by inconsistent performances. They suffered defeats to India and the United States before narrowly defeating Canada. Their tournament ended with a three-wicket victory over Ireland, but it was not enough to secure a Super Eight berth.India and the USA finished first and second in Group A, respectively, while Pakistan finished third with four points from four matches.Despite their disappointing World Cup campaign, Pakistan has a busy schedule ahead. They are set to host Bangladesh for a two-match Test series in August, followed by a tour of England in October.

Mohammad Amir, the Pakistani pacer, has faced renewed criticism for his involvement in the 2010 spot-fixing scandal. Despite serving a five-year ban and expressing remorse, Amir's integrity has been questioned by fans and former players.During the ongoing T20 World Cup in the Americas, a fan heckled Amir with the word "fixer" as he walked near the boundary line. The incident sparked outrage on social media, with many condemning the fan's behavior.Amir has previously expressed frustration over the continued criticism, stating that he has paid the price for his mistake. He has also defended his selection in the T20I side, citing his performances in the Pakistan Super League (PSL)."I have done penance for that big mistake," Amir said. "I have lost nine years of my career, but I accept it as God's will and I have moved on."Amir's critics argue that his involvement in the spot-fixing scandal has tarnished his reputation and that he should not be representing Pakistan. However, others believe that Amir has served his punishment and deserves a second chance.The incident highlights the ongoing debate surrounding the redemption of athletes who have been involved in scandals. While some believe that athletes should be forgiven for their past mistakes, others argue that their actions should have lasting consequences.

Aaron Johnson's valiant 52 was a beacon of hope for Canada as they faced a formidable Pakistan in the Group A clash of the T20 World Cup in New York on June 11. However, Pakistan's inspired bowling attack restricted Canada to a modest 106/7, effectively extinguishing their chances of victory.On a challenging wicket that featured uneven bounce, Johnson stood tall for Canada, waging a lone battle against the Pakistani bowlers. His 44-ball knock was studded with four sixes and as many fours, showcasing his power and determination. However, despite his heroics, the rest of the Canadian batting lineup struggled to find their rhythm.Mohammad Amir led the Pakistani bowling attack with an impressive 4-0-13-2, while Haris Rauf chipped in with 2/26. Shaheen Shah Afridi (1/21) and Naseem Shah (1/24) also played their part, recovering well after wayward starts.Johnson's innings was a testament to his resilience and attacking mindset. He did not shy away from taking on the Pakistani bowlers, even when the odds were stacked against him. His hits down the ground were particularly impressive, as he managed to clear the ropes with brute force despite not always timing the ball perfectly.However, shortly after reaching his half-century, Johnson's resistance came to an end when he missed a delivery from Naseem Shah and was clean bowled. With Johnson's dismissal, Canada's hopes of posting a competitive total dwindled.Skipper Saad Bin Zafar (10) and Kaleem Sana (13) managed to guide Canada past the 100-run mark, but it was a far cry from the total they needed to challenge Pakistan.The pressure was evident from the outset as Shaheen began with two full tosses on the pads, which Johnson dispatched for boundaries. Johnson continued to punish the Pakistani bowlers, sending a delivery from Naseem flying over the field on the off-side for a third four.Pakistan's first breakthrough came through Mohammad Amir, who dismissed Navneet Dhaliwal on the final ball of his opening over. Shaheen returned with a change of ends to get Pargat Singh (2) caught behind by Fakhar Zaman, as Pakistan tightened their grip on the match.Imad Wasim then produced a direct hit from cover to catch Nicholas Kirton (1) backing up too far at the non-striker's end, piling further pressure on Johnson. Haris Rauf produced a double-wicket 10th over to have Shreyas Movva (2) caught behind and Ravinderpal Singh (0) caught in the first slip, leaving Canada reeling at 54 for five.