Cricket

India's decision to boycott the Champions Trophy in Pakistan has sparked outrage among former Pakistani cricketers. The International Cricket Council (ICC) confirmed India's withdrawal on Sunday, prompting a flurry of criticism.Former Pakistan captain Mohammad Hafeez expressed his disappointment on social media, stating that it was a "day dream" to expect India's participation. He emphasized that Pakistan is safe and ready to host the event, but India's concerns about security are unfounded."It was a day dream that India will come to Pakistan to play Champions Trophy 2025. Pakistan is safe & ready to host the event. Pakistan hosting all cricket nations at home but somehow not *secure* for India. Waiting for strong & surprised response from government & PCB," Hafeez tweeted.The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is seeking clarification from the ICC regarding the hosting of the Champions Trophy. While India's absence has been confirmed, there has been no mention of a hybrid model, as was implemented during the Asia Cup last year.Sources within the PCB indicate that an email will be sent to the ICC seeking clarity on India's decision. The PCB is also consulting with the government for guidance.Speculation suggests that Dubai could host India's matches in the tournament, which is scheduled for February 2025. However, no official decision has been made.The PCB is assessing the situation and will make a decision on the next steps in due course.

India's decision to decline participation in the Champions Trophy scheduled in Pakistan in 2024 has cast a shadow over the tournament. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) confirmed the news, stating that the International Cricket Council (ICC) had informed them of India's withdrawal.The strained diplomatic relations between India and Pakistan have been a major factor in the absence of bilateral cricket series for over a decade. India's last visit to Pakistan was during the 2008 Asia Cup.The Champions Trophy was planned to be held across three Pakistani cities: Lahore, Rawalpindi, and Karachi. However, the final schedule remained uncertain due to India's pending confirmation.Former cricketer Mohammad Hafeez expressed his disappointment on social media, questioning Pakistan's safety and security. He called for a strong response from the government and PCB.Pakistan's participation in the ODI World Cup in India last year had raised hopes for reciprocal participation in the Champions Trophy. However, India's decision has dashed those expectations.The previous Asia Cup saw Pakistan implementing a hybrid model, with India playing their matches, including the final, in Sri Lanka. Since their last bilateral series in 2012-13, both teams have only competed against each other in ICC multi-nation tournaments.India's withdrawal from the Champions Trophy has raised concerns about the future of cricket between the two nations. The PCB has forwarded the ICC's email to the Pakistani government for advice and guidance.

Former Pakistan captain Mohammad Hafeez has hailed India's skipper Rohit Sharma as the most deserving candidate to lift the World Cup trophy, citing his exceptional leadership and selfless approach to batting.Hafeez lauded Rohit's match-winning 92 off 41 balls against Australia in the T20 World Cup Super Eight, which propelled India to a 24-run victory and eliminated the defending champions. He emphasized Rohit's transformation from a talented player to a true great, attributing it to his unwavering selflessness."It was a Rohit show. We witnessed one of the best innings from a captain," Hafeez remarked. "Leading from the front, there was one thing that no one could overlook, and that was Rohit's quality of selflessness."Hafeez believes that Rohit's selfless approach has been a key factor in his success over the past year, including his standout performance in the 2023 ODI World Cup. "He has been planning this innings for over a year now, and he has executed it perfectly," Hafeez said. "In the last 50-over World Cup, he was the standout performer for India. He always played selflessly, regardless of the situation."Hafeez highlighted Rohit's clarity of goals, which extend beyond personal milestones to winning ICC trophies for India. "When you set your goals high, your pedigree increases," he stated. "In Rohit's case, India's leadership deserves to win this World Cup. The way he plays unconditionally, like a champion, is remarkable."Hafeez expressed his belief that Rohit's leadership and dedication make him the ideal candidate to bring World Cup glory to India. "Rohit is the only person at the moment who deserves to win this World Cup for India," he asserted. "His selfless dedication and leadership make him the perfect choice."

Former Pakistan cricket captain Mohammad Hafeez has strongly criticized Jos Buttler's suggestion that the ICC calendar should be adjusted to avoid international matches clashing with the Indian Premier League (IPL).Hafeez expressed shock and disappointment over Buttler's statement, emphasizing that the honor of representing one's country should not be compromised for a tournament like the IPL. "It shocked me. The statement was given by Jos Buttler after coming out of the IPL season and representing his own country as a captain. He said that there should not be any international cricket clashing with IPL," Hafeez said on the Club Praire Fire podcast.Hafeez questioned the priority of the IPL over international cricket, stating that the pride of playing for one's nation should take precedence. He sought the opinion of former England captain Michael Vaughan on the matter, but was surprised by Vaughan's response.Vaughan acknowledged the dominance of the IPL as a "big juggernaut" and suggested that it is financially beneficial for cricket boards to allow their players to participate in the tournament. He expressed concern about the impact of the IPL and Pakistan Super League (PSL) on the English county game, which could lose players to these lucrative competitions.Hafeez's criticism highlights the ongoing debate over the balance between international cricket and franchise-based tournaments. While the IPL has become a global phenomenon, attracting top players and generating significant revenue, it has also raised concerns about its potential to overshadow international cricket.The ICC has a responsibility to ensure that the international cricket calendar is fair and equitable, allowing all teams to compete on a level playing field. It is important to strike a balance between the financial benefits of franchise tournaments and the integrity of international cricket.

IPL vs. International Cricket: A Clash of PrioritiesThe recent comments by England captain Jos Buttler, suggesting that international cricket should not clash with the Indian Premier League (IPL), have sparked a heated debate within the cricketing community. Buttler's remarks, made ahead of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2024, have raised questions about the balance between domestic and international cricket.Former Pakistan captain Mohammad Hafeez has strongly criticized Buttler's stance, emphasizing the importance of national pride and duty. Hafeez argues that representing one's country should be the ultimate priority for any cricketer, regardless of financial incentives.Buttler's comments have also drawn support from former England captain Michael Vaughan, who acknowledges the growing significance of the IPL. Vaughan believes that the IPL's financial rewards and global reach make it increasingly difficult for international boards to compete.However, Hafeez questions the morality of prioritizing the IPL over national commitments. He argues that it sends the wrong message to young cricketers and undermines the spirit of international competition.The debate has also highlighted the potential impact on domestic cricket. Adam Gilchrist, another former England captain, points out that the IPL's schedule overlaps with domestic tournaments, forcing players to make difficult choices.The clash between the IPL and international cricket is a complex issue with no easy solutions. As the IPL continues to grow in popularity and financial clout, it is likely to continue to challenge the traditional hierarchy of cricket.However, it is crucial to ensure that the pursuit of financial gain does not overshadow the fundamental values of the sport. National pride, international competition, and the development of domestic cricket must remain at the heart of the game.

Pakistan cricket is set to undergo a major overhaul following a string of disappointing performances in recent international tournaments. The team's poor showing in the 2023 ODI World Cup and the 2024 T20 World Cup has raised serious questions about the leadership of Babar Azam and the overall culture within the team.The latest criticism comes from former Pakistan captain Mohammad Hafeez, who has revealed an incident involving several players sleeping in the dressing room during a Test match. Hafeez expressed his shock and disappointment at the lack of professionalism and focus among the players."If a player is sleeping in a dressing room and we are playing Test cricket. If 4-5 players are sleeping in the dressing room, should I allow that as a selector?" Hafeez said in an online interaction with Adam Gilchrist and Michael Vaughan.Hafeez's comments echo those of coach Gary Kirsten, who previously stated that there was a lack of unity within the Pakistan team. These revelations have raised concerns about the team's preparation, motivation, and overall approach to the game.The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has acknowledged the need for change and has announced plans for a major restructuring of the team. This includes the appointment of a new selection committee and a review of the coaching staff.The PCB is also considering implementing stricter disciplinary measures to ensure that players maintain a high level of professionalism and commitment. The board is determined to create a winning culture within the team and restore Pakistan's status as a cricketing powerhouse.

Former Pakistan captain Mohammad Hafeez has reiterated his criticism of Virat Kohli's performance in the ICC ODI World Cup last year, calling him "selfish."In the World Cup match against South Africa, Kohli scored 101 runs off 121 balls, maintaining a strike rate of 83.47. Despite hitting 10 fours and no sixes, his performance drew criticism from Hafeez.Speaking on the Club Prairie Fire podcast, Hafeez explained his reasoning: "Your intention and way of playing should always aim toward winning the game. But if someone is hesitating to play big shots in his 90s, I won't accept it. After 95, if someone takes five balls to get to his 100 and his intention changes after scoring 100, why can't he play the same shots he did at 95 or 92 runs? For me, the intent should always remain the same—to add the best possible value to your team's victory."Hafeez believes that Kohli's focus on personal milestones hindered the team's success: "I felt Virat took too many balls to get to his hundred, and he wasn't playing big shots. Personal milestones should be secondary to the team's success. As a fan of cricket, I don't appreciate 50s and 100s that aren't for a winning cause. In cricket, even one run can make the biggest difference."Kohli's recent performances in the ICC Men's T20 World Cup have been disappointing, with scores of 1, 4, and 0 in consecutive matches. As the tournament shifts to the Caribbean, Kohli will be hoping to regain his form and contribute to India's success.

Former Pakistan captain Mohammad Hafeez has raised concerns over star batter Babar Azam's performance in ICC events, questioning whether the burden of captaincy is affecting his game. Hafeez's remarks come after Pakistan's disappointing exit from the T20 World Cup, where Babar failed to lead the team to the Super 8 stage.Despite Pakistan's victory in their final group match against Ireland, Babar's cautious approach during the chase raised eyebrows. Chasing a modest target of 107, Pakistan lost wickets at regular intervals, but Babar remained at the crease, scoring a slow 32 not out off 34 balls.Hafeez expressed his disappointment over Babar's form in ICC events, suggesting that the captaincy may be weighing him down. "I feel sorry for Babar Azam. For a quality player like him, to have a major dip during ICC events is a big concern. And only Babar Azam can answer this. Is it because of his captaincy?" Hafeez said on PTV Sports.Hafeez emphasized that only Babar can explain his struggles at ICC events. "I want him to be the highest run-getter for Pakistan and he has that capacity. But when it comes to bilateral series, Babar is on top but in ICC event he is so low down. So this big dip in form is cause for concern and only Babar can answer it or maybe someone else," he added.Hafeez praised Babar's knock against Ireland, acknowledging his responsibility as a senior player to guide the team to victory. However, he also highlighted the need for a major shake-up in the team and management following Pakistan's dismal performance at the World Cup.Fans and analysts have criticized the team management for selecting the wrong players for the tournament. Pakistan's fall from grace is particularly striking considering their impressive run to the final in the previous World Cup two years ago.As Pakistan prepares to host the Champions Trophy next year, there are calls for a thorough review of the team's strategy and personnel. Hafeez's comments have added fuel to the debate, raising questions about Babar Azam's suitability as captain and the need for a fresh approach to ICC events.

Former Pakistan captain and coach Mohammad Hafeez has made explosive allegations against the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), accusing them of prioritizing their own interests and engaging in negotiations with players such as Mohammad Amir and Imad Wasim to ensure their inclusion in the 15-member team for the upcoming T20 World Cup.Hafeez, who was not included in the squad, claimed that the PCB had "brought them here out of greed" and made "deals" with players who had "ruined Pakistan's cricket." He questioned the selection of Amir and Wasim, who had both retired from international cricket but reversed their decisions in recent months."They (PCB) brought them here out of greed, made deals with such players (Amir and Wasim) who have ruined Pakistan's cricket. I was in the domestic circuit, but no one wanted to play domestic cricket. It is because they were telling me that 'any of us gets selected, we will take it.' How can it be that players who don't even play Pakistan's domestic cricket got selected," Hafeez said.Hafeez also criticized Amir and Wasim for their lack of commitment to Pakistan cricket, claiming that they had only returned to the team because there were no other leagues happening at the moment."When asked to play for Pakistan six months ago, they said they wanted to play in leagues. Since no leagues are happening these days, they are playing in the World Cup. They are playing in the World Cup as if it is just another league," he added.Hafeez's allegations have sparked a storm of controversy in Pakistan, with many fans and experts questioning the PCB's decision-making. The PCB has not yet responded to Hafeez's claims, but it is likely that they will face pressure to address the issue in the coming days.