Cricket

Former Pakistan cricket captain Waqar Younis' three-week tenure as an advisor on cricket affairs to the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman has concluded. Appointed as a consultant on August 1, Younis' role was initially set for a three-week period.According to sources within the PCB, the board has advertised the position of advisor on cricket affairs, and candidates who have applied will be interviewed. It remains unclear whether Younis has reapplied for the role.Sources indicate that Younis, who played 87 Tests and 262 ODIs for Pakistan, had requested a short stint in the role before committing to a longer-term position. However, it is reported that Younis faced discomfort in his consultancy role, with limited cooperation from influential individuals within the board.Younis was present with PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi after his appointment but has not attended the office since August 19. Sources suggest that Younis may be offered a field job with the national team in the future, but his short-term consultancy has ended.

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has unveiled a comprehensive overhaul of its domestic cricket structure, introducing three new competitions and significantly enhancing player contracts and match fees. The ambitious plan aims to bridge the gap between domestic and international cricket and elevate Pakistan's standing in the global cricketing landscape.The centerpiece of the new structure is the Champions tournament, a five-team competition that will span across formats. The Dolphins, Lions, Panthers, Stallions, and Wolves will compete in the Champions One-Day Cup, Champions T20 Cup, and Champions Pentagular (first-class cricket). The tournaments will run from September 2024 to August 2025, effectively extending the domestic season by almost a year.PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi emphasized the need for innovation and strategic enhancements to restore Pakistan's cricketing prowess. He believes that the Champions tournaments will create an environment that mirrors the intensity of international cricket, fostering the development of top-tier players.The Champions tournaments will feature around 150 of Pakistan's most talented and consistent domestic performers, including centrally-contracted players. The selection process remains to be determined, but the plan has received the endorsement of Waqar Younis, the newly appointed advisor to the chair on cricket affairs.Each of the five teams will have a potential owner and mentor, in addition to a dedicated high-performance center and a full complement of coaching staff. The PCB has also raised domestic player contracts, with Category 1 players now earning PKR 550,000, Category 2 players earning PKR 400,000, and Category 3 players earning PKR 250,000.Match fees have also been increased significantly, with white-ball matches now paying PKR 125,000 (50-over cricket) and PKR 100,000 (T20 cricket), while red-ball matches will pay PKR 200,000.The PCB's bold initiative aims to create a more competitive and rewarding domestic cricket environment, fostering the development of world-class players and ultimately elevating Pakistan's standing in international cricket.

India-Pakistan Cricket Series: Glimmer of Hope EmergesThe prospect of a bilateral cricket series between arch-rivals India and Pakistan has ignited excitement among cricket enthusiasts worldwide. Mohsin Naqvi, the chairman of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), has hinted at "promising opportunities" for such a series.Naqvi's statement has raised hopes that the two nations could potentially resume their cricketing rivalry, which has been on hold for over a decade due to political tensions. The PCB chairman suggested that the series could be played in Australia, but did not rule out the possibility of matches being held in Pakistan.The news has been met with enthusiasm by cricket fans, who have long yearned to witness the historic rivalry between India and Pakistan. The matches between the two sides are known for their intense atmosphere and passionate fan support.However, it is important to note that there is still no official confirmation from the Indian cricket board regarding their participation in a potential series. The Indian government has previously expressed concerns about the safety of its players in Pakistan.Naqvi also addressed the issue of fitness standards for the Pakistan cricket team. He emphasized that the Yo-Yo test, a measure of endurance and agility, will be mandatory for all players. He stated that players who fail to meet the fitness requirements will not be eligible for selection to the national team.The PCB chairman's comments have sparked optimism among cricket fans, who hope that the India-Pakistan series will become a reality in the near future. The resumption of the rivalry would not only provide thrilling entertainment but also serve as a symbol of reconciliation between the two nations.

Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi has called for sweeping changes within the national team following their disappointing performance in the ICC T20 World Cup. The team's recent six-run defeat to arch-rivals India has prompted Naqvi to demand a thorough review and potential overhaul of the squad.Naqvi expressed deep concern over the team's inability to chase down a modest target of 120 runs against India, highlighting the need for significant improvements. He acknowledged that the team's performance has been below par, not only in the World Cup but also in recent matches against the USA.The PCB chairman emphasized the need to consider players who have been sidelined for some time, indicating that the current team composition may not be delivering the desired results. He stressed that the board has been supportive of the players but acknowledged that the team's underperformance requires a comprehensive review.Naqvi's comments come at a critical juncture for Pakistan, as their hopes of advancing to the Super Eight stage now hinge on winning convincingly against Canada and Ireland. However, even if these conditions are met, the final standings could come down to net run rate.The PCB chairman's remarks underscore the urgency of the situation as Pakistan faces a crucial test in the tournament. The team's management and selection strategies are expected to undergo scrutiny in the coming days, with potential changes aimed at revitalizing the squad and improving performance.

Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi has urged fans to rally behind the national team throughout the upcoming T20 World Cup, regardless of the outcome. With the tournament set to commence in two days, Naqvi emphasized the importance of unwavering support for the players."Support the team and assure them that we [the fans] are with you [the team] whether you win or lose," Naqvi told the media in London. "I just want to request one thing which we really need for the next four weeks. Let us all support our players."Pakistan's preparations for the World Cup have been hampered by rain-affected matches in their ongoing T20I series against England. However, Naqvi expressed confidence in the team's strategy and urged the players to perform to their potential."Overall, a strategy is in place that they don't have to panic and give their best [on the field]," Naqvi said.Pakistan's squad for the World Cup features a pace-laden attack, a departure from the trend of other teams opting for more spinners. Naqvi defended this decision, stating that the team has a plan in place."We have a strategy in place. We have a plan. We have a combination. We have a team. We have a captain. We have a coach. We have a management. We have everything in place," Naqvi said.Pakistan is placed in Group A and will face co-hosts USA in their opening match on June 6. The team will be looking to make a strong start to their World Cup campaign and secure a place in the Super 12 stage.

Pakistan's cricket board has announced a hefty incentive for its T20 World Cup squad, promising each player a staggering USD 100,000 if they emerge victorious in the tournament scheduled for June in the Americas. The announcement was made by PCB chief Mohsin Naqvi during a meeting with the team before their departure for the away T20 series against Ireland and England.Naqvi emphasized that the prize money was secondary to the ultimate goal of lifting the trophy, expressing his confidence in the team's ability to bring glory to Pakistan. "Chairman PCB Mohsin Naqvi announced to give 100,000 dollars prize to every player for winning the T20 World Cup," the PCB posted on social media.The PCB chief urged the players to focus solely on their performance and teamwork, assuring them that victory would follow. He also expressed his belief in the unity of the team and the exceptional abilities of fast-bowler Shaheen Shah Afridi. "The country has a lot of expectations from you. You have to fulfill them," Naqvi told the players.During his visit, Naqvi also recognized the achievements of wicketkeeper-batter Mohamad Rizwan and pacer Naseem Shah, presenting them with special shirts for reaching milestones of 3,000 T20 runs and 100 T20 wickets, respectively.The announcement of the prize money has generated excitement among the players and fans alike, raising expectations for Pakistan's performance in the upcoming T20 World Cup. The team will be looking to build on their recent successes, including their victory in the Asia Cup 2022, as they aim to bring home the coveted trophy.

Shaheen Shah Afridi's tenure as Pakistan's T20 captain hangs in the balance after Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi declined to confirm his continuation in the role. Naqvi stated that the newly appointed selection committee will determine the captaincy, leaving Afridi's future uncertain.Afridi's appointment in November 2023 was met with skepticism after Pakistan's 4-1 series loss to New Zealand under his leadership. His tactical decisions were questioned, and his PSL franchise Lahore Qalandars' disastrous campaign further fueled speculation about his suitability as captain.Naqvi's comments suggest that Afridi's performance during the upcoming fitness camp in Kakul will be crucial in determining his fate. The PCB's decision to defer a decision until after the camp provides them with additional time to evaluate his fitness and leadership abilities.Afridi's potential removal as captain would mark the third T20 skipper change in five months for Pakistan. Babar Azam's resignation in November paved the way for Afridi's appointment, but his recent struggles have cast doubt on his long-term prospects.Naqvi emphasized the PCB's desire for a long-term solution, indicating that Afridi's tenure could be cut short if he fails to meet expectations. The 23-year-old's appointment was seen as an opportunity for him to develop as a leader, but his recent performances have raised concerns about his readiness for the role.The PCB's decision to recall Imad Wasim from international retirement was also addressed by Naqvi. He stated that the all-rounder's return was deemed necessary to strengthen the team ahead of the T20 World Cup. Wasim has clarified that his return is only until the end of the tournament and that he does not expect a central contract.

PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi Appointed Federal Minister, Retains PCB RoleMohsin Naqvi, the newly elected chairman of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), has been appointed as the Federal Minister for Interior and Narcotics Control. This unprecedented move has raised questions about potential conflicts of interest and the impact on the governance of Pakistan cricket.Naqvi, who was elected PCB chairman last month, has stated that he will continue to hold both positions concurrently. This is not the first time he has juggled political and cricketing responsibilities. Last month, he was serving as the caretaker chief minister of Punjab while also being elected PCB chairman.The PCB has defended Naqvi's dual role, arguing that it does not violate the board's constitution. The PCB election commissioner has stated that the board's rules prohibit a chairman from holding an "office of profit" concurrently, but Naqvi has said he will not draw a salary from his role at the Interior Ministry.However, the dual role has raised concerns about potential conflicts of interest. Naqvi has previously stated that he does not want politics to seep into cricket, but his appointment as a federal minister could make it difficult to maintain that separation.The International Cricket Council (ICC) has historically taken a dim view of political interference in cricket, but it has only intervened sporadically. There is precedent for board chairs holding ministries elsewhere in the subcontinent, such as Sharad Pawar serving as BCCI president while also being India's Minister for Agriculture.The ICC has stated that it requires a complaining party to assess whether political interference has occurred at a cricket board. In the past, it has suspended Zimbabwe Cricket and Sri Lanka Cricket for brief periods due to political interference.It remains to be seen how Naqvi's dual role will impact the governance of Pakistan cricket. The PCB has expressed confidence that there will be no violation of its constitution, but the potential for conflicts of interest and political influence remains a concern.

Pakistan's cricket team is set to embark on an intensive 10-day training camp in collaboration with the Pakistan Army from March 25 to April 8. The camp, announced by PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi, aims to enhance the players' fitness and prepare them for upcoming international commitments.Naqvi expressed concerns about the team's fitness levels, particularly their lack of six-hitting ability. He emphasized the need for a comprehensive training plan to improve their physical capabilities. The camp will be held at the Kakul military academy, where the players will undergo rigorous training under the guidance of the Pakistan Army.The timing of the camp has raised concerns among players, as it falls during the holy month of Ramzan, when fasting from sunrise to sunset can impact physical performance. However, Naqvi believes the camp is essential to address the team's fitness issues.Naqvi also addressed the ongoing debate over players prioritizing T20 leagues over national commitments. He urged the players to prioritize Pakistan first, citing his own experience as caretaker chief minister of Punjab, where he made financial sacrifices to serve the country.The PCB is currently in the process of appointing a new coaching setup for the national team. Naqvi assured the players that the board is exploring all available options and will spare no expense in securing the best possible coaches.The camp is expected to be a crucial step in Pakistan's preparations for upcoming challenges, including tours of New Zealand, Ireland, and England, as well as the T20 World Cup. The collaboration with the Pakistan Army is a testament to the board's commitment to providing the team with the best possible training and support.