Cricket

Pakistani Fan's Placard for 'Dropped' Babar Azam Sparks Social Media FrenzyIn an unexpected twist during the Pakistan vs England series decider at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, a Pakistani fan displayed a placard expressing support for the recently dropped Babar Azam. The placard, which read "I skipped school to see King Babar," drew attention on the opening day of the third and final Test.Babar Azam, Pakistan's captain and star batsman, was surprisingly omitted from the team for the second and third Tests against England due to a poor run of form. In the first Test in Multan, he scored a disappointing 30 and 5, following a string of low scores against Bangladesh at home.The fan's placard sparked a flurry of witty comments on social media. Some users questioned the fan's decision to skip school, while others praised his unwavering support for Babar Azam.Meanwhile, on the field, England struggled to 110 for five at lunch on the opening day. Sajid Khan and Noman Ali wreaked havoc on the English top order, with Sajid claiming three wickets and Noman taking two. Ben Duckett (52) and Zak Crawley (29) provided a steady start, but Ollie Pope (3), Joe Root (5), and Harry Brook (5) were dismissed cheaply.Skipper Ben Stokes and Jamie Smith remained unbeaten at the break on 6 and 5, respectively, as England faced an uphill battle in the series-deciding contest.

England skipper Ben Stokes faced a moment of confusion during a press conference ahead of the third Test against Pakistan. A Pakistani reporter struggled to articulate a question about England's impressive 823-run total in the first Test, leading to Stokes requesting the question to be repeated three times.Despite the language barrier, Stokes remained composed and later apologized to the reporter for any miscommunication. England, looking to bounce back from their defeat in the second Test, will face a spin-friendly pitch in Rawalpindi. Stokes expressed confidence in his trio of spinners, Jack Leach, Shoaib Bashir, and Rehan Ahmed.Pakistan, on the other hand, have retained their spin-heavy bowling lineup, including Sajid Khan, Noman Ali, and Zahid Mahmood. With Pakistan hoping to build on their spin success from the previous match and England looking to dominate again, the pitch conditions will be crucial.Stokes emphasized the importance of batting first, as spin will become more significant as the match progresses. Pakistan head coach Jason Gillespie echoed Stokes's sentiments, stating that the near-bald pitch is expected to favor slower bowlers.A victory for Pakistan would signal a significant turnaround in fortunes after a disappointing year in international cricket. Both teams will be looking to take advantage of the home conditions and secure a crucial win in the decisive encounter.

Pakistan's national bureau of statistics hosted its inaugural 'Data-Fest' conference this week, just a stone's throw away from England's hotel in Islamabad. Under Brendon McCullum and Ben Stokes, this England set-up has shown minimal interest in numbers, but there is one figure that stands out ahead of their series decider in nearby Rawalpindi: 101.25, Harry Brook's batting average in Pakistan.Two years have passed since Brook announced himself as a Test cricketer with an outrageous maiden hundred in Rawalpindi. He was England's fourth centurion as they racked up 506 for 4 on the opening day of their series against Pakistan, eventually falling for 153 off 116 balls on the second morning after looting 27 off an over from Zahid Mahmood.He followed that innings with subsequent hundreds in England's victories in Multan and Karachi, an extension of a stunning run of form in Pakistan that had started with a century in the 2022 PSL and continued with a breakthrough T20I series. Not since Kevin Pietersen had an England batter made such a compelling start to their Test career.Brook started the series with 317 in Multan on his return this month, a mammoth innings that was England's highest in 34 years. But more than 500km away in Peshawar, Sajid Khan was watching closely on TV, and noticed Brook hanging back against spin. When he was called up for the second Test, Sajid hatched a plan to turn the ball sharply out of the rough."There was a small patch outside off stump," Sajid explained. "When he faced his first ball, I told Rizi bhai [Mohammad Rizwan] that if he plays like this again, I will get him out." Brook stayed back as Sajid predicted, looking to punch through cover, but was beaten on his inside edge by a ball that kept low and had his leg stump knocked back.Brook was out playing off the back foot again in England's second innings, too, this time to the left-armer Noman Ali. He sat deep in his crease to a fullish ball, looking to swing it over midwicket, but was deceived by the low bounce and trapped lbw. With scores of 9 and 16, this was Brook's least successful Test in Pakistan: his first without a hundred, and his first defeat.Brendon McCullum, England's coach, smirked after the second Test when he heard Sajid had been revealing his plans to Brook. "Did he? Well bowled," McCullum said. "He is such an exciting cricketer, and such a big player for us as well, and he's trying to put pressure on the opposition… Sometimes, when you're doing that, you make mistakes and you get out."One quiet Test immediately after a triple-hundred is not enough to prompt any long-term concerns, but Brook said on Tuesday that he has been discussing gameplans against Sajid and Noman ahead of this week's decider. "They're obviously both going to play a massive part in their team," he said. "Hopefully, it pays off and I play a big part in the game."Brook agreed with Sajid's assessment about his preference to play spin off the back foot. "I do like to," he said. "It gives you a lot more time to play the spinning ball. It gives you different areas to play in. I'm not saying I'm not going to do that: I'm going to look to play off the back foot, and I'm going to look to put him under pressure."It is hardly an issue that has plagued him across his Test career: to date, Brook averages more against spin (67.81) than seam (57.70). But the reason that his twin failures were notable was that, having missed England's tour to India on compassionate leave, this was the first time he had played on a pitch weighted firmly in the spinners' favour.England staged a six-hitting competition ahead of their final training session in Rawalpindi on Wednesday morning, with Brook finishing a close second to Rehan Ahmed. Stokes said the aim was to "get the good vibes going" after three weeks largely confined to two hotels and two stadiums, but it also served as a reminder of Brook's devastating power.It is easily forgotten that Brook has still only played 20 Tests, such was the speed with which he became an all-format regular for England. He has a stellar record, averaging a shade below 60, but remains a work in progress. "He's a baby in the greater scheme of things," Jason Gillespie, Pakistan's coach, said. "He'll work things out in all conditions: the good players tend to do that."This has been a long season for Brook: since the start of April, he has played more or less non-stop, with 35 matches across formats including eight Tests, five ODIs as a stand-in captain, and a T20 World Cup. Thursday's Rawalpindi Test will finally bring it to a close, even if he will only have a short break before England travel to New Zealand.As a three-format player, Brook is growing accustomed to the relentlessness of the international schedule and will soon become used to opponents targeting what they perceive to be potential weaknesses. If he can overcome both pitfalls and maintain his remarkable three-figure average in Pakistan, it will go a long way towards England clinching this series.

Pakistan's recent Test victory over England in the second Test was a testament to the team's resilience and adaptability. However, head coach Jason Gillespie downplayed his role in the triumph, emphasizing that the decisions made after the first Test defeat were largely out of his hands.The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) appointed a new selection committee, including former umpire Aleem Dar and Aaqib Javed, and excluded Gillespie and captain Shan Masood from the selection process. Gillespie acknowledged that he was now solely responsible for match-day strategy and player preparation.This shift in responsibilities contrasts with Gillespie's initial mandate when he took over the role earlier this year. He had previously expressed a desire to make long-term decisions for the team's development. However, the decision to field a spin-heavy attack and prepare a surface to assist them appears to contradict his earlier stance against short-termism.Gillespie declined to comment on the team's composition, stating that he was no longer involved in the selection process. He acknowledged the unusual nature of his situation, but emphasized his focus on protecting the players from external noise and fostering a positive environment.Despite the limited scope of his current role, Gillespie praised the players' resilience and ability to stay calm under pressure. He highlighted the team's ability to recover from early setbacks and the collapse triggered by Sajid Khan's bowling on Day 2.Gillespie emphasized the importance of communication and collaboration within the support staff. He expressed pride in the relationships built with the players and the team's ability to stay focused on the controllable aspects of the game.

Pakistan's unwavering faith in their spin-heavy strategy has led them to field an unchanged starting eleven for the decisive third Test against England in Rawalpindi. This decision comes after their resounding 152-run victory in the second Test in Multan, where their triple-spin attack proved highly effective.The decision to retain the same lineup is a testament to Pakistan's belief in the curators' efforts to transform the Rawalpindi surface into a spin-friendly haven. Historically, the Pindi pitch has not been conducive to spin, but the curators have been working tirelessly to alter its behavior.Industrial-sized fans and heaters have been deployed to dry out the surface, while windbreakers have been placed around the pitch to prevent moisture from seeping in. Footmarks are visible on the strip, particularly outside the left-hander's off-stump, indicating that the pitch may offer assistance to spinners.Pakistan's head coach, Jason Gillespie, acknowledged the unique nature of the pitch. "It's an interesting pitch," he said. "We expect it to favor the slower balls here."The series is currently level at 1-1, with both teams eager to secure a series victory. Pakistan is seeking their first series win since their 2-0 triumph in Sri Lanka in July, while England is aiming to avoid a series defeat.Pakistan's unchanged lineup features Saim Ayub, Abdullah Shafique, Shan Masood (captain), Kamran Ghulam, Saud Shakeel, Mohammad Rizwan (wicket-keeper), Salman Agha, Aamer Jamal, Sajid Khan, Noman Ali, and Zahid Mahmood.

England's Test tour of Pakistan reaches its climax in Rawalpindi, a match that will not only determine the series outcome but also provide crucial insights into the team's ability to compete in Asian conditions. After 17 Tests in Asia over the past four years, England will not return for another two, making this match a pivotal moment in their subcontinent journey.Under Ben Stokes' leadership, England's record in Asia stands at five wins and five defeats, with one victory under Ollie Pope's captaincy. While they are not alone in struggling in India, a second consecutive win in Pakistan would bolster their subcontinent credentials.Rawalpindi holds special significance for England, as it was the site of their remarkable victory two years ago, where they amassed 506 runs on the first day and showcased their bowling prowess on a lifeless surface. However, they anticipate a different challenge this time, reflected in their selection of three frontline spinners, including Rehan Ahmed.The pitch has been meticulously prepared to favor spin, with groundstaff using rakes and heaters to create a turning surface. Stokes acknowledges the potential for a "decent wicket" for the first few days, but believes the spinners will come into play as the game progresses.Pakistan's approach to pitch preparation has raised eyebrows, with the recycling of the same strip in Multan and the tailoring of the Rawalpindi surface to suit their spinners. However, Stokes has refrained from criticism, simply stating that the pitch is "good."The toss will play a significant role, as it did in the second Test in Multan. Stokes recognizes the importance of winning the toss in subcontinent conditions, but believes the pitch will not deteriorate as drastically as in previous matches.England has shown a willingness to adapt to overseas conditions, as evidenced by the inclusion of Rehan Ahmed as a wildcard spin option. Stokes believes his "free spirit" and ability to create chances will be valuable, even on a flat pitch.Stokes' own batting in the subcontinent has been underwhelming, with an average of 27.22 and only one century in eight innings in Pakistan. He will be eager to end his century drought and prove his worth in these challenging conditions.The success of the McCullum-Stokes regime will ultimately be judged by their results against India and Australia next year, but this week's match will shape their reputation in Asia. Stokes emphasizes the importance of winning, highlighting their singular focus on securing victory in Rawalpindi.

Former Pakistan batsman Basit Ali has expressed concern over the delay in announcing the Pakistan Cricket Board's (PCB) squad for the upcoming tour of Australia. Ali, who played alongside Aaqib Javed, the head of the PCB's new selection panel, urged Javed to announce the team promptly.Ali, known as "Chocolaty" to Javed, emphasized the importance of announcing the squad before the third Test match against England, scheduled to begin on October 24 in Rawalpindi. He expressed concern that the PCB's current establishment, which he believes has favored certain individuals, may not support Javed's decisions."I pray that you continue to receive the support of the chairman, Mohsin Naqvi," Ali said. "But keep your eyes open. The talks that I have heard can hurt."Ali also urged Javed to intervene if Fakhar Zaman, who publicly backed former captain Babar Azam after his omission from the Test squad, faces sanctions from the PCB. Zaman received a show-cause notice from the PCB for his comments, but he defended his actions, stating that he felt compelled to speak out."Do send Fakhar Zaman (to Australia)," Ali said. "If there is an action taken (by PCB) against Fakhar Zaman, you should intervene."Ali's advice comes amid ongoing speculation about the future of Babar Azam, who was dropped from the Test squad despite being Pakistan's captain in all three formats. The decision has sparked controversy, with many fans and experts questioning the rationale behind it.The PCB has yet to announce the squad for the Australia tour, which is scheduled to begin on November 4. The series will feature three ODIs and three T20Is.

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has unveiled the schedule for the 2024-25 Quaid-e-Azam Trophy, Pakistan's premier domestic first-class competition. The tournament will commence on October 26 and culminate in the final on December 19.In a significant expansion, the tournament will feature 18 teams representing 16 regions, including two teams each from Lahore and Karachi. This marks a departure from previous years, which saw a limited number of teams participating."The Quaid-e-Azam Trophy is the pinnacle of domestic cricket in Pakistan," said Abdullah Niazi, Director of Domestic Operations. "It showcases the immense talent across the country and prepares players for international challenges."The PCB's commitment to strengthening its domestic structure was evident in the successful Champions One-Day Cup earlier this year. The Quaid-e-Azam Trophy remains a cornerstone of this commitment.The tournament's start date of October 26 is later than usual, as the PCB prioritized the Champions One-Day Cup in September. This means the Quaid-e-Azam Trophy will overlap with Pakistan's busy Test season, which includes seven home games.Pakistan vice-captain Saud Shakeel suggested that the first-class competition could be used to prepare for the upcoming tour of South Africa by replicating the conditions there.

Pakistan's Test team coach, Jason Gillespie, has garnered praise for his humble gesture after a training session ahead of the series-deciding third Test against England in Rawalpindi. A video circulating on social media shows Gillespie diligently picking up empty bottles and disposing of them in a dustbin.The incident occurred on Tuesday, as the team prepared for the crucial match. England had won the first Test by an innings and 47 runs, while Pakistan had fought back to clinch victory in the second by 152 runs.Gillespie's actions have been lauded by fans and observers alike, who have commended his "grace" and professionalism. Some have speculated that the empty bottles were left behind by the Pakistan players, who may have exited the training area without cleaning up.Meanwhile, the ground staff at the Rawalpindi stadium are working tirelessly to dry up the wicket in order to assist Pakistan's spinners. Three heaters and fans are being used on either side of the track to remove moisture from the 22-yard strip.The second match of the series was played on the same track in Multan, which became worn-out and cracked after being used in the first Test. This assisted the Pakistan spinners, who took all 20 English wickets to fall in that match.The third Test is set to begin on Thursday in Rawalpindi, with both teams eager to secure victory and claim the series. Pakistan will be hoping to continue their winning momentum, while England will be determined to bounce back and level the series.