Cricket

Pakistan's former captain, Rashid Latif, has expressed concern over the decline in the country's fast-bowling stocks. He lamented that pacers who once started at 145kmph have now slowed down to 130kmph.Latif's comments came after Pakistan's humiliating ten-wicket defeat to Bangladesh in the first Test at Rawalpindi. The hosts opted for an all-pace attack but failed to contain the visitors on a docile pitch. Bangladesh amassed 565 runs, while Pakistan declared at 448/6.In the second innings, Mehidy Hasan Miraz and Shakib Al Hasan shared seven wickets to dismiss Pakistan for a mere 146. Bangladesh chased down the target of 30 runs in just 6.3 overs, securing their first-ever Test win over Pakistan.Latif attributed the defeat to the lack of pace in Pakistan's bowling attack. "Our top fast bowlers no longer bowl at breakneck pace," he said. "Shaheen (Afridi), Naseem (Shah), and Khurram (Shahzad) started off with pace of 145. They all have come down to 130."He also criticized the Pakistan support staff for failing to keep the pacers in prime shape. "Our trainers and physios are to blame," he said. "Look at Jofra Archer, Jasprit Bumrah, and Pat Cummins. They all came back from injuries without losing any pace."Latif further pointed out that Bangladesh's spinners played a crucial role in their victory. "We no longer have quality spinners like we used to," he said. "Instead, we relied on pace, but the tactics backfired."He also criticized Pakistan's decision to declare too early in their first innings. "They should have aimed for 550," he said. "Falling 100 runs short ultimately made the difference."Latif concluded by praising Bangladesh for their tactical acumen. "They read the conditions well and outplayed Pakistan," he said. "They wore down the Pakistani bowlers and then capitalized."

Shahid Afridi: A Grandfather and a Cricket CriticFormer Pakistan cricket captain Shahid Afridi is celebrating a personal milestone while simultaneously voicing concerns over his country's performance in Test cricket.Afridi's family recently welcomed a new member with the birth of his grandson, Aliyaar Afridi, son of Pakistan pacer Shaheen Afridi and Ansha Afridi. The news was met with widespread congratulations, and images and videos of Afridi with his grandson quickly circulated online.Despite the joyous occasion, Afridi remains engaged with the state of Pakistan cricket. Following Pakistan's heavy defeat against Bangladesh in the first Test match in Rawalpindi, Afridi publicly criticized the team's strategy.Afridi questioned the choice to prepare a pitch that didn't favor Pakistan's strengths, specifically expressing concern over the inclusion of four fast bowlers while omitting a specialist spinner."A 10-wicket defeat raises serious questions about the decision to prepare this type of pitch, select four fast bowlers and leave out a specialist spinner. This to me clearly shows a lack of awareness about home conditions. That said, you cannot take the credit away from Bangladesh for the brand of cricket they played throughout the Test," Afridi wrote on X.Afridi's comments sparked debate on social media, with some fans agreeing with his assessment and others defending the team's selection.Despite the criticism, Afridi remains a prominent figure in Pakistan cricket. He is known for his aggressive batting style and his ability to inspire his teammates. He is also a vocal advocate for the development of young cricketers in Pakistan.As Afridi celebrates a new generation within his family, he continues to actively engage with the sport, unafraid to voice his opinions and spark debate on strategic decisions made by the national team.

Pakistan's dismal performance in the opening Test against Bangladesh has drawn sharp criticism from former cricketer Basit Ali, who has singled out Abdullah Shafique for his reckless shot selection.Pakistan's decision to declare at 448/6 in the first innings proved costly as Bangladesh outplayed them in all departments. The Najmul Hossain Shanto-led side scripted history by clinching a 10-wicket win in Rawalpindi, marking their first Test victory against Pakistan.Pakistan's downfall began after Bangladesh took a 117-run lead. On Day 5, wickets fell in quick succession, but Shafique held his ground and accumulated runs. However, his hopes of a respectable total were dashed when he attempted a reckless shot against Shakib Al Hasan.Basit Ali has slammed Shafique's shot as the turning point of the match. "If I was in the dressing room, I would have told Abdullah Shafique to pack his bags and leave. His shot was the reason Pakistan lost the match. After hitting 37, you are giving away your wicket with such a shot. Shan Masood should punish Shafique. This is Pakistan's team, not your local team," Basit said on his YouTube channel.Shafique was not the only batsman to give away his wicket cheaply. Naseem Shah also attempted a glory shot when holding the fort was crucial. "Look at the way Naseem Shah gave away his wicket. This is Pakistan cricket, not street cricket, this happens in England's league cricket," Basit added.Apart from poor shot selection, Pakistan's failure to read the pitch conditions was another factor in their defeat. The decision to field an all-out pace attack backfired as Bangladesh's spin duo of Shakib Al Hasan and Mehidy Hasan Miraz combined to take nine wickets.Basit believes Pakistan's Test head coach, Jason Gillespie, misjudged the pitch. "Both Gary Kirsten and Jason Gillespie lost their opening matches. They both made mistakes. Kirsten made a mistake in the Super Over against the US, and Jason made a mistake in reading the pitch," he noted.Pakistan will aim to level the series in the second Test at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium on August 30.

Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has taken an innovative approach to talent identification by incorporating artificial intelligence (AI) into its player selection process. This move marks a significant shift in the way cricket boards approach player recruitment and development.PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi revealed that 80% of the 150 players selected for the upcoming Champions Cup will be chosen using AI, while the remaining 20% will be selected by the human selection committee. This decision stems from the board's recognition of the need to address the underperformance of the national team, particularly in the wake of recent defeats.Naqvi emphasized the importance of having a robust player pool to draw from, which has been lacking in the past. The Champions Cup will provide a platform for identifying and evaluating potential talent, creating a comprehensive database of player records.The use of AI in player selection is expected to enhance transparency and objectivity in the process. By relying on data-driven insights, the board aims to minimize the influence of personal biases and ensure that players are selected based on their performance and potential.Naqvi stressed that the selection committee will not hesitate to replace underperforming players with better options. The Champions Cup will provide a continuous stream of data, allowing the board to monitor player performance and make informed decisions.This innovative approach to player selection is a testament to the PCB's commitment to improving the performance of the national team. By embracing technology and data analytics, the board is setting a precedent for other cricket boards to follow.

Pakistan's humiliating 10-wicket defeat to Bangladesh in the first Test at Rawalpindi has sparked outrage among fans and former players alike. Ahmad Shahzad, a veteran Pakistani cricketer, has taken to social media to criticize Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman Mohsin Naqvi for his handling of the team.Shahzad questioned Naqvi's understanding of cricket and expressed disappointment with his leadership decisions. He highlighted Pakistan's historic first-ever Test defeat to Bangladesh as a testament to Naqvi's ineffectiveness."This is what happens if you don't make changes in time. You got scared and you did not make decisions," Shahzad tweeted.Shahzad continued his criticism by questioning Naqvi's effectiveness since assuming the role of PCB chairman earlier this year. "I was told that Mohsin Naqvi was a brave, resolute, and shrewd man with extreme power when he became the PCB chief. It was being said that if anyone could change the PCB, it would be Naqvi. But we have not seen it yet, and whatever he has done so far, this much is clear that Mohsin Naqvi has absolutely no idea about cricket," Shahzad wrote.Naqvi took over the PCB with promises of significant changes following Pakistan's disappointing performance in the 2024 T20 World Cup, especially after their loss to India. However, Shahzad pointed out that Naqvi's promises of reform have not materialized."When you lost to India in the T20 World Cup 2024, to keep people quiet, you said that you will do a surgery on Pakistan cricket. But you failed to do it. You lied to people just like others in the past. What did you think? That you would buy time? That after you beat Bangladesh in the Test series, people will go a little quiet and then you will implement your changes, but that did not happen," he said.The defeat has increased scrutiny on Pakistan's cricket setup, as they have now lost four consecutive Test matches, including a 3-0 series whitewash against Australia earlier this year. Their last home Test win was against South Africa in early 2021. These ongoing struggles have led to growing frustration among fans and commentators, questioning the direction of the team under current management.Shahzad also criticized the enduring influence of certain individuals within Pakistan cricket, suggesting a stagnation in the sport's governance. "The people that have been running Pakistan cricket for the last 12-15 years, they are still calling the shots. It has culminated in Bangladesh beating Pakistan for the first time in a Test match. I have never seen this in my life," he remarked.

Pakistan's cricket team suffered a humiliating 10-wicket defeat against Bangladesh in the first Test match in Rawalpindi. The loss marks Bangladesh's maiden victory over Pakistan in five-day cricket.Bangladesh's spinners, Mehidy Hasan Miraz and Shakib Al Hasan, played a pivotal role in Pakistan's collapse. Mehidy claimed 4-21, while Shakib took 3-44, dismissing Pakistan for a mere 146 runs in 55.5 overs.Pakistan's batting lineup crumbled on a pitch that had been unresponsive for the first four days. However, small cracks began to appear, which Bangladesh's spinners exploited effectively. The hosts also faced criticism for not including a frontline spinner in their team.Pakistan's leading batsmen, Babar Azam and Shan Masood, failed to make significant contributions, scoring only 22 and 14 runs, respectively. First-innings century-maker Saud Shakeel was dismissed for a fourth-ball duck.Bangladesh's victory was a historic moment for the team, as it marked their first win over Australia, England, and Pakistan. The win in Rawalpindi was only their sixth in 143 Tests.Pakistan's loss has raised concerns about the fitness of fast bowler Naseem Shah, who has been criticized for his "bulging belly." Social media users have questioned his fitness and suggested that he may not be taking his training seriously.Pakistan skipper Shan Masood expressed disappointment over the loss, stating that the team did not take Bangladesh lightly but the pitch did not play as expected. Bangladesh skipper Najmul Hossain Shanto dedicated the win to those who lost their lives in the recent political turmoil in Bangladesh.The second and final Test match of the series will be played in Rawalpindi from Friday.

Pakistan's cricket team has suffered a significant setback in the World Test Championship (WTC) standings, dropping to eighth place after a humiliating 10-wicket defeat to Bangladesh in the first Test of the series in Rawalpindi. The loss, coupled with an over rate penalty, has left Pakistan with just 16 points and a winning percentage of 22.22, placing them just ahead of the West Indies.Bangladesh's historic victory in Rawalpindi marks their first-ever Test win against Pakistan, propelling them to seventh place in the WTC standings with 21 points. The win is a testament to Bangladesh's growing strength in the Test arena, having now won two out of their five matches in the current WTC cycle.Pakistan's defeat was compounded by a six-point penalty for maintaining a slow over rate. The team fell six overs short of the required rate during the match, resulting in the penalty. Bangladesh was also penalized for a slow over rate, losing three points for being three overs short.India currently leads the WTC standings with 74 points and a winning percentage of 68.52, after securing six wins in nine matches. Australia is in second place with 66 points, followed by South Africa with 54 points.The second Test between Pakistan and Bangladesh is scheduled to begin on Friday in Rawalpindi. Pakistan will be desperate to improve their standings and avoid further penalties in this upcoming match. However, Bangladesh will be confident of continuing their winning ways and further cementing their position in the WTC standings.

India's participation in the 2025 Champions Trophy, scheduled for February-March next year, remains uncertain due to political tensions with Pakistan. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has stated that the decision will depend on the Indian government's approval.Despite the ongoing political impasse, Indian spinner Kuldeep Yadav expressed his willingness to play in Pakistan if given the opportunity. "As cricketers, we will play wherever we are sent. I have never been to Pakistan before, so I am excited. The Pakistani people are great, and whenever we get the chance, we will definitely go and play there," Yadav said.Meanwhile, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has dismissed reports that the Champions Trophy could be rescheduled due to security concerns. PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi clarified that the tournament will take place in Pakistan as planned, with the dates potentially subject to minor adjustments.To prepare for the event, the PCB has initiated a major renovation project at three iconic venues: National Stadium in Karachi, Rawalpindi International Cricket Stadium, and Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore. The project, estimated to cost Rs 12.8 billion, aims to upgrade the stadiums to international standards.Naqvi emphasized the need for improved facilities, stating, "There's a huge difference in international stadiums and those of ours [...] none of our stadiums are of international standard." He expressed confidence that the stadiums will be ready for the Champions Trophy, with the PCB coordinating closely with security agencies.The PCB has submitted a draft schedule to the International Cricket Council (ICC), proposing dates from February 19 to March 9, 2025. The board remains committed to hosting a world-class event and providing an unforgettable experience for cricket fans.

Imran Khan's Upper Cut: A Rare Glimpse of a Legendary All-Rounder's Batting ProwessIndian batting maestro Sachin Tendulkar may have popularized the upper cut shot against fast bowlers, but it was Pakistan's legendary captain Imran Khan who first showcased its effectiveness. In a recently unearthed video, Khan executes an upper cut off West Indies paceman Michael Holding, demonstrating his versatility and aggressive batting style.The incident occurred during the 13th match of the Benson & Hedges World Series Cup in 1982. Batting first, Pakistan posted a modest 177/9, with Khan contributing 31 runs off 30 balls. In response, West Indies faced a revised target of 107 runs from 30 overs.As Holding bowled a searing delivery, Khan rocked back and unleashed an upper cut, guiding the ball over the fielders and into the stands. The shot, though not as technically perfect as Tendulkar's, had the desired effect, fetching a boundary. Commentator Tony Grieg praised the shot, noting that it landed just short of the boundary ropes and went for a one-bounce four.Khan's upper cut highlights his exceptional hand-eye coordination and ability to adapt to different bowling styles. Known primarily for his fast bowling, Khan was also a formidable batsman, capable of scoring runs at a brisk pace.During his playing days, Khan was considered one of the best all-rounders in the world. He captained the Pakistan national team from 1982 to 1992, leading them to their first-ever Cricket World Cup victory in 1992. This triumph remains one of the most celebrated achievements in Pakistan's sporting history.Khan's upper cut shot, though not as iconic as Tendulkar's, serves as a reminder of his all-around brilliance and the impact he had on Pakistan cricket.