Cricket

Haris Rauf Joins Elite Club with 100 T20I WicketsIn a moment of personal triumph amidst Pakistan's disappointing T20 World Cup campaign, pacer Haris Rauf has etched his name into the history books by becoming only the second Pakistani player to reach the 100-wicket milestone in T20I cricket.Rauf's blistering pace and pinpoint accuracy proved too much for the Canadian batsmen during Pakistan's Group A match at the Nassau County International Cricket Stadium in New York on Tuesday. He finished the first innings with figures of 2/26 in his four-over spell, with Shreyas Movva and Ravinderpal Singh becoming his 100th and 101st victims in the shortest format, respectively.This achievement makes Rauf the third-fastest player to reach the 100-wicket landmark in T20I cricket, behind only Afghanistan captain Rashid Khan and Sri Lanka captain Wanindu Hasaranga. Rashid achieved the feat in an astonishing 53 matches, while Hasaranga reached the 100-wicket mark in 63 games.Rauf's rise to prominence has been nothing short of meteoric. Since making his T20I debut in 2020, he has consistently impressed with his raw pace and ability to swing the ball both ways. His performances have played a crucial role in Pakistan's recent successes, including their victory in the 2022 Asia Cup.Rauf's achievement is a testament to his hard work, dedication, and natural talent. It is also a source of pride for Pakistan cricket, which has produced some of the greatest fast bowlers in the history of the game.As Pakistan continues its T20 World Cup campaign, Rauf will be looking to add to his wicket tally and help his team secure a place in the knockout stages. With his pace, skill, and determination, he is sure to play a key role in Pakistan's quest for glory.

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.

Former Pakistan captain Saleem Malik has sparked controversy by accusing all-rounder Imad Wasim of intentionally wasting deliveries during Pakistan's T20 World Cup match against India. Pakistan fell short of the modest target of 120 runs, ending their innings at 113 for 7, with Wasim scoring only 15 runs in 23 balls.Malik's allegations have been met with skepticism and criticism from cricket experts. Australia legend Adam Gilchrist dismissed the notion of accusing a player of deliberately underperforming, stating that "a bunch of ex-Pakistan cricketers haven't missed their teams, at all."Malik, however, maintained his stance, claiming that Wasim "made sure that he doesn't get out and keep bettering his batting average." He also questioned Wasim's promotion up the order, given his lack of recent playing time.Wasim's performance has been a subject of scrutiny since the World Cup. He has been criticized for his slow batting and inability to contribute significantly to the team's batting lineup.The allegations against Wasim have raised concerns about the integrity of the game. If proven true, they would represent a serious breach of sportsmanship and fair play. However, it is important to note that these are just allegations at this point, and Wasim has not been formally charged with any wrongdoing.The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has not yet commented on Malik's allegations. It remains to be seen whether the board will investigate the matter further or take any disciplinary action against Wasim.

Pakistan's assistant coach, Azhar Mahmood, has downplayed concerns over the strike rate of star batters Babar Azam and Mohammed Rizwan, emphasizing that the team's primary issue lies in losing wickets after establishing partnerships.Ahead of Pakistan's crucial T20 World Cup match against Canada, Mahmood addressed the media, stating that the team's batting performance has been hindered by a lack of sustained partnerships. "The problem is that your partnership is established, you get a platform set, and then in the ten to fifteen over period, you lose your wickets," he explained.Mahmood highlighted the importance of maintaining partnerships in T20 cricket, as they can significantly impact the outcome of a match. "If you get a partnership, because T20 format is a short format - so even if you set one partnership it can win the game. You have control of the game," he said.Despite Pakistan's disappointing start to the tournament, losing to both the USA and India, Mahmood remains optimistic. He acknowledged that the team needs a bit of luck in a big tournament and that their strategies have not yet yielded the desired results."It is very important - shot selection and decision-making. If you take the right decision at the right time, that will benefit you. It can come from nerves, or the fear of failure also - because until you do not have calmness - and until your body is tight, your decisions will be wrong," he said.Mahmood also dismissed suggestions that Pakistan's players are not following proper dietary plans, emphasizing that all teams in the world adhere to such regimens. "When we lose, we feel that we are not following this, we are not following that. If we had won, you would not be asking me this question," he added.

Pakistan's assistant coach, Azhar Mahmood, has vehemently denied allegations of a rift between captain Babar Azam and star fast bowler Shaheen Shah Afridi. Mahmood dismissed former captain Wasim Akram's claims that the duo is not on speaking terms as "false."Mahmood criticized those who believe cricketers should be isolated and dwell on their losses. He emphasized that the team's recent six-run defeat to India was a collective failure, not the fault of any individual.Rumors of a divide within the Pakistan team, with one faction led by Babar and another by Shaheen, have been circulating. However, Mahmood refuted these claims, stating that Shaheen and Babar are close friends and integral members of the team.The team management has taken responsibility for the players' absence from press conferences after losses. Mahmood explained that the support staff is equally accountable for addressing the media and providing explanations for the team's performances."We are not hiding any players," Mahmood asserted. "We are a team, and we are not delivering. That's why I'm sitting here."Mahmood also addressed the controversy surrounding a video showing Babar, Wahab Riaz, and himself dining at a New York restaurant after Pakistan's defeat to India. He defended the players' actions, stating that they needed time to relax and de-stress after a disappointing loss."We are a very emotional nation," Mahmood said. "If you lose a match, your life is not over. Our players are not like that. They need time to relax their minds."Mahmood emphasized that the team is focused on improving their performance and preparing for the upcoming T20 World Cup in 2024. He urged fans to support the team and avoid spreading rumors that could damage team morale.

Azam Khan, the Pakistan cricket star, has come under fire for his poor form and fitness. After a disappointing series against England, Khan failed to impress in Pakistan's first match of the T20 World Cup 2024 against the USA. He was subsequently dropped from the team for their loss against India.Amidst the criticism, a video has emerged on social media showing a man resembling Khan eating fast food in New York. While the man's face is not clearly visible, many believe it to be Khan. The video has sparked further controversy, with fans and former players expressing their disappointment.Former Pakistan captain Wasim Akram has been particularly critical of Khan's performance. "Azam... he's not helping his cause," Akram said. "He didn't field for 8 overs. He played as a pinch-hitter, but he couldn't come with Fakhar because he sat out for 8 overs. I just couldn't understand that."Another former Pakistan captain, Shahid Afridi, has suggested changes to the team's playing XI, including the possible exclusion of Khan. Pakistan's struggles in the T20 World Cup have raised concerns about their chances of advancing to the next stage.Khan's poor form and fitness have become a major talking point in Pakistan. Fans and experts alike are questioning his place in the team and his ability to contribute at the highest level. The video of him eating fast food has only added to the controversy, further tarnishing his reputation.As Pakistan continues its T20 World Cup campaign, Khan's future with the team remains uncertain. His performance in the remaining matches will be crucial in determining whether he can regain the trust of the selectors and the fans.

Pakistan's T20 World Cup campaign has been marred by inconsistency and internal divisions, leaving their Super Eight qualification hopes hanging by a thread.Captain Babar Azam's leadership has come under scrutiny, with reports of two factions within the team: one led by Azam, Mohammed Rizwan, and Shadab Khan, and another including recently sacked Shaheen Shah Afridi. This lack of unity has contributed to Pakistan's poor performances on the field.In their opening match against the USA, Pakistan failed to defend a total of 159, losing in a Super Over. Against India, they were restricted to 113 for 7 while chasing a modest target of 120.Pakistan's qualification chances now rest on defeating Canada and Ireland by large margins and hoping that the USA loses heavily to India and Ireland. However, even in this scenario, Pakistan's dismal net run rate (-0.150) compared to the USA's healthy run rate (+0.626) makes their task extremely difficult.The 2009 champions have looked far from their formidable past, with none of their departments clicking so far. Babar Azam and Shadab Khan have scored runs, but the rest of the batting lineup has struggled. The bowling attack has also been inconsistent, failing to contain opposition batters effectively.Pakistan's fate now lies in the hands of other teams and a stroke of luck. They must win their remaining matches convincingly and hope for favorable results elsewhere to keep their Super Eight hopes alive.

Pakistan vs. Canada: A Clash of Titans in the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2024The ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2024 is set to witness a thrilling encounter between Pakistan and Canada at the Nassau County International Cricket Stadium in New York on June 11 at 08:00 PM IST. Both teams will be eager to secure a victory in this crucial match.Pakistan's journey in the tournament has been challenging thus far, having lost both of their opening matches. However, they remain a formidable opponent with a star-studded lineup. Canada, on the other hand, has had a mixed performance, winning one match and losing the other.The last time these two teams met was in the Canada Cup Four Nation 20/20 in 2008, where Pakistan emerged victorious by 35 runs. Pakistan will be looking to maintain their dominance, while Canada will be determined to pull off an upset.Pakistan's recent performance against India was a close encounter, with the team narrowly losing by six runs. Naseem Shah was the standout performer for Pakistan, accumulating 115 fantasy points due to his impressive bowling performance.Canada, in their latest outing, secured a victory against Ireland by 12 runs. Nicholas Kirton shone for Canada, scoring 76 fantasy points for his all-round contribution.Players to Watch Out For:Pakistan:* Shaheen Afridi: A left-arm fast bowler who has been a consistent wicket-taker.* Babar Azam: A top-order right-handed batter who has been reliable with the bat.* Mohammad Rizwan: A top-order right-handed batter and wicketkeeper who adds value to the team.Canada:* Kaleem Sana: A left-arm medium-fast bowler who has been in excellent form.* Nicholas Kirton: A top-order left-handed batter who has been a vital part of Canada's batting lineup.* Dilon Heyliger: A right-arm medium bowler who has taken nine wickets in his last five matches.Conclusion:As both teams prepare for this important clash, fans can expect a thrilling contest filled with competitive cricket. Pakistan will be looking to bounce back from their recent losses, while Canada will be aiming to continue their impressive run. The match promises to be a close and exciting affair, with both teams having the potential to emerge victorious.

As Pakistan's cricket team struggles in the T20 World Cup 2024, former star Umar Akmal has sparked controversy on social media by flaunting his abs. Amidst criticism of Pakistan's poor fitness standards, Akmal's post has raised questions about his physical condition and his exclusion from the national team.Akmal, who has been out of the Pakistan team for some time, shared a photo on Twitter showcasing his toned physique. The post was accompanied by the caption, "Attention please. This is for those who think I am not fit."However, fans were skeptical of Akmal's claims, with some suggesting that the abs in the picture were fake or AI-generated. Others pointed out grammatical errors in his caption.The controversy surrounding Akmal's post highlights the ongoing debate about fitness in Pakistan cricket. Many current players, including Azam Khan, have been criticized for their poor physical condition.Pakistan's recent performances in the T20 World Cup have further fueled criticism of the team's fitness. After losing their first two matches, Pakistan legend Wasim Akram called for a complete overhaul of the team."Enough is enough. We need changes now. Bring in a new team, six to seven players and then back them through losses so they can develop as a team," Akram said.Akmal's post has reignited the discussion about fitness and its importance in cricket. While some fans believe that Akmal's physique proves his fitness, others remain unconvinced. The controversy is likely to continue as Pakistan's cricket team faces an uncertain future.