Cricket

Former Pakistan captain Shahid Afridi has vehemently defended his son-in-law, Shaheen Shah Afridi, amidst rumors of his potential removal as the national T20 captain. Afridi emphasized the importance of providing Shaheen with ample time to prove his worth."If you appoint someone as captain and entrust them with responsibility, you must also grant them time," Afridi asserted. He criticized the tendency in Pakistani cricket to overhaul the system with every change in leadership. "Whoever takes charge believes their approach is the best for Pakistan cricket," he lamented.Afridi believes Shaheen deserves a fair chance to demonstrate his capabilities. "If you change the captain, it implies either the initial decision to appoint him was flawed or the current decision to replace him is misguided," he reasoned.Afridi played a pivotal role in Shaheen's appointment as T20 captain after Pakistan's disappointing performance at the 2023 ODI World Cup. Babar Azam was subsequently removed as white-ball captain, and he later resigned from the red-ball captaincy.Afridi also advocated for the appointment of a high-profile foreign coach, such as Andy Flower, who possesses a proven track record. However, he stressed the importance of having a Pakistani support staff to foster the development of local talent.Regarding the inclusion of Imad Wasim and Muhammad Amir in the national training camp, Afridi expressed reservations about their fitness. "It would have been prudent to assess their fitness first," he said. However, he acknowledged that if they can endure the rigorous two-week camp in Kakul, they will emerge as exceptional players.Amir, who recently returned from retirement, has also voiced his support for Shaheen as T20 captain. "Shaheen is not lacking in ability, and I believe he should be given time to prove himself," he tweeted.

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has identified former Australia and New Zealand wicketkeeper-batter Luke Ronchi as its preferred candidate for the vacant head coach position. Extensive discussions have been held with the 42-year-old, who has also coached Pakistan Super League side Islamabad United.The PCB's search for a high-profile coach has been hampered by a lack of interest from potential candidates, many of whom are already committed to other leagues or have reservations about working in Pakistan. Ronchi, who retired from professional cricket in 2019, has since worked as a batting consultant and coach for the New Zealand team.Sources within the PCB indicate that a contract with Ronchi is expected to be finalized in the coming days, ahead of Pakistan's home T20 series against New Zealand in April. Ronchi has reportedly requested ironclad assurances that he will be given a sufficient time frame to work with the Pakistan team, regardless of the results.The PCB has faced criticism in the past for its handling of foreign and local coaches, which may have contributed to the reluctance of some candidates to accept the position. PCB chief Mohsin Naqvi recently blamed the leakage of salary details and other aspects of a possible coaching contract with Shane Watson for the Australian's withdrawal from discussions.Despite the challenges, the PCB has begun its training camp at the Kakul army base in preparation for the T20 World Cup in June. Ronchi, who has the unique distinction of representing both Australia and New Zealand in international cricket, is seen as a potential solution to the PCB's coaching woes.

UAE's top-order batter Usman Khan, born in Pakistan, has been summoned to Pakistan's training camp with the army in Kakul. This move signals Pakistan's eagerness to entice him to represent the country of his birth in international cricket. Usman joins 28 other players for the camp, which runs from March 26 to April 8.Despite the PCB's silence on Usman's inclusion or any official change in his status as a UAE player, his selection for the camp is a clear indication of Pakistan's intentions. In the recent PSL, Usman played as a registered overseas player, amassing the second-highest run tally. Prior to that, he participated in the ILT20 and Abu Dhabi T10 as a local player for the UAE.In an interview with ESPNcricinfo earlier this month, Usman downplayed his chances of playing for Pakistan in the near future, expressing his determination to complete the residency period to qualify for the UAE. However, he still has 14 months to go before becoming eligible for the UAE.Usman had previously cited the uncertainty in Pakistan and the ease of obtaining no-objection certificates from the Emirates Cricket Board as reasons for switching allegiances. However, since he has not yet played for the UAE, he can still return to Pakistan without any waiting period.Given the rapid developments at the PCB, it is highly likely that Usman will be included in Pakistan's squad for the upcoming five-match T20I series against New Zealand. This move is part of Pakistan's preparations for the T20 World Cup in the West Indies and the USA in June.The training camp also marks the return of two players who recently reversed their retirement decisions: Imad Wasim and Mohammad Amir. Imad's success in the PSL and CPL makes him an attractive prospect for Pakistan, while Amir remains hopeful of representing his country again. Haris Rauf, who is recovering from a shoulder injury, has also been included after his central contract was reinstated by the PCB.

Mohammad Amir, the enigmatic Pakistani fast bowler, has made a sensational U-turn on his international retirement, declaring his availability for selection for the upcoming T20 World Cup. Amir's last appearance for Pakistan was in a T20I against England in 2020, after which he abruptly announced his retirement from international cricket, citing mental torture.However, in a recent social media post, the 31-year-old Amir expressed his renewed desire to represent his country. "I still dream to play for Pakistan!" he wrote. "After positive discussions with the PCB, I feel that I am needed and can still contribute to the team. I am available to be considered for the upcoming T20 World Cup."Amir's decision comes after a successful stint in the 2024 Pakistan Super League (PSL), where he claimed 10 wickets in nine games for the Quetta Gladiators. His impressive performances have reignited hopes that he can still be a valuable asset to the Pakistani team.Amir's announcement follows a similar move by all-rounder Imad Wasim, who also reversed his retirement to make himself available for the T20 World Cup. The return of these experienced players is a major boost for Pakistan, who will be looking to make a strong impact in the tournament.Amir's return to international cricket is a testament to his resilience and determination. Despite the challenges he has faced, he remains committed to representing his country and contributing to its success. His experience and skill will be invaluable to Pakistan as they aim to lift the T20 World Cup trophy for the second time.

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 Reinstates Haris Rauf's Central Contract After Acknowledgment of ErrorThe Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has reinstated fast bowler Haris Rauf's central contract after he acknowledged his mistake in writing. Rauf's contract was terminated in February due to disciplinary reasons, as he declined to participate in the Test tour of Australia, citing workload and Big Bash commitments.PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi clarified that there was a misunderstanding regarding Rauf's decision. "After receiving his written reply, the board has decided to restore his central contract," Naqvi stated.In his response, Rauf expressed his unwavering commitment to playing for Pakistan and acknowledged that his viewpoint had been misunderstood. "I accept my mistake," he wrote.Naqvi emphasized the importance of Rauf's fitness, noting that he sustained an injury during the Pakistan Super League (PSL). "We need to take proper care of him," Naqvi said.Rauf's reinstatement comes as a relief for the PCB, which values his contributions to the national team. The fast bowler has been a key member of Pakistan's bowling attack in recent years, showcasing his pace and wicket-taking abilities.The PCB's decision to reinstate Rauf's contract is a testament to the board's commitment to fostering a positive and productive relationship with its players. It also highlights the importance of open communication and the willingness to resolve misunderstandings.

Pakistan's versatile all-rounder Imad Wasim has reversed his retirement from T20I cricket, making himself available for selection ahead of the 2024 ICC T20 World Cup.In a statement on social media, Wasim expressed his delight at declaring his availability for Pakistan in the T20I format leading up to the World Cup. However, he clarified that his availability does not extend beyond the tournament, which begins on June 1.Wasim's return to the international fold comes after a successful 2024 Pakistan Super League (PSL) season, where he played a pivotal role in Islamabad United's title triumph. His impressive performances, including a five-wicket haul in the final, sparked speculation about his potential return to the national team.The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) reportedly approached Wasim earlier this week to reconsider his retirement, and the all-rounder agreed without any conditions.Wasim's all-round abilities and his impressive record in the Caribbean Premier League (CPL) make him a valuable asset for Pakistan. In the CPL, he has amassed 61 wickets at an average of 18.88 and an economy rate of 6.20.With the majority of the 2024 T20 World Cup scheduled to be played in the West Indies, Wasim's experience in the CPL could prove invaluable for Pakistan.While Wasim is not currently interested in a central contract, his availability until the T20 World Cup represents a mutually beneficial arrangement for all parties involved.Wasim has represented Pakistan in 66 T20Is, scoring 486 runs at a strike rate of 131.70 and claiming 65 wickets with an economy of 6.26. His return to the national team is expected to bolster Pakistan's chances of success in the upcoming T20 World Cup.

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has confirmed New Zealand's tour of Pakistan for a five-match T20I series in April 2024. The Black Caps will arrive in Islamabad on April 14 and play three matches in Rawalpindi from April 18 to 21, followed by two more at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore on April 25 and 27.This tour marks New Zealand's third visit to Pakistan since December 2022, highlighting the growing camaraderie between the two cricketing nations. The visitors played two Tests and three ODIs in Pakistan at the turn of that year, before returning in April 2023 for a series of ten white-ball games.The upcoming T20I series will serve as New Zealand's final international engagement before the T20 World Cup in June. It will also be a crucial part of Pakistan's preparations for the global event, with the hosts set to play a total of 12 T20Is ahead of the tournament.However, the series clashes with the Indian Premier League (IPL), which means several of New Zealand's leading T20 cricketers may be unavailable. Daryl Mitchell, Mitchell Santner, Kane Williamson, Rachin Ravindra, Trent Boult, Glenn Phillips, and Lockie Ferguson are all contracted by IPL teams this season.Despite the potential absence of some key players, the PCB is confident that the series will be highly competitive. "This tour symbolises the deep-rooted ties and mutual respect that define the relationship between our two cricketing nations," said Usman Wahla, the PCB's director of international cricket.The series will take place shortly after the holy month of Ramzan and the Eid holidays, with games scheduled to begin at 7pm local time. The final few games of the Pakistan Super League (PSL) have necessitated a late start because of Ramzan, taking place at 9pm.

Pakistan's star pacer Shaheen Afridi's captaincy has come under scrutiny following Lahore Qalandars' dismal performance in the ongoing Pakistan Super League (PSL). After leading the franchise to consecutive titles in the previous two seasons, Shaheen has failed to inspire his team this year. Lahore Qalandars have won only one match and are languishing at the bottom of the points table.According to Cricket Pakistan, Shaheen is likely to lose his position as captain of Pakistan's T20 team. The report suggests that Shaheen, at 23 years old, is too young to handle the responsibility. "PCB's new chairman Mohsin Naqvi has been receiving suggestions for a change in captaincy. Some believe that 23-year-old Shaheen is too young for this responsibility and needs more maturity," the report states.Pakistan is scheduled to face New Zealand in a T20 series next month, and the decision on Shaheen's future as captain will be made by Naqvi before then, with the upcoming T20 World Cup in mind. However, some board members believe that changing the leadership close to the World Cup could negatively impact the team's performance.Mohammad Rizwan is a potential candidate to replace Shaheen as captain, with former skipper Babar Azam also in contention. Shaheen took over as Pakistan's T20 captain after Babar stepped down following the ODI World Cup last year. Babar had relinquished his role after Pakistan failed to qualify for the semi-finals of the tournament.Shaheen led Pakistan in a five-match series in New Zealand earlier this year, but the visitors lost the series 1-4. Meanwhile, Rizwan and Babar will aim to guide their respective PSL franchises to the title. Rizwan's Multan Sultans finished the group stage at the top of the table, while Babar's Peshawar Zalmi also qualified for the playoffs. Babar is the leading scorer in the tournament with 498 runs in nine matches.