Cricket

Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman Mohsin Naqvi has summoned white-ball head coach Gary Kirsten to discuss the team's future in the wake of their disappointing T20 World Cup campaign. The meeting will review Kirsten's report on the team's performance, which includes assessments of player discipline, game awareness, and fitness.A key topic of discussion will be the future of Babar Azam as white-ball captain. Azam's leadership has come under scrutiny following Pakistan's early exit from the World Cup. Former players have criticized his decision-making and tactical acumen.Naqvi has previously stated that no decision has been made regarding Azam's captaincy. However, the PCB is expected to consider the feedback from Kirsten and other stakeholders before making a final determination.The meeting will also address the broader issue of Pakistan's domestic cricket structure. Around 30-35 international cricketers are scheduled to meet with Naqvi to provide their input on how to improve the system.Pakistan's T20 World Cup campaign was a major disappointment. They lost their opening match to the USA in a Super Over and were then defeated by arch-rivals India in a low-scoring thriller. Despite victories over Canada and Ireland, Pakistan failed to qualify for the Super 8 stage.The PCB has a significant gap before Pakistan's next white-ball series against Australia in November. This provides ample time for the management to make necessary changes and address the team's weaknesses.

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has embarked on a comprehensive review of its domestic cricket structure, inviting 25 former international cricketers to a meeting to gather their insights and suggestions. The meeting, scheduled for Monday, will be led by PCB chief Mohsin Naqvi and other board officials.The primary objective of the meeting is to address the widening gap between the standards of Pakistan's domestic competitions and international cricket. The board will seek input from the former stalwarts on ways to enhance the quality of domestic tournaments and bridge the performance gap.The meeting will also consider a detailed blueprint submitted by another former player, outlining the perceived problems with the existing cricket system in Pakistan. The blueprint is expected to provide a comprehensive analysis of the challenges facing domestic cricket and propose potential solutions.This meeting is part of the PCB's ongoing efforts to improve the domestic cricket structure. In 2018, the First-Class competition was reduced to just six teams under the leadership of then-Prime Minister Imran Khan. However, the board under Zaka Ashraf reverted to the old system of having departmental teams in the First-Class format last year.The meeting will also review the domestic contracts given to around 360 cricketers in different formats across the country. The PCB aims to ensure that these contracts are fair and equitable, providing adequate support to players at all levels.The PCB's commitment to improving domestic cricket is a crucial step towards strengthening the national team. By addressing the challenges facing domestic competitions, the board hopes to create a more competitive and sustainable cricket ecosystem in Pakistan.

Pakistan is set to host the Champions Trophy 2025 from February 19 to March 9, 2025. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has submitted an official draft schedule to the International Cricket Council (ICC). The tournament will feature a highly anticipated clash between arch-rivals India and Pakistan at Lahore's Gaddafi Stadium on March 1.However, the participation of India remains uncertain due to political tensions between the two countries. According to sources, India is unlikely to travel to Pakistan, with the final decision resting with the central government. Last year, India withdrew from the Asia Cup scheduled to be held in Pakistan due to similar reasons.The PCB has proposed a hybrid model, where India's group stage matches could be played in Lahore for security reasons. However, the BCCI has not yet discussed this option and will await the ICC's decision during its next board meeting.The strained political relations between India and Pakistan have significantly impacted cricketing ties. The last bilateral series between the two nations was held in 2012-13. The Champions Trophy 2025 could provide an opportunity for a resumption of bilateral cricket, but the political climate remains a major obstacle.The PCB is hopeful that the ICC will find a solution that allows all teams to participate in the tournament. The Champions Trophy is a prestigious event, and the absence of any major team would diminish its value.

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 stated that no decision has been made regarding Babar Azam's future as captain. The board will consult with former players and head coach Gary Kirsten before determining the best course of action.Naqvi plans to meet with Kirsten and his assistant Azhar Mahmood to discuss the team's disappointing performance at the T20 World Cup. He emphasized the need for a thorough analysis before making any hasty decisions.Following Pakistan's elimination from the Super 8 stage, Naqvi had criticized the team and called for a "major surgery." He believes that the team's recent losses, including humiliating defeats against India and the United States, necessitate a comprehensive overhaul."I have asked Kirsten and Mahmood to provide a detailed report on the World Cup," Naqvi said. "Their insights will be invaluable in shaping our future plans."Regarding Babar Azam's captaincy, Naqvi stated that no decision has been made. He has received a comprehensive report from a former player outlining areas for improvement in Pakistan cricket. However, he stressed that he will not make any decisions based on emotions or social media commentary."Decisions made in haste often lead to complications," Naqvi said. "I want to avoid that in our cricket."Naqvi has been consulting with former players and seeking their suggestions. He emphasized that he is only interested in working with those who genuinely care about the betterment of Pakistan cricket."I have been with the board for four months and have identified areas that need improvement," Naqvi said. "However, I will not rush into any conclusions or make hasty decisions."

Pakistan's 2024-25 home season promises to be a spectacle, with the prestigious Champions Trophy taking center stage. However, the participation of neighboring India remains uncertain, casting a shadow over the tournament's allure.India has not toured Pakistan since 2008, and the two archrivals have only faced each other in multi-team events. Pakistan hosted the Asia Cup last year, but India, the eventual champions, played all their matches in Sri Lanka under a "hybrid model." India cited a lack of government clearance for their absence in Pakistan.The PCB has announced a packed home schedule, including Test series against Bangladesh, England, and West Indies. A 50-over tri-series with New Zealand and South Africa is also scheduled for February 2025.The Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore is undergoing renovations in preparation for the 2025 Champions Trophy, which will be held from February 19 to March 5. The PCB has stated that the tournament's dates and venues will be confirmed by the ICC in due course.PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi emphasized the significance of hosting five elite cricket nations and several other teams over the next eight months. "We deeply value the participation of these teams and players, who will bring immense talent and competitive spirit to our fields," he said.The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has not yet commented on India's participation in the Champions Trophy. However, BCCI Vice President Rajeev Shukla recently stated that they would only participate with government approval.Pakistan won the last Champions Trophy in 2017, which was held in England. The tournament is being revived by the ICC to ensure a major event is hosted every year.

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is facing a dilemma as it grapples with the team's disappointing performance in the recent T20 World Cup. Sources within the board indicate that major changes to the national squad are unlikely, despite calls for a "major surgery" from PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi.The PCB governing board will convene on Saturday to review reports submitted by head coach Gary Kirsten and senior team manager Wahab Riaz. However, insiders suggest that PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi is wary of provoking a confrontation with senior players. As a result, only superficial adjustments are anticipated."The reports by Kirsten and Riaz will help the Governing Board and chairman Naqvi decide the next course of action, but all indications are there Naqvi doesn't want a confrontation with senior players," a source told PTI.The question of Babar Azam's captaincy in white-ball formats remains a contentious issue. While some former Test captains and a faction within the board favor Shaheen Afridi as a replacement, the names Shan Masood and Muhammad Rizwan have also emerged as potential candidates.Kirsten's report echoes his post-match discussions with players during the World Cup, emphasizing the need for players to adapt new skills and improve their game awareness. He warned that failure to do so would result in them being left behind.Wahab Riaz's report, on the other hand, outlines personality clashes within the team during the World Cup. His assessment aims to provide further context as the governing board and chairman Naqvi deliberate on the next steps.Pakistan's upcoming cricket commitments include a two-Test series against Bangladesh followed by three Tests against England. It is expected that senior players like Babar Azam and Muhammad Rizwan will not opt for breaks during these important fixtures.The PCB governing board meeting is expected to result in minor adjustments and a renewed focus on the overall structure of domestic cricket. However, the primary core of the team is expected to stay intact.The upcoming months appear critical for the PCB, as they navigate through internal and external pressures in hopes of improving team performance without unsettling senior members.

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has proposed a high-profile Champions Trophy encounter between Pakistan and India to be held in Lahore on March 1, 2023. The proposal has been submitted to the International Cricket Council (ICC), but the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has yet to approve the schedule.The Champions Trophy is scheduled to take place from February 19 to March 9, with March 10 designated as a Reserve Day. The PCB has submitted a schedule consisting of 15 matches, with all of India's games allocated to Lahore due to security and logistical considerations."The PCB has submitted the draft of the 15-match ICC Champions Trophy. Seven games in Lahore, three in Karachi, and five in Rawalpindi," an ICC Board member said. "The opening match will be held in Karachi with two semifinals in Karachi and Rawalpindi, final in Lahore. All India matches (including semifinal, if the team qualifies) in Lahore," the source added.India find themselves in Group A, alongside Pakistan, Bangladesh, and New Zealand. Group B features Australia, South Africa, England, and Afghanistan.The ICC has held a meeting with the PCB to discuss the proposed schedule and security arrangements. The ICC's security team has conducted a comprehensive inspection of the venues and other arrangements.Pakistan's most recent experience hosting a major cricketing event was the Asia Cup in 2023. The tournament was conducted using a unique 'Hybrid Model' due to the Indian government's refusal to allow its players to travel across the border into Pakistan. As a result, India's matches were played in Sri Lanka, while the rest of the tournament took place in Pakistan.The ICC finds itself in a challenging position, as it lacks the authority to compel any cricket board to act in opposition to its government's directives. The BCCI is faced with a complex decision, and the cricketing world eagerly awaits its final stance on the issue.

The Pakistan cricket team, led by Babar Azam, has faced intense criticism following their early exit from the T20 World Cup 2024. The team's performance has sparked a barrage of social media attacks, with some former cricketers and fans issuing "defamation" statements against Babar and his team.Amidst this "targeted campaign," reports have emerged that the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is considering legal action against those who have made unwarranted attacks on the team. Several YouTubers and former cricketers, who accused Babar of "misconduct" during the World Cup, have been issued warnings.However, veteran Pakistani cricketer Ahmed Shahzad has doubled down on his criticism of Babar and the team. In a recent interview, Shahzad questioned Babar's leadership and decision-making, which he believes have led to Pakistan's recent failures."The former players that he (Babar) is talking about, they should also file a case on him asking when you had a team for 5 years, where have you brought the team, to the 7th spot?" Shahzad said.Shahzad also criticized Babar for his handling of domestic cricketers, claiming that he has favored certain players over others. He also questioned the selection of players who have failed to perform consistently."The domestic cricketers whom you didn't select for the team, you went ahead with one group, kept on saying that this group will win you matches, but that didn't happen," Shahzad said.Shahzad's comments come as the PCB's legal team reportedly explores options to reprimand those who have defamed Babar and the team. However, Shahzad has dismissed these threats, arguing that criticism is a part of sports."After losing 3 World Cups, 2 Asia Cups, you (Babar) were made captain again after 2 months, you should have asked the question how you were made the captain? Is it only you whose sentiments are getting hurt, not of the fans?" Shahzad said.Shahzad's criticism has sparked a debate on social media, with some fans supporting his views while others have defended Babar and the team. The PCB has yet to comment on Shahzad's remarks.