Cricket

Shahid Afridi, the former Pakistan all-rounder, has called for the removal of Babar Azam as Pakistan's captain following the team's disappointing performance in the T20 World Cup. Afridi, who is currently playing for Pakistan Champions in the World Championship of Legends, believes that Babar has been given ample opportunities to prove himself as a captain but has failed to deliver."As far as Babar's captaincy is concerned, I have also captained, Younis Khan, Misbah-ul-Haq, all have captained. No other captain has been given such an open chance. As soon as the World Cup ends, the captain is blamed. He has had 2-3 World Cups, 2-3 Asia Cups, T20 World Cup, he has had enough chances. Babar has been given enough chances. In our times the captain was under the knife. Now whatever surgery needs to be done, it needs to be done once, and whoever is coming new should be given full time," Afridi told Geo News.Babar had previously stepped down as Pakistan's captain following the team's poor performance in the ODI World Cup in India last year. However, he was reinstated by the Pakistan Cricket Board after his replacement, Shaheen Shah Afridi, was removed from captaincy after just one series against New Zealand.Pakistan's early exit from the T20 World Cup was a significant disappointment for the team and its fans. They suffered an upset defeat against the USA and lost to their archrivals, India, in the initial group stage of the tournament. Since Pakistan's exit, several former Pakistani cricketers, including Afridi and Shoaib Akhtar, have questioned Babar's credibility as the captain of the team.India went on to win the tournament undefeated, securing a seven-run victory over South Africa in the final and ending the nation's 17-year drought for the T20 World Cup.

Pakistan cricket legend Shahid Afridi's much-anticipated appearance in the World Championship of Legends (WCL) match against India at Edgbaston was met with a thunderous reception from the 22,000 spectators. However, his performance on the field failed to live up to expectations, as he was dismissed for a golden duck.After Pakistan champions were put into bat by India champions, openers Sharjeel Khan and Kamran Akmal laid the foundation for a match-winning total with a 145-run partnership. Sharjeel (72) and Akmal (77) set the stage for Sohaib Maqsood to add a quickfire 50 to the team's tally.With the departure of the trio, it was Afridi's turn to entertain the crowd. The former Pakistan captain was greeted with deafening chants of "Afridi, Afridi" at the famous venue. However, his explosive batting style failed to materialize, as he was dismissed by Dhawal Kulkarni in the 18th over.Afridi's golden duck sparked a social media meltdown, with fans expressing their disappointment and amusement. The incident became a trending topic on Twitter, with users sharing memes and jokes about the former batter's unfortunate dismissal.Despite Afridi's disappointing performance, the match between India and Pakistan was a highly anticipated event. All 23,000 seats at Edgbaston were sold out, and members of both teams expressed their excitement and determination to give their all.The World Championship of Legends, which got underway at Edgbaston on July 3, will run through July 18. The tournament, approved by the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB), features some of the greatest cricketers of all time.

India Champions vs Pakistan Champions: A Clash of Legends in the World Championship of Legends 2024The World Championship of Legends 2024 is set to witness a thrilling encounter between two legendary cricket teams: India Champions and Pakistan Champions. Led by the iconic Yuvraj Singh, India Champions has emerged as a formidable force in the tournament, winning both their opening matches and topping the WCL table. Pakistan Champions, captained by the enigmatic Shahid Afridi, has also maintained an unbeaten record, making this clash a highly anticipated event.The India Champions squad boasts a galaxy of stars, including Suresh Raina, Harbhajan Singh, and the Pathan brothers. Their experience and skill have been instrumental in their early success. Pakistan Champions, on the other hand, relies on the leadership of Shoaib Malik and Misbah-ul-Haq, who bring a wealth of knowledge and tactical acumen to the team.The match will take place on Saturday, July 6, at Edgbaston, Birmingham. The first ball will be bowled at 9:00 PM IST. Fans can catch the live telecast on the Star Sports Network, while the live streaming will be available on the Fancode app.The Legends tournament has generated immense excitement among cricket enthusiasts worldwide. The opportunity to witness some of the greatest players of all time compete once again has created a buzz that is sure to reach its peak during the India Champions vs Pakistan Champions match.With both teams boasting a wealth of talent and experience, the outcome of this clash is far from certain. However, one thing is for sure: the fans are in for a treat as two legendary teams battle it out for supremacy in the World Championship of Legends 2024.

Former Pakistan all-rounder Shahid Afridi has lauded the leadership of Indian captain Rohit Sharma, crediting his positive attitude for India's triumph in the T20 World Cup. Afridi believes that Rohit's aggressive style of play instills confidence in his team, leading to their success.In contrast, Afridi expressed concerns about Babar Azam's captaincy during Pakistan's disappointing performance in the tournament. He questioned the decision-making process and suggested that the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) should empower the national selection committee to appoint the team captain.Afridi emphasized the importance of a strong foundation at the grassroots level for Pakistan cricket. He believes that investing in youth development will produce better players in the future.Afridi's comments come after India's thrilling seven-run victory over South Africa in the T20 World Cup final. Rohit Sharma played a crucial role in India's success, leading from the front with his aggressive batting and positive body language.Afridi's analysis highlights the importance of leadership in sports. A captain who sets a positive example and instills confidence in his team can make a significant difference in their performance.

Former Pakistan captain Shahid Afridi has criticized Babar Azam for accepting the captaincy role after the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) removed Shaheen Afridi from the position following a disappointing series loss in New Zealand. Afridi believes that Babar should have supported Shaheen and declined the offer to lead the team at the T20 World Cup, arguing that it would have earned him respect.Afridi's comments stem from the PCB's decision to appoint Shaheen as captain for the New Zealand series, only to remove him after a 4-1 defeat. Babar, who had resigned as captain after the ODI World Cup last year, was then reappointed for the T20 World Cup. However, Pakistan's failure to progress beyond the group stage has led to scrutiny of Babar's leadership.Afridi contends that Babar should have prioritized Shaheen's development as captain and supported him through the difficult period. He believes that Babar could have set an example by demonstrating loyalty and unity within the team."If the decision on Shaheen's captaincy had been made and you [PCB] had stated that he will remain the captain till the [T20] World Cup, then I think Babar [Azam] should have supported Shaheen there and should have said that 'no, if you have made him [Shaheen] the captain, then we are ready to play under his captaincy because Shaheen has been playing with me for a long time. If he is made captain and the selection committee has made him the captain, then yes I will support him and play under his captaincy'," Afridi said on his YouTube channel.Afridi also criticized the PCB's handling of the captaincy situation, suggesting that some selectors had questioned Babar's abilities as a leader. He labeled Babar as a "pathetic" skipper, highlighting the lack of support he received from within the selection committee."But this was not entirely the fault of Babar because some of the blame lies with the selection committee too since some of the selectors on record said that Babar is a pathetic captain and he doesn't know how to do captaincy," Afridi added.Afridi's comments have reignited the debate over Pakistan's captaincy, with many questioning whether Babar is the right man to lead the team. The PCB will need to carefully consider its options and make a decision that is in the best interests of Pakistan cricket.

Pakistan's disappointing exit from the T20 World Cup has sparked widespread speculation about the future of several key players, including captain Babar Azam. Former Pakistan captains Wasim Akram, Salman Butt, and Shahid Afridi have openly criticized Babar's leadership and form, leading to rumors that the selection committee is considering dropping him and other senior players.However, legendary all-rounder Shahid Afridi has strongly opposed the idea of dropping Babar, arguing that Pakistan lacks a suitable replacement. "I don't know what's the reality, but this can't happen," Afridi said in a video uploaded on his YouTube channel. "You can drop players when you have the next lot ready to take over. Do we have anyone to replace Babar? Do we have any performer like him?"Afridi also criticized the PCB's selection policy, which he believes favors players based on a few good knocks rather than consistent performances in domestic cricket. "If we continue to select players on the basis of 2-3 innings and ignore stars of domestic cricket, it's harsh on those who perform for years," he added.Pakistan's elimination from the T20 World Cup was confirmed after the match between USA and Ireland was washed out due to rain. Babar and his team will play their final group stage match against Ireland on Sunday.The PCB is expected to make a decision on the future of the team after the tournament. However, Afridi's comments suggest that Babar's position as captain is unlikely to be under immediate threat.

The Indian Premier League (IPL) has revolutionized cricket, transforming it from a sport into a lucrative business venture. Former Pakistani all-rounder Shahid Afridi highlights the profound impact of the IPL on the evolution of cricket, particularly in white-ball cricket.The IPL has paved the way for numerous other leagues worldwide, signifying the immense financial potential associated with shorter formats. "Money has come in, things have changed. Cricket has become a business; it used to be a sport," Afridi said. "There's a lot of commercialization, leagues are happening everywhere in the world. Honestly, the IPL has opened the eyes of all leagues with the way money is involved in white-ball cricket."The influx of money has attracted players and opened doors for those previously overlooked. "Previously, there was money in county cricket as well, but it was for a long season of 6 months, and the red ball was involved. I think money is present in every league now because it has become commercialized," Afridi added.While playing for one's national team remains the ultimate achievement, the emergence of these leagues has provided alternative avenues for cricketers who may not have had the opportunity to represent their countries. "However, playing for the country is a significant achievement. It has its own unique satisfaction. Cricketers who don't get a chance to play for their national teams find opportunities in different leagues, which also brings financial benefits and support for their families," Afridi concluded.The IPL's commercialization has demonstrated the potential for substantial financial gains in white-ball cricket, leading to the proliferation of leagues across various countries. This has not only attracted players but has also opened doors for those who were previously overlooked, providing them with opportunities to showcase their talents and earn a living through cricket.

The T20 World Cup, hosted by the US and the Caribbean islands, witnessed a thrilling encounter between India and Pakistan, with former champions Yuvraj Singh and Shahid Afridi in attendance as ICC ambassadors.Pakistan dominated the early stages of the match, reaching 73 for 2 in 12.1 overs. However, Hardik Pandya's dismissal of Fakhar Zaman triggered a collapse, with Jasprit Bumrah's return in the 15th over proving decisive. Pakistan lost wickets in quick succession, eventually falling short by six runs at 113 for 7.In a video shared on social media, Afridi expressed his disappointment to Yuvraj, who had prematurely congratulated Pakistan when they needed 40 runs with seven wickets in hand. Afridi reminded Yuvraj that 40 runs were still a significant target on that pitch.Pakistan's defeat leaves them in a precarious position after their shock loss to USA in their opening match. They must now beat Canada in their next match to stay alive in the tournament.Despite the rivalry between India and Pakistan, Yuvraj and Afridi emphasized the importance of maintaining their friendship. "Winning and losing is part of the game," said Yuvraj. "What's important is that our bonhomie should continue."Pakistan will face Canada in New York on Tuesday, while India will take on South Africa in a crucial match on Wednesday.

Former Pakistan captain Shahid Afridi has hinted at revealing the internal conflicts and mismanagement within the national cricket team after the conclusion of the ongoing T20 World Cup. Afridi's comments come amidst growing criticism over Pakistan's selection process and team unity.During an interview on a local TV channel, Afridi expressed his frustration with the current state of affairs within the team. "He knows many things, and so do I, but we cannot talk openly. I will speak openly after the World Cup, our people themselves have spoiled this unit," Afridi said.Afridi's remarks echo the concerns raised by other former cricketers, including ex-PCB chairman Ramiz Raja and wicketkeeper-batsman Kamran Akmal. They have questioned the team's selection criteria and the lack of transparency in decision-making.Afridi also addressed the recent struggles of his son-in-law, Shaheen Afridi, who has faced criticism for his inconsistent performances. "If I talk about something, people will say that I am supporting my son-in-law, although I am not. If my daughter, son, or son-in-law are wrong, I will also call them wrong," Afridi stated.Shaheen's position in the team has been under scrutiny since he was removed from the T20I captaincy in April this year. He had initially been appointed as the white-ball captain after the 2023 ODI World Cup but was replaced by Babar Azam after just one series.Pakistan's performance in the T20 World Cup has further fueled the criticism. They suffered a shock defeat to the United States in their opening match and then lost to arch-rivals India in their second game. Their chances of qualifying for the semi-finals now hang in the balance.Afridi's comments have raised expectations that he will shed light on the internal issues plaguing the Pakistan cricket team. His revelations could have significant implications for the future of the team and the management responsible for its performance.