Cricket

Pakistan's star all-rounder Shadab Khan faced an unexpected and embarrassing moment when a fan confronted him with a blunt question about his recent poor form. The incident occurred during Pakistan's ongoing T20I series against England, where the team has struggled to find its footing.In a video that has gone viral on social media, a female fan approached Shadab for a picture. However, after posing for the photo, she abruptly asked, "Aaap chhakke kyu kha rahe hain itne (why are you getting hit for so many sixes)?"Shadab, known primarily for his leg-spin bowling, was visibly taken aback by the question. He remained silent and embarrassed, unable to respond to the fan's direct criticism. The fan continued, "Form mei wapis aayein, perform karein. Wickets leni hain aapne (return to form, perform, you have to take wickets)."The incident highlights the pressure and scrutiny that professional athletes face from fans. Shadab has been under fire for his inconsistent performances in recent matches, particularly his inability to contain the opposition's batsmen. The fan's question served as a stark reminder of the expectations placed on him as a key member of the Pakistan team.Despite the embarrassing encounter, Shadab remains a vital part of Pakistan's squad. His all-round abilities, including his batting and fielding, make him a valuable asset to the team. However, he will need to find his form quickly if Pakistan is to have any chance of success in the upcoming T20 World Cup.The T20 World Cup, co-hosted by the USA and West Indies, is scheduled to begin on June 2. Pakistan will be hoping to put their recent struggles behind them and perform well in the tournament. Shadab's form will be crucial to their chances of success.

England and Pakistan are set to face off in the second match of their three-match T20I series at the Kennington Oval in London. The hosts England won the first match by 45 runs, and will be looking to seal the series with another victory.The pitch at the Kennington Oval is known for its good batting conditions, with an average first innings score of 164 runs in the last 20 matches. The surface is expected to provide assistance to both batters and bowlers, making it a balanced contest.The weather forecast for the match is cloudy, with a temperature of around 15.18 degrees Celsius and humidity of 69%. Winds are expected to blow at a speed of 3.91 m/s, which could aid the pacers.Statistically, pacers have been more successful at the Kennington Oval, taking 80% of the wickets. Fantasy experts predict that the pitch will continue to favor the pacers in this match.In the head-to-head record between England and Pakistan, the all-rounders have been the most valuable players for their respective teams in terms of fantasy points.For England, Shaheen Afridi is a key player to watch. The left-arm fast bowler has an average of 87 match fantasy points in the last 10 games and is a consistent performer. Babar Azam, the Pakistan captain, is another top pick for fantasy teams. The right-handed batter has an average of 55 match fantasy points in the last 10 games.Other players to consider for your fantasy team include Shadab Khan, Sam Curran, Mohammad Rizwan, Will Jacks, Chris Jordan, Jos Buttler, Phil Salt, Saim Ayub, Harry Brook, Imad Wasim, and Adil Rashid.

The Royal Dutch Cricket Association (KNCB) has admitted to fielding an ineligible player in the Netherlands' 94-run victory over Italy in the first T20I of their four-match series on Tuesday.The KNCB self-reported the error to the International Cricket Council (ICC) after realizing that the player in question did not meet the ICC's player eligibility regulations. The board has not yet disclosed the identity of the player.The ICC has not yet publicly commented on the breach, but possible sanctions include a suspension for the player and an adjustment, overturning, or amendment of the match result.The Netherlands fielded two T20I debutants against Italy: Madison Landsman, who took a hat-trick for South Africa at the inaugural Under-19 Women's T20 World Cup last year, and Sanya Khurana.The KNCB has expressed its commitment to developing the Netherlands Women's Cricket team and its ambition for the team to continue progressing in ICC T20I and ICC 50-over World Cup pathway competitions.After their T20I series against Italy, the Netherlands are scheduled to face Papua New Guinea, Scotland, and Hong Kong next month. They are currently ranked 15th in the ICC's Women's T20I rankings.The KNCB's error highlights the importance of adhering to player eligibility regulations to ensure fair play and the integrity of the game. The ICC's investigation into the matter will determine the appropriate consequences for the Netherlands and the ineligible player.

In a heartwarming display of sportsmanship, Pakistan's young fast bowler Naseem Shah stepped up to make a young fan's day by signing an autograph on behalf of his captain, Babar Azam. The incident occurred in England, where Pakistan is currently engaged in a four-match T20I series against the hosts.As the Pakistan team was leaving the field after a rain-affected match, a group of young fans eagerly approached Babar Azam for autographs. The Pakistan captain managed to sign for one of the kids before hurrying into a nearby lift, leaving another young fan visibly disappointed.Observing the situation, Naseem Shah, who was walking behind Babar Azam, noticed the child's disappointment. Without hesitation, he approached the child and asked if he wanted an autograph. The child nodded eagerly, and Naseem not only signed an autograph for him but also took it upon himself to sign on behalf of Babar Azam.The child, still processing the situation, asked Naseem, "Yeh Babar Azam ka hai?" (Is this Babar Azam's?). With a reassuring smile, Naseem responded, "Haan, yeh Babar Azam ka hi hai." (Yes, this is Babar Azam's).Naseem's thoughtful act ensured the child left happy and satisfied. The fast bowler didn't stop there; he also took the time to pose for pictures with other children and engaged with them, making the experience memorable for the young fans.Naseem Shah's gesture not only brightened the day of a young fan but also showcased the spirit of sportsmanship and camaraderie within the Pakistan team. It is a reminder that even in the midst of competition, kindness and compassion can prevail.

Pakistan's Fakhar Zaman has vehemently defended teammate Azam Khan's selection in the national T20I squad, following criticism from a journalist.During a press conference after Pakistan's 23-run defeat to England in the second T20I, a reporter questioned Azam's place in the team, suggesting he was chosen based on recommendations rather than merit.Zaman, visibly upset, strongly condemned the reporter's comments, emphasizing that Azam had earned his spot through impressive performances in various T20 leagues, including the Caribbean Premier League (CPL)."If you make a team then don't pick him. The team is picked by Gary Kirsten and Babar Azam. What you said is disrespectful towards a player. You've to see how he managed to find a spot for himself in the team. He has been selected due to his performances in the CPL," Zaman said.Zaman further clarified that the team selection process is based on merit and is carried out by the captain and coach. He advised the journalist to conduct proper research before attending press conferences and asking such questions."Please do some research on how a player like Azam Khan fought his way into the playing XI. Even I can say that you came here by recommendation. So, do some research before coming to the press conference," he added.Azam, a right-handed wicketkeeper-batsman, has yet to establish himself on the international circuit, scoring just 88 runs in 12 matches at an average of 11.00. However, Zaman believes that Azam has the potential to succeed at the highest level."He is a young player and he is learning. He has a lot of talent and he will improve with time. We have to support him and give him confidence," Zaman said.Pakistan's next T20I against England is scheduled for Tuesday in Karachi.

Pakistan's recent 23-run defeat to England in the second T20I has sparked criticism from former all-rounder Shoaib Malik. Malik, who has played over 400 international matches for Pakistan, believes the team management needs to make significant changes to its batting order and strategy.Malik's primary concern is the team's batting order. He suggests that Fakhar Zaman should open the innings with Mohammad Rizwan, followed by Babar Azam, Iftikhar Ahmed, Imad Wasim, and Shadab Khan. This order, he believes, would provide a more balanced and experienced lineup.Malik also emphasizes the importance of giving finishers like Azam Khan and Iftikhar Ahmed adequate time in the middle. He argues that expecting them to start scoring at a high rate immediately is unrealistic and unfair. Instead, the captain should allow them to settle in and gradually increase their scoring rate.In addition to the batting order, Malik also believes the team needs to utilize its options on the bench more wisely. He suggests that players like Khushdil Shah and Asif Ali could provide valuable contributions if given the opportunity.Malik's comments highlight the need for strategic adjustments within the Pakistan team. As they prepare for the remaining matches in the series and the upcoming T20 World Cup, the team management must carefully consider his suggestions and make the necessary changes to improve their performance on the international stage.

England emerged victorious in the second T20I against Pakistan at Edgbaston, Birmingham, securing a 1-0 lead in the four-match series. The first match was abandoned due to rain.Pakistan's captain, Babar Azam, played a valiant innings, scoring 32 runs off 26 deliveries at a strike rate of 123.08, including four boundaries. However, his efforts proved insufficient to secure a win for his team.With his knock, Babar surpassed India's Rohit Sharma to become the second-highest run-scorer in T20Is. Rohit has amassed 3974 runs in 151 matches for India, while Babar now boasts 3987 runs in 118 matches for Pakistan. India's Virat Kohli remains the leading run-scorer in T20Is, with 4037 runs from 117 matches.After the match, Babar expressed his admiration for his bowlers, acknowledging their exceptional performance. He noted that he and Fakhar Zaman had formed a significant partnership, but subsequent batters failed to capitalize on their momentum."It was a par score, our bowlers bowled very well. In the batting, there were moments, but we didn't finish well. Small partnership between me and Fakhar and later on, there was no big partnership," Babar said.He emphasized the adaptability and role clarity within the team, stating that if he and Fakhar had remained at the crease for a few more overs, the outcome could have been different."We are flexible, everyone knows their role. We have decided each player's role. If you are not in good form, we are flexible. The way Fakhar dominated after wickets fell ... if me and Fakhar had batted for three more overs, it would have been a different ball game," he added.

Bangladesh salvaged some pride by defeating the United States by 10 wickets in the final match of their three-game T20I series in Houston on Saturday. The victory came after the Americans had surprised their higher-ranked opponents by winning the first two games.Mustafizur Rahman was the star for Bangladesh, taking a career-best 6-10 as the USA were restricted to a mere 104-9 in their 20 overs. The visitors then chased down the target in just 11.4 overs without losing a wicket.The American innings started well with Shayan Jahangir and Andries Gous putting on 46 runs before Gous was caught by Soumya Sarkar off Shakib Al Hasan's bowling. Jahingir followed soon after, caught by Tanzim Hasan Sakib while attempting to pull a delivery from Mustafizur.The hosts struggled to maintain their momentum, scoring only 14 runs while losing three more wickets. Mustafizur, bowling his second spell at the death, finished with his career-best T20I figures of 6-10.Bangladesh's chase was comfortable, with Tanzid Hasan scoring 58 off 42 balls and Soumya contributing 43 off 28 deliveries. The American bowlers failed to exert any significant pressure on the Bangladeshi batsmen.Bangladesh captain Najmul Hossain Shanto expressed satisfaction with his team's response to the two previous losses. "I think the boys showed a lot of character today. I think the plan we made before this match, everyone executed," he said.He acknowledged the disappointment of losing the series but emphasized the importance of finishing on a positive note and gaining valuable experience ahead of the World Cup.USA vice-captain Aaron Jones attributed the loss to poor shot selection by the American batsmen. The USA will play two warm-up games against Bangladesh and Nepal in Grand Prairie, Dallas, before facing Canada in the opening game of the T20 World Cup on Saturday. Jones stressed the significance of these matches in finalizing the team's combination for the tournament.

West Indies clinched the three-match T20I series against South Africa with a resounding 16-run victory at Sabina Park. Batting first, West Indies posted a competitive 207 for 7, thanks to Roston Chase's maiden T20I half-century (67) and a late cameo from Romario Shepherd (32*).South Africa's chase started promisingly, with Quinton de Kock (41) leading the charge. However, the middle order faltered, and despite a valiant effort from Rassie van der Dussen (30), they fell short of the target. Gudakesh Motie was the star of the West Indies bowling attack, claiming career-best figures of 3 for 22.Chase's innings was a masterclass in adaptability. He paced his innings perfectly, hitting five boundaries behind square and two towering sixes. His partnership with Andre Fletcher (35) and Shepherd propelled West Indies to a strong total.South Africa's bowling was led by debutant Nqabayomzi Peter, who impressed with figures of 2 for 32. However, Anrich Nortje's return from injury was disappointing, as he conceded 47 runs in four wicketless overs.The victory marked West Indies' second consecutive series win against South Africa in T20Is. It also highlighted the team's growing depth and resilience, with several players stepping up in the absence of key regulars.For South Africa, the defeat extended their winless streak in T20I series to five. Their inability to handle spin remains a concern, as Motie's success demonstrated.