Cricket

Pakistan cricket has been in a state of turmoil following a string of disappointing performances in major tournaments. The team's struggles have been attributed to a combination of factors, including poor player form and administrative changes within the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB).One of the most criticized players has been captain Babar Azam, who has failed to live up to expectations as both a batsman and a leader. Azam's poor form was evident during the recent ODI World Cup and T20 World Cup, where he failed to produce any significant knocks.To add insult to injury, a video has emerged on social media showing Azam struggling against Ubaid Shah, the younger brother of star pacer Naseem Shah. The video highlights Azam's current lack of form and has raised further questions about his ability to lead the team.Former Pakistan captain Shahid Afridi has been among the most vocal critics of Azam, stating that he has been given ample opportunities to prove himself but has failed to deliver. Afridi believes that the PCB should consider making changes to the captaincy if the team's performance does not improve.The PCB has also come under fire for its handling of the team's recent struggles. The board has made several changes to the coaching staff and management, but these moves have yet to yield positive results.As Pakistan prepares for a two-match Test series against Bangladesh, the pressure is mounting on Azam and the PCB to turn things around. The team desperately needs a strong performance to restore confidence and silence the growing chorus of criticism.

Amit Mishra Questions Sanju Samson's Inclusion in 2026 T20 World Cup SquadFormer India spinner Amit Mishra has sparked a debate by expressing doubts over Sanju Samson's chances of featuring in the 2026 T20 World Cup squad. Mishra, who last played for India in 2017, believes that Samson's age and the emergence of younger players could hinder his selection."I don't think that Samson will play the next World Cup because he is now 34 years old," Mishra said on Shubhankar Mishra's podcast 'Unplugged.' "There are many young players, and Virat Kohli brought forth this concept that young players perform more in T20 cricket."Samson, 29, was part of India's 2024 T20 World Cup-winning team but did not play a single match, with Rishabh Pant preferred as the wicketkeeper-batter. Mishra acknowledged that an exceptional performance could earn Samson a spot in the 2026 squad, but he emphasized the need for consistency."He can play the next World Cup, but he will have to perform extraordinarily well in order to be selected," Mishra said. "Either he is now in the team, so he should maintain his position until the next World Cup, otherwise, it will be very difficult."Mishra pointed to the emergence of young players like Ishan Kishan, KL Rahul, and Rishabh Pant as potential threats to Samson's selection. He also highlighted the importance of experience in T20 cricket, despite the emphasis on youth."The mindset of T20 cricket is around young players, but it is the seniors who win you the game in T20s as experience matters in the shortest format," Mishra said.Mishra's comments come amid a changing landscape in Indian cricket. Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, and Ravindra Jadeja have all retired from T20Is, leaving the team with a mix of experienced and young players. Hardik Pandya, Suryakumar Yadav, and Jasprit Bumrah are among the senior players who will be expected to guide the team in the coming years.

England's women's cricket team faces a "tricky" period before the T20 World Cup in October, according to head coach Jon Lewis. Despite an undefeated home summer, Lewis acknowledges the challenges of maintaining momentum during an extended break.England's 13 wins in 14 matches against Pakistan and New Zealand showcased their dominance, but Lewis emphasizes the need for consistency and adaptability. The team's world-class spin attack, led by Sophie Ecclestone, Charlie Dean, and Sarah Glenn, has been instrumental in their success.However, Lewis highlights the importance of fielding improvements, particularly from Sarah Glenn, and the growing experience of Lauren Bell, Lauren Filer, and Freya Kemp. The team's ability to bat "360 degrees" and access all areas of the ground has also been a key factor.Lewis acknowledges the sense of calm and confidence within the group, but he also recognizes the potential for distractions during the Hundred tournament. He believes that the Hundred can provide valuable experience, but it's crucial for players to navigate it effectively.The conditions in Bangladesh, where the T20 World Cup will be held, pose a significant challenge. Lewis emphasizes the need to understand and adapt to those conditions, as the team that plays them best will likely emerge victorious.To prepare for the unknown, Lewis has intentionally introduced distractions during New Zealand's visit, creating anxiety and pressure to help players develop coping mechanisms. He believes that by raising the level of anxiety, players can learn to bring themselves back to a calm place and communicate effectively.

Shivam Dube's stellar performance in the 2024 Indian Premier League (IPL) propelled him to the Indian national cricket team and a coveted spot in the T20 World Cup squad. As the second-highest run-scorer for the Chennai Super Kings, Dube amassed 396 runs with an impressive strike rate of 162.29.His consistent batting throughout the tournament earned him a place in India's playing eleven. In the final against South Africa, Dube's crucial 27-run innings, alongside Virat Kohli's 76, forged a 57-run partnership that proved pivotal in India's six-run victory.Dube credits the IPL for his growth as a cricketer. "It provides a fantastic platform for young talent to showcase their skills alongside some of the best players in the world," he said. "Personally, playing in the IPL has been a significant learning experience, helping me improve my game and gain confidence."He also acknowledges the IPL's contribution to Indian cricket's growth. "Since its inception, the IPL has brought in new fans, increased the popularity of the sport, and created numerous opportunities for players at all levels," Dube added. "The exposure and competitive environment of the IPL have elevated the standards of Indian cricket."Despite a modest performance in the T20 World Cup, Dube's unwavering belief in his abilities, instilled by captain Rohit Sharma and coach Rahul Dravid, kept him focused. "Their faith in my abilities and their guidance helped me stay focused and believe in myself," he said.Dube's determination was evident in his Player of the Match performance in the final T20I against Zimbabwe, where he scored a quickfire 26 off 12 balls. He is now set to represent India in the upcoming white-ball series against Sri Lanka.Shivam Dube's journey from IPL star to international cricketer is a testament to the transformative power of the league. His success highlights the IPL's role in nurturing young talent and contributing to the growth of Indian cricket on the global stage.

Hardik Pandya's remarkable journey from injury and controversy to triumph in the ICC T20 World Cup is a testament to the power of perseverance and hard work. After suffering an injury during the 50-over World Cup, Pandya underwent a rigorous rehabilitation process, showcasing his unwavering determination on social media.His transformation was evident in his performance during the T20 World Cup, where he excelled as an all-rounder. With 144 runs at an average of 48.00 and a strike rate of 151.57, Pandya proved his batting prowess. His bowling was equally impressive, taking 11 wickets over eight games with an economy rate of 7.64.Pandya's contributions were crucial in India's victory over South Africa in the final. His bowling figures of 3/20 and key wickets helped secure a seven-run win, ending India's 11-year wait for an ICC trophy.Pandya's journey was not without its challenges. After taking over the captaincy of the Mumbai Indians in the IPL 2024, he faced criticism and online trolling. However, his performance in the T20 World Cup served as redemption, proving his critics wrong and showcasing his resilience.The warm welcome Pandya received in Vadodara, along with a roadshow celebrating the T20 World Cup win, is a testament to his popularity and the impact he has had on Indian cricket. His story is an inspiration to aspiring athletes, demonstrating that with hard work and determination, anything is possible.

The upcoming ICC Annual Conference in Colombo, commencing on Friday, holds immense significance for the cricketing world. BCCI Secretary Jay Shah's potential takeover as ICC Chairman from New Zealander Greg Barclay will be a key topic of discussion.One of the major concerns on the agenda is the substantial financial losses incurred by the ICC during the T20 World Cup games held in the United States. Reports indicate losses exceeding USD 20 million. While the AGM's nine-point agenda does not explicitly address financial details, it will be discussed as a "post-event report."The appointment of ICC's new external auditor, ICC memberships, reports from associate members' meetings, and the presentation of ICC development awards are also on the agenda.A crucial issue not included in the official agenda but likely to be raised under "Any Other Business" is India's decision to decline participation in the Champions Trophy in Pakistan.According to an ICC source, the timing of Jay Shah's succession as ICC Chairman is a primary concern. The source stated, "It is not about how but when, as he still has one year left as BCCI secretary before his cooling-off period in Indian board starts in 2025 as per constitution."Speculation suggests that the ICC's chairmanship term could be revised from three terms of two years each to two terms of three years, maintaining the cumulative term at six years. This would allow Shah to complete his six years as BCCI secretary and assume the ICC chairmanship in 2025 for three years during his cooling-off period in the BCCI. Subsequently, he could return in 2028 to take over as the board president.

After India's triumph at the T20 World Cup 2024, the team's future is in the spotlight. With the retirements of Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, the focus turns to the appointment of a new T20I captain.Hardik Pandya, the vice-captain, was initially seen as the frontrunner. However, Suryakumar Yadav has emerged as a surprise contender. Yadav's exceptional performance in the World Cup final, including a crucial catch of David Miller, has bolstered his case.Yadav boasts an impressive record in T20Is, with 2340 runs in 68 matches at an average of 43.33 and a strike rate of 167.74. He has led India in 7 T20Is, securing five victories.On the other hand, Pandya has accumulated 1492 runs in 100 T20Is, averaging 26.64, with four fifties. He has also claimed 84 wickets in T20Is. He has captained India in 16 T20Is, winning 10 matches.Gautam Gambhir, India's new head coach, is reportedly in favor of Yadav as the preferred candidate for the captaincy. Gambhir, along with chairman of selectors Ajit Agarkar, has discussed the leadership transition with Pandya.Pandya, who served as Rohit's deputy at the T20 World Cup, has been informed about India's long-term captaincy plans. Despite being fully fit and available for the upcoming T20I series, there is strong speculation that Yadav could lead the team not only in the Sri Lanka series but also potentially until the 2026 World Cup.The decision on the captaincy will be crucial for India's future in T20 cricket. Both Yadav and Pandya have their strengths and weaknesses, and the team management will need to carefully consider all factors before making a decision.

Paras Mhambrey, India's outgoing bowling coach, has played a pivotal role in the team's recent success, including their triumph at the T20 World Cup. Mhambrey, who has worked closely with Rahul Dravid since 2015, outlines the key principles that have guided their approach.Process-First Policy:Mhambrey emphasizes the importance of prioritizing process over results, especially with developmental teams. By ensuring that every player receives ample game time, they foster a sense of security and minimize the pressure on young players. This approach has resulted in a thriving 'A' and U-19 program, which has produced a steady stream of talented players for the senior team.Data Assimilation:Mhambrey highlights the crucial role of data in their planning. By collecting and analyzing data across all aspects of the game, they have been able to formalize programs and streamline the structure. This data-driven approach has enabled them to tailor training and workload management to individual players' needs.Limiting U-19 World Cup Appearances:Mhambrey explains the decision to limit players to a single U-19 World Cup. This policy ensures that players have sufficient time to develop and transition to the 'A' and emerging programs. By bridging the gap between youth and senior teams, they have created a seamless pathway for players to progress through the ranks.Building Relationships:Mhambrey stresses the importance of building strong relationships with senior players. By engaging in open and honest conversations, they have fostered a culture of trust and respect. This has allowed them to have candid discussions about team vision and individual roles, even with experienced players like Ishant Sharma and Bhuvneshwar Kumar.Investing in Youth:Mhambrey acknowledges the need to invest in young players to create a sustainable bowling pool. By integrating them into the senior team alongside experienced bowlers, they have ensured that the younger generation is not overwhelmed by the responsibilities of leading the attack. This strategy has paid dividends, as evidenced by the emergence of Arshdeep Singh and Avesh Khan.Incentivizing Red-Ball Cricket:Mhambrey recognizes the challenge of encouraging young players to prioritize red-ball cricket in the era of T20 leagues. By emphasizing the historical significance and prestige of Test cricket, they aim to instill a sense of pride and aspiration in the younger generation. They also highlight the value of Test cricket in enhancing a player's overall skills and reputation.Home Advantage in Test Cricket:Mhambrey discusses India's home advantage in Test cricket, emphasizing the importance of understanding their strengths and resources. While acknowledging the effectiveness of spinning tracks, he cautions against excessive reliance on rank turners, which can level the playing field for touring teams.Pace-Bowling Allrounders:Mhambrey identifies the need to develop genuine pace-bowling allrounders. By identifying potential candidates from U-19 and domestic cricket, they aim to provide them with the support and opportunities to hone their skills. They recognize the challenges posed by the Impact Player rule in the IPL but remain committed to nurturing allrounders.

The 2024 T20 World Cup, a tournament that witnessed India's triumph over the USA, has left a trail of questions in its wake, particularly regarding the US leg. The ICC Board is set to scrutinize the alleged cost overruns and accountability for the inflated expenses.Initially, the ICC Board approved a budget of $40-50 million for the US leg, with $15 million allocated for operational costs and $30 million for the temporary stadium construction. However, on the eve of the tournament, T20 World Cup USA Inc., the entity responsible for running the US leg, requested an additional $20 million. This request raised concerns among board directors, who questioned why no red flags were raised earlier.According to an official involved in the tournament's organization, the $20 million was not additional funding but a cash flow support loan. However, several directors, including CWI President Dr. Kishore Shallow and ICC deputy chairman Imran Khwaja, expressed reservations about the inflated expenditure.The questioning extends beyond the US leg. Directors are expected to highlight the tournament's image damage due to questionable pitch quality and empty stands during the Caribbean leg. Despite fresh surfaces, the slow and uneven pitches raised concerns about their suitability for T20 cricket.Another issue was the lack of communication between the CWI-appointed LOC and T20 World Cup USA Inc. as the tournament progressed. The absence of Andy Atkinson, the ICC's pitch consultant, also raised concerns about the quality control of the surfaces.The ICC Board's review of the tournament will focus on accountability and answering questions. CWI, as the main host, and senior ICC management will be under scrutiny. The ICC's goal of exploiting the untapped American market and using the US leg as a dress rehearsal for the 2028 Olympics will also be evaluated.