SKM Sports Blog

Unsung Indian hero Abid Ali passes away peacefully in USA

noreply@blogger.com (Editor) — 2025年3月13日 09:38:00 +0000

By Syed Khalid Mahmood

(Pakistan News & Features Services)

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has expressed its condolences on the passing of former Indian all-rounder, Syed Abid Ali, who breathed his last after a protracted illness in California, USA, on March 12. He was 83.

Having represented India in 29 Test matches and five One Day Internationals between 1967 and 1974, he was not only a celebrated cricketer, but indeed a pivotal figure in Indian cricket during the 1960s and 70s, renowned for his versatile skills.

He certainly left a mark with his all-round capabilities. His contributions were instrumental in India’s historic Test series victories in England and the West Indies in 1971, where his fielding, bowling, and batting proved invaluable. His lion-hearted approach and dedication made him a respected figure in the Indian cricketing fraternity.

"Syed Abid Ali was a true all-rounder, a cricketer who embodied the spirit of the game. His contributions to India’s historic victories in the 1970s will always be remembered. His dedication and versatility made him stand out. My deepest condolences to his family and friends during this difficult time," Roger Binny, President, BCCI, acknowledged in the condolence message.

"Syed Abid Ali’s all-round skills and his contribution to Indian cricket are quite valued. He was a true gentleman of the game. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and loved ones," Devajit Saikia, Honorary Secretary, BCCI, remarked.

Abid Ali was one of those rare cricketers who were understood to be ahead of time. Besides displaying his prowess as a genuine all-rounder, he was blessed with unmatched qualities of being a panther in the field who also sprinted spectacularly between the wickets. Such things were unheard of in the era he belonged to.

He didn’t bowl as fast as the Indian speedsters of today like Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammad Shami or Mohammad Siraj but he certainly was a lively and accurate medium-pacer who swung the ball both ways to keep batsmen guessing.

He played his cricket at a time when India relied wholly on their world-class spinners leaving negligible space for him to deliver the goods. In the limited opportunities coming his way, he managed to show his pedigree and added value to the team.

His greatest moment in the cricket field was probably hitting the winning runs for India at The Oval in 1971, which earned the first-ever series victory for his team in England. Another memorable for him and his team came at Old Trafford three seasons later when, coming down the order, he was involved in a thrilling partnership with the master opener, Sunil Gavaskar, allowing him to complete his well-deserved century, first on English soil.

His record at international level didn’t seem to justice with his exceptional all-round talents. He could capture only 47 wickets in 29 Tests, after having returned the figures of 6 for 55 in his very first outing against Australia at Adelaide. His twin fifties as an opener at Sydney later in the debut series showcased his batting credentials.

Apart from number 4, 10, and 11, he batted at every other position in Test cricket for India. He, however, was mostly sent at number eight. He was known for striking the ball cleanly. He looked a much better batsman than his stats suggested.

He was an automatic choice for India’s line-up in limited overs cricket and he played in his country’s first five ODIs from 1974 to 1975. Sadly, the Indians had not taken the new format all that seriously which prevented dashing cricketers like him to become superstars of the era.

BCCI wholeheartedly hails India’s unbeaten run in ICC Champions Trophy 2025

noreply@blogger.com (Editor) — 2025年3月10日 10:18:00 +0000

Pakistan News & Features Services

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has congratulated Team India on their magnificent triumph in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 which concluded on March 9. India showcased their cricketing supremacy, emerging victorious in dominant fashion and reaffirming their place as the top-ranked side in both ODIs and T20Is.

"From the very outset, the team pursued excellence, overcoming formidable challenges with a brand of cricket that was both fearless and disciplined. Their unbeaten run in an ICC tournament is a true reflection of their consistency, strategic execution, and hunger to succeed on the global stage. The final against New Zealand was the perfect culmination of this journey - an exhibition of resilience and high-pressure mastery," the BCCI noted.

The BCCI extended its highest commendation to captain Rohit Sharma, whose exemplary leadership and tactical acumen were instrumental in guiding the team to this historic achievement.

"His ability to inspire and lead by example played a defining role in India's victorious campaign. Notably, this marked India's second successive ICC title under his leadership in as many years, following the triumphant T20 World Cup 2024 victory. These twin titles firmly establish his legacy as one of India’s finest and most successful captains."

The BCCI also lauded the role of Head Coach Gautam Gambhir, whose fearless approach and tactical insight were key to shaping this winning team. His emphasis on self-belief and strategic execution was evident in the way the players carried themselves throughout the competition. The BCCI congratulated the players, coaching staff, support personnel and the selection committee for this phenomenal accomplishment.

"This triumph is a landmark moment for Indian cricket, following the high of last year’s T20 World Cup success. To dominate yet another global tournament and bring home the Champions Trophy is a phenomenal achievement. The team has played with unparalleled consistency and character, and I congratulate captain Rohit Sharma, Head Coach Gautam Gambhir, and the entire squad for their historic success," Roger Binny, President, BCCI, recognized.

"This victory is a testament to the talent and perseverance of Indian cricket. The way this team has performed under pressure and delivered in crucial moments is truly commendable. Congratulations to every player, the support staff, selection committee and the fans who have stood by the team," Devajit Saikia, Honorary Secretary, BCCI, declared.

"Winning an ICC title is always a special achievement, and this team has done it in dominant fashion. The seamless blend of experience and youthful energy has been remarkable, and this triumph will serve as inspiration for future generations of Indian cricket," Rajeev Shukla, Vice-President, BCCI, reckoned.

"India’s triumph in the Champions Trophy 2025 is a reflection of their perseverance, meticulous preparation, and fearless execution. The team has showcased exceptional skill and unity, making the entire nation proud. This is a special win and will be remembered for years to come," Prabhtej Singh Bhatia, Treasurer, BCCI, noted.

"The Champions Trophy 2025 victory is the result of relentless hard work and determination. Team India has exhibited outstanding teamwork, and this success highlights the depth and strength of Indian cricket. This is indeed a proud moment for the entire nation," Rohan Gauns Dessai, Honorary Joint Secretary, BCCI, added.

Non-presence of hosts PCB at CT presentation ceremony astonishing

noreply@blogger.com (Editor) — 2025年3月10日 09:40:00 +0000

By Ehsan Qureshi

(Pakistan News & Features Services)

Pakistan were the hosts of 9th edition of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 with the majority of its matches were staged at the three major venues of the country, Karachi, Lahore and Rawalpindi.

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) invited and hosted the top officials of the International Cricket Council (ICC) during the course of the tournament. The Vice of President of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), Rajeev Shukla, also came over to Lahore to watch one of the matches.

It was astonishing, however, not to find any representative of the PCB at the podium during the glamorous presentation ceremony of the Champions Trophy, soon after the conclusion of the final between India and New Zealand, in Dubai on March 9.

The ICC Chairman, Jay Shah, dominated the proceedings alongwith the BCCI President, Roger Binny.

It was also noted that the PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi, was not present on the occasion. According to reports, the PCB Chief Executive, Sumair Ahmed, was available at Dubai International Cricket Stadium but he was not invited at the podium.

The experts as well as cricket enthusiasts in Pakistan could not comprehend the reasons of the non-presence of the hosts at the podium during the presentation ceremony. It could not be ascertained whether this was done by mutual understanding or not.

Pakistan’s speed merchant, Shoaib Akhtar, famously known as the Rawalpindi Express, also expressed his surprise at not finding the presence of any PCB official at the podium, despite being the hosts.

Earlier during the India-Bangladesh match in Dubai, the name of hosts was found missing. The ICC officials regretted the mistake when the matter was taken up by the PCB.

Rohit Sharma’s captain knock helps India recapture Champions Trophy crown

noreply@blogger.com (Editor) — 2025年3月10日 09:05:00 +0000

By Ehsan Qureshi

(Pakistan News & Features Services)

The Indian skipper, Rohit Sharma, under fire for not producing big knocks on a consistent basis of late, silenced his critics by smashing a spectacular 76 off 83 balls to lead India to their second ICC Champions Trophy crown in 12 years with a hard-fought four-wicket victory over New Zealand in the final on March 9.

Sharma, eager to dominate from the outset, shared a superb century opening stand with Shubman Gill to set the tone for victory as India, chasing a target of 252, overhauled it for the loss of six wickets with one over to spare at Dubai International Stadium.

It was India’s second successive title victory in an ICC event, under the leadership of Sharma, after having won the ICC T20 World Cup in the West Indies last year.

New Zealand, captained by Mitchell Santner, deserved the credit for not only reaching the final but also giving the hot-favourites India a run for their money in the title clash despite defending a below par total.

They had a consolation when their rising star all-rounder Rachin Ravindra was named player of the tournament for his 263 runs in the competition.

As expected, it was the brilliant fielding which brought the New Zealanders back in the hunt after an early finished loomed on the horizon after the sensational start given by Sharma and Gill.

The Indian openers were milking runs at will, playing risk-free cricket after the early onslaught. Gill cover drove Santner uppishly with usual power but Glenn Phillips brought off an unbelievable sort of catch to break the threatening partnership against the run of play.

Virat Kohli, in sublime form after match-winning knock in the semifinal, timed the first delivery he faced with perfection to get off the mark right away.

But he was undone on the very next ball as off-spinner Michael Bracewell struck with his opening delivery. The capacity crowd went silent as even the review could not save Kohli.

Perturbed by the loss of two wickets in three balls, Sharma went into a shell which allowed the spinners, even part-timers, to dictate terms. The skipper was stumped, trying to break the shackles, and the match became wide open with India sliding to 122 for three in the 27th over.

Shreyas Iyer (48 off 62 balls) and Axar Patel (29 off 40 balls) added 61 runs for the fourth wicket to put the Indian innings back on track. After their departure in quick succession, KL Rahul and Hardik Pandya batted well to sustain the momentum.

Yet again, Rahul demonstrated patience and played intelligently to remain undefeated on 34 off 33 balls with one four and six. Pandya left after scoring 18 off as many balls.

Coming into bat at number eight, Ravindra Jadeja hit the winning boundary to the delight and cheers of jampacked stadium. The victory was completed in the penultimate over. Once again, the Indians managed to chase successfully despite the pitch having become slow in the second half of the match.

Earlier in the afternoon, after crawling in the middle overs, New Zealand mustered 251 for seven in their 50 overs thanks to rapid unbeaten 53 off 40 balls by Micheal Bracewell and a somewhat struggling 63 off 101 balls from Daryl Mitchell.

Benefitting from a couple of dropped catches, New Zealand picked up momentum with Ravindra, the beneficiary on both occasions, taking 16 runs off a Hardik Pandya over with two boundaries and a six. They raced to 69 for one in powerplay which was quite a decent effort.

It was left-arm spinner Kuldeep Yadav who dented New Zealand with the key wickets of Ravindra and Kane Williamson in his opening burst. He was summoned into the attack earlier than usual, after pacemen Mohammad Shami and Pandya leaked far too runs with the new ball.

The Blackcaps were forced to rebuild their innings after being reduced to 75 for three in the 13th over. Tom Latham and Mitchell were content in pushing for singles as the quartet of Yadav, Varun Chakaravarthy, Jadeja and Patel suffocated them with very tight and smart bowling.

Phillips, having scored briskly throughout the tournament, played a few aggressive shots before being cleaned by Chakaravarthy. Mitchell was unable to dominate the spinning quartet who conceded 144 runs in 38 overs between them, taking five wickets. Yadav captured two wickets for 40 runs while Chakaravarthy got two wickets for 45 runs.

New Zealand's eventual total got some respectability as they added 79 runs in the last 10 overs with Bracewell, riding his luck, to do bulk of the scoring. He was particularly severe on India’s spearhead Shami, who uncharacteristically, went for 74 runs in his nine overs.

Williamson, Ravindra tons take New Zealand into Champions Trophy final; South Africa choke yet again

noreply@blogger.com (Editor) — 2025年3月06日 06:00:00 +0000

By Ehsan Qureshi

(Pakistan News & Features Services)

Kane Williamson and Rachin Ravindra smashed enterprising tons and skipper Mitchell Santner captured three key wickets, besides containing the power-hitters, as New Zealand overpowered chokers South Africa by 50 runs in the second semifinal of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 at Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore, on March 5.

With their commanding victory, New Zealand have set up their title clash with India at Dubai on March 9. It will be a repeat of the Champions Trophy final in 2000 when both teams had made it at Nairobi, Kenya.

David Miller smashed a fighting rapid-fire unbeaten 100 on the last ball of the innings but his grand effort went in vain as South Africa, chasing a record total of 363 for victory, were restricted to 312 for nine at the end of 50 overs.

Left-handed Miller’s explosive century came off 67 balls and it was spiced with ten sizzling boundaries and four sixes. The writing, however, seemed very much on the wall for the South Africans, when the New Zealand captain, Santner, with his accurate left-arm spin, removed the dangerous duo of Rassie van der Dussen and Heinrich Klassen in quick succession.

Extracting substantial amount of turn to keep the batters guessing, Santner first castled der Dussen who was looking dangerous with 69 off 66 balls.

It brought to the crease Klassen, arguably the cleanest hitter in the game at the moment. But he was sent back before he could explode on a night which wasn’t going to be his.

With the asking rate mounting with every passing over, Miller, also a famed destructive batter, revived some hopes but the mammoth chase proved took its toll and proved too much for his team.

Santner took three wickets for 43 runs in ten overs, which was an incredible effort in high-scoring match. He lived up to his big reputation and led by example in the high-voltage game.

Glenn Phillips, whose electric fielding and catch remind the present generation of one Jonty Rhodes, was in the business again. His acrobatic saves kept the South Africans under pressure. He then picked up a couple of wickets with his off-spin to seal the fate of the match.

Earlier, veteran Williamson and youthful Ravindra both showed their prime form with centuries as New Zealand posted the highest-ever total of 362 for six in the history of the tournament.

Ravindra smashed his second century of the event and Williamson followed his 81 against India two days ago with supreme 108. It was their 164-run second wicket stand which laid the foundation for a massive total after opener Will Young (21) went in the 8th over.

The Kiwis reached their 100 in 18th over and 200 in 32 overs. Ravindra perished in the 34th over after making a superb 108 off 101 balls, studded with 13 fours and a six.

Quite astonishingly, it was his fifth century in the ICC events, as he had hit as many as three in the ICC World Cup 2023. Williamson, batting in his trademark style, was more aggressive of the two, scoring 102 off 94 balls with 10 boundaries and two sixes.

He was dismissed in the 40th over, with New Zealand firmly placed for a final assault in the last 10 overs. The New Zealanders made the most of the solid platform laid by Ravindra and Williamson. They were in full flow while plundering 111 in last ten overs.

Both Daryl Mitchell and Philips destroyed the South African bowling. Phillips banged left-arm fast bowler Marco Jansen in 46th over for four boundaries in a row which cost 19 runs. Similarly, in the 48th over from top pacer Rabada was smashed for 19 runs with a four and six by the rampaging Philips, who returned undefeated on 49 off 27 balls.

Daryl Mitchell also contributed in the run feast, with an aggressive 49 off 37 balls. Paceman Lungi Ngidi was the pick of the South African bowlers as he captured three wickets but he was also taken for 72 runs in his quota of 10 overs. Left-arm spinner Keshav Maharaj went wicketless, as did part-timer Aiden Markram.

Steve Smith’s surprise call to retire from ODI

noreply@blogger.com (Editor) — 2025年3月05日 09:31:00 +0000

By Ehsan Qureshi

(Pakistan News & Features Services)

The decision of the acting Australian captain, Steve Smith, has come as a bit of surprise following the four-wicket defeat at the hands of India in the first semifinal of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 at Dubai International Cricket Stadium on March 4.

Smith, who was captaining the Aussies in the Champions Trophy in place of the injured Pat Cummins, had batted pretty well in the semifinal to emerge as the leading scorer for his side but he was reported to have informed teammates about his decision to hang his boots from ODIs soon after the loss to India.

He, however, will continue playing Test cricket for his country, declaring his availability for T20Is too, if required. He may surely remain a part and parcel of the national team in the Test arena for a few more seasons but he is unlikely to be picked again for the shortest format of the game where the mantra has been to blood youngsters.

Smith’s call to quit ODIs immediately after playing another fighting knock in the semifinal does surprise many but the decision could also have been prompted by the fact that, at 34, he stood very little chance of continuing until the next World Cup due to be held in the African continent in 2027.

Having debuted in ODI against the West Indies at Melbourne in 2010, he played in 170 matches, aggregating 5,800 runs at an average of 43.28. He scored exactly a dozen centuries and 35 half-centuries. He also claimed 28 wickets at an average of 34.67 as a part-time leg-spinner.

Majestic Kohli, sensational Shami eliminate Australia, take India into Champions Trophy final at Dubai instead of Lahore

noreply@blogger.com (Editor) — 2025年3月05日 07:12:00 +0000

By Ehsan Qureshi

(Pakistan News & Features Services)

Top batter Virat Kohli hit a brilliant 84 off 98 balls in yet another successful run chase while pace spearhead Muhammad Shami bowled exceedingly well to claim three wickets as India overpowered Australia by four wickets in the first semifinal of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 at Dubai International Cricket Stadium on March 4.

Following the Indian triumph in the first semifinal, Dubai will now stage the final on March 9 instead of Lahore. India will take on winners of the second semifinal between New Zealand and South Africa due to be staged at Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore, on March 5.

Team India lived upto its big reputation with the bat and the ball and advanced to the final without hiccups.

Their only cause of concern was the poor catching and Shami was himself was guilty of dropping caught and bowled chances offered by the likes of Travis Head and Steve Smith, the two most experienced batsmen in the Australia line-up.

Head, who has been a source of constant and serious headache for the Indians across formats, was reprieved when he had still not opened his account.

He was looking to get into his elements more before being safely pouched by Shubman Gill in the deep in the very first over delivered by the reinvented leg-spinner Varun Chakravarthy. He scored 39 off 33 balls with the help of two sixes and five fours.

India lost yet another toss, 14th on a trot in One-day Internationals and fourth in as many matches of the ongoing tournament but skipper Rohit Sharma didn’t show any kind of reaction at the outcome, passing the impression that he was not thinking much about it.

Smith, on the other hand, was mighty pleased to have called correctly which allowed him the freedom to choose in the do-or-die contest. His decision to bat first was not unexpected, after having watched the fate of New Zealand in the previous game at the same venue, where the gamble of Mitchell Santner to insert the Indians had backfired.

The Australians realized very quickly, in fact from the opening over, that the pitch at Dubai International Stadium was entirely different in nature to what they had found during league matches in Pakistan. The bounce, and the lack of it, didn’t let them blast the bowlers mercilessly.

Makeshift opener Cooper Connolly couldn’t touch a single delivery before edging the ninth one to wicketkeeper K L Rahul. Head lived dangerously but found boundaries, aided by good fortune.

Smith dropped anchor and kept rotating the strike in the company of Marnus Labuschagne. With the spinners failing to dislodge the stubborn pair, the Indian skipper recalled Shami who came very close to striking right away.

After playing and missing a few deliveries, Smith ventured driving him but the resulting return catch, hardly a difficult one, was not accepted by the bowler. Labuschagne (29 off 36 balls) was undone by Ravindra Jadeja but Smith and wicketkeeper Alex Carey took the total to the region of 200 in the 37th over when the skipper was finally castled by Shami for 73 off 96 balls.

This proved to be a critical breakthrough and Australia, looking good for 300, crashed to 265 all out despite Carey’s 61 off 57 balls. Shami (3-48) was the pick of the Indian bowlers while Jadeja (2-40) and Chakravarthy (2-49) also bowled admirably in crunch situations.

Left-arm spinners Axar Patel and Kuldeep Yadav sustained the pressure by not allowing easy runs while Hardik Pandya, entrusted with the new ball, kept the pressure by his pace variations.

The target of 265 was never going to be easy in a knockout game and India lost both the openers after a brisk start. It was left to Kohli and Shreyas Iyer to repair the damage and they rose to the occasion by adding 91 for third wicket.

After Iyer’s departure for 45 off 62 balls in the 27th over, Kohli found a reliable partner in Patel and they inched towards victory.

Having smashed an unbeaten century against arch-rivals Pakistan in league outing at the same venue, Kohli again reaffirmed his unmatched class under pressure with another match winning 84.

He was dropped by Glenn Maxwell which was a tough chance. He looked set for his 52nd ODI hundred but got himself out in the 43rd over. It was a rather unusual shot from the master craftsman, spooning a simple catch to long on.

Pandya’s breezy 28 off 24 balls brought India withing a stroke of victory and the job was completed by Rahul in the following over.

The wicketkeeper-batter, often under fire for his inconsistency despite possessing enormous talent, silenced his critics by remaining unconquered on 42 off 34 balls with the winning runs coming with as many as 11 deliveries to spare.

Australia's inexperienced and second-class bowling attack in the absence of Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc and Josh Hazlewood struggled to keep the Indians in check and the ensuing consecutive partnerships denied any drama or tension in the final overs.

Chakravarthy’s magical spell stuns New Zealand, sets up India-Australia clash in semifinals

noreply@blogger.com (Editor) — 2025年3月03日 05:59:00 +0000

By Ehsan Qureshi

(Pakistan News & Features Services)

Leg-spinning sensation, Varun Chakravarthy, during his maiden outing in the tournament, captured five wickets to spin India to 44-run victory over New Zealand in the last league encounter of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 at Dubai International Stadium on March 2.

Having topped the Group A, with six points, Rohit Sharma’s Indian team will now clash with Steve Smith-led Australian side in the first semifinal at the same venue on March 4 while South Africa will take on New Zealand in the other semifinal at Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore, on March 5.

Proving a mystery for the batsmen, Chakravarthy grabbed five wickets for 42 runs in his quota of ten overs as the Blackcaps, chasing 250 for victory, were bowled out for 205 in the 46th over.

Master craftsman, Kane Williamson, following a couple of low scores in the earlier games, made amend a defiant 81 off 120 balls with seven boundaries before being stumped by K L Rahul off Axar Patel.

He seemed set to be playing another match-winning knock before charging down the wicket in pursuit of another aggressive shot. Later, captain Mitchell Santner kept the contest alive by hitting a quick 28 off 31 balls with two towering sixes and a four before he was foxed by Chakravarthy. And the writing was on the wall after his dismissal.

This was India’s sixth successive victory over New Zealanders in One-day Internationals. This also ended also ended New Zealand’s winning streak of six straight victories including three in Tri-Series in Pakistan during last few weeks.

Earlier, India recovered from a horrible start to reach 249 for nine in their 50 overs after being sent to bat first in the last league outing of the Champions Trophy.

The batting in the initial overs was very challenging as the conditions were conducive to swing and seam bowling. The pace trio of Matt Henry, Kyle Jamieson and Will O’Rourke were right on the money and even the celebrated Indian top-order was rattled.

Shubman Gill (2), Rohit Sharma (15) and Virat Kohli (11), all of them world-class batters, perished inside the first seven overs and India struggled at 30 for three. The collapse was reminiscent to the one the Indians had suffered at the hands of the same opponents in the semifinals of the 2019 World Cup.

Opener Gill was trapped leg before by Henry in the third over and even the review failed to save the top-ranked ODI batter in the world at the moment.

Skipper Sharma dared played a few productive shots before being caught brilliantly by Will Young off Jamieson trying to pull. He made 15 with a six and a four. Kohli was astonished when Glenn Philips took a spectacular catch at deep gully area.

Having smashed a match-winning unbeaten 100 against Pakistan in the previous game, the champion batter could make just 11 with the help of two fours.

The Indian batting line-up looked like sinking but it went to the credit of Shreyas Iyer and Axar Patel to have abandoned their natural game in order to come to terms with the tight bowling and superb fielding and incredible catching by the New Zealanders.

The rate of scoring dipped considerably for a while as they chose to dig deep and play the waiting game, realizing that it was a 50-over contest, not another T20 shootout which is more common these days.

They, however, changed gears after settling down. With their eyes in, they were able to rotate strike regularly besides punching the loose balls to the boundary.

The partnership was heading towards mammoth proportions, when part-time spinner Rachin Ravindra provided the breakthrough with Williamson taking another fine catch.

Left-handed Patel, played the role of a floater with the bat, hit four fours and brace of sixes in his run a ball 45. He and Iyer added 98 runs for the fourth wicket to retrieve the situation.

Then KL Rahul joined Iyer and they built a 44-run fifth wicket stand. After Iyer left after scoring 79 off 98 balls, it was all-rounder Hardik Pandya (45 off 45 balls) who stretched the Indian total to a fighting 249.

With so much depth in their batting, India could have added a few more only to be denied by the returning Henry, who claimed five wickets in the game, including a couple in the final over.

The New Zealanders bowled and fielded brilliantly to contain the mighty batting line-up and they looked like the happier side at the halfway stage of the match. That their own batters faltered in the examination at the hands of the spinners later in the evening was another matter.

South Africa become group champions by thrashing England; fiery spell from Jansen

noreply@blogger.com (Editor) — 2025年3月03日 05:13:00 +0000

By Ehsan Qureshi at National Stadium, Karachi

(Pakistan News & Features Services)

South Africa stormed into the semifinals of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 when they thrashed England by seven wickets at National Stadium, Karachi, on March 1 in what turned out to be a one-sided encounter.

Playing excellent cricket, the South Africans also became the Group B champions with their tally of five points, relegating Australia to the runners-up slot who aggregated four points.

England ended pointless after suffering their third successive defeat. Overall, it was their seventh defeat in a row in One Day Internationals, already leading to the resignation of their captain, Jos Butler, a day before the third and final league fixture.

For the rampaging South Africans, batters Heinrich Klassen and Rassie van Der Dussen scored enterprising half-centuries after their lanky left-arm speedster Marco Jansen picked up top three wickets in a fiery spell.

Chasing a modest victory target of 180, they romped home with more than 20 overs remaining. They lost openers Tristan Stubbs for duck and Ryan Rickelton for 27, both of them to the giant fast bowler, Jofra Archer.

But der Dussen and Klassen repaired early damage and later charged with brutal power-hitting. The pair put on 127 runs for third wicket to lay the foundation for another comfortable victory.

Klassen went after making a fluent 64 off 56 balls laced with 11 sizzling boundaries under dazzling lights in the 29th over. Dussen finished undefeated on 72 and his 87-ball knock was studded with six fours and three sixes.

Electing to bat first, England were jolted by southpaw Jansen, who delivered a sensational opening spell, claiming three wickets in rapid succession. His lethal bouncers proved too hot to handle for the English batters. Later, Wiaan Mulder, a medium-pacer, caused the middle-order wobble with the figures of 3 for 25 and left-arm spinner Keshav Maharaj took two wickets for 35 runs as England disappointingly got bowled out for 179 in the 39th over.

Opener Phil Salt hit a couple of boundaries in Jansen’s first over. But on the last ball, he topedged his shot to be neatly caught Dussen for eight. Jamie Smith went for duck after facing just three balls caught by Aiden Markaram off Jansen.

Before England could recover from the setback, in-form opener Ben Duckett also topedged a bouncer. It was a big blow to their chances of compiling a decent score as they crashed to 37 for three in the 17th over.

Trying to put England innings on track, Joe Root and Harry Brook added 50 runs for the fourth wicket off 52 balls. But Brook’s indifferent form continued as he was brilliantly caught by Jansen for 24. He hit four boundaries in his 21-ball knock.

Root, when looking good, was bowled by Mulder 37. He clubbed five fours and a six in his 44-ball 37. Liam Livingstone followed him quickly stumped by Dussen. He made only nine. Archer showed flashes of brilliance while making 25 but England’s final total of 179 was below par on a pitch which had plenty of runs.

Butler’s last outing as captain of England turned out to be a nightmarish one. His job was on the line after the dismal results under his command and he chose to quit voluntarily when his team was knocked out of the event after losing to Afghanistan.

Pakistan cricket needs to look beyond privileged group of former players

noreply@blogger.com (Editor) — 2025年3月01日 10:19:00 +0000

By Naeem-ul-Haq in USA

(Pakistan News & Features Services)

Pakistan have crashed out of the ongoing ICC Champions Trophy 2025 well before the start of the knockout phase of the tournament. Isn’t it shameful and disgraceful to perform so poorly at home? Was there any element of shock or even surprise in their early ouster from yet another major global event?

For those who are well versed with the dynamics of Pakistan cricket, there was hardly any astonishment in the outcome. As a matter of fact, the kind of squad they had selected for the first-ever ICC tournament being staged in the country after 29 years, you didn’t need to be an expert to comprehend what was in store.

Entering the mega event with just a solitary specialist spinner, whereas others had assembled hordes of slow bowlers, was nothing short of suicide or stupidity. It was evident that merit had been brutally compromised and quite a few talented players were dropped for inducting those who carried recommendations from influential persons.

While the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) succeeded in finding resources for renovating cricket stadiums in Karachi and Lahore, at whatever costs, they probably didn’t get the time to turn their efforts in ensuring the formation of a squad which was competitive in the field to say the least.

It is nothing new really because, in the recent past, the PCB has been held hostage by a group of former cricketers who continue to call the shots at their own whims.

For the last 15 to 20 years, the Pakistan cricket administration has revolved around the likes of Wasim Akram, Rameez Raja, Waqar Younis, Saqlain Mushtaq, Misbah-ul-Haq, Mushtaq Ahmed, Shahid Aslam, Ijaz Ahmed, Aqib Javed, Haroon Rasheed, Mansoor Rana, Intikhab Alam, Iqbal Qasim and a few years. Directly or indirectly, these guys have been running the show in accordance to their own preferences and priorities.

The heads of the PCB have kept changing, but these former cricketers have had the clout to find their way in the management by hook or by crook. That’s why there is a consistency in intrigues and politicking all along.

Why don’t the PCB helmsmen turn to people of credibility and proven track record like Aamir Sohail, Jalaluddin, Younis Khan, Rashid Latif and Saeed Anwar? Why don’t we get to see these worthy gentlemen, who served the cause of the game with distinction, in the PCB administration?

Instead of incorporating cosmetic changes, the PCB chairman, Mohsin Naqvi, should immediately look beyond those who have encircled him to fulfill their own agendas. He should sideline the likes of Wahab Riaz, Aqib Javed, Waqar Younis and Misbah-ul-Haq whose controversial policies have hurt the interests of Pakistan cricket.

Misbah and Waqar were chiefly responsible for orchestrating the conspiracy against Sarfaraz Ahmed, undoubtedly the most successful of all the Pakistani captains in the recent past. They were guilty of indulging in petty politics to remove Sarfaraz from the scene and hand over the leadership of the team to the quartet of Babar Azam, Muhammad Rizwan, Shaheen Shah Afridi and Shadab Khan. Together, they have destroyed Pakistan cricket.

Well, the immediate remedy in my opinion is to take Younis Khan the great on board. He is one person who should be entrusted with the task of building youth cricket.

He has the rare ability to groom and develop the kind of modern-day cricketers who can graduate to the next level. He can easily contribute to Pakistan cricket what Rahul Dravid did to Indian cricket.

The PCB will be advised to induct only those former cricketers in the set-up who have had clean record in the past and they are not greedy. Handpicking those with dubious character record may not serve purpose even if they enjoyed some success in the field during their playing days.

Australia enter Champions Trophy semis after washout, Afghanistan’s chances nosedive

noreply@blogger.com (Editor) — 2025年3月01日 08:00:00 +0000

By Ehsan Qureshi

(Pakistan News & Features Services)

World Champions Australia booked their spot in the semifinals of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 while Afghanistan were left at the brink of elimination after their last league tie at Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore, was abandoned due to rain on February 2.

Openers Matthew Short and Travis Head provided Australia a whirlwind start of 44 in 4.3 overs before the former was caught by Gulbadin Naib off Azmatullah Omarzai, chasing 274 for victory in 50 overs.

The Aussies, over the years, do have a habit of getting off to flyers but they seemed to have pressed the accelerator more powerfully in view of the inclement weather which could have brought D/L formula into the equation if their innings went past 20 overs.

Head, in particular, batted in his typical attacking fashion and punished both the pacers, Omarzai and Fazalhaq Farooqi with his brutal approach. Rain, however, became heavier at the ground in the 13th over and the umpires had to stop play.

The resumption never looked in sight in the damp conditions and the match was eventually called off. The Australians were in commanding position as Head finished unbeaten on 59 off 40 balls with nine sizzling boundaries and a six. Captain Steve Smith hit two fours in his unbeaten 19 off 22 balls.

Both Australia and Afghanistan shared the point. With an aggregate of four points from three league outings, Australia progressed to last four round. The washout left Afghanistan stranded at three points and they were expected to be overtaken by South Africa against whom they had lost the opening game.

Afghanistan, opting to bat first, mustered 273 all out with number three Sidequllah Atal and all-rounder Omarzai hitting sparking half centuries. After losing Rahmanullah Gurbaz for a duck in the fiery opening over from Spencer Johnson, the Afghans battled it out grimly in the next few overs.

Sediq was subdued initially but went on to score a fighting 85 off 95 balls with six fours and three sixes. Omarzai, as in the previous match, played another brilliant knock. He made a rapid 67 off 63 balls hoisting five sixes, rescuing his team from a precarious 199 for seven.

Opener Ibrahim Zadran, who registered a record-breaking 177 against England in the previous outing, perished after making 22 off 28 balls as his prized scalp was claimed by Adam Zampa, Australia’s only specialist spinner.

After the departure of the well-set Sediq, it was Omarzai who defied the Australian bowlers and took the score to 272 before Ben Dwarshuis removed him in last over. Dwarshuis picked up three wickets in the innings while Johnson and Zampa took two each.

The target of 273 was unlikely to test the experienced Australian batting line-up and the exhilarating start provided by Head and Short increased their chances of recording yet another victory which was prevented by the rains.

Meanwhile, South Africa will be pitted against England in the last Group B fixture at National Stadium, Karachi, on March 1. Having lost both their matches, England have already been knocked out of the tournament but South Africa, having whipped Afghanistan at the same venue, are the favourites to advance to the semifinals with an outstanding net run rate. Afghanistan can only qualify if South Africa lose the match by a margin of more than 200 runs against the struggling England side which seems extremely unlikely.

Pakistan-Bangladesh tie also washed out in Champions Trophy

noreply@blogger.com (Editor) — 2025年2月28日 06:43:00 +0000

By Ehsan Qureshi

(Pakistan News & Features Services)

It may not be possible to figure which of the teams, Pakistan or Bangladesh, were happier at the abandonment of game in Rawalpindi due to persistent rain on February 27.

Apparently, both teams could have felt equally relieved at the outcome because they had already been knocked out of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 after having lost their first couple of matches.

The cricket fans were obviously anxious to see some action at the ground and that was not to be. It was the successive game at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium to have been washed out without a ball bowled. Earlier, the much-awaited fixture between Australia and South Africa had also met with similar fate.

In both the abandoned games, there were hopes for the rain to subside leading to shortened contests. The spectators were left to wait in the rain until the official announcement which obviously caused disappointment for them.

Unlike Australia and South Africa, both of whom are thought to be among the frontrunners to annex the title, Pakistan and Bangladesh had nightmarish run in the event and neither of them gained any point from their first games.

The washed-out encounter allowed them to open their account in the Group A but a solitary each was of little or no use. Because of the inferior run-rate, the hosts and the defending champions, Pakistan (-1.087) were relegated to the last position in the points table, just behind Bangladesh (-0.443) who finished third despite having same number of points.

India and New Zealand have already booked their spots in the semifinals and the result of their league fixture on March 2 will determine the group champion.

It is the third successive ICC tournament in which Pakistan failed to go beyond the first round following the exit in the 50-over ODI World Cup in 2023, followed by the debacle in the T20 World Cup last year.

Afghanistan, aided by Zaradan’s record score, oust England from Champions Trophy

noreply@blogger.com (Editor) — 2025年2月27日 06:40:00 +0000

By Ehsan Qureshi

(Pakistan News & Features Services)

Opener Ibrahim Zadran smashed a record-breaking 177 and all-rounder Azmatullah Omarzai bagged five wickets, besides scoring 41, as Afghanistan knocked out England from the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 after a tense and dramatic eight-run victory at Gaddafi Stadium on February 26.

Chasing a challenging 326 for victory, England were bowled out for 317 in thrilling finale with one ball to spare despite a defiant century by Joe Root (120). He played sheet-anchor role but his departure in the 48th over proved decisive in the end.

Omarzai, with his lively medium-pace, bowled intelligently in the crunch situation to snare five wickets for 58 runs in 9.5 overs as the Afghanistan players were not overawed by the magnitude of the event, unlike in the past when they used to falter near the closing stages after competing bravely earlier in the game.

For a change, it was England’s turn to be at the receiving end in this particular match. After suffering their second defeat in as many outings, they have been eliminated from the semifinal race. Afghanistan, however, kept their chances alive as they take on Australia in the final league Group B fixture to decide their fate in the tournament.

England, like Afghanistan, also made poor start to their innings with loss of wickets upfront. After the early departure of opener Phil Salt (12) and Jamie Smith (9) in seventh over, it was the vastly experienced Root who held the innings together with yet another classy knock.

Opener Ben Duckett, who had posted a record score of 165 in the previous game against Australia, was unable to reproduce the same kind of heroics but he stood in the middle long enough to revive England’s hope after losing early wickets.

Skipper Jos Butler, under fire for not delivering the goods, was in the process of taking England close to the target in the company of Root.

But his departure opened up the game again and Afghanistan sustained the pressure by bowling in good areas which didn’t allow the much needed acceleration in the final overs. It was anybody’s game when England needed 90 off the last 10 overs to stay afloat in the tournament.

Runs kept coming but wickets also tumbled at regular intervals to keep the contest alive until the very end. Afghanistan did not choke under pressure to complete one of their most famous victories.

Earlier in the day, Afghanistan elected to bat first after winning the toss. They found themselves reeling at 37 for three in 8.5 overs with fiery speedster Jofra Archer taking all wickets.

Rahmanullah Gurbaz was bowled by Archer for 6 while Sediqullah Atal (4) was trapped leg before and Rahmat Shah (4) was caught by Adil Rashid.

Opener Zadran, however, made this match the most memorable of his career with his highest-ever score in Champions Trophy. He made a wonderful 177 off 146 balls, having clubbed a dozen boundaries and hoisting half a dozen sixes against the powerful pace-cum-spin attack. His heroics eventually won the day for his team.

Zardan, batting with enormous confidence, shared two century stands to change the complexion of the game. He added 103 for fourth wickets with Omarzai, who hit a breezy 41 off 31 balls with three sixes and a four.

Later, he and veteran all-rounder Muhammad Nabi put on fiery 111 runs in rapid time and their sixth wicket partnership helped Afghanistan reach a very competitive score which could have been higher.

Afghanistan, after hammering more than 100 runs inside nine overs of the final powerplay, appeared poised to extend their total in the vicinity of 340 but, rather surprising, they were undone by part-time spinner Liam Livingstone in the last over of the innings which yielded only a couple of runs and they had to settle with a score 325 for seven in their quota of 50 overs.

The unexpected debacle in the final over during which they lost two wickets, including that of the well-set Zardan, could have cost Afghanistan the game which they narrowly won in the end after probably the closest finish yet in the tournament.

Australia-South Africa Champions Trophy combat abandoned due to rain

noreply@blogger.com (Editor) — 2025年2月26日 10:29:00 +0000

By Ehsan Qureshi

(Pakistan News & Features Services)

Following the cracker of a game between Australia and England a couple of nights ago, the cricket community eagerly awaited the fixture between Australia and South Africa in the Champions Trophy at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, Rawalpindi, on February 25 but not a single ball was possible due to rain before it was eventually abandoned.

As a matter of fact, the match was washed out without even a toss and it was called off at 5.10 pm local time, three hours and ten minutes after the scheduled start of play at 2 pm and two hours and 22 minutes before the cut-off time for a 20-overs-a-side game, 7.32 pm local time.

It was the first match of the ongoing Champions Trophy to be washed out as the persistent rains did not make it possible for the ground to be ready for action.

Both the teams, after having won their opening games, were looking forward to registering another victory in this crucial encounter to confirm their passage into the semifinals.

But they had to share points with their destiny in the tournament dependent of the results of their last league outings. The washout also meant the game between Afghanistan and England, to be played on February 26, became a knockout, with the losing team to go out of reckoning.

As the toss did not take place in the match between Australia and South Africa, neither team declared its playing eleven. There was lots of speculation about the availability of master blaster Heinrich Klaasen, who was ruled out of the opening match against Afghanistan with an elbow injury.

Australia and South Africa, who have been fierce rivals in international cricket over the years, however, have not met each other in the ODI since the 2023 World Cup semifinal in 2023 which was won by former, the eventual champions.

In nine matches during ICC tournaments, Australia have won four, South Africa three and there was the famous tie in the 1999 World Cup semifinal in which Lance Klusener almost took the South Africans over the line sensationally only to see his partner, lastman Allan Donald, getting run out in the most dramatic of fashions. Australia went on to win the tournament by overpowering Pakistan in the final at Lord’s.

Ravindra’s ton, Bracewell 4-for put New Zealand, India in Champions Trophy semifinals

noreply@blogger.com (Editor) — 2025年2月25日 08:58:00 +0000

By Ehsan Qureshi

(Pakistan News & Features Services)

Top-order batsman Rachin Ravindra banged a brilliant century and off-spinning all-rounder Micheal Bracewell captured top four wickets as New Zealand, along with India, stormed into the semifinals of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 when they thrashed Bangladesh by five wickets at Pindi Stadium on February 24.

Ravindra, who suffered an injury on the forehead during the tri-series opener in Lahore, made a grand comeback with a superb 112 off 105 with a dozen boundaries and a six while left-handed Tom Latham made 55 as Black Caps cruised to an easy victory while chasing a modest target of 237 on a flat pitch.

With New Zealand’s triumph, defending champions and hosts Pakistan have crashed out of the event with their last match game against Bangladesh to be a mere formality. Their fate was not unexpected after having lost to New Zealand and India in their first couple of games.

The cricket enthusiasts in Pakistan kept following the game between New Zealand and Bangladesh in anticipation of an upset which could have kept the hosts alive in the competition.

There had been miracles in the past when Pakistan ended as the beneficiaries in similar situations and people seemed justified in hoping for another one in Rawalpindi.

At times, it did look as if another stunning result was round the corner to keep Pakistan afloat but the wishes of the home fans were not fulfilled.

There were signs of divine help on way when New Zealand lost opener Will Young, a centurion in the previous outing, for a six-ball duck and Kane Williamson, arguably the most consistent of all modern-day batsmen, also perished cheaply.

When left-handed opener Devon Conway returned to the dressing room after making 30 as New Zealand struggled to 72 for three in the 16th over, there was even greater hope of an upset coming up.

However, Ravindra and Latham controlled their nerves and remained unruffled by the loss of early wickets. Turning the things around with a superb 129-run fourth wicket stand. Latham hit just three boundaries but his knock of 55, coming from 76 balls helped the cause of his team immensely.

The Bangladesh spinners, unlike the New Zealanders, could not get purchase out of the pitch and the asking rate remained around five throughout the chase. The faster men also could not make much of an impact after their opening bursts.

Ravindra, as he has often done in the recent past, paced his innings intelligently and runs kept coming at decent rate which didn’t allow any pressure to be created on the batters. He played attacking shots whenever the ball was in his hitting arc and with the calm and composed Latham doing the business at the other end, the outcome was seldom in doubt.

With the asking rate coming down with every passing over, Ravindra duly achieved his personal landmark of scoring yet another ODI century, his first in the Champions Trophy on his maiden appearance. Neither he nor Latham could finish the match but they had done enough to secure another emphatic victory for their team.

Earlier, Bangladesh inserted to bat by Mitchell Santner, were restricted to 236 for nine in the allotted 50 overs. Skipper Najamul Hossain Shanto hit a fighting 77 off 110 balls studded with nine fours while Jaker Ali contributed 45 off 55 balls with three four and one six.

Off-spinner Micheal Bracewell, adjudged Player of the Match, bowled smartly to grab four wickets for 26 in tight 10-over spell. Speedster Will O’Rourke snapped up two wickets for 48 runs as Bangladesh played out a record number of 178 dot balls during the course of their innings.

The Bangladesh batsmen were unable to maintain a healthy rate of scoring as they were stifled by the spin-cum-pace attack of the Black Caps, which as usual, was not prepared to give anything away. The captaincy of Santner was as impressive as ever.

King Kohli’s unbeaten century puts hosts Pakistan at brink in Champions Trophy

noreply@blogger.com (Editor) — 2025年2月25日 08:17:00 +0000

By Ehsan Qureshi

(Pakistan News & Features Services)

Star batter Virat Kohli shattered Pakistan's dreams and his spectacular unconquered century powered India to a comfortable six-wicket victory over the holders and hosts in the crucial league encounter of the 9th edition of ICC Champions Trophy 2025 at the packed Dubai International Cricket Stadium on February 23.

The mercurial Kohli finished the match with his seventh boundary which brought up his 100 off 111 balls. It was his 51st ODI century as it enabled India to win the match comfortably in the end with as many as 6.3 overs to spare. Pakistan were earlier bowled out for a modest 241 with three balls of 50 overs remaining.

King Kohli, appearing in total command of the situation, added 104 for third wicket with Shreyas Iyer after India lost openers Rohit Sharma (20) and Shubman Gill (46).

It was a historic match Kohli who reached the milestone of 14,000 ODI runs in the least number of innings when he drove fiery fast bowler Haris Rauf through the covers for four. Earlier, he completed 158 ODI catches, the most by an Indian. The Sri Lankan batter Mahela Jayawardene holds the world record with 218 catches.

Skipper Sharma perished after making quick 20 as he was castled by Shaheen Shah Afridi with a swinging delivery after hitting a massive six and three fours. The in-form Gill was very aggressive against Shaheen, whom he hammered for 33 runs off 25 balls.

Pakistan made an encouraging start after electing to bat first. Imam-ul-Haq. who came into team for the injured Fakhar Zaman, and Babar Azam gave the greenshirts 41-run opening stand.

Both of them were cautious in the beginning but Babar opened up and played some lovely strokes. He struck pacer Hardik Pandya for a lovely cover drive. Trying to repeat it on the next ball, he edged it to keeper KL Rahul, much to the disappointment of Pakistan supporters. He slammed five boundaries in his 23 off 26 balls.

Before Pakistan could recover from the Babar setback, his opening partner Imam needlessly ran himself out as a direct throw by Axar Patel from mid-on found him short of the crease. Pakistan slumped to 47 for two in with four balls of power play left.

Captain Muhammad Rizwan joined Saud Shakeel and they steadied the innings. They added 50 runs for third wicket in 91 balls but the boundary draught didn't help the Pakistan cause. At one stage, Rizwan and Saud were unable to hit a boundary for 31 balls.

Saud broke the shackles but they struggled to find the boundary for another 38 balls. After remaining in a defensive mould, left-handed Saud hammered back-to-back fours off Patel.

Rizwan and Saud added 104 runs for the third wicket in 23.2 overs to raise hopes of posting a competitive total. But Rizwan, when looking in his groove, was bowled by Patel with lovely delivery which crashed into the stumps in 34th over. Rizwan cracked three fours in his cautious 46 off 77 balls.

Pakistan lost three quick wickets as Rizwan, Saud and Tayyab Tahir perished inside 20 balls to leave them precariously placed at 165 for five at the start of 36th over.

Saud, looking on course of a real big knock, was accounted by Pandya, who bowled superbly, for 63 off 76 balls and his innings was laced with five fours.

Tayyab had no clue to a delivery from veteran left-arm spinner Ravindra Jadeja. Salman Agha and Khushdil Shah shared 35 runs for the sixth wicket before Jadeja took a well-judged catch of Salman off Kuldeep Yadav to end his 24-ball effort. He made 19 without hitting a boundary.

Later, it was Khushdil Shah, another left-hander, who made 38 off 39 balls which allowed Pakistan to reach 241 before being bowled out after they had crashed to 205 for seven.

Overall, Pakistan played 147 dot balls against India after having remained scoreless for 161 balls in the previous game against New Zealand in Karachi.

The inability to rotate strike, particularly in the middle overs, cost them both the matches and put them at the brink of elimination from the tournament.

The Indian bowling, as expected, hardly gave away any easy runs except for the opening over when spearhead Mohammad Shami sprayed the ball in different directions and he was guilty of sending down five wides.

Even Shami regained control in his following overs and was hard to get away. Pandya supported the new-ball operators by claiming two crucial wickets while the spin trio of Patel, Jadeja and Yadav sustained the pressure with their tight spells.

Pakistan clash with India in do-or-die Champions Trophy duel at Dubai

noreply@blogger.com (Editor) — 2025年2月22日 12:33:00 +0000

By Ehsan Qureshi

(Pakistan News & Features Services)

Hosts and defending champions Pakistan clash with arch adversary, India, in a do-or-die Champions Trophy’s biggest tie at the Dubai International Stadium on February 23. This is a huge match for Pakistan to salvage their pride and for millions of their supporters looking at them after their dismal opening match against New Zealand at National Stadium, Karachi.

However, for achieving their goals and objectives, Muhammad Rizwan’s green shirts outfit must come up with an outstanding performance in all three areas of the game-batting, bowling and fielding. Pakistan’s recent record against India in both 50 overs Asia Cup and World Cup is bleak.

Unfortunately, Pakistan’s performance in the tri-series at home was also far from encouraging. In Champions Trophy, however, Pakistan have enjoyed slight edge over India with 3-2 record. There was a hope of revival when Pakistan whipped South Africa in the tri-series league match.

The Proteas entered the game without a few of their star performers but the manner in which Rizwan and Salman Ali Agha notched-up amazing centuries and shared a record 260-run fourth wicket stand to engineer a comfortable victory in the do-or-die fixture gladdened many hearts.

Can they replicate their heroics against India, who possess a formidable batting line-up and equally potent bowling attack? The Indo-Pak encounters have had a history of creating additional pressures for both sides. Will it yet another nervy games and India choke against all odds? The cricket fans will get the answers on what is expected to be a thrilling Sunday for them.

While Pakistan lost heavily to New Zealand in the opening game, the Indians, in sharp contrast, made a grand start by hammering Bangladesh with fast bowler Muhammad Shami snapping up five wickets and opener Shubman Gill cracking a brilliant unbeaten century.

It was impressive display by India despite their missing their most sought-after bowler, Jasprit Bumrah. Shami filled his place admirably well after returning from injury which kept him out of business for over a year. Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli may not be at their most fluent at the moment but both of them have the credentials to play match-winning knocks.

KL Rahul, Shreyas Iyer and Gill are in great form and raring to go. Down the order, they have all-rounders who can be very explosive with the bat. The spin quintet of Kuldeep Yadav, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Washington Sundar and new sensation Varun Chakaravarty can pose threat to Pakistan’s inconsistent batting line-up. They may field three of these five spinners in the playing eleven.

The Indians, having almost all bases covered, definitely have an edge over the hosts after having whitewashed England in the recent ODI series at home. After losing rising opener Saim Ayub a few weeks ago, Pakistan got another big blow in the opening match when attacking opener Fakhar Zaman was ruled out of the event due to reoccurrence of injury. Imam-ul-Haq has been drafted in his place. Fakhar could have been good psychological impact on the India team which is gone now.

The Pakistan batters facing criticism of experts and public after slow batting against New Zealand. Rizwan and Salman will have to accept the challenge against the Indian bowlers.

How Babar Azam bats, slow or fast, could determine the fate of the match. If he anchors Pakistan innings deep it can benefit team in building a good total if the hitters do their job around him. The Indians must be aware of the threats they face in the shape of Babar, Salman and Rizwan.

Pakistan’s fiery bowlers Shaheen Shah Afridi, Naseem Shah and Haris Rauf have the opportunity to make amends of their indifferent performance in the recent matches. If they can cause dents with early Indian wickets, the match can go either way.

The one area where Pakistan is disadvantaged clearly is spin bowling. With Abrar Ahmed being the only specialist spinner in the squad, they could struggle in maintaining control through part-timers.

Reckelton hits chanceless ton as star-studded South Africa rout Afghanistan in Champions Trophy

noreply@blogger.com (Editor) — 2025年2月22日 06:45:00 +0000

By Ehsan Qureshi at National Stadium, Karachi

(Pakistan News & Features Services)

Opener Ryan Reckelton smashed a chanceless century as South Africa launched their campaign in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 in style when they handed out 107-run drubbing to Afghanistan at the National Stadium, Karachi, on February 21.

Chasing a challenging target of 316 off 50 overs for victory, Afghanistan, despite a defiant knock from Rahmat Shah and enjoying strong cheers from vociferous crowd, were bowled out for 207 in 43.3 overs.

Rahmat came in to bat at number four spot and stood like a rock. He was the last man to be dismissed, caught behind to Ryan Reckelton for 90 off 92 balls with nine fours and one six.

Rather surprisingly, none of the other Afghan batters showed intent for long innings and he did not receive the desired support from the other end.

The experienced fast bowler, Kagiso Rabada, returning to the side after skipping the recently concluded tri-series, was the pick of South African bowlers, claiming three wickets for 36 runs. His fellow pacemen, Wiaan Mulder and Lungi Ngidi, took two wickets apiece.

The 1998 inaugural trophy winners South Africa mustered a competitive total of 315 for six in 50 overs thanks to a fantastic century from Reckelton and brilliant half centuries from Aiden Markaram, Temba Bavuma and Van der Dussen.

Afghanistan, making their debut in the event, started badly by losing their openers Rahmanullah Gurbaz (10) and Ibrahim Zadran (17) in the power play which was a big setback for them.

Gurbaz, known for his attacking shots, paid the price of getting adventurous as he attempted to hoist Ngidi out of the ground but ended up offering a catch at fine leg to Keshav Maharaj, who made no mistake. He made 10 in 14 balls with a solitary boundary.

Zadran struck Kagsio Rabada for a massive straight six but the fast bowler took revenge soon afterwards by uprooting his stumps. Zadran made 17 off 29 balls with a six and a four.

Opener Rickelton registered fifth century of the ongoing Champions Trophy while Markarm, Bavuma, and Dussen blasted half centuries which propelled South Africa to an impressive total of 315 after having opted to bat first in overcast conditions.

They lost opener Tony de Zorzi (11) in sixth over with 28 runs on the board. But Rickelton, in the company of captain Bavuma, put Proteas on road to a grand recovery with 129-run second wicket partnership off 142 balls.

Rickelton, who posted his career best score of 259 during the home Test series against Pakistan just a couple of months ago, played with solid defence coupled with controlled aggression to defy Afghanistan’s powerful pace cum spin attack.

His entertaining half century came off balls with five fours and a six. However, in an effort to build South African innings, he continued to bat with patience. Bavuma, who survived a previous ball lbw review, ballooned top edge to Sadequllah at mid-wicket trying to hit Muhammad Nabi out of the ground.

Veteran Afghan spinner Nabi bowled tightly to finish with two wickets for 51 runs in ten overs. Noor Ahmed proved expensive with figures of 1-59 in nine overs while medium pacer Azmatullah Omarzai returned the figures of 1-59 in eight overs. Their premier spinner Rashid Khan went wicketless, going for 59 runs in his ten overs.

The Afghan spinners, with the sole exception of Nabi, were unable to stem the flow of runs besides after being unsuccessful in bringing about any mini-collapse during the course of the South African innings which hardly ever lost momentum, enabling them to get to a total in the excess of 300 without taking too many risks.

The change of fortunes must have come a sigh of relief for the enigmatic South Africans as they finally managed to win an ODI after consecutive losses in the recent past.

Only time will tell if they are able to extend their winning form in the tournament as they proceed to take on England and Australia in remaining league fixtures.

Afghanistan, on the other hand, will have to lift their game considerably in future games in order to make an impact in the event. They have entered the competition with high hopes but their spinners will have to come good and batters will need to play to their potential if they are to repeat their heroics of earlier ICC tournaments.

Imam-ul-Haq approved as replacement for Fakhar Zaman in Pakistan squad

noreply@blogger.com (Editor) — 2025年2月20日 10:00:00 +0000

By Ehsan Qureshi at National Stadium, Karachi

(Pakistan News & Features Services)

The Event Technical Committee of the 9th ICC Men’s Champions Trophy 2025 has approved Imam-ul-Haq as a replacement for Fakhar Zaman in the Pakistan squad. The 29-year-old Imam, who has played 72 ODIs, was named as a replacement after Fakhar got ruled out due to an oblique injury.

The left-handed Fakhar, after having exhibited attacking instincts in the tri-series, which preceded the Champions Trophy, was seriously injured when he chased down a drive in the very first over of the opening game against New Zealand on February 19.

He saved the boundary but the injury forced him to leave the field. He came into bat down the order, at number four, because of having spent time in the dressing room which prevented him from taking up the usual position of an opener.

He could be felt in obvious discomfort while executing aggressive shots and his future in the tournament seemed in jeopardy while watching him bat. Fakhar has now been replaced officially and his position has been taken by Imam, also a left-handed opening batsman.

The replacement of a player requires the approval of the Event Technical Committee before the player can be officially added to the squad. The Event Technical Committee of the ICC Men’s Champions Trophy 2025 consists of Wasim Khan (ICC General Manager-Cricket), Sarah Edgar (ICC Senior Manager-Events), Usman Wahla (PCB Director-International Cricket Operations) and Shaun Pollock (Independent Representative).

Young, Latham blast centuries as New Zealand whip Pakistan in ICC Champions Trophy curtain-raiser

noreply@blogger.com (Editor) — 2025年2月20日 06:47:00 +0000

By Ehsan Qureshi at National Stadium, Karachi

(Pakistan News & Features Services)

The duo of opener Will Young and wicketkeeper Tom Latham blasted superb centuries as New Zealand whipped defending champions Pakistan by 60 runs in the curtain-raiser match of the 9th ICC Champions Trophy Cricket Tournament at National Stadium, Karachi, on February 19.

Chasing 321 for victory, Pakistan was bowled out 260 in 47.2 overs much to dismay and disappointment of a crowd, estimated to be in the excess of 25,000, and millions of their supporters around the globe.

Khushdil Shah top-scored with 69 off 49 balls with ten sizzling boundaries and a six. Babar Azam made steady 64 off 90 balls with the aid of half dozen boundaries and a six. Fast bowler Will O’Rourke and left-arm spinner Mitchell Santner captured three wickets each to devastate the Pakistan batting.

Opener Young returned to top form with a spectacular 107 while left-handed Latham slammed unbeaten 118 to lead Kiwis to a commanding total at the new-look National Stadium.

This was Muhammad Rizwan-led Pakistan’s third successive defeat against New Zealand over the last few days, after suffering a couple of defeats in the tri-series league round and final.

The visitors were in a spot of bother at 73 for three in the 17th over after losing top batters Devon Conway (10), Kane Williamson (1) and Daryl Mitchell (10) cheaply. But Young and Latham retrieved the situation by adding 118 runs for the third wicket.

Latham, having returned to form after being dismissed for consecutive ducks in the tri-series league matches, clubbed ten boundaries and three sixes in his 104-ball knock. With Glenn Philips, he plundered 125 runs off mere 74 balls. Philips, extending his brilliant run, smashed a brutal 61 off 39 balls with three fours and four sixes.

First, Young and Latham and later Latham and Philips went on a rampage against the pace duo of Shaheeen Shah Afridi and Haris Rauf as Blackcaps scored 113 runs in last 10 overs and 64 in last five with Pakistan’s death bowling worries continuing unabated.

Haris, who conceded 44 runs in his first two spells, was punished badly by Latham and Philips, who hammered him for 39 runs hoisting three sixes.

The 32-year-old Young, who could muster only 28 runs in three innings of tri-series, defied the home bowlers with superb batting display. He reached his fifty in 56 balls with five boundaries and a six off Haris.

Having accelerated the rate of scoring with Latham with lovely stroke-play, he reached the coveted three-figure mark by pushing Abrar Ahmed for a single.

After earning the distinction of scoring the first century of the tournament, Young eventually departed when trying to lift Naseem Shah out of the ground as he was caught by substitute fielder Faheem Ashraf at fine-leg. He made 107 off 113 which included a dozen boundaries and six. This was his fourth hundred in ODIs.

Young and Devon Conway gave Kiwis a promising start of 39 runs to neutralize the early assault of Shaheen and Haris with new ball. However, two wickets in five balls tilted the game towards Pakistan.

Leg-spinner Abrar struck in his second over by cleaning Conway with a carrom ball to the delight of vociferous crowd. It was a big breakthrough for the hosts. The New Zealanders landed in deeper trouble when speedster Naseem Shah removed classy batter Williamson, who edged a beautiful outswinger to keeper Rizwan.

Quite remarkably, it was for the first time since 2019 when the master batsman was removed before reaching double figures in ODIs.

Earlier, Pakistan won the toss yet again and opted to bowl first in conditions which were nearly ideal for batting but the decision was prompted by the anticipated dew factor in the evening. Fast bowler Haris Rauf returned to the team after regaining fitness. He replaced Faheem Ashraf. Rachin Ravindra, however, was still not fit for New Zealand.

President Asif Zardari graces opening ceremony of Champions Trophy at National Stadium; PAF aerial display stuns spectators

noreply@blogger.com (Editor) — 2025年2月20日 06:30:00 +0000

By Ehsan Qureshi at National Stadium, Karachi

(Pakistan News & Features Services)

The President of Pakistan, Asif Ali Zardari, was the chief guest in the opening ceremony of the 9th ICC Champions Trophy Cricket Tournament at the National Stadium, Karachi, on February 19. The First Lady Aseefa Bhutto Zardari also accompanied the President.

Upon arrival at the National Stadium, the dignitaries were received by the Chairman of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), Mohsin Naqvi, who also happens to be the Federal Minister for Interior.

The President and the First Lady, accompanied by former captain Sarfaraz Ahmed, carried the Champions Trophy onto the field. President Asif Zardari met with the captains of the Pakistan and New Zealand cricket teams. Later, the President and the First Lady also watched the match between the two teams.

The opening ceremony of the ICC Champions Trophy also witnessed a stunning aerial display by the Pakistan Air Force (PAF), offering a tribute to the nation.

The performance, led by the Sherdil team, spread the colours of the green and white flag across the skies, a magnificent representation of national pride.

The Sherdil team, renowned for its professional expertise, demonstrated exceptional skills with their daring stunts, including the iconic Shaheen break manoeuvre.

The breath-taking show, featuring JF-17s, F-16s, and the Sherdil Shaheens, set hearts racing and mesmerized the audience.

The JF-17 Thunder aircraft also participated in the fly-past, which amplified the spectacle. This aircraft has been known for having proved its formidable capabilities in numerous international exercises.

The involvement of JF-17s in various air forces around the world is a testament to their operational excellence and combat readiness. The entire aerial display was a resounding demonstration of the Pakistan Air Force’s professionalism and the unwavering spirit of the nation.

Massive challenges for Pakistan as they face injury-hit New Zealand in ICC Champions Trophy opener

noreply@blogger.com (Editor) — 2025年2月18日 09:56:00 +0000

By Ehsan Qureshi at National Stadium, Karachi

(Pakistan News & Features Services)

Massive challenges await the defending champions, Pakistan, as they launch their campaign in 9th edition of the ICC Champions Trophy with a fixture against New Zealand in the tournament opener on February 19. Pakistan have already suffered back-to-back defeats against New Zealand in the recently concluded tri-series, with South Africa being the third participant.

After suffering a defeat in the opening match at Lahore, they were later also outplayed in the final by the same opponents at the upgraded National Stadium, Karachi, where the opening match of the Champions Trophy is being staged.

Despite having suffered injuries to their spearhead, Lockie Ferguson, and another promising speedster, Ben Sears, the Black Caps, captained by Mitchell Santner, have gained vital experience and acclimatize well to the conditions in Pakistan as they extended their purple patch by also winning the warm-up match against Afghanistan even when resting a couple of big guns, including star batter, Kane Williamson.

Pakistan’s only heart-warming win came against South Africa whom they outgunned by five wickets with skipper Muhammad Rizwan and Salman Ali Agha notching up wonderful centuries.

They shared a record 260-run second wicket stand after they the hosts had been reduced to 93 for three. It was a fabulous win for green shirts as South Africa had rested their premier fast bowler, Kagsio Rabada.

The big boost for the home side is the form of Salman Agha. He has improved in leaps and bounds as a batting all-rounder during the last few months. He will be needed to fire on all cylinders if Pakistan have to defend the title successfully.

Pakistan’s major worries revolve around bowling death overs where pacemen Shaheen Shah Afridi and Naseem Shah have been leaking far too many runs. Haris Rauf seems all set to return to the team after side strain in the opening match of tri-series.

The performances of the home side have been roller-coaster at times in the recent past but they continue to be unpredictable and inconsistent during crunch situations. The Pakistan team has faced criticism for selecting with only one specialist spinner, Abrar Ahmed, in the 15-member squad. The recalling of all-rounders Faheem Ashraf and Khushdil Shah after gap of a few years has also been questioned.

Pakistan top-batter Babar Azam’s form has also been a cause of major concern to the Pakistan team. He been slotted to open the innings with left-handed Fakhar Zaman after in-form opener, Saim Ayub, suffered serious leg-injury during the South African tour. Babar could muster only 62 runs in three innings in tri-series.

On the other hand, the Black Caps, have been in possession of a formidable pace-cum-spin attack despite losing their two exceptionally talented fast bowlers, Ferguson and Sears. Will O’Rourke did rise to occasion by taking four wickets in the final to clinch Player of the Match award.

They are very well served in the spin bowling department with Santner leading by example. Micheal Bracewell has bowled brilliantly while Glenn Philips has also done the job reasonably well to stifle the opponents.

Pakistan had performed disappointingly in the last couple of T20 World Cups as well as the 50-over World Cup in India where they failed to qualify for semifinals.

Being the hosts, the stakes and expectations are on the higher side high as they need to win at least two of their three league matches to stay afloat in the competition.

It seems long time ago, but Pakistan had emerged triumphant in the last edition of the Champions Trophy, held. in 2017. Led by wicketkeeper-batter, Sarfaraz Ahmed, they thrilled the nation by thrashing arch-rivals India in the final at The Oval in London.

Meanwhile, Pakistan have been entrusted with the responsibility of staging a major event after a lapse of 29 years. This is going to be their first ICC event in the country after they had jointly hosted the Wills World Cup with India and Sri Lanka in 1996.

The cricket fans in Pakistan in particular are looking forward to the 9th Champions Trophy whose final is scheduled to be played on March 9. Plenty of action and drama are expected over the next few days as all the leading teams, with the sole exception of India, who chose to play their matches in Dubai, will be setting Pakistan's grounds to fire with their blazing performance.

Clinical New Zealand prevail over hosts in tri-series final; continue march towards more glories

noreply@blogger.com (Editor) — 2025年2月15日 07:17:00 +0000

By Ehsan Qureshi at National Stadium, Karachi

(Pakistan News & Features Services)

As anticipated by the knowledgeable circles, New Zealand extended their brilliant run in the tri-series final to overpower hosts Pakistan by five wickets at the National Stadium, Karachi, on February 14.

Lively speedster, Will O’Rourke, snared four wickets while Daryl Mitchell and Tom Latham hit compact half-centuries to lead their side to a comfortable victory with nearly five overs to spare.

It was a big boost for the Black Caps ahead of the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy as they maintained their domination over Muhammad Rizwan-led Pakistan side. Both these outfits are scheduled to clash in the inaugural match of the big event at the same venue on February 19.

The modest target of 243 in 50 overs on a placid batting surface, under floodlights, could not test the nerves or skills of the New Zealanders as they overhauled it in 45.2 overs.

Wicketkeeper-batsman Latham announced his return to form with a polished 56 off 64 balls with five boundaries while Mitchell, in devasting form, made a typically fluent 57 off 58 balls with six fours. They added 87 runs in 88 balls for the fourth wicket to reduce it to a one-sided encounter in the end.

Chasing 243 for victory, New Zealand lost opener Will Young cheaply in the second over, undone by Naseem Shah. But Devon Conway repaired the early damage by sharing 71 runs for the second wicket with the ever-reliable Kane Williamson, who was bowled by Agha Salman, playing down the wrong line, after scoring 34 off 49 balls spiced with three fours and one six.

Pakistan’s attacking fast bowler Naseem, who returned to dismiss the well-set Conway, claimed two wickets for 43 runs in eight overs. Agha Salman and Abrar Ahmed took one wicket apiece for 45 and 67 runs respectively.

Earlier like their previous match, Pakistan slumped to 54 for three in the 12th overs after batting first. Opener Fakhar Zaman started with a couple of lovely boundaries, much to the delight of the crowd.

O’Rourke jolted Pakistan by removing the dangerous Fakhar Zaman, who was trying to maintain his attacking mindset. The explosive left-handed opener ballooned a catch at square leg to Young, who made no mistake. He made 10 off 15 balls.

Babar Azam was shaping well as he added 30 runs for the second wicket with Saud Shakeel, who was guilty of playing a bad shot to be bowled by off-spinner Michael Bracewell who he tried to cut against the turn. He made just eight after facing 14 balls and with a solitary four.

Much depended on the vastly experienced Babar to take Pakistan to a respectable total but he followed soon afterwards. After hitting a classy boundary through the covers off Nathan Smith, he offered a return catch to the bowler on the next delivery to the astonishment of the batter.

However, like the previous game against South Africa, skipper Rizwan and Salman got together to stitch a big partnership. It was a grim battle as the visiting bowlers stifled them by maintaining tight lengths for a long period of time.

The Black Caps captain, Mitchell Santner, led by example as he delivered a very economical and effective spell, picking up of two wickets for only 20 runs in his quota of 10 overs. At one stage, Pakistan could manage just 70 runs in 18 overs despite having the duo of Rizwan and Salman in the middle.

Rizwan and Salman, who had shared record partnership of 260 in their previous outing only a couple of days ago, added 88 runs for the fourth wickets in 120 balls to revive Pakistan’s hopes. Rizwan, who hit a spectacular undefeated 122 against South Africa, was bowled for by O’Rourke when four runs short of fifty-run mark. He made 46 off 65 balls with just one four and a six.

When Salman was caught at square leg by Young off Bracewell, Pakistan’s innings fell apart. Salman made 45 off 65 balls with a lone six and a four. New Zealand tightened grip by reducing the hosts to 161 for six after 38 overs.

Tayyab Tahir cracked 38 in 33 balls with four boundaries while Faheem Ashraf (22 off 21 balls) and Naseem Shah (19 off 17 balls) helped reach a total of 242 before being bowled out in the final over.

O’Rourke, who spearheaded the New Zealand attack in the absence of Matt Henry, bowled superbly to return the deserve the figures of four for 43 runs off 9.3 overs which earned him Player of the Match award.

Centurions Rizwan, Salman power Pakistan to tri-series final with record chase the do-or-die battle

noreply@blogger.com (Editor) — 2025年2月13日 05:46:00 +0000

By Ehsan Qureshi at National Stadium, Karachi

(Pakistan News & Features Services)

It needed a record chase to edge out South Africa in the do-or-die battle, as Pakistan, powered by centuries from skipper Muhammad Rizwan and Salman Ali Agha, stormed into the tri-series final with an emphatic six-wicket victory at National Stadium, Karachi, under floodlights late on the evening of February 12.

The record-breaking 260-run fourth wicket stand between Rizwan and Salman, who got together at a precarious 91 for three in pursuit of a massive 353, turned the game on its head and Pakistan emerged triumphant with an over to spare. It was Pakistan’s first ever successful chase in the excess of 350.

Rizwan finished unconquered on 122 while Salman was caught behind off Wiann Mulder for 134, his maiden ODI hundred with the hosts needing only two runs for victory. Tayyab Tahir struck the winning boundary much to the cheers and thrills of the strong crowd of over 15,000.

This was Rizwan’s fourth century. Overall, he cracked nine fours and three sixes in his classy unconquered 122 after facing 128 balls. Salman’s 103-ball 134 was spiced with 16 powerful boundaries and brace of sixes.

Rizwan reached his hundred in style by hoisting Mulder for six at mid-wicket. It came in 106 balls with seven fours and three sixes.

Salman made his maiden ODI century in 87 balls and it was spiced with 13 sizzling boundaries, Pakistan had their backs to the wall at 91-3 in 11th over despite yet another rapid start.

Explosive left-hander Fakhar Zaman went was snapped by Heinrich Klassen off Mulder for 41 while Babar Azam (23) and Saud Shakeel (16) perished cheaply.

Rizwan and Salman, however, batted with courage and intent to change the course of the match as the South African bowling struggled to build any kind of pressure despite having a variety in their attack. The match gradually slipped out of their hands and they succumbed to their sixth defeat on a trot in ODIs.

Earlier Klassan, Mathew Breetzke and captain Temba Bavuma hit contrasting 80s as South Africa posted a competitive total of 352 for five in 50 overs, having opted to bat first.

All three batters were looking set for centuries but neither of them could reach the coveted three-figure mark. Power-hitter Klassen was in a punishing mood as he struck a whirlwind 87 in his trademark style studded with 11 boundaries and three sixes in his 56-ball knock.

He looked good for many more when plucked by Shaheen Afridi near the fence off Naseem Shah. The dangerous Klassen took 20 runs off Shaheen’s final over which included successive sixes and a four on first three balls.

The rapid knock gave impetus to South African innings to reach 350 plus mark. Bavuma first set up 51 runs opening stand with opener Tony Zorzi, who went after making 22 off 18 balls with three boundaries and a six.

Bavuma then consolidated his team’s innings by adding 119 runs off 125 balls for the second wicket with Breetzke. Due to Klassen and Kyle Verreynne’s aggressive display, South Africa mustered 110 with entertaining stroke play in the last ten overs. The eventual total of 353 was the highest of the tri-series but it proved inadequate in the end.

Diary of a memorable trip to home city Karachi

noreply@blogger.com (Editor) — 2024年12月30日 09:07:00 +0000

By Naeem-ul-Haq in USA

(Pakistan News & Features Services)

Karachi is the city of my birth and this is the place I have been visiting regularly over the years to meet my near and dear ones, after having relocated in the United States of America (USA), which indeed is my new home.

Although all my trips of Karachi help me in recapturing golden moments and building fresh memories but the latest one, in November 2024, was probably the most memorable, considering my engagements in various reunions and get-togethers with many of those who were my childhood friends and we had played cricket for decades together.

Obviously, it’s not easy to describe those feelings in words because such were the emotions while interacting with some guys who were reconnecting after a number of years.

Time has flown, things have changed but none of us seems to have forgotten those days of struggle in cricket fields where we had devoted all our energies and resources to graduate to the next level.

One of the features of the recent trip to Karachi, spanning 12 days or so, was the fulfilment of a cherished dream of mine.

I was approached by Geo Super to do live commentary of the Karachi Premier League (KPL) which was a thoroughly enjoyable experience for five days on a trot.

Describing the action on cricket field, either as a commentator or an expert, has remain my passion by finally I got the opportunity to showcase my skills in this role.

Going by the feedback, my colleagues Tauseef Ahmed, a former Test off-spinner, and Yahya Hussain informed me having fared pretty reasonably on my commentary debut.

It was a huge honour for me to have been invited as one of the guests in the presentation party for the award ceremony, which was held at the end of every match at the picturesque Naya Nazimabad Stadium which hosted all the matches of the KPL.

The legendary batsman, Younis Khan, also a buddy of mine, was one of the functionaries of the KPL. It was very kind of him to have accorded very warm welcome to me on every visit of mine to the Naya Nazimabad Stadium.

My birthday was also celebrated with considerable fanfare at the ground and Younis Khan was the man to have managed it for me. The love and respect he showered on me and my family is beyond description.

A dinner meeting was arranged at a five-star hotel by my former Pakistan Customs teammate, Waqar Hussain, which was also attended by Javed Miandad, the greatest batsman of our generation. My elder brother, Anwar-ul-Haq, and Haris Khan, both successful former cricketers of our time, were also present on the occasion.

Then, I had the pleasure of attending a reception of the Fazlur Rahman Sports Club, organized by its livewire patron, Munir Ali Qadri. This brought together my contemporaries like Nasir Shah, Shaukat Mirza, Munir-ul-Haq, Sagheer Abbas, Tafseer Abbas, Ameeruddin, Shahabuddin, Anwar-ul-Haq and Haris Khan. These were magical moments.

After watching the above activities, you may also incline to agree with me that this was a tour to remember. I have returned to my new home mush refresher and obliged.