Category: Sports

The much-anticipated Australia vs England clash in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 is set to take place at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore. 

Match Details:

Venue: Gaddafi Stadium Lahore
Date: 22 February, 2024
Time: 2:30 PM (IST) 2:00 PM (PST)

Teams Overview

Australia

Australia, six-time ODI World Cup winners, have historically dominated England in the 50-over format. However, their recent form in ODIs has been concerning, having suffered a 2-0 series loss to Sri Lanka in spin-friendly conditions. With Steve Smith leading the side, Australia will aim to kickstart their Champions Trophy campaign with a statement win.

Key Players to Watch:

Steve Smith – The experienced captain and batting mainstay.
Travis Head – A dynamic opener capable of explosive starts.
Glenn Maxwell – X-factor all-rounder with match-winning abilities.
Adam Zampa – leading spinner who is crucial in the middle overs.

England

England, the reigning 2019 ODI World Cup champions, come into the fixture on the back of a 3-0 whitewash against India. They have, however, fared better against Australia in the Champions Trophy, leading the head-to-head record 3-2. Jos Buttler’s men will look to regain their winning touch and assert their dominance in the crucial group-stage match.

Key Players to Watch:

Jos Buttler –  captain and one of the most destructive ODI batters.
Joe Root – The backbone of England’s batting lineup.
Jofra Archer – A lethal fast bowler, making his return to major tournaments.
Adil Rashid – England’s leading leg-spinner, crucial in Lahore’s conditions.

Head-to-Head in ODIs

Total Matches Played: 161
Australia Wins: 91
England Wins: 65
Tied Matches: 2
No Result: 3

Head-to-Head in Champions Trophy

Matches Played: 5
England Wins: 3
Australia Wins: 2

This will be the first-ever ODI between Australia and England on Pakistani soil, adding historical significance to the contest. England’s better record in the Champions Trophy could give them a psychological edge.

Pitch Report – Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore

The Gaddafi Stadium is known for batting-friendly conditions, with teams often posting high totals. However, the dew factor in night games could make chasing slightly easier.

Average First-Innings Score: 280+
Pacers get early swing, but spinners dominate in the middle overs.
Winning the toss & bowling first could be the preferred strategy.

Probable Playing XIs

Australia: Steve Smith (c), Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Marnus Labuschagne, Glenn Maxwell, Alex Carey, Matthew Short, Sean Abbott, Nathan Ellis, Adam Zampa, Spencer Johnson.

England: Jos Buttler (c), Phil Salt, Joe Root, Harry Brook, Liam Livingstone, Ben Duckett, Jamie Overton, Jofra Archer, Mark Wood, Adil Rashid, Gus Atkinson.

TV Broadcast & Live Streaming

Pakistan – TV: PTV Sports, Ten Sports | Live Streaming: Myco, Tamasha
India – TV: Star Sports, Sports18 | Live Streaming: JioHotstar
Bangladesh – TV: Nagorik TV, T Sports | Live Streaming: Toffee
UAE – TV: CricLife MAX, CricLife MAX2 | Live Streaming: STARZPLAY
UK – TV: Sky Sports | Live Streaming: SkyGo Now, Sky Sports App
USA & Canada – TV: Willow TV
Australia – TV: Amazon
New Zealand – TV: Sky Sport NZ
Sri Lanka – TV: Maharaja TV | Live Streaming: Sirasa
Caribbean – TV: ESPN Caribbean | Live Streaming: ESPN Play

A man who allegedly harassed British tennis star Emma Raducanu during a match in Dubai has been taken into custody.

During the second round of the Dubai Duty-Free Tennis Championship, Raducanu noticed a man sitting uncomfortably close to her in the stands, staring at her. According to reports, there was also an exchange of words between the player and the individual.

Media reports suggest that the incident left Raducanu in tears, and she immediately reported the matter to the umpire, leading to the suspect’s detention.

Dubai police confirmed the arrest of a tourist who had approached Raducanu, handed her a note, taken her picture, and displayed behaviour that made the tennis star uncomfortable.

Raducanu’s coach revealed, “The man who harassed her during the Dubai Duty-Free Tennis Championship had also attended matches in four other countries. Emma had seen this individual multiple times before. At first, we thought he was just a fan, but over time, he started getting physically closer, taking selfies, and eventually hugged her when no security guard was present.”

The coach further stated, “This man had also followed her in Singapore and Qatar.”

Now, police have ordered him to stay away from Raducanu. He has been banned from attending WTA tennis events.

Fast bowler Mohammad Amir has highlighted an issue in Shaheen Afridi’s bowling action, which he believes has been affecting his performance since returning from injury.

Speaking on Geo News’ show Harna Mana Hai, Amir stood on stage to demonstrate the mistake Shaheen has been making. He explained, “There is a flaw in his action since his injury, but it can be corrected with the right adjustments.”

Former Pakistan captain Rashid Latif, who was also part of the discussion, added, “Shaheen performs better against left-handed batters due to his natural angle, which gives him an advantage. However, he has been struggling to generate the same swing against right-handed batters as he used to.”

Latif further stated, “Shaheen’s bowling action requires slight modifications, and it should have been the responsibility of the coaches to address and rectify the matter.”

Shaheen conceded 68 runs in his 10-over spell without taking any wickets in the opening match of the Champions Trophy against New Zealand.

South Africa secured a convincing 107-run victory over Afghanistan in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 Group B match held at the National Bank Cricket Stadium in Karachi.

Batting first after winning the toss, South Africa posted an impressive total of 315/6 in 50 overs. The team suffered an early blow when Tony de Zorzi was dismissed for just 11 runs at 28/1. However, Ryan Rickelton and Temba Bavuma steadied the innings with a crucial partnership. Rickelton played a magnificent knock, scoring a century with 103 runs, while Bavuma contributed 58 runs. The duo took the team’s total to 157 runs before Bavuma was dismissed.

Rassie van der Dussen and Aiden Markram continued the momentum, both scoring 52 runs each to ensure a competitive total for South Africa. Afghanistan’s bowling unit struggled to contain the runs, with Mohammad Nabi taking two wickets, while Fazalhaq Farooqi, Azmatullah Omarzai, and Noor Ahmad picked up one wicket each.

Chasing a target of 316, Afghanistan’s batting lineup failed to build strong partnerships and was bowled out for 208 in 43.3 overs. Rahmat Shah put up a valiant effort, scoring a brilliant 92-run knock, including nine fours and a six. His innings was the only significant resistance against the South African bowlers. Ikram Alikhil added 54 runs, while Ibrahim Zadran (17), Sediqullah Atal (16), and Rahmanullah Gurbaz (10) struggled to make an impact.

The middle and lower order failed to contribute significantly, with Mohammad Nabi (8), Gulbadin Naib (13), Rashid Khan (18), and Noor Ahmad (9) failing to capitalize. Captain Hashmatullah Shahidi was dismissed for a duck.

South Africa’s disciplined bowling attack ensured Afghanistan never got close to the target, securing a comfortable win in their opening game of the tournament.

Abhay Singh, who gained fame from the Indian religious Maha Kumbh Mela and is popularly known as IIT Baba, has made a bold prediction regarding the highly anticipated match between Pakistan and India.

In a viral video circulating on Indian media, Baba Abhay Singh makes a striking statement.

“India will not be able to defeat Pakistan this time. That is what I am saying,” he declared.

He further added, “Even if Virat Kohli and other players give their absolute best, India still won’t be able to beat Pakistan. I have spoken, and this time, Pakistan will win. Now let India prove me wrong.”

Pakistan’s next match is against arch-rivals India on Sunday in Dubai, a crucial fixture that could decide their fate in the tournament.

The Economic Coordination Committee (ECC), chaired by Federal Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb, has approved key economic decisions, including a tax exemption for the International Cricket Council (ICC) in preparation for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025.

According to an official statement issued after the meeting, Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb presided over the session, which was attended by Petroleum Minister Musadik Malik, Minister for Industries and Production Rana Tanveer Hussain, the Chairman of the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR), and other senior officials.

During the meeting, the ECC approved a tax exemption on ICC’s earnings from the Champions Trophy 2025, which is in line with international practices for hosting global sporting events. Under the agreement between ICC and Pakistan, the ICC’s revenue, subsidiaries, and affiliated entities will not be subject to any taxes or deductions.

However, Pakistani stakeholders, including the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), will be required to pay taxes on any income earned from the tournament. Additionally, no exemption will be granted on sales tax and federal excise duty.

The committee also postponed a decision to lift the ban on the commercial export of sheep and goats to Kuwait.

Furthermore, the ECC approved an additional technical grant of PKR 6.859 billion for the Ministry of Energy to cover development expenditures.

The committee also extended the LNG framework agreement between Pakistan LNG Limited and SOCAR Trading for another three years.

Punjab Information Minister Azma Bokhari has criticised Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi following the national team’s poor performance in their opening match of the 2025 Champions Trophy.

She stated that despite earlier promises of a “surgery” to fix the team’s issues, no real changes have been made.

“I had high hopes for Fakhar. If he performs well, he can single-handedly win the match. Saim Ayub was playing well but, unfortunately, got injured. Now, I believe the team’s main hope lies in fast bowler Naseem Shah,” she said, speaking to a private TV channel.

She also criticised Babar Azam and Shaheen Afridi, accusing them of focusing more on advertisements than their game. “Babar was once the king of cricket, but now it seems he doesn’t know whether he’s playing Test or ODI cricket. He appears unsure of his role, and people once feared Shaheen’s swinging deliveries. But now, the situation has changed as they seem too busy with advertisements,” she remarked.

“They can’t bowl, they can’t bat, and they can’t even field properly. It looked like even I could hit sixes on these deliveries,” she added.

Referring to Pakistan’s crushing defeat against New Zealand in their Champions Trophy opener, Bokhari also took aim at PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi.

“After Pakistan’s disastrous World Cup performance, it was promised that the team would go through a major ‘surgery’ to fix its problems. However, no such ‘surgery or drips’ were given, and the team remains unchanged,” the minister said.

Pakistan suffered a 60-run loss to New Zealand in the Champions Trophy opener, leaving the national team struggling yet again in an ICC event. As a result, Pakistan finds itself in the familiar “ifs and buts” situation after the first match of another international tournament.

Pakistan’s next match is against arch-rivals India on Sunday in Dubai, a crucial fixture that could decide their fate in the tournament.

Afghanistan are set to take on South Africa in the third match of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 at the National Stadium in Karachi.

Match Details

Date: February 21, 2025
Time: 2:30 PM (IST) 2:00 PM (PST)
Venue: National Stadium, Karachi

Teams Overview

Afghanistan

Afghanistan enter this match with confidence, having secured a historic 2-1 series victory over South Africa in September 2024. They have a well-balanced squad, with a strong bowling attack led by Rashid Khan and Fazalhaq Farooqi. Their batting lineup includes aggressive stroke-makers like Rahmanullah Gurbaz and Ibrahim Zadran.

Key Players:

Rahmanullah Gurbaz – 531 runs in 11 matches in 2024 (6 fifties)
Gulbadin Naib – 107 runs and one wicket in 7 matches
Rashid Khan – 15 wickets in 6 matches (Economy 3.50)

South Africa

South Africa remain a powerhouse in world cricket, consistently delivering strong performances in ICC tournaments. They reached the semi-finals of the 2023 ODI World Cup and finished as runners-up in the 2024 T20 World Cup. With a blend of experience and young talent, the Proteas will be determined to start their campaign with a victory.

Key Players:

Heinrich Klaasen – 264 runs in 3 matches in 2024 (3 fifties)
Marco Jansen – 6 wickets in 3 matches (Economy 6.11)
Kagiso Rabada – 5 wickets in 2 matches (Economy 5.20)

Head-to-Head Record

Total ODI Played: 5
South Africa Wins: 3
Afghanistan Wins: 2

Pitch & Weather Report

Pitch: The National Stadium, Karachi, offers early assistance to fast bowlers before turning into a batting-friendly surface. Spinners could play a key role in the latter stages of the match.

Weather: Mostly cloudy conditions with temperatures around 31°C. No significant rain is expected.

Probable Playing XI

Afghanistan: Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Ibrahim Zadran, Rahmat Shah, Hashmatullah Shahidi (c), Azmatullah Omarzai, Mohammad Nabi, Gulbadin Naib, Rashid Khan, Noor Ahmad, Fazalhaq Farooqi, Fareed Ahmad Malik.

South Africa: Temba Bavuma (c), Tony de Zorzi, Aiden Markram, Rassie van der Dussen, David Miller, Heinrich Klaasen, Marco Jansen, Keshav Maharaj, Kagiso Rabada, Lungi Ngidi, Tabraiz Shamsi.

TV Broadcast & Live Streaming

Pakistan – TV: PTV Sports, Ten Sports | Live Streaming: Myco, Tamasha
India – TV: Star Sports, Sports18 | Live Streaming: JioHotstar
Bangladesh – TV: Nagorik TV, T Sports | Live Streaming: Toffee
UAE – TV: CricLife MAX, CricLife MAX2 | Live Streaming: STARZPLAY
UK – TV: Sky Sports | Live Streaming: SkyGo Now, Sky Sports App
USA & Canada – TV: Willow TV
Australia – TV: Amazon
New Zealand – TV: Sky Sport NZ
Sri Lanka – TV: Maharaja TV | Live Streaming: Sirasa
Caribbean – TV: ESPN Caribbean | Live Streaming: ESPN Play

Former Pakistan cricket team captain Shahid Afridi has advised Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman Mohsin Naqvi to appoint the right people in the right positions.

Speaking on a TV show with Nadeem Malik after Pakistan’s home defeat to New Zealand, he said, “Mohsin Naqvi should consult his seniors or experienced individuals who understand international cricket and focus on building the system. You don’t need too many people for advice—five, six, or ten are enough.”

“For example, when Mohammad Yousuf joined, he made a plan outlining what he would do in the next four to six months. But the main point remains—the right person should be in the right position,” he added.

Pakistan suffered a loss to New Zealand in the opening match of the Champions Trophy on February 19 at National Stadium, Karachi.

Following this defeat, the Pakistan cricket team and the selection committee have faced criticism from fans and former cricketers.

Earlier, Pakistan also lost two matches in the tri-nation series against New Zealand at the same venue.

PAK vs NZ match summary

New Zealand started their ICC Champions Trophy campaign with a commanding 60-run victory over Pakistan in the opening match of the tournament at the National Bank Stadium in Karachi.

Chasing a target of 321 runs, Pakistan’s batting lineup faltered predictably, with the team getting bowled out for 260 runs. Khushdil Shah was the top scorer with 69 runs, while Babar Azam contributed 64 runs. 

Salman Agha added 42, Fakhar Zaman scored 24, and Haris Rauf chipped in with 19 runs. Shaheen Shah Afridi added 14, Naseem Shah 13, Saud Shakeel 6, Captain Mohammad Rizwan 3 and Tayyab Tahir scored one run.

New Zealand’s Will O’Rourke and captain Mitchell Santner took three wickets each. Matt Henry claimed two wickets, while Michael Bracewell and Nathan Smith picked up one wicket each.

Earlier in the day, New Zealand posted a solid total of 320/5 in their 50 overs after being invited to bat first. However, their innings did not begin smoothly, as they lost three wickets for just 73 runs. Devon Conway and Daryl Mitchell were dismissed for 10 runs each, while captain Kane Williamson fell for just one run.

New Zealand stabilized their innings with a crucial 118-run partnership between Will Young and Tom Latham. Young played a brilliant knock of 107 runs before getting out.

Following Young’s dismissal, Latham and Glenn Phillips added another 125 runs to strengthen New Zealand’s total. Phillips was dismissed in the 49.4th over after scoring 61 runs, while Latham remained unbeaten on 118.

For Pakistan, Haris Rauf and Naseem Shah took two wickets each, while Abrar Ahmed claimed one.

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur has approved the renaming of the historic Arbab Niaz Cricket Stadium in Peshawar. The stadium, located in Shahi Bagh, is set to be renamed as ‘Imran Khan Cricket Stadium.’ Khyber Pakhtunkhwa cabinet is expected to approve the renaming today (Friday).

The decision has sparked opposition, particularly from Arbab Shehzad, the grandson of Arbab Niaz. Arbab Shehzad, a former Chief Secretary of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and an ex-adviser to Imran Khan has rejected the decision, calling it an attempt to please Imran Khan at the expense of his grandfather’s legacy.

He emphasized that the Peshawar Municipal Committee had officially named the stadium after his father through a resolution passed after his death in recognition of his services. He also questioned whether the provincial government had sought Imran Khan’s approval for the renaming, noting that the former Premier has consistently opposed naming roads or buildings after living individuals.

Arbab Shehzad further highlighted that in 2013, the provincial cabinet had approved a decision in Imran Khan’s presence, stating that no buildings or roads would be named after living persons. He stressed that the stadium’s original name should remain unchanged.

Meanwhile, unverified reports suggest that Pakistan Super League (PSL) matches may not be held in Peshawar, as franchise teams have reportedly refused to play in the city.