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Tag: Cricket

  • Pakistan opt to bowl first in second ODI against Sri Lanka

    Pakistan opt to bowl first in second ODI against Sri Lanka

    Pakistan on Friday won the toss and opted to field first in the second One-day International (ODI) against Sri Lanka at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium.

    All-rounder Faheem Ashraf has been rested as spinner Abrar Ahmed returns to the XI, stand-in captain Salman Ali Agha said at the toss as skipper Shaheen Afridi, who is down with flu, was replaced by pacer Mohammad Wasim Jr.

    The match shifts focus back to the field after a day and a night of turbulence due to a suicide attack in Islamabad.

    The match was originally scheduled for Thursday, but the schedule was thrown into disarray amid concerns expressed by the Sri Lankan team.

    As several visiting players contemplated abandoning the tour altogether, Pakistan’s interior minister and Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman Mohsin Naqvi held lengthy discussions with the Sri Lankan delegation to assure them of their safety.

    The situation stabilised on Wednesday night as Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) reaffirmed its commitment to completing the series. The Sri Lankan High Commissioner also expressed satisfaction over the security of its team following a meeting with Naqvi in Islamabad.

    Reacting to the Sri Lankan side’s confidence, Information Minister Attaullah Tarar thanked them and said: “We are honoured by your presence.”

    Defence Minister Khawaja Asif also said: “Our special thanks to the Sri Lankan Cricket Team for their visit and for a good display of cricket. Our best wishes and gratitude.”

    PSL franchise Lahore Qalandars said the Sri Lankan team defeated terrorism.

    Earlier, Pakistan won the first ODI on Nov 11 by six runs, securing a lead in the three-match series.

  • ‘I felt really bad’: Syed Jibran regrets slamming Haris Rauf after Asia Cup defeat

    ‘I felt really bad’: Syed Jibran regrets slamming Haris Rauf after Asia Cup defeat

    Pakistani actor Syed Jibran has issued a public apology for harshly criticizing fast bowler Haris Rauf following Pakistan’s crushing defeat to India in the Asia Cup 2025 final.

    Taking to Instagram, Jibran expressed remorse over his reaction, writing: “Guys… Honestly I felt really bad next morning when I realised that I used a harsh statement for one particular player only, when in fact whatever happened was not only an individual but a combined effort. Sorry for that. I think I’m better than that.”

    After the final, Jibran had shared a post using strong language and emojis resembling cursing hand gestures aimed at Haris Rauf and the person who handed him the final over. His frustration came after Rauf’s expensive spell in the final match, where he conceded 50 runs in just 22 balls, making him the most costly bowler for Pakistan and a central figure in the team’s loss.

    The disappointment wasn’t limited to Jibran. Several other Pakistani celebrities also took to social media to vent their anger. Actor and writer Yasir Hussain, referencing Rauf’s viral plane crash gesture from an earlier match, said, “Main ne pehlay hi kaha tha cricket pai dehan do. Ishary bazi se cricket match nahi jeety jaaty” (I had said before, focus on cricket. You can’t win matches with hand gestures).

    Actress Amna Malik, in her Instagram story after the match, said: “One slap for Haris Rauf. Thanks for the damage. Haris Rauf, jahaz urao ab” (Haris Rauf, go fly planes now).

    Actor Aijaz Aslam also sarcastically commented, “Thank you sir, itni izzat afzai ka shukria” (Thanks for this great humiliation).

    Pakistan’s defeat in the high-stakes final against India has triggered widespread criticism from fans and celebrities alike, as expectations were high for a comeback in the tournament.

    On the professional front, Syed Jibran is currently appearing in the drama Jinn Ki Shadi Unki Shadi, which has been receiving positive reviews for its unique storyline.

  • Yasir Hussain takes a dig at Haris Rauf over viral hand gesture during India clash

    Yasir Hussain takes a dig at Haris Rauf over viral hand gesture during India clash

    The high-voltage cricket match between arch-rivals Pakistan and India has now spiraled into a storm of controversy, not over cricketing performance, but a fiery gesture that has the subcontinent buzzing.

    Pakistani fast bowler Haris Rauf found himself in the eye of a media hurricane after responding to jeering Indian fans during the Asia Cup 2025 Super Fours clash with a set of hand gestures that quickly went viral.

    In a moment that has split the internet and ignited debate on both sides of the border, Rauf first flashed “6-0” with his fingers — a reference to the number of Indian planes downed by the Pakistan Air Force in May’s military clashes. He then followed it up with a theatrical gesture mimicking a fighter jet soaring and crashing.

    The act drew roaring cheers from many Pakistani fans on social media, with even Defence Minister Khawaja Asif chiming in on X to applaud the cricketer.

    But not everyone was impressed, least of all actor-director Yasir Hussain, who took to Instagram with a fiery rebuke.

    Taking to Instagram stories, he wrote, “Brother, that’s the Pakistan Air Force’s credit, let them have it.” “Your job is to play cricket — which, frankly, you’re not doing well.”

    In a previous post, he urged the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) to suspend matches for a year and instead focus entirely on retraining and rebuilding the national squad, a statement that stirred the pot even further.

    Meanwhile, Indian media has erupted in fury, slamming Rauf’s behavior as “unsportsmanlike” and “provocative”. Some even called for a total boycott of cricketing ties with Pakistan.

    On Sunday, Pakistan scored 171 runs while batting first. India began their chase with an aggressive start but stumbled midway, losing four wickets in quick succession. However, steady middle-order batting guided India to a six-wicket win, securing the victory with seven balls to spare.

  • Quinton de Kock reverses retirement, returns for Pakistan tour

    Quinton de Kock reverses retirement, returns for Pakistan tour

    South African wicket-keeper batter Quinton de Kock has come out of retirement from ODI cricket to take part in both ODI and T20I squads for the Pakistan tour.

    De Kock had retired from 50-over cricket after the 2023 ODI World Cup, and his last white-ball game for South Africa was the 2024 T20 World Cup final in Barbados. While he never officially retired from T20Is, he was not included in any of South Africa’s squads and former coach Rob Walter was unsure of his long-term plans. In the meantime, he has been active in T20 leagues around the world, including the recently-concluded CPL.

    Current head coach Shukri Conrad has discussed the matter with de Kock and said he has committed to the national team again.

    “Quinton’s return to the white-ball space is a major boost for us,” Conrad said. “When we spoke last month about his future, it was clear that he still has a strong ambition to represent his country. Everyone knows the quality he brings to the side, and having him back can only benefit the team.”

    At the time of his ODI retirement, de Kock had hinted that he might be convinced to come back, with South Africa’s home World Cup in 2027 on the horizon. “At this point, I don’t foresee it happening. But you never know. Strange things happen in life. It could be a possibility but I don’t think so,” he had said.

    De Kock has played 155 ODIs, in which he has 6770 runs at an average of 45.74 and a strike rate of 96.64. In 92 T20Is, he has 2584 runs at a strike rate of 138.32. He has played three ODI World Cups – 2015, 2019 and 2023 – and the only ICC tournament he missed after his retirement was the Champions Trophy earlier this year where South Africa were knocked out in the semi-final.

    It is worth mentioning that Quinton de Kock once cleverly played a role in the dismissal of Pakistan opener Fakhar Zaman, who was batting on 193 in an ODI match. Zaman’s brilliant innings came to an end on the first ball of the final over, when a direct hit from Aiden Markram at long-off caught him short of his ground at the striker’s end.

    However, the legality of the dismissal raised questions. De Kock was seen gesturing with his arms, possibly suggesting that the throw was headed to the non-striker’s end, which may have contributed to Zaman hesitating and ultimately being run out.

  • Pakistanis react to Shubman Gill’s ‘Game speaks, not words’ post

    Pakistanis react to Shubman Gill’s ‘Game speaks, not words’ post

    Pakistan might have lost to India in the Super Fours clash of the Asia Cup, but no one can outwit them, especially when it comes to social media banter.

    After a six-wicket victory over Pakistan in the Asia Cup, Indian batter Shubman Gill posted pictures of the match with the caption, “Game speaks, not words”.

    As expected, it wasn’t much later that Pakistani social media users reminded him of the defeat India faced in May’s military clash against the country.

    “6-0 is permanent,” wrote one user.

    “Match tha is liye haar gaye. Jung hoti to!!!!!!!! Urha k rkhty,” another commented.

    A third said, “You won the game, we won the war.”

    Meanwhile, some pointed out Fakhar Zaman’s controversial dismissal by the umpires. “Game speaks, but with the support of umpiring decisions,” wrote one.

    Another user reminded Gill of his wicket falling to Faheem Ashraf, saying, “So How was That Game Delivery of the Match? Takleef Toh Hoi Hogi Jab Aesa Bowled Howay Hogay [sic].”

    One user went on to share an edited image of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah signaling six-zero to Gandhi.

    Earlier, Pakistani batter Sahibzada Farhan also allegedly paid homage to the Pakistani military after scoring his half-century against India, firing shots in the air pretending his bat was a gun.

    Pakistani pacer Haris Rauf, on the other hand, responded to Indian spectators’ jeers by making hand gestures in reference to the downing of Indian jets by Pakistan Air Force (PAF) in May.

    The match was filled with drama, as Rauf, Gill and Abhishek Sharma also engaged in heated exchanges on the field. Pakistani bowlers were particularly animated during the celebrations of Gill and Sharma’s wickets.

    Batting first, Pakistan had scored 171 runs. India began their chase with an aggressive start but stumbled midway, losing four wickets in quick succession. However, steady middle-order batting guided India to a six-wicket win, securing the victory with seven balls to spare.

  • Despite Pakistan’s objections, Andy Pycroft returns as match referee for Super 4 India clash

    Despite Pakistan’s objections, Andy Pycroft returns as match referee for Super 4 India clash

    Andy Pycroft, the match referee at the centre of the controversy during the Pakistan-India clash on September 14, will once again officiate Sunday’s high-voltage Super Four encounter between the two arch-rivals.

    The Sept 14 Asia Cup clash had sparked a storm when Pycroft requested both captains, Salman Ali Agha and Suryakumar Yadav, to skip the customary handshake at the toss. It was a move that infuriated the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), which promptly demanded his “immediate removal”.

    The fallout continued into Pakistan’s next match against the United Arab Emirates (UAE), with the team delaying their arrival and the match start time amid behind-the-scenes negotiations with the International Cricket Council (ICC).

    Tensions only eased after a last-minute meeting between Pycroft and Pakistan’s team management ahead of that match — a meeting that itself stirred further controversy over conflicting reports of an alleged apology by the referee.

    Now, with Pycroft officially retained as match referee for the upcoming clash, the high-octane rivalry resumes in a charged atmosphere. India, however, are steering clear of the off-field drama.

    “We’re just focused on our game,” Indian skipper Yadav said on Saturday. “Preparations have been good, and we’re sticking to our strengths. Past results don’t give us an edge… it’s a fresh game, and both teams will need to start strong.”

    India arrived back in Dubai early Saturday after their game against Oman, and will have an optional practice session. Pakistan are scheduled to have a full training session at the ICC Academy today.

    The match will be played at 7:30 pm, Pakistan Standard Time.

  • Shaheen’s pace has dropped since injury, he has forgotten bouncer: Bazid Khan

    Shaheen’s pace has dropped since injury, he has forgotten bouncer: Bazid Khan

    Former Pakistan cricketer and renowned analyst Bazid Khan has raised concerns over ace bowler Shaheen Shah Afridi’s declining pace and diminished use of the bouncer, attributing the changes to his return from injury.

    Speaking on PTV Sports during a post-match analysis show hosted by Zainab Abbas, Bazid suggested that the left-arm pacer no longer possesses the same fear factor that once made him a standout performer in world cricket.

    “His pace was noticeably higher before the injury,” Bazid noted. “His inswingers were sharper and more impactful. Since returning, he hasn’t quite regained that intensity.”

    Bazid pointed out that Shaheen appears overly reliant on attempting yorkers too early in his spell, rather than building pressure with short-pitched deliveries. “He’s pitching the ball up too much with the new ball. Given his height, he could be far more effective by setting up batters with short-of-a-length deliveries,” Bazid explained.

    The analyst also expressed surprise at the pacer’s reluctance to bowl bouncers, especially in the initial overs. “I honestly can’t recall the last time he bowled a bouncer early in the innings. It’s surprising for someone of his stature. In the match against India, after getting hit for boundaries, I thought a bouncer in frustration was the natural response. Bouncer… I think he has forgotten? But it seems like it doesn’t even cross his mind anymore.”

    Despite the criticism, Bazid acknowledged that Shaheen has started to employ a shorter length more frequently, which he believes is a step in the right direction.

    The discussion followed Pakistan’s 41-run win over the United Arab Emirates in the Asia Cup 2025.

    Batting first, Pakistan overcame a mid-innings collapse to post 146-9 in their 20 overs. Contributions from the lower order proved crucial, with Shaheen Afridi delivering a valuable cameo of 29 runs off 14 balls to push the total beyond reach.

    With the ball, Shaheen made an impact as well, claiming two important wickets and earning the Player of the Match award for his all-round performance. His spell helped Pakistan restrict UAE effectively and secure their place in the Super Four stage of the tournament.

  • Tabish Hashmi blames Babar Azam for Pakistan’s Asia Cup defeat to India

    Tabish Hashmi blames Babar Azam for Pakistan’s Asia Cup defeat to India

    In a dramatic turn of events following Pakistan’s crushing defeat to India in the Asia Cup T20 match held in Dubai, popular TV host and comedian Tabish Hashmi pointed fingers at former captain Babar Azam, despite the star batter not even being part of the playing XI.

    During a post-match segment on his show, Hashmi was asked who he held responsible for Pakistan’s loss. Without hesitation, he quipped, “Of course, Babar Azam is to blame because he wasn’t in the team today.” The sarcastic remark sparked laughter, but also drew attention to ongoing debates about the team’s composition and past leadership decisions.

    Former skipper Rashid Latif, who appeared alongside Hashmi, backed the statement with a more analytical take. “Babar Azam is the one who introduced players like Saim Ayub as bowlers. He had Saim bowl during the PSL, so you can’t ignore his role in shaping this current squad,” Latif remarked, subtly defending the strategic choices that stemmed from Babar’s captaincy era.

    The loss to India has once again ignited criticism of Pakistan’s selection strategy and team management, as fans and analysts continue to dissect what went wrong in a high-stakes regional clash.

    Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) dropped former captains Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan in T20 revamp in December 2024 and announced a new team.

    The new T20I captain is Salman Ali Agha who was appointed captain in his fourth game after full-time leader Rizwan was rested against Zimbabwe in December 2024. One series later, he had assumed the role full-time, and somehow retained it through both a change of coach and team philosophy.

    Meanwhile, many social media users are questioning the team selection and captaincy. People are saying dropping Babar and Rizwan has cost Pakistan heavily. Others are recalling Babar and Rizwan’s performance against India with a 10-wicket win. It was Pakistan’s 13th attempt to finally beat India in the World Cups.

  • Champions Trophy: ‘No Indian flags displayed at Pakistani stadiums,’ reports claim

    Champions Trophy: ‘No Indian flags displayed at Pakistani stadiums,’ reports claim

    With Champions Trophy just around the corner, hosts Pakistan have displayed flags of all nations except India at the newly-renovated Gaddafi and National stadiums, Indian media outlets have claimed.

    As per the details, Indian media reports quoted a post on X claiming that the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) “removed the Indian flag from the Karachi stadium” while keeping the flags of other playing nations.

    Reports went on to claim that the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore was also dressed up as flags of seven teams, except India, were displayed.

    While the PCB or the International Cricket Council (ICC) have not yet responded to the claims that remain unverified, sources privy to the development told The Current that the visuals were from Feb 11 — a day before the Champions Trophy support period started.

    “As per ICC guidelines, only four flags will be hoisted on match days during the CT25. These will include the event authority [ICC], event host [PCB] and the two participating countries for the day,” they clarified.

    Netizens, however, are speculating the possible reasons behind the alleged “snub”.

    As some suggested it could have been an “honest mistake”, others believed it was Pakistan’s reaction to India’s refusal to come play the tournament in the country over “security concerns”.

    Meanwhile, ICC reported that tickets will be available for India’s opening group match with Bangladesh on February 20, while there will also be tickets available for their games against arch-rival Pakistan (February 23) and New Zealand (March 2) at the eight-team tournament.

    It merits a mention that all Indian matches will be played in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) after months of negotiations between the PCB, India and the ICC following the neighbouring country’s refusal to travel to Pakistan for the tournament. 

    There will also be limited tickets available for semi-final 1 which will take place at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium on Tuesday, March 4, ICC said.

    Separately, Pakistan is officially ready to host an ICC event for the first time in 29 years, launching the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy at Dewan-e-Khas of Lahore Fort on Sunday.

    The Curtain Raiser event successfully dialled up anticipation ahead of the tournament opener on February 19 between hosts Pakistan and fellow title contenders New Zealand.

    Organisers lit Lahore Fort in all its glory, presenting a spectacular sight as a sign of what’s to come right the way through the first Champions Trophy event since 2017.

    It is hosts Pakistan that will look to defend their crown, having claimed the 2017 edition of the tournament in the United Kingdom (UK).

    Members of the trophy-winning squad from 2017 played a central role at the Curtain Raiser at Lahore Fort, helping ignite great memories such as Pakistan’s decisive win over India by 180 runs at The Oval in the final.

  • ‘Childish’ & ‘brainless’ decisions: Ahmed Shehzad calls out skipper Rizwan

    ‘Childish’ & ‘brainless’ decisions: Ahmed Shehzad calls out skipper Rizwan

    With Pakistan losing the tri-nation series final against New Zealand Friday, former Pakistani cricketer Ahmed Shehzad has called out white-ball captain Mohammad Rizwan’s tactical decisions, going on to label his approach as “childish” and “brainless”.

    Speaking on his YouTube channel, Shehzad slammed Rizwan’s decision to bat first in the match, calling it “brainless” and “lacking understanding of the pitch conditions”.

    “Pakistan’s bubble has burst ahead of the Champions Trophy,” Shehzad said, adding that it was a “mind-boggling decision”, especially after seeing in the previous match that the pitch was better for batting at night.

    “The ball doesn’t grip for spinners. Still, the team decided to bat first—no clue,” Shehzad said. 

    The 33-year-old also expressed his frustration with Rizwan’s team selection, particularly the decision to leave out a specialist bowler in favour of an all-rounder. He argued that this weakened the team’s bowling attack and that Rizwan’s cautious approach favoured a deep batting lineup over a well-balanced team.

    “In every decision, the Pakistan captain wants to play it safe with batting,” Shehzad explained. 

    “Whether it’s not having enough spinners in the Champions Trophy squad or, in this match, playing Faheem Ashraf as an all-rounder to strengthen the batting at the expense of Mohammad Hasnain. Yet, Ashraf only bowled two overs,” he said. 

    Shehzad warned that such “childish decisions” could hurt Pakistan’s chances in the upcoming Champions Trophy.

    Pakistan on Friday lost the tri-series final to New Zealand by five wickets. Despite outclassing South Africa in the second match of the series, the national side’s batting lineup crumbled before Kiwi bowlers, putting up a target of mere 243 runs.

    New Zealand comfortably won the match by five wickets and with 28 balls to spare.