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Tag: Pakistan Cricket Team

  • ‘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.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • Second ODI: NZ defeat Pakistan by 84 runs, secure 2-0 series lead

    Second ODI: NZ defeat Pakistan by 84 runs, secure 2-0 series lead

    Pakistan on Wednesday were outclassed by New Zealand and bowled out for just 208 runs as the two teams tooks the field for the second ODI.

    With the 84-run win, the Black Caps have now secured a 2-0 lead in the three-match series. 

    Chasing 293, Pakistan’s innings began with Abdullah Shafique (1) falling early to O’Rourke, followed by Imam Ul Haq (3) and Babar Azam (1), both of whom were dismissed by Jacob Duffy. 

    Things took a turn for the worse after Mohammad Rizwan (5) and Salman Agha (9) returned to the pavilion cheaply.

    Tayyab Tahir (13) attempted to stabilise the innings, but New Zealand bowlers continued to apply relentless pressure, ensuring that Pakistan never gained any momentum in the chase.

    All-rounder Faheem Ashraf, however, displayed fighting spirit and notched up a brilliant half-century. With him losing partners rapidly — Mohammad Wasim Jr (1) and Akif Javed (8) dismissed by Ben Sears and Jacob Duffy, respectively, Pakistan found themselves struggling at 114-8.

    In an unfortunate turn of events, Haris Rauf suffered a concussion after being struck on the head, forcing his departure from the match. Naseem Shah was brought in as a concussion replacement and batted alongside Faheem.

    The duo forged a crucial 50-run stand for the ninth wicket, keeping Pakistan’s chase alive at 165-8 in 36 overs. 

    However, the 60-run partnership came to an end when Ben Sears returned to the attack and dismissed Faheem, who played quite a knock of 73 off 80 deliveries.

    Despite the mounting pressure, Naseem continued to fight and reached his maiden ODI fifty in just 41 deliveries.

    Pakistan’s innings, however, was eventually wrapped up for 208 in 41.2 overs with Kiwis’ Sears ending the match with a five-wicket haul.

    Earlier, New Zealand’s innings started with a strong opening partnership between debutant Rhys Mariu and Nick Kelly, who put on a 50-run stand.

    However, Haris struck in the 6th over, dismissing Kelly for 31 off 23 balls, leaving the Blackcaps at 54-1.

    Wasim Jr struck again in the 10th over, removing Mariu for 18, as New Zealand stumbled to 71-2. Daryl Mitchell managed 18 off 18 before falling to Sufiyan, making it 100-3.

    Henry Nicholls followed soon after, dismissed LBW for 22, leaving the hosts at 102-4 in 16.5 overs.

    Captain Michael Bracewell and Muhammad Abbas added 30 runs before Wasim Jr removed Abbas (17), reducing New Zealand to 132-5. Mitchell Hay and Abbas (41 off 66) then shared a vital 77-run stand before Muqeem dismissed Abbas, leaving New Zealand at 209-6.

    Despite the wickets falling, Hay brought up his half-century. Faheem Ashraf dismissed Nathan Smith (8) at 236-7, and Rizwan ran out Ben Sears for a duck (270-8). Hay’s late blitz in the final over took New Zealand to a total of 292.

    The Green Shirts will now face Black Caps in the third ODI on April 5.

  • PCB likely to send Rizwan, other senior players packing

    PCB likely to send Rizwan, other senior players packing

    Following Pakistan’s disappointing performance in the 2025 Champions Trophy, captain Mohammad Rizwan and several senior players are set to be rested.

    According to media reports, if Rizwan is rested, Shadab Khan is likely to take over as captain. The squad is also expected to see major changes, with 8 to 9 new players included.

    Similarly, senior players like Shaheen Afridi, Babar Azam, Haris Rauf, and Fakhar Zaman will reportedly be dropped, while Imam-ul-Haq, Tayyab Tahir, and Kamran Ghulam are also likely to be excluded.

    Meanwhile, young talents such as Mohammad Haris, Sufiyan Muqeem, and Arafat Minhas are expected to join the team. Others in contention include Irfan Khan Niazi, Zaman Khan, Mohammad Wasim, Abbas Afridi, and Jehandad Khan.

    Additionally, Agha Salman, Abrar Ahmed, and Umair Bin Yousuf may be included, while emerging talents like Hasan Nawaz, Ali Raza, and Abdul Samad are also under consideration.

    Earlier, PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi met with selectors at the National Cricket Academy to discuss the team’s future. He instructed the selection committee to build a team with a long-term vision.

  • Shaheen Afridi makes history as first Pakistani to take 100 wickets in every format

    Shaheen Afridi makes history as first Pakistani to take 100 wickets in every format

    Pakistani fast bowler Shaheen Afridi has become the country’s first player to take 100 wickets across all formats of international cricket. 

    He achieved the feat in the first T20I against South Africa in Durban on December 10, becoming the third Pakistani player to take 100 wickets in men’s T20 Internationals.

    In addition to his T20I success, Shaheen has also claimed 112 wickets in One Day Internationals (ODIs) and 116 wickets in Test cricket.

    The other two Pakistani bowlers to reach the 100-wicket mark in T20 Internationals are Haris Rauf and Shadab Khan.

    T20I: Pakistan vs South Africa

    The first T20 match between Pakistan and South Africa is scheduled for December 10, 2024, at Kingsmead Stadium in Durban. 

    Heinrich Klaasen led the Proteas side, as Aiden Markram is being rested to focus on the upcoming Test series. Key players Marco Jansen, Keshav Maharaj, Kagiso Rabada, and Tristan Stubbs were also rested for the T20 series but will participate in the One-Day Internationals. Anrich Nortje and Tabraiz Shamsi return to the T20 squad, with George Linde making a comeback after three years.

    On the other hand, the Pakistani squad was led by Mohammad Rizwan, with notable players including Babar Azam, Shaheen Afridi, and Haris Rauf. The team aimed to build on recent performances and start the series on a positive note.

    Head-to-Head in T20s:
    Total Matches: 22
    Pakistan won: 12
    South Africa won: 10


    Pitch Report:

    The pitch at Kingsmead in Durban was excellent for batting, with good pace and bounce. Batters can trust the surface and play their shots with confidence. The ball comes onto the bat nicely, making it easier to score runs. This ground has seen some high-scoring games before, and we can expect the same this time.

    For bowlers, hitting the right length consistently is key to extracting any help from the pitch. In the final overs, however, they’ll need to vary their deliveries, using different lengths and lines to remain effective.

    Probable Playing XI:

    Pakistan:
    Muhammad Rizwan, Babar Azam, Abdullah Shafiq, Saim Ayub, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Naseem Shah, Haris Rauf, Irfan Khan Niazi, Usman Khan, Salman Ali Aghaz, Abbas Afridi

    South Africa:
    Heinrich Klaasen (C), Dewald Ferreira, Rassie van der Dussen, David Miller, Hendrik van der Dussen, Matthew Breetzke, Peterson Kruger, OEG Baartman, George Linde, Anrich Nortje, Tabraiz Shamsi

    T20 Series Schedule:

    1st T20I: December 10, Durban
    2nd T20I: December 13, Centurion
    3rd T20I: December 14, Johannesburg

    During the tour of South Africa, Pakistan played three T20s, three ODIs, and two Test matches.

  • ‘Surprise captain announcement on the way,’ claims journalist

    ‘Surprise captain announcement on the way,’ claims journalist

    The announcement for the Pakistan cricket team’s white-ball captain is expected today.

    Former Pakistan wicketkeeper-batsman Rashid Latif hinted that the future of the team will be decided after an important meeting between Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi and Muhammad Rizwan.

    However, Sports Journalist Shoaib Jatt has posted on X (Formerly Twitter), “Surprise CAPTAIN announcement on the way”, hitting toward something surprising.

    Muhammad Rizwan is a strong candidate for captaincy, but it will be decided after he meets with Mohsin Naqvi. Shadab Khan, Saud Shakeel and Salman Ali Agha were also strong candidates along with Rizwan.

    NEW SELECTION COMMITTEE:

    Earlier, the board announced the new selection committee for the national team.

    The captain and head coach have been removed from the new selection committee of the national team; Aleem Dar, Aqib Javed, Asad Shafiq, Azhar Ali and Hasan Cheema are included in the new selection committee. All five members will be voting members.

    The non-voting members include Azhar Mehmood, Bilal Afzal, Nadeem Khan, and Usman Wahla.

    However, PCB has not included the captain and coach in the selection committee.

  • PCB finalises name of new white-ball captain: report

    PCB finalises name of new white-ball captain: report

    The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has decided on the name of the new white ball captain for the Pakistan cricket team.

    The announcement of the Pakistan cricket team squad for the white ball series against Australia is expected next week. According to Geo, Muhammad Rizwan is being considered for leadership in the series, but the final decision will be made in consultation with the chairman and selectors.

    Apart from this, fast bowler Muhammad Hasnain, who last played an ODI in 2023, is a strong candidate to join the team.

    Hasnain’s return has been assured thanks to his excellent performance in the recent Champions Cup and President’s Cup.

    All-rounder Amir Jamal and young wicketkeeper-batsman Haseebullah are also in the eyes of the selection committee and could be included in the squad.

    The Pakistan cricket team has to go on a tour of Australia next month for a white ball series.

    Earlier, the board announced the new selection committee for the national team.

    The captain and head coach has been removed from the new selection committee of the national team; Aleem Dar, Aqib Javed, Asad Shafiq, Azhar Ali and Hasan Cheema are included in the new selection committee. All five members will be voting members.

    The non-voting members include Azhar Mehmood, Bilal Afzal, Nadeem Khan, and Usman Wahla.

    However, PCB has not included captain and coach in the selection committee.

  • Pakistani players should watch ‘Lagaan’ movie for motivation: Ahmed Shehzad

    Pakistani players should watch ‘Lagaan’ movie for motivation: Ahmed Shehzad

    National cricketer Ahmed Shehzad has advised the Pakistan cricket team to watch the famous Bollywood hit ‘Lagaan’ after its stunning defeat against England in the first Test.

    Talking on his YouTube channel, he said, “Pakistani players should watch ‘Lagaan’ movie for the spirit because the Pakistan Cricket Board has to spend money from their pocket, and you people have no idea about the honour of the country. Take a bowler like Kachra (A bowler in the Lagaan movie) who dismissed England players because our spinners don’t have leisure with chai pani.”

    “Any team coming on the Pakistani home ground is beating them, and we are witnessing a historic defeat against Bangladesh for the first time, followed by a poor performance against England. Changes in the team have become inevitable as social media can no longer fool the nation; the selectors and the chairman will have to give young players a chance,” he said.

    Pakistani team is in its worst form, getting defeated by a smaller teams like Bangladesh on their home ground. Now England beat them in the first test match by an innings and 47 runs in Multan.

  • Mohsin Naqvi faces criticism after Pakistan’s defeat by Bangladesh

    Mohsin Naqvi faces criticism after Pakistan’s defeat by Bangladesh

    The Federal Interior Minister and Chairman of Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Mohsin Naqvi came under fire in both houses of parliament after the country lost badly to Bangladesh in a two-match Test series in Rawalpindi.

    Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leader Barrister Syed Ali Zafar stated, “There is only one reason for the disaster, and that is when you appoint an incompetent head of an institution. Not only the institution is destroyed, but all the work done by the institution is spoiled.”

    Meanwhile, Senator Saifullah Abro lashed out at Naqvi over his earlier statement about Balochistan in which he said that a single SHO could deal with terrorism in the province.

    “If it is so, then we may acquire services of 40 SHOs to handle four provinces, AJK, GB, and 36 ministries.”

    The Senator also wondered why the federal capital was shut down if the Pakistani team performed like it did.

    Senator Manzoor Ahmad reminded the House that the nation expects much more from players who are paid Rs4 to 6 million in monthly salaries besides other incentives, and called for Naqvi’s resignation.

    “The issue raised is of the entire nation. The talk here has been about his role as an administrator and a professional but not as a senator. It is a matter of the nation’s prestige. Unfortunately, youngsters have stopped watching cricket as they are so disappointed with the team’s performance,” remarked Senator Irfan Siddiqui.

    Meanwhile, Imran Khan’s X account chided Naqvi in a long post, saying, “He [Mohsin Naqvi] was given this position by none other than the “Big Boss” himself, and now he has annihilated cricket. The Pakistan Cricket Team suffered a whitewash at the hands of Bangladesh. What can be a worse defeat than that?”