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  • ‘Before we got sacked, we decided to resign ourselves,’ reveals Waqar Younis

    ‘Before we got sacked, we decided to resign ourselves,’ reveals Waqar Younis

    Former Pakistan cricketer Waqar Younis opened up about his resignation as the bowling coach of the Pakistan cricket team.

    Just a month before the T20 World Cup in the UAE, Pakistan head coach Misbah-ul-Haq and Younis jointly resigned from their respective duties, which came as a big shock to the cricket fraternity.

    The former pacer appeared in ARY News’ show 11th Hour and revealed the reason of his and Misbah’s exit.

    Misbah cited the fatigue due to the Covid-19 bio-bubbles as the reason to step down and Waqar Younis followed him.

    Anchor Waseem Badami questioned if Ramiz Raja was the reason. Waqar said that if a new person comes, it’s natural that there will be some changes.

    Waqar Younis said that he had to resign with Misbah as they joined the team management together. The former Pakistan pacer also revealed that he had no role in selecting the team.

    “I had no justification to stay on when Misbah resigned. Before we got sacked, we decided to resign ourselves. I never had any role in selecting the team,” said Waqar Younis.

    Waqar has had an on and off relation with the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB). He has taken several roles with the board since 2006 as the bowling coach and twice he was appointed as the head coach.

    Waqar mentioned that he had groomed some of the young Pakistan bowlers in his latest stint with the national team.

    “Talent comes from the first-class and domestic cricket. We were the ones who mentored Shaheen Afridi, Mohammad Hasnain and Naseem Shah over the past two years,” Waqar mentioned.

    PCB appointed Australia’s Matthew Hayden and South Africa’s Vernon Philander as consultant coaches of the Pakistan cricket team for the upcoming T20 World Cup.

  • ‘Ignorants’: Mohammad Amir hits out at PCB

    ‘Ignorants’: Mohammad Amir hits out at PCB

    Pakistani speedster Mohammad Amir has slammed the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) after his name was included in the list of players who received domestic contracts for the upcoming season.

    “If I’m not playing international cricket, then what’s the point of featuring in domestic cricket. They want to control me by offering this contract but that’s not going to happen. PCB should have contacted me before including my name in the domestic contracts list,” said Amir in a recent interview.

    “They [PCB] have well-educated people in their ranks but they still behave like ignorants,” he added.

    The 29-year-old also asked the PCB to give his contract to a young cricketer.

    “The PCB should give my central contract to a young cricketer to help him and so that he can support his family,” he said.

    Amir also stated that he is enjoying playing league cricket all over the world.

    “Maybe they [PCB] haven’t accepted the fact that I have retired from international cricket, which is why they take such steps,” he said. “I am enjoying playing league cricket and spend the rest of the time with my family.”

    Amir retired from international cricket in December last year due to reservations with Pakistan’s team management. He represented Pakistan in 36 Tests, 61 ODIs and 50 T20Is.

  • PCB announces team for first ODI against Kiwis

    PCB announces team for first ODI against Kiwis

    Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) announced its team for the first One-Day International (ODI) against New Zealand.

    According to the PCB’s press release, the first ODI against the Kiwis will be played at the Pindi Cricket Stadium on Friday.

    The team includes Babar Azam (captain), Shadab Khan (vice-captain), Fakhar Zaman, Haris Rauf, Hassan Ali, Iftikhar Ahmed, Imam-ul-Haq, Mohammad Rizwan (wicketkeeper), Saud Shakil, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Usman Qadir and Zahid Mahmood. While the second and third ODIs will be played at the Pindi Cricket Stadium on September 19 and 21.

    The Gaddafi Stadium will host the T20Is from September 25 to October 3 in Lahore.

  • Ramiz Raja elected as PCB Chairman

    Ramiz Raja elected as PCB Chairman

    Former Pakistani cricketer Ramiz Raja has been elected as Pakistan Cricket Board’s (PCB) 36th Chairman.

    As per details, he has been appointed for a three-year term in a Special Meeting presided over by PCB Election Commissioner, Justice (retd) Sheikh Azmat Saeed.

    Raja, along with Asad Ali Khan, was nominated by PCB Patron, Prime Minister Imran Khan, to the PCB Board of Governors on August 27 for a three-year term.

    Raja is Pakistan’s 18th Test and 12th ODI captain, and played 255 international matches in which he scored 8,674 runs in the period from 1984 to 1997. He has previously served the PCB as its Chief Executive from 2003-2004, has represented Pakistan on the ICC Chief Executives’ Committee and presently sits on the MCC World Cricket Committee.

    Read More – Ehsan Mani resigns, Ramiz Raja will reportedly be the new PCB Chairman

    He has been a successful broadcaster with world’s leading cricket networks and widely regarded as the voice of Pakistan cricket.

    Raja is only the fourth former Pakistan international cricketer to head the PCB after Abdul Hafeez Kardar (1972-1977), Javed Burki (1994-1995) and Ijaz Butt (2008-2011).

    Addressing the BoG following his election, Ramiz Raja said: “I am thankful to all of you for electing me as the PCB Chairman and look forward to working with you to ensure Pakistan cricket continues to thrive and grow stronger, both on and off-the-field.”

  • PCB launches online merchandise programme

    PCB launches online merchandise programme

    To celebrate Pakistan’s rich cricket history and culture, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) announced the launch of its Official Merchandise Store, which will go live on Tuesday, September 14. The passionate Pakistan cricket fans will be able to purchase authentic apparel and accessories at www.shop.pcb.com.pk.

    According to a press release issued by the PCB, the online store will be a one-stop shop for cricket fans in and outside Pakistan where they will be able to purchase customised merchandise, Pakistan national side’s training and travel gear, fan wear, collector’s edition merchandise and hardware accessories with items being regularly added.

    With the launch of the programme, PCB will also be introducing the first in its Legacy Series line of merchandise items. The identity of the legacy item will be revealed on September 14, and is sure to be a pleasant surprise to Pakistani cricket fans the world over.

    With ease of access to fans forming the core of the merchandise programme’s philosophy, PCB will provide shipment across the world helping the fans to #WearYourPassion. Fans in Pakistan will get their purchased items delivered at their doorsteps free of cost.

    Chief Operating Officer Salman Naseer said: “The Pakistan Cricket Board is proud to launch its Official Merchandise Store, which will provide another avenue to the fans to connect with Pakistan Cricket. It is a dream of every fan to be able to get hold of their team’s authentic apparel and this online store will help fulfil it.”

    “As Pakistan enjoys a rich cricketing history and its legacy is deeply imprinted on the game, we will be launching the online store with the PCB Legacy Series. Over time, PCB will continue to add more offerings for the fans to ensure their visits to our online store become a habit,” he added

    He went on to say: “With this launch, we are hopeful that the PCB will be able to introduce a sub-culture of authentic merchandise buying in the country through which the passionate Pakistan fans will be able to show support for their team.”

  • ‘Waqt par gadhay ko bhi baap bana laina chahiye,’ says Wasim Akram after Amir announces availability

    ‘Waqt par gadhay ko bhi baap bana laina chahiye,’ says Wasim Akram after Amir announces availability

    Former Pakistan speedster Wasim Akram is undoubtedly one of the biggest stars produced by Pakistan. The Sultan of Swing is rated highly by experts around the globe, not only for his cricketing achievements but for his understanding of the game as well. While talking about Mohammad Amir, Akram said that he is an experienced bowler and can be used if needed.

    As the recently announced T20 World Cup squad of Pakistan attracted a lot of criticism, it was impossible to ignore the views of someone like Akram. For this purpose, ARY News invited the former captain for a telephonic conversation to shed light on the squad announced by chief selector Mohammad Wasim on Tuesday.

    Interestingly, Akram backed the squad announced and requested everyone to stop the “harsh criticism on players such as Asif Ali and Azam Khan.”

    When Waseem Badami asked him about Amir, the former cricketer said: “As an ex-cricketer of Pakistan, I would want my country to win. Waqt par gadhay ko bhi baap bana laina chahiye, aggar uski zaroorat hai to usko rakho. [One has to pretend to honour even a fool when in need. If he is needed then he can be included.]”

    He also pointed out one of his good performances in Pakistan Super League (PSL) for Karachi Kings.

    The host pointed out that team can be changed before October 10 and Amir had issues with Waqar Younis and Misbah-ul-Haq and now that they are gone, is there any chance of him to be included in the T20 World Cup Squad? Akram said that there is no time left to review on including Amir in the team. “I think it’s too late for Amir to come back in the squad, in my opinion.”

    Badami insisted that the reason for his (Amir’s) retirement — Misbah and Waqar — are gone and they announced yesterday and now he is announcing about his availability, he can be included in the squad then. Akram said: “I can understand Waseem but the team has been announced now. But we don’t know who will be the new coach and if something exceptional happens and it depends on ifs and buts that which coach will come. Micky Arthur is one of the options and England’s Peter Moores is also a good option.”

    Read More – Misbah, Waqar resign from coaching positions ahead of T20 World Cup

    Meanwhile, the Pakistan One-Day squad alongside support staff members have departed for Islamabad from Lahore via bus. Team manager Mansoor Rana, interim Head Coach Saqlain Mushtaq and Assistant Coach Abdul Razzaq as well as trainer Drikus Saaiman are travelling with the group.

  • ‘Babar Azam firmly behind squad for T20 World Cup’: Wasim Khan

    ‘Babar Azam firmly behind squad for T20 World Cup’: Wasim Khan

    The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB)’s Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Wasim Khan has brushed aside the notion that skipper Babar Azam is unhappy with the squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup.

    In a statement issued by the PCB, Wasim said that Babar is fully behind the direction of Pakistan cricket.

    “It has come to our notice that factually incorrect reports are circulating about the Pakistan national squad environment. The squad for the upcoming international assignments has been announced and our captain Babar Azam is fully behind the direction that is being taken,” said Wasim.

    “It is important that collectively we get firmly behind the squad so that they have the stability, backing and focus they need prior to going into the ICC T20 World Cup next month,” he added.

    Since the announcement of squad, multiple local media reports had claimed that Babar was unhappy with the team selected for the mega event and had even called Ramiz Raja to express his grievances.

    Read More – Misbah, Waqar resign from coaching positions ahead of T20 World Cup

    Wasim also opened up about the “healthy and positive meeting” between the Pakistan squad and Ramiz Raja, who is likely to be PCB’s next chairman.

    “On Tuesday afternoon, some of the players had a healthy and positive meeting with former Pakistan captain and member of the PCB Board of Governors, Ramiz Raja, in which there was a consensus on the brand of cricket that needs to be played in the upcoming series and beyond,” he concluded.

  • Misbah, Waqar resign from coaching positions ahead of T20 World Cup

    Misbah, Waqar resign from coaching positions ahead of T20 World Cup

    Pakistan men’s national cricket team head coach Misbah-ul-Haq and bowling coach Waqar Younis have stepped down from their respective roles, announced the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) on Monday.

    According to a press release issued by the PCB, the two coaches communicated their decisions to the PCB late Monday morning.

    With the New Zealand side due to arrive on September 11 for three ODI and five T20I series and the Pakistan side to assemble in Islamabad on September 8, the PCB has appointed Saqlain Mushtaq and Abdul Razzaq as interim coaches for the series, with the team management for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2021 to be appointed in due course.

    As per PCB’s press release, former captain Misbah said: “The quarantine in Jamaica post the West Indies series provided me with an opportunity to reflect on the past 24 months as well as the schedule for international cricket ahead. Considering that I would have had to continue to spend considerable time away from my family and that too in a bio-secure environment, I have decided to step down from the role.”

    “I understand that the timing may not be ideal but I don’t think I am in the right frame of mind for the upcoming challenges and it makes sense for someone fresh to step-in and take the side forward,” said Misbah.

    “The past 24 months have been thoroughly enjoyable and I want to thank my team and the management for their support. I wish the Pakistan cricket team best of luck in the upcoming events and will continue to support them every time they will take the field to represent Pakistan.”

    While Waqar said: “After Misbah shared with me his decision and future plans, it was a straightforward one for me to resign as we had walked into the roles together, had worked collectively as a pair and now also step down together.”

    “Working with the Pakistan bowlers, including the youngsters, has been most satisfying as they have now started to show progress. Bio-secure environments in the past 16 months have had their impact, something we had never experienced during our playing days,” he added.

    “The next eight months will be busy and exciting for the Pakistan team and, like in the past, I will continue to back and cheer them. I want to thank each and every member of the Pakistan cricket team set-up as we stayed united in good and bad days, and hope there will be more brighter days ahead,” said Waqar.

    PCB Chief Executive Wasim Khan said: “The PCB understands and respects Misbah’s decision. Cricket in this unprecedented bio-secure world has not been easy for anyone and Misbah has clearly taken into account the intense six months of non-stop cricket ahead. In the past 24 months, Misbah has given his very best to the team and we wish him well in his future endeavours”.

    “It has been an honourable decision by Waqar and we thank him sincerely for his immense work and commitment over the past two years and wish him the very best in the future,” said Khan.

    “Both Misbah and Waqar have given so much to Pakistan cricket over a long period of time and for that they deserve a huge amount of respect.”

    He further said: “Saqlain Mushtaq and Abdul Razzaq have been appointed as interim coaches for the New Zealand series. Saqlain is the Head of International Player Development at the National High Performance Centre, while Abdul Razzaq’s domestic side won three titles in the 2020-21 season.”

    “Both Saqlain and Razzaq are ready to step-up and are very much looking forward to making important contributions in their coaching roles against New Zealand,” he added.

    Misbah and Waqar were appointed in September 2019 and still had a year each left in their contracts.

  • Ehsan Mani resigns, Ramiz Raja will reportedly be the new PCB Chairman

    Ehsan Mani resigns, Ramiz Raja will reportedly be the new PCB Chairman

    Chairman Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Ehsan Mani has resigned from the post according to reports and the new Chairman will be former cricketer Ramiz Raja.

    As per reports, Mani has told Prime Minister and PCB Patron-in-chief Imran Khan to appoint someone else as he cannot work anymore.

    It must be noted that PM Khan was satisfied with Mani’s performance and insisted that he continues as chairman. They both met for two consecutive days — Monday and Tuesday.

    Ramiz also met the premier on Monday where the two former cricketers discussed the possible candidate for chairmanship and options to improve Pakistan’s cricket.

    As per latest updates, Raja has been given an important post, but there is no official announcement from the board or Raja yet.

  • People congratulate Ramiz Raja on becoming Chairman PCB

    People congratulate Ramiz Raja on becoming Chairman PCB

    Pakistani Twitterati is congratulating former cricketer-turned commentator Ramiz Raja on becoming Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman. Raja is in the running for PCB’s top slot but there is no confirmation yet if he will indeed be appointed or not.

    Journalist Ejaz Wasim Bakhri turned to Twitter and shared a video of Raja’s car entering Prime Minister Imran Khan’s office to meet him.

    https://twitter.com/ejazwasim/status/1429748505908846593?s=20

    While people can be heard saying that look the new chairman is going.

    Taking to Twitter, Fakhar-e-Alam congratulated the former cricketer.

    Many tweeted that he has already become the PCB Chairman.

    https://twitter.com/MalikZamad_/status/1429758835258916874?s=20

    On the other hand, Journalist Shahid Hashmi claimed that Mani will continue as the Board’s chairman.

    In another tweet, Shahid Hashmi said: “As per PCB constitution Mani’s second tenure will be three years but since he doesn’t want to serve the full term a new chairman can come next year.”

    Journalist Absa Komal also shared on Twitter that PM Khan has “selected Ramiz Raja as Chairman PCB.”

    https://twitter.com/AbsaKomal/status/1429796388007780355?s=19

    Meanwhile, it has been reported that members of the PCB’s Board of Governors (BoG) will give votes to the nominated members and the new chairman will be elected. Raja will serve as a board member and then the Chairman will be selected after re-election.

    Ex-Pakistan wicketkeeper-batsman Kamran Akmal has backed Ramiz Raja. Here’s what he said: “He hasn’t been going for commentary duties in the last couple of series and that gave us some signals for the future. A cricketer coming in as a chairman would benefit domestic cricket. It will bring in money.”

    People also shared jokes and memes after this news.