Skipper Babar Azam produced a career-best 196 under immense pressure as Pakistan snatched draw from the jaws of defeat in the second test against Australia on Wednesday.

Chasing a record 506 for an improbable win, Pakistan's best bet was to bat out the final day and Babar led by example as they finished on 443-7, the sixth-highest fourth-innings total of all time.

Babar's majestic knock, which included 21 fours and a six, will be an inspiration for his team heading into the third and final test in Lahore on Monday.

"The plan was to bat session-by-session and build partnerships," the Pakistan captain, who was adjudged player-of-the-match said at the presentation ceremony.

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"It was a team effort, as others chipped in with useful contributions too."

"We tried to be positive and play our shots. The team needed this knock, so I tried to bat for as long as I could."

The hosts were on the back foot after folding for 148 in reply to Australia's massive first innings total of 556-9 at the National Stadium.

The record victory target was never within Pakistan's reach but Babar's marathon 228-run partnership with opener Abdullah Shafique (96) kept them afloat in the contest.

Nathan Lyon (4-112) injected fresh drama in the final session dismissing Babar and Faheem Ashraf with successive deliveries but Mohammad Rizwan's unbeaten 104 helped Pakistan salvage a draw.

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"I'm just really proud of the efforts," Cummins said after Australia were stranded three wickets away from victory.

"The way we batted was fantastic, the way we hunted we took those wickets on day three with reverse swing, that was brilliant as well.

"We were always ahead in the game, so really proud of the boys," added Cummins.

The opening test in Rawalpindi had also ended in a draw.

Skipper Babar Azam produced a career-best 196 under immense pressure as Pakistan snatched draw from the jaws of defeat in the second test against Australia on Wednesday.

Skipper Babar Azam produced a career-best 196 under immense pressure as Pakistan snatched draw from the jaws of defeat in the second test against Australia on Wednesday. Chasing a record 506 for an improbable win, Pakistan's best bet was to bat out the final day and Babar led by example as they finished on 443-7, the sixth-highest fourth-innings total of all time. Babar's majestic knock, which included 21 fours and a six, will be an inspiration for his team heading into the third and final test in Lahore on Monday. "The plan was to bat session-by-session and build partnerships," the Pakistan captain, who was adjudged player-of-the-match said at the presentation ceremony. ALSO READ: ICC Test Rankings: Jasprit Bumrah breaks into top five, Virat Kohli drops to ninth spot "It was a team effort, as others chipped in with useful contributions too." "We tried to be positive and play our shots. The team needed this knock, so I tried to bat for as long as I could." The hosts were on the back foot after folding for 148 in reply to Australia's massive first innings total of 556-9 at the National Stadium. The record victory target was never within Pakistan's reach but Babar's marathon 228-run partnership with opener Abdullah Shafique (96) kept them afloat in the contest. Nathan Lyon (4-112) injected fresh drama in the final session dismissing Babar and Faheem Ashraf with successive deliveries but Mohammad Rizwan's unbeaten 104 helped Pakistan salvage a draw. ALSO READ: Lancashire seamer Saqib Mahmood to make Test debut for England against West Indies in Barbados "I'm just really proud of the efforts," Cummins said after Australia were stranded three wickets away from victory. "The way we batted was fantastic, the way we hunted we took those wickets on day three with reverse swing, that was brilliant as well. "We were always ahead in the game, so really proud of the boys," added Cummins. The opening test in Rawalpindi had also ended in a draw.

Babar Azam, Md Rizwan's heroics helps Pakistan draw 2nd Test against Australia in Karachi

Babar Azam's glorious unbeaten 102 kept Pakistan alive but Australia remained on course for victory in the second test in Karachi on Tuesday.

Set a record victory target of 506, Pakistan lost two quick wickets but Babar would not go down without a fight.

The right-hander combined with opener Abdullah Shafique in a 171-run unbroken partnership for the third wicket in a spectacular rearguard spread over nearly 60 overs.

Pakistan finished day four on 192-2, still 314 behind their target and needing something extraordinary on Wednesday to deny Australia a 1-0 lead in the three-test series.

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Babar's sixth test century contained 12 fours.

Abdullah was batting on 71, which included four fours and a six.

Earlier, Australia batted for 25 minutes on Tuesday before declaring their second innings on 97-2, challenging Pakistan to pull off the greatest fourth-innings chase in test cricket history.

Marnus Labuschagne fell for 44, while his Islamabad-born teammate Usman Khawaja followed his first-innings 160 with an unbeaten 44.

CUMMINS STRIKES

After four maiden overs of pace bowling against Pakistan, Australia captain Pat Cummins unleashed spin from both ends and was rewarded almost immediately.

Nathan Lyon caught opener Imam-ul-Haq (one) plumb in front of the wicket for one in his first over.

Cummins introduced Cameron Green after lunch and the all-rounder responded by ending Azhar Ali`s 54-ball stay with his second delivery.

Azhar (six) ducked under a short delivery that never rose and was given lbw even though replays suggested the ball had brushed his glove before hitting him.

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Azhar had a long chat with Abdullah before he accepted the decision, perhaps wary of burning a second review after Imam had wasted one.

Pakistan had to wait until the 26th over for their first boundary of the innings, when Babar drove Mitchell Swepson past point.

Steve Smith dropped Abdullah, then on 20, in the slip and it proved a costly mistake as the opener closed in on his second hundred of the series.

Babar swept Swepson for two to bring up his first test century in more than two years which earned him a standing ovation from his teammates.

Babar Azam's glorious unbeaten 102 kept Pakistan alive but Australia remained on course for victory in the second test in Karachi on Tuesday. Set a record victory target of 506, Pakistan lost two quick wickets but Babar would not go down without a fight.

Babar Azam's glorious unbeaten 102 kept Pakistan alive but Australia remained on course for victory in the second test in Karachi on Tuesday. Set a record victory target of 506, Pakistan lost two quick wickets but Babar would not go down without a fight. The right-hander combined with opener Abdullah Shafique in a 171-run unbroken partnership for the third wicket in a spectacular rearguard spread over nearly 60 overs. Pakistan finished day four on 192-2, still 314 behind their target and needing something extraordinary on Wednesday to deny Australia a 1-0 lead in the three-test series. ALSO READ: Updated World Test Championship points table after India's 2-0 clean sweep over Sri Lanka Babar's sixth test century contained 12 fours. Abdullah was batting on 71, which included four fours and a six. Earlier, Australia batted for 25 minutes on Tuesday before declaring their second innings on 97-2, challenging Pakistan to pull off the greatest fourth-innings chase in test cricket history. Marnus Labuschagne fell for 44, while his Islamabad-born teammate Usman Khawaja followed his first-innings 160 with an unbeaten 44. CUMMINS STRIKES After four maiden overs of pace bowling against Pakistan, Australia captain Pat Cummins unleashed spin from both ends and was rewarded almost immediately. Nathan Lyon caught opener Imam-ul-Haq (one) plumb in front of the wicket for one in his first over. Cummins introduced Cameron Green after lunch and the all-rounder responded by ending Azhar Ali`s 54-ball stay with his second delivery. Azhar (six) ducked under a short delivery that never rose and was given lbw even though replays suggested the ball had brushed his glove before hitting him. ALSO READ: WATCH: Shaheen Afridi breaks the stumps as he cleans up Marnus Labuschagne with a ripper in 2nd Test Azhar had a long chat with Abdullah before he accepted the decision, perhaps wary of burning a second review after Imam had wasted one. Pakistan had to wait until the 26th over for their first boundary of the innings, when Babar drove Mitchell Swepson past point. Steve Smith dropped Abdullah, then on 20, in the slip and it proved a costly mistake as the opener closed in on his second hundred of the series. Babar swept Swepson for two to bring up his first test century in more than two years which earned him a standing ovation from his teammates.

Babar Azam's century helps Pakistan put a fight against Australia on Day 4 of 2nd Test in Karachi

Australia have dominated Pakistan so far in the ongoing second Test between the two sides at the National Stadium in Karachi. After the drawn first Test in Rawalpindi where only 14 wickets fell over the course of five days with the pitch getting criticised for its poor quality, a similar script seemed to be unfolding in the ongoing second Test in Karachi.

Batting first, Australian batters dominated the proceedings as the visitors rode on Usman Khawaja's brilliant 160 and half-centuries from the likes of Steve Smith (72) and Alex Carey (93) to post a mammoth total of 556/9 (declared) on the board in their first innings. While Pakistan batters were also expected to join the party, Australian bowlers reigned supreme on Day 3.

The Aussie bowlers ran through the Pakistan batting line-up to bundle out the hosts for a paltry 148 in their first innings. Pakistan's top four of Abdullah Shafique, Imam-ul-Haq, Azhar Ali and Babar Azam manage to reach double figures, however, the middle-order failed to deliver. The hosts suffered a terrible collapse with skipper Babar Azam top-scoring with a 36-run-knock.

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Former Pakistan pacer Shoiab Akhtar took a brutal dig at the Pakistan team for their shambolic show with the bat. Akhtar took to Twitter and asked the fans if Pakistan's batting collapse in the Karachi Test was 'entertaining'? Akhtar's tweet was also aimed at those who had criticised the nature of the pitch in Karachi after Australia scored over 500 runs in their first innings.

"Haanji boredom duur ho gaya sab ka including me. 100/7 must be entertaining (Yes, so everyone's boredom is gone now, including me. 100/7 must be entertaining)," Akhtar tweeted.

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Haanji boredom duur ho gaya sab ka including me. 
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Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/knew-it-was-a-draw-after-2-deliveries-wasim-akram-slams-pcb-chief-ramiz-raja-for-poor-pitches-in-pakistan-462143">'Knew it was a draw after 2 deliveries': Akram slams PCB chief Ramiz Raja for poor pitches in Pakistan</a>

Several former Pakistan cricketers including the likes of Wasim Akram, Inzamam-ul-Haq and Danish Kaneria among others have criticised the nature of pitches in Pakistan amidst the ongoing Test series against Australia. After drawing the first Test in Rawalpindi, the hosts are currently in trouble as they find themselves in a spot of bother in the second Test in Karachi.

After bundling Pakistan out for 148 runs in their first innings, Australia scored 98 runs in their second innings to extend their lead to 505 runs before inviting Pakistan to bat in their second innings. The hosts were reduced to 21/2 at stumps on Day 3. Pakistan need a whopping 485 runs in two days&nbsp;to win the game.

Australia have dominated Pakistan so far in the ongoing second Test between the two sides at the National Stadium in Karachi. After the drawn first Test in Rawalpindi where only 14 wickets fell over the course of five days with the pitch getting criticised for its poor quality, a similar script seemed to be unfolding in the ongoing second Test in Karachi.

Australia have dominated Pakistan so far in the ongoing second Test between the two sides at the National Stadium in Karachi. After the drawn first Test in Rawalpindi where only 14 wickets fell over the course of five days with the pitch getting criticised for its poor quality, a similar script seemed to be unfolding in the ongoing second Test in Karachi. Batting first, Australian batters dominated the proceedings as the visitors rode on Usman Khawaja's brilliant 160 and half-centuries from the likes of Steve Smith (72) and Alex Carey (93) to post a mammoth total of 556/9 (declared) on the board in their first innings. While Pakistan batters were also expected to join the party, Australian bowlers reigned supreme on Day 3. The Aussie bowlers ran through the Pakistan batting line-up to bundle out the hosts for a paltry 148 in their first innings. Pakistan's top four of Abdullah Shafique, Imam-ul-Haq, Azhar Ali and Babar Azam manage to reach double figures, however, the middle-order failed to deliver. The hosts suffered a terrible collapse with skipper Babar Azam top-scoring with a 36-run-knock. Also Read: Pakistan in trouble as Australia stretch lead to 489 on Day 3 of 2nd Test in Karachi Former Pakistan pacer Shoiab Akhtar took a brutal dig at the Pakistan team for their shambolic show with the bat. Akhtar took to Twitter and asked the fans if Pakistan's batting collapse in the Karachi Test was 'entertaining'? Akhtar's tweet was also aimed at those who had criticised the nature of the pitch in Karachi after Australia scored over 500 runs in their first innings. "Haanji boredom duur ho gaya sab ka including me. 100/7 must be entertaining (Yes, so everyone's boredom is gone now, including me. 100/7 must be entertaining)," Akhtar tweeted. Haanji boredom duur ho gaya sab ka including me. 100/7 must be entertaining — Shoaib Akhtar (@shoaib100mph) March 14, 2022 × Also Read: 'Knew it was a draw after 2 deliveries': Akram slams PCB chief Ramiz Raja for poor pitches in Pakistan Several former Pakistan cricketers including the likes of Wasim Akram, Inzamam-ul-Haq and Danish Kaneria among others have criticised the nature of pitches in Pakistan amidst the ongoing Test series against Australia. After drawing the first Test in Rawalpindi, the hosts are currently in trouble as they find themselves in a spot of bother in the second Test in Karachi. After bundling Pakistan out for 148 runs in their first innings, Australia scored 98 runs in their second innings to extend their lead to 505 runs before inviting Pakistan to bat in their second innings. The hosts were reduced to 21/2 at stumps on Day 3. Pakistan need a whopping 485 runs in two days to win the game.

'100/7 must be entertaining': Shoaib Akhtar takes a dig at Babar & Co. as Pakistan collapse against Australia

Former Pakistan captain Waqar Younis has slammed Babar Azam &amp; Co. for their 'ridiculous' tactics in the ongoing second Test against Australia at the National Stadium in Karachi. Australia have dominated Pakistan so far in the second Test as the visitors have already crossed the 400-run mark in their first innings after a brilliant century from Usman Khawaja.

The Pakistan-born Australian opener played a sublime knock of 160 runs off 369 deliveries laced with 15 fours and a solitary six to set the stage for a big total for his side. Khawaja was well complimented by the likes of Steve Smith (72) and Alex Carey, who also notched up a half-century is currently unbeaten out in the middle.

As Pakistan bowlers struggled to take wickets on Day and Day 2 of the second Test in Karachi, legendary pacer Younis questioned the hosts' tactics. While speaking on commentary, Younis said it felt like Pakistan were playing for a draw right from Day 1 of the second Test and that their tactics have been 'ridiculous'.

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"The tactics I'm seeing at the moment is like we're looking for a draw on the first day. It's ridiculous," Younis said on commentary as he slammed Pakistan.

Khawaja and other Aussie batters dominated the proceedings on Day 1 of the Karachi Test as the left-hander's hundred guided the visitors to 251/3 at stumps. Khawaja continued from where he had left on Day 3 and added a 54-run stand for the fourth wicket with Nathan Lyon (38) before adding another 43 runs for the fifth wicket with Travis Head (23).

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After Khawaja's dismissal, half-centurion Carey combined with Cameron Green (28) for a 45-run stand for the seventh wicket to take Australia past the 400-run mark. The visitors are in a strong position in the game and will be looking to bowl out Pakistan quickly once they invite the hosts to bat in their first innings.

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Former Pakistan captain Waqar Younis has slammed Babar Azam & Co. for their 'ridiculous' tactics in the ongoing second Test against Australia at the National Stadium in Karachi.

Former Pakistan captain Waqar Younis has slammed Babar Azam & Co. for their 'ridiculous' tactics in the ongoing second Test against Australia at the National Stadium in Karachi. Australia have dominated Pakistan so far in the second Test as the visitors have already crossed the 400-run mark in their first innings after a brilliant century from Usman Khawaja. The Pakistan-born Australian opener played a sublime knock of 160 runs off 369 deliveries laced with 15 fours and a solitary six to set the stage for a big total for his side. Khawaja was well complimented by the likes of Steve Smith (72) and Alex Carey, who also notched up a half-century is currently unbeaten out in the middle. As Pakistan bowlers struggled to take wickets on Day and Day 2 of the second Test in Karachi, legendary pacer Younis questioned the hosts' tactics. While speaking on commentary, Younis said it felt like Pakistan were playing for a draw right from Day 1 of the second Test and that their tactics have been 'ridiculous'. Also Read: Would they have done it against India? Brathwaite slams England for 'disrespectful' tactics vs West Indies "The tactics I'm seeing at the moment is like we're looking for a draw on the first day. It's ridiculous," Younis said on commentary as he slammed Pakistan. Khawaja and other Aussie batters dominated the proceedings on Day 1 of the Karachi Test as the left-hander's hundred guided the visitors to 251/3 at stumps. Khawaja continued from where he had left on Day 3 and added a 54-run stand for the fourth wicket with Nathan Lyon (38) before adding another 43 runs for the fifth wicket with Travis Head (23). Also Read: 'Are you in jail?': Indian fans troll PCB as Marnus Labuschagne shares pic of his 'daal and roti' meal After Khawaja's dismissal, half-centurion Carey combined with Cameron Green (28) for a 45-run stand for the seventh wicket to take Australia past the 400-run mark. The visitors are in a strong position in the game and will be looking to bowl out Pakistan quickly once they invite the hosts to bat in their first innings.

'Looking for a draw on Day 1': Waqar Younis slams Babar & Co. as Australia dominate Pakistan in 2nd Test

Former Pakistan pacer Aaqib Javed has heaped praise on Shaheen Afridi and said the left-arm fast bowler reminds him of former captain Imran Khan. Afridi recently led his side Lahore Qalandars to a memorable triumph in the Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2022. Lahore defeated Multan Sultans in the final to lift their maiden PSL trophy.

Afridi earned applause from all corners for his remarkable leadership qualities as he led the side by example. The fast bowler delivered consistent performances with the ball and led the side extremely well to help them lift the PSL trophy. Javed, who is the head coach of Lahore Qalandars in the PSL, made a bold claim backing Afridi to become Pakistan's future captain.

Afridi, who is one of the best young pacers in the world at present, has already played 22 Tests and 28 ODIs for Pakistan and has become an integral member of the squad across all formats. He has also shown his leadership skills in the PSL and is touted to have a promising future ahead.

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Javed, who has observed Afridi's growth from close quarters being his head coach at Lahore Qalandars, said the left-arm pacer has natural leadership qualities and reminds him of Imran Khan. He expects Afridi to take over Pakistan's captaincy responsibilities from current skipper Babaz Azam in the future.

“Shaheen has natural leadership talent and this is something we figured out two years ago. This is why we promoted him as vice-captain. I personally don’t think that age has any factor when it comes to leadership. For a captain, it is important to be committed and honest; these two things are present in Shaheen in abundance,” Javed told Cricket Pakistan.

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“When we went to meet Imran Khan, I told him that Shaheen reminded me of his traits and I said that he will make us all proud. I am waiting for that time and the time will come soon,” he added.

Khan, who is also the current Prime Minister of Pakistan, is the only cricket captain to have led the team to a World Cup win. Imran-led Pakistan lifted the World Cup in 1992. Pakistan have since failed to lift the World Cup title again as they continue to wait for their second triumph.

Former Pakistan pacer Aaqib Javed has heaped praise on Shaheen Afridi and said the left-arm fast bowler reminds him of former captain Imran Khan. Afridi recently led his side Lahore Qalandars to a memorable triumph in the Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2022.

Former Pakistan pacer Aaqib Javed has heaped praise on Shaheen Afridi and said the left-arm fast bowler reminds him of former captain Imran Khan. Afridi recently led his side Lahore Qalandars to a memorable triumph in the Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2022. Lahore defeated Multan Sultans in the final to lift their maiden PSL trophy. Afridi earned applause from all corners for his remarkable leadership qualities as he led the side by example. The fast bowler delivered consistent performances with the ball and led the side extremely well to help them lift the PSL trophy. Javed, who is the head coach of Lahore Qalandars in the PSL, made a bold claim backing Afridi to become Pakistan's future captain. Afridi, who is one of the best young pacers in the world at present, has already played 22 Tests and 28 ODIs for Pakistan and has become an integral member of the squad across all formats. He has also shown his leadership skills in the PSL and is touted to have a promising future ahead. Also Read: BCCI set to earn a whopping Rs 8 billion from IPL 2022 sponsorship and other deals - Report Javed, who has observed Afridi's growth from close quarters being his head coach at Lahore Qalandars, said the left-arm pacer has natural leadership qualities and reminds him of Imran Khan. He expects Afridi to take over Pakistan's captaincy responsibilities from current skipper Babaz Azam in the future. “Shaheen has natural leadership talent and this is something we figured out two years ago. This is why we promoted him as vice-captain. I personally don’t think that age has any factor when it comes to leadership. For a captain, it is important to be committed and honest; these two things are present in Shaheen in abundance,” Javed told Cricket Pakistan. Also Read: 'Virat's bad patch has gone for too long': Ex-Pakistan captain backs Kohli to end his century drought soon “When we went to meet Imran Khan, I told him that Shaheen reminded me of his traits and I said that he will make us all proud. I am waiting for that time and the time will come soon,” he added. Khan, who is also the current Prime Minister of Pakistan, is the only cricket captain to have led the team to a World Cup win. Imran-led Pakistan lifted the World Cup in 1992. Pakistan have since failed to lift the World Cup title again as they continue to wait for their second triumph.

‘He reminds me of Imran Khan’ – Aaqib Javed names Pakistan star who can replace Babar Azam as captain

Babar Azam-led Pakistan locked horns with Australia in the first Test at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, Rawalpindi on March 04. The match was a run-fest that produced as many as&nbsp;1,187 runs with only 14 wickets falling overall.&nbsp;

Thus, the historic Test between Pakistan and Australia was a dull affair and ended in&nbsp;a tame draw with no even contest between bat and ball. The pitch for the three-match series opener was, thus, heavily criticised on social media platforms as it wasn't a perfect endorsement for Test cricket. Following the criticism, Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman Ramiz Raja came forward and defended the Rawalpindi pitch.

"A drawn match is never a good advertisement for Test cricket, and I totally understand that we need to get a result in five days these days, and we get it 90% [of the time], but I want to remind you of 2-3 things," Ramiz said in a video message posted on PCB's official Twitter handle.

"It takes 5-6 months to prepare pitches, and during the off-season, you will see - soil is coming from Australia; we've experimented, consulted soil experts and prepared soils, and we will redo 50-60 pitches all over Pakistan once our season ends in March-April. " He further opined, "I understand the fans' frustration and it would have been great if there was a result in this Test match. But do remember that this is a three-Test series and there is a lot of cricket left to be played. We cannot make a fast or bouncy pitch for the heck of it and put the conditions in Australia's lap. It is important that when we play at home, we play according to our strengths."

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Following Ramiz's comments, ex-Pakistan spinner Danish Kaneria has slammed the former Men in Green captain. Speaking on his Youtube channel, he said,&nbsp;"What Ramiz Raja said today was nothing but a lame excuse and has misled Pakistani fans with the same. He has lied and has betrayed the fans. It's okay, he was busy in his son's wedding. He attended the wedding but then saw there was a lot of noise surrounding the dead wicket. The Test grew a lot of eyeballs as Australia was touring Pakistan after these many years, but what wicket did they produce for that?," questioned the tainted cricketer.

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Kaneria also slammed Babar and said, "What were you afraid of? You had bowlers, but you didn't play them. You have a weak captain who cannot be aggressive while leading the side. It was such a wicket that even Ramiz Raja would have scored runs on it even at this age."

The second and penultimate Test between both sides will commence on March 12 at&nbsp;National Stadium, Karachi.

Babar Azam-led Pakistan locked horns with Australia in the first Test at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, Rawalpindi on March 04. The match was a run-fest that produced as many as 1,187 runs with only 14 wickets falling overall.

Babar Azam-led Pakistan locked horns with Australia in the first Test at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, Rawalpindi on March 04. The match was a run-fest that produced as many as 1,187 runs with only 14 wickets falling overall. Thus, the historic Test between Pakistan and Australia was a dull affair and ended in a tame draw with no even contest between bat and ball. The pitch for the three-match series opener was, thus, heavily criticised on social media platforms as it wasn't a perfect endorsement for Test cricket. Following the criticism, Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman Ramiz Raja came forward and defended the Rawalpindi pitch. "A drawn match is never a good advertisement for Test cricket, and I totally understand that we need to get a result in five days these days, and we get it 90% [of the time], but I want to remind you of 2-3 things," Ramiz said in a video message posted on PCB's official Twitter handle. "It takes 5-6 months to prepare pitches, and during the off-season, you will see - soil is coming from Australia; we've experimented, consulted soil experts and prepared soils, and we will redo 50-60 pitches all over Pakistan once our season ends in March-April. " He further opined, "I understand the fans' frustration and it would have been great if there was a result in this Test match. But do remember that this is a three-Test series and there is a lot of cricket left to be played. We cannot make a fast or bouncy pitch for the heck of it and put the conditions in Australia's lap. It is important that when we play at home, we play according to our strengths." ALSO READ | 'Understand fans' frustration': Ramiz Raja reacts as PCB gets slammed for 'flat' pitch in Rawalpindi Test Following Ramiz's comments, ex-Pakistan spinner Danish Kaneria has slammed the former Men in Green captain. Speaking on his Youtube channel, he said, "What Ramiz Raja said today was nothing but a lame excuse and has misled Pakistani fans with the same. He has lied and has betrayed the fans. It's okay, he was busy in his son's wedding. He attended the wedding but then saw there was a lot of noise surrounding the dead wicket. The Test grew a lot of eyeballs as Australia was touring Pakistan after these many years, but what wicket did they produce for that?," questioned the tainted cricketer. ALSO READ | Rohit Sharma to join Virat Kohli, MS Dhoni in elite list in India's pink-ball Test vs Sri Lanka Kaneria also slammed Babar and said, "What were you afraid of? You had bowlers, but you didn't play them. You have a weak captain who cannot be aggressive while leading the side. It was such a wicket that even Ramiz Raja would have scored runs on it even at this age." The second and penultimate Test between both sides will commence on March 12 at National Stadium, Karachi.

He has lied, betrayed fans: Kaneria slams PCB chairman Ramiz Raja after his remarks on Rawalpindi pitch

International Cricket Council (ICC) on Thursday rated the pitch at the Pindi Cricket Stadium in Rawalpindi that was used for the first Test between Pakistan and Australia as "below average". Due to this rating, the venue has received one demerit point under the ICC Pitch and Outfield Monitoring Process."The character of the pitch hardly changed over the course of five days and that there has been no deterioration apart from the bounce getting slightly lower. The pitch did not have a great deal of pace and bounce in it for the seamers nor assisted the spinners as the match progressed," Ranjan Madugalle of the Emirates ICC Elite Panel of Match Referees stated in an official statement.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/he-has-lied-betrayed-fans-kaneria-slams-pcb-chairman-ramiz-raja-after-his-remarks-on-rawalpindi-pitch-460984">He has lied, betrayed fans: Kaneria slams PCB chairman Ramiz Raja after his remarks on Rawalpindi pitch</a>

"In my view, this does not represent an even contest between bat and ball. Therefore, in keeping with the ICC guidelines, I rate this pitch as below average," he added. The first Test between Pakistan and Australia ended in a draw on Tuesday. Pakistan openers Imam-ul-Haq and Abdullah Shafique scored unbeaten centuries as Pakistan scored 252 without losing any wicket on the fifth and final day. Both the teams will be squaring off for the second Test of the three-match series on Saturday at National Stadium, Karachi.

International Cricket Council (ICC) on Thursday rated the pitch at the Pindi Cricket Stadium in Rawalpindi that was used for the first Test between Pakistan and Australia as "below average".

International Cricket Council (ICC) on Thursday rated the pitch at the Pindi Cricket Stadium in Rawalpindi that was used for the first Test between Pakistan and Australia as "below average". Due to this rating, the venue has received one demerit point under the ICC Pitch and Outfield Monitoring Process."The character of the pitch hardly changed over the course of five days and that there has been no deterioration apart from the bounce getting slightly lower. The pitch did not have a great deal of pace and bounce in it for the seamers nor assisted the spinners as the match progressed," Ranjan Madugalle of the Emirates ICC Elite Panel of Match Referees stated in an official statement. ALSO READ | He has lied, betrayed fans: Kaneria slams PCB chairman Ramiz Raja after his remarks on Rawalpindi pitch "In my view, this does not represent an even contest between bat and ball. Therefore, in keeping with the ICC guidelines, I rate this pitch as below average," he added. The first Test between Pakistan and Australia ended in a draw on Tuesday. Pakistan openers Imam-ul-Haq and Abdullah Shafique scored unbeaten centuries as Pakistan scored 252 without losing any wicket on the fifth and final day. Both the teams will be squaring off for the second Test of the three-match series on Saturday at National Stadium, Karachi.

Pak vs Aus: Amid criticism, ICC rates Rawalpindi pitch as 'below average', venue receives one demerit point

Virat Kohli remains a big name in world cricket. The 33-year-old recently became the 12th Indian cricketer to enter the 100-Test club when Rohit Sharma's Team India locked horns with Sri Lanka in the two-match series opener in Mohali.&nbsp;

Kohli contributed with a well-made 76-ball 45, however, once again missed out on scoring a triple-figure knock. Thus, he also couldn't&nbsp;end his two-year-long century drought at the international level. The wait for Kohli's international century continues as the right-hander has failed to deliver as per his credentails despite crossing the fifty-run mark on several occasions across formats (since his last ton&nbsp;in late 2019).

The cricketing fraternity, thus, continues to wait for Kohli's century and the cameraman in the ongoing Pakistan vs Australia 1st Test caught hold of two fans, with one of them having a special message for the Indian star batter.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-would-say-just-how-much-i-love-him-ricky-ponting-breaks-down-as-he-recalls-late-shane-warne-460021">I would say just how much I love him: Ricky Ponting breaks down as he recalls late Shane Warne</a>

One of the banners read that the fan really wanted&nbsp;Kohli to break his century drought and get to&nbsp;his 71st&nbsp;international ton&nbsp;in Pakistan. On the other hand,&nbsp;the other fan's banner read, "Biggest Match, 23rd Oct 2022, IND vs PAK (T20WC), Rohit v Shaheen."

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Some Virat Kohli fans have made a wish during Rawalpindi Test at Pindi Cricket Stadium <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PAKvAUS?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PAKvAUS</a> <a href="https://t.co/mrKEaPFQEe">pic.twitter.com/mrKEaPFQEe</a>
— Arfa Feroz Zake (@ArfaSays_) <a href="https://twitter.com/ArfaSays_/status/1500414935796441093?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 6, 2022</a></blockquote>
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ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-top-earners-to-players-with-big-pay-cuts-bccis-new-central-contracts-list-for-2021-22-459987">From top earners to players with big pay cuts: BCCI's new central contracts list for 2021-22</a>

For the unversed, another fan had&nbsp;a banner-- during PSL 2022 --&nbsp;in which he expressed his desire&nbsp;to see Kohli play on their home soil and score a hundred.&nbsp;

With the whole cricketing world waiting for Kohli's next ton, it will be interesting to see if he gets there in India's second and final Test versus Sri Lanka, commencing on March 12&nbsp;at M Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru.

Meanwhile, Pakistan-Australia's first Test is heading for a dull draw after the visitors came close to Babar Azam &amp; Co.'s first-innings total at stumps on Day 4, on Monday (March 07).

Virat Kohli remains a big name in world cricket. The 33-year-old recently became the 12th Indian cricketer to enter the 100-Test club when Rohit Sharma's Team India locked horns with Sri Lanka in the two-match series opener in Mohali.

Virat Kohli remains a big name in world cricket. The 33-year-old recently became the 12th Indian cricketer to enter the 100-Test club when Rohit Sharma's Team India locked horns with Sri Lanka in the two-match series opener in Mohali. Kohli contributed with a well-made 76-ball 45, however, once again missed out on scoring a triple-figure knock. Thus, he also couldn't end his two-year-long century drought at the international level. The wait for Kohli's international century continues as the right-hander has failed to deliver as per his credentails despite crossing the fifty-run mark on several occasions across formats (since his last ton in late 2019). The cricketing fraternity, thus, continues to wait for Kohli's century and the cameraman in the ongoing Pakistan vs Australia 1st Test caught hold of two fans, with one of them having a special message for the Indian star batter. ALSO READ | I would say just how much I love him: Ricky Ponting breaks down as he recalls late Shane Warne One of the banners read that the fan really wanted Kohli to break his century drought and get to his 71st international ton in Pakistan. On the other hand, the other fan's banner read, "Biggest Match, 23rd Oct 2022, IND vs PAK (T20WC), Rohit v Shaheen." Some Virat Kohli fans have made a wish during Rawalpindi Test at Pindi Cricket Stadium #PAKvAUS pic.twitter.com/mrKEaPFQEe — Arfa Feroz Zake (@ArfaSays_) March 6, 2022 × ALSO READ | From top earners to players with big pay cuts: BCCI's new central contracts list for 2021-22 For the unversed, another fan had a banner-- during PSL 2022 -- in which he expressed his desire to see Kohli play on their home soil and score a hundred. With the whole cricketing world waiting for Kohli's next ton, it will be interesting to see if he gets there in India's second and final Test versus Sri Lanka, commencing on March 12 at M Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru. Meanwhile, Pakistan-Australia's first Test is heading for a dull draw after the visitors came close to Babar Azam & Co.'s first-innings total at stumps on Day 4, on Monday (March 07).

We want your 71st century in Pakistan: Fan's message for Virat Kohli wins hearts

Australia are set to kick off their historic tour of Pakistan with the commencement of the series opener of the three Tests, which will get underway on March 04 in Rawalpindi. For the unversed, Australia are touring Pakistan after a long gap of 24 years. The last time when&nbsp;the Aussies visited the Asian country, Mark Taylor-led visitors had won the three Tests 1-0.

Pat Cummins-led Australia is coming to the series on the back of their impressive Ashes 2021/22 edition win over Joe Root's England at home. On the other hand, Babar Azam &amp; Co. remain a daunting force at home and will give the visitors a tough challenge. All eyes will be on the likes of David Warner, Cummins, Josh Hazlewood, Steve Smith, Nathan Lyon, Babar, Mohammad Rizwan, Shaheen Afridi, etc. in what promises to be an enthralling series on Pakistan soil.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pcb-introduces-benaud-qadir-trophy-to-celebrate-australias-first-test-series-in-pakistan-in-24-years-458173">PCB introduces Benaud-Qadir Trophy to celebrate Australia's first Test series in Pakistan in 24 years</a>

Here's everything to know about the squads, streaming, schedule and telecast details before the Test series:

Squads

Pakistan Test squad:&nbsp;Babar Azam (captain), Mohammad Rizwan (vice-captain), Abdullah Shafique, Azhar Ali, Faheem Ashraf, Fawad Alam, Haris Rauf, Hasan Ali, Imam-ul-Haq, Mohammad Nawaz, Nauman Ali, Sajid Khan, Saud Shakeel, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Shan Masood, Zahid Mahmood

Australia Test squad:&nbsp;Pat Cummins (c), Ashton Agar, Scott Boland, Alex Carey, Cameron Green, Marcus Harris, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Nathan Lyon, Mitchell Marsh, Michael Neser, Steve Smith, Mitchell Starc, Mitchell Swepson, David Warner

Schedule

March 04-08: Pakistan vs Australia, 1st Test at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, Rawalpindi

March 12-16: Pakistan vs Australia, 2nd Test at National Stadium, Karachi

March 20-24: Pakistan vs Australia, 3rd Test at Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore

Telecast and streaming details

The Test series will commence at 10:30 AM IST.&nbsp;The ardent cricket fans&nbsp;can watch the high-voltage series live on Sony&nbsp;Six &amp; Sony Six HD.&nbsp;

Australia are set to kick off their historic tour of Pakistan with the commencement of the series opener of the three Tests, which will get underway on March 04 in Rawalpindi.

Australia are set to kick off their historic tour of Pakistan with the commencement of the series opener of the three Tests, which will get underway on March 04 in Rawalpindi. For the unversed, Australia are touring Pakistan after a long gap of 24 years. The last time when the Aussies visited the Asian country, Mark Taylor-led visitors had won the three Tests 1-0. Pat Cummins-led Australia is coming to the series on the back of their impressive Ashes 2021/22 edition win over Joe Root's England at home. On the other hand, Babar Azam & Co. remain a daunting force at home and will give the visitors a tough challenge. All eyes will be on the likes of David Warner, Cummins, Josh Hazlewood, Steve Smith, Nathan Lyon, Babar, Mohammad Rizwan, Shaheen Afridi, etc. in what promises to be an enthralling series on Pakistan soil. ALSO READ | PCB introduces Benaud-Qadir Trophy to celebrate Australia's first Test series in Pakistan in 24 years Here's everything to know about the squads, streaming, schedule and telecast details before the Test series: Squads Pakistan Test squad: Babar Azam (captain), Mohammad Rizwan (vice-captain), Abdullah Shafique, Azhar Ali, Faheem Ashraf, Fawad Alam, Haris Rauf, Hasan Ali, Imam-ul-Haq, Mohammad Nawaz, Nauman Ali, Sajid Khan, Saud Shakeel, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Shan Masood, Zahid Mahmood Australia Test squad: Pat Cummins (c), Ashton Agar, Scott Boland, Alex Carey, Cameron Green, Marcus Harris, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Nathan Lyon, Mitchell Marsh, Michael Neser, Steve Smith, Mitchell Starc, Mitchell Swepson, David Warner Schedule March 04-08: Pakistan vs Australia, 1st Test at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, Rawalpindi March 12-16: Pakistan vs Australia, 2nd Test at National Stadium, Karachi March 20-24: Pakistan vs Australia, 3rd Test at Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore Telecast and streaming details The Test series will commence at 10:30 AM IST. The ardent cricket fans can watch the high-voltage series live on Sony Six & Sony Six HD.

Pakistan vs Australia Test series: Everything to know about squads, schedule, telecast, streaming details

The legendary Sir Viv Richards has hailed Babar Azam as an inspiration to young cricketers around the globe. Babar has witnessed a remarkable rise in international cricket over the last few years as he has gone on to establish his credentials as one of the best batters in the world across all formats of the game. He has also proven to be a great leader since taking over as Pakistan's captain across formats.

Babar was lauded for his terrific leadership qualities after leading Pakistan to the semi-final of the T20 World Cup 2021 last year. Over the years Babar has earned the praise from several greats of the game and continues to be one of the most consistent performers for the Men in Green across all formats.

Richards, who has observed Babar's growth from close quarters having been involved in the Pakistan Super League (PSL), recently compared him to legendary boxer Muhammad Ali. Ali, who is regarded as the greatest boxer of all time, was known for his powerful presence both on and off the ring. Richards believes Babar has similar qualities and is a class act on the cricket field.

"Babar reminds me of Muhammad Ali; he is that classy sort of a boxer, he doesn't want to knock you out too quickly. But you know when the match is over, you will be bruised because Babar never stops jabbing you. He's a class act," Richards, one of the greatest batters of all time, was quoted as saying by Cricket Pakistan.

"Any young players looking to take inspiration from players, take some from Babar because he doesn't try and hit every ball for six. Instead, he is all about finding gaps. Babar is one of the best in achieving this," he added.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/want-to-see-your-century-in-pakistan-fans-message-for-virat-kohli-goes-viral-during-psl-2022-454359">'Want to see your century in Pakistan': Fan's message for Virat Kohli goes viral during PSL 2022</a>

Last year, Babar became the first-ever Pakistan captain to lead the Men in Green to a victory against arch-rivals India in a World Cup match. Pakistan had lost against India in every single World Cup meeting before their clash in the T20 World Cup last year. However, Babar brought an end to the winless streak as he led his side to a dominant ten-wicket win against India in Dubai.

&nbsp;

The legendary Sir Viv Richards has hailed Babar Azam as an inspiration to young cricketers around the globe. Babar has witnessed a remarkable rise in international cricket over the last few years as he has gone on to establish his credentials as one of the best batters in the world across all formats of the game.

The legendary Sir Viv Richards has hailed Babar Azam as an inspiration to young cricketers around the globe. Babar has witnessed a remarkable rise in international cricket over the last few years as he has gone on to establish his credentials as one of the best batters in the world across all formats of the game. He has also proven to be a great leader since taking over as Pakistan's captain across formats. Babar was lauded for his terrific leadership qualities after leading Pakistan to the semi-final of the T20 World Cup 2021 last year. Over the years Babar has earned the praise from several greats of the game and continues to be one of the most consistent performers for the Men in Green across all formats. Richards, who has observed Babar's growth from close quarters having been involved in the Pakistan Super League (PSL), recently compared him to legendary boxer Muhammad Ali. Ali, who is regarded as the greatest boxer of all time, was known for his powerful presence both on and off the ring. Richards believes Babar has similar qualities and is a class act on the cricket field. "Babar reminds me of Muhammad Ali; he is that classy sort of a boxer, he doesn't want to knock you out too quickly. But you know when the match is over, you will be bruised because Babar never stops jabbing you. He's a class act," Richards, one of the greatest batters of all time, was quoted as saying by Cricket Pakistan. "Any young players looking to take inspiration from players, take some from Babar because he doesn't try and hit every ball for six. Instead, he is all about finding gaps. Babar is one of the best in achieving this," he added. Also Read: 'Want to see your century in Pakistan': Fan's message for Virat Kohli goes viral during PSL 2022 Last year, Babar became the first-ever Pakistan captain to lead the Men in Green to a victory against arch-rivals India in a World Cup match. Pakistan had lost against India in every single World Cup meeting before their clash in the T20 World Cup last year. However, Babar brought an end to the winless streak as he led his side to a dominant ten-wicket win against India in Dubai.

'He reminds me of Muhammad Ali': Sir Viv Richards compares Pakistan cricketer to legendary boxer

T20s remain the flavour of the cricketing season as a lot of action in the shortest format is taking place across the globe. Among franchise cricket, Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2022 edition is gaining a lot of eyeballs.

The Babar Azam-led Karachi Kings are enduring one of their worst-ever seasons in the ongoing edition. At present, they have lost their first eight matches&nbsp;and are&nbsp;lying at the bottom in the points table. During Babar &amp; Co.'s previous clash, versus the Multan Sultans, an animated discussion between Captain Babar and head coach Wasim Akram made the headlines during the last over of the match with the Sultans needing 7 off the five&nbsp;balls. The video of the same also went viral in no time.

After the video has made a lot of noise on social media platform Twitter, the former Pakistani pacer Wasim Akram reacted to the hullabaloo. Here's what he wrote:

"Hello ! Surprised to see reactions on my talking to Babar at the boundary last night. What I was saying was ‘why our bowlers are not bowling yorkers or slower ones offside off’.nothing else . Babar is a wonderful boy and has tried his best. And what he wants for dinner," Akram said in his tweet.&nbsp;

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Hello ! Surprised to see reactions on my talking to Babar at the boundary last night. What I was saying was ‘why our bowlers are not bowling yorkers or slower ones offside off’.nothing else . Babar is a wonderful boy and has tried his best. And what he wants for dinner 🥘 1/2
— Wasim Akram (@wasimakramlive) <a href="https://twitter.com/wasimakramlive/status/1494217210658701315?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 17, 2022</a></blockquote>
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ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/give-him-to-world-bank-pakistan-journo-trolled-for-claiming-afridi-would-have-earned-rs-200cr-in-ipl-453781">'Give him to World Bank': Pakistan journo trolled for claiming Afridi would have earned Rs 200cr in IPL</a>

Talking on his Youtube channel, former Pakistan captain Salman Butt reacted to Akram-Babar controversy and said, "I am very surprised. When Mickey Arthur used to get angry or throw files here and there, people used to say, 'look, he's so concerned for the team'. Wasim bhai has lost 8 games. And for the first time, he got up and then too, he pointed out towards the bowler."

“It is most likely that he gave some instructions to the bowler and they didn't bowl accordingly. So he got up in anger and talked about it. Obviously, he can only say this to the captain, he can't shout towards the bowler from the dugout. So I don't know what people expect," he added.&nbsp;

The Karachi Kings will now lock horns with Lahore Qalandars in a bid to open their account after losing their first eight games. They face the Lahore franchise on Friday evening (February 18) at Gadaffi Stadium, Lahore.

T20s remain the flavour of the cricketing season as a lot of action in the shortest format is taking place across the globe. Among franchise cricket, Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2022 edition is gaining a lot of eyeballs.

T20s remain the flavour of the cricketing season as a lot of action in the shortest format is taking place across the globe. Among franchise cricket, Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2022 edition is gaining a lot of eyeballs. The Babar Azam-led Karachi Kings are enduring one of their worst-ever seasons in the ongoing edition. At present, they have lost their first eight matches and are lying at the bottom in the points table. During Babar & Co.'s previous clash, versus the Multan Sultans, an animated discussion between Captain Babar and head coach Wasim Akram made the headlines during the last over of the match with the Sultans needing 7 off the five balls. The video of the same also went viral in no time. After the video has made a lot of noise on social media platform Twitter, the former Pakistani pacer Wasim Akram reacted to the hullabaloo. Here's what he wrote: "Hello ! Surprised to see reactions on my talking to Babar at the boundary last night. What I was saying was ‘why our bowlers are not bowling yorkers or slower ones offside off’.nothing else . Babar is a wonderful boy and has tried his best. And what he wants for dinner," Akram said in his tweet. Hello ! Surprised to see reactions on my talking to Babar at the boundary last night. What I was saying was ‘why our bowlers are not bowling yorkers or slower ones offside off’.nothing else . Babar is a wonderful boy and has tried his best. And what he wants for dinner 🥘 1/2 — Wasim Akram (@wasimakramlive) February 17, 2022 × ALSO READ | 'Give him to World Bank': Pakistan journo trolled for claiming Afridi would have earned Rs 200cr in IPL Talking on his Youtube channel, former Pakistan captain Salman Butt reacted to Akram-Babar controversy and said, "I am very surprised. When Mickey Arthur used to get angry or throw files here and there, people used to say, 'look, he's so concerned for the team'. Wasim bhai has lost 8 games. And for the first time, he got up and then too, he pointed out towards the bowler." “It is most likely that he gave some instructions to the bowler and they didn't bowl accordingly. So he got up in anger and talked about it. Obviously, he can only say this to the captain, he can't shout towards the bowler from the dugout. So I don't know what people expect," he added. The Karachi Kings will now lock horns with Lahore Qalandars in a bid to open their account after losing their first eight games. They face the Lahore franchise on Friday evening (February 18) at Gadaffi Stadium, Lahore.

PSL 2022: Wasim Akram reacts as video of his animated chat with Babar Azam goes viral

Team India limited-overs captain Rohit Sharma edged closer to his predecessor Virat Kohli in the latest ICC ODI Rankings, released on Wednesday (February 08). Following his blistering 60-run knock in the three-match ODI series opener between India and West Indies, on Sunday (February 06), Rohit has narrowed the gap with Kohli, who continues to hold the second spot in the batting list led by Pakistan captain Babar Azam.

West Indies' Shai Hope's 10-ball 8 in the first ODI, versus India, made him lose valuable points as it led to Fakhar Zaman and England's Joe Root enter the top ten. Babar continues to hold the top spot, with 873 rating points, whereas Kohli is at the second position with 836 rating points. Hitman Rohit follows suit, at the third spot, with 801 rating points.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-wi-2nd-odi-dinesh-karthik-lauds-indian-star-says-he-has-got-tremendous-skills-451697">India vs WI, 2nd ODI: Dinesh Karthik lauds Indian star, says 'he has got tremendous skills'</a>

On the other hand, there is no change in the top-ten in the list for bowlers. New Zealand's Trent Boult, Australia's Josh Hazlewood and England's Chris Woakes holds the top 3 spots, respectively, whereas a sole Indian features in the top ten. Jasprit Bumrah occupies the seventh spot, with 689&nbsp;rating points.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/this-is-an-experiment-make-no-mistake-sunil-gavaskar-reacts-as-rishabh-pant-opens-in-2nd-odi-451676">This is an experiment, make no mistake: Sunil Gavaskar reacts as Rishabh Pant opens in 2nd ODI</a>

Former Windies skipper Jason Holder jumped four places to enter the top 20 in the all-rounder&nbsp;rankings in the 50-over format. Holder, who scored an impressive 57 in the series opener versus the Men in Blue, now holds the 17th position. Ravindra Jadeja is the only Indian in the top-ten, in a list led by Shakib Al Hasan. Hardik Pandya is in the top 20 (13th position).

Team India limited-overs captain Rohit Sharma edged closer to his predecessor Virat Kohli in the latest ICC ODI Rankings, released on Wednesday (February 08). Following his blistering 60-run knock in the three-match ODI series opener between India and West Indies, on Sunday (February 06), Rohit has narrowed the gap with Kohli, who continues to hold the second spot in the batting list led by Pakistan captain Babar Azam.

Team India limited-overs captain Rohit Sharma edged closer to his predecessor Virat Kohli in the latest ICC ODI Rankings, released on Wednesday (February 08). Following his blistering 60-run knock in the three-match ODI series opener between India and West Indies, on Sunday (February 06), Rohit has narrowed the gap with Kohli, who continues to hold the second spot in the batting list led by Pakistan captain Babar Azam. West Indies' Shai Hope's 10-ball 8 in the first ODI, versus India, made him lose valuable points as it led to Fakhar Zaman and England's Joe Root enter the top ten. Babar continues to hold the top spot, with 873 rating points, whereas Kohli is at the second position with 836 rating points. Hitman Rohit follows suit, at the third spot, with 801 rating points. ALSO READ | India vs WI, 2nd ODI: Dinesh Karthik lauds Indian star, says 'he has got tremendous skills' On the other hand, there is no change in the top-ten in the list for bowlers. New Zealand's Trent Boult, Australia's Josh Hazlewood and England's Chris Woakes holds the top 3 spots, respectively, whereas a sole Indian features in the top ten. Jasprit Bumrah occupies the seventh spot, with 689 rating points. ALSO READ | This is an experiment, make no mistake: Sunil Gavaskar reacts as Rishabh Pant opens in 2nd ODI Former Windies skipper Jason Holder jumped four places to enter the top 20 in the all-rounder rankings in the 50-over format. Holder, who scored an impressive 57 in the series opener versus the Men in Blue, now holds the 17th position. Ravindra Jadeja is the only Indian in the top-ten, in a list led by Shakib Al Hasan. Hardik Pandya is in the top 20 (13th position).

ICC ODI Rankings: Rohit Sharma edges closer to Virat Kohli; Babar Azam spearheads the batting list

India and Pakistan's senior men's cricket team is set to meet each other in the 2022 T20 World Cup, to be held in Australia later this year. The Rohit Sharma-led Indian team and Babar Azam's Pakistan are once again placed in the same group (as was the case in the 2021 edition), i.e. Pool 2, and are set to lock horns with each other at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground, Melbourne (MCG) on October 23.

Ahead of the Indo-Pak clash, which has already generated a lot of excitement and buzz among the ardent cricket fans, the tickets for the marquee encounter has already been 'exhausted'.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/icc-reveals-full-schedule-for-2022-t20-world-cup-rohit-sharmas-team-india-to-begin-campaign-vs-pakistan-446363">ICC reveals full schedule for 2022 T20 World Cup, Rohit Sharma's Team India to begin campaign vs Pakistan</a>

Announcing the opening of the&nbsp;ticket sales, an ICC release said, "Tickets may still be available through the Official Hospitality and ICC Travel and Tours Programmes. Alternatively, you can join the Waitlist for this match and receive email updates with details of any ticket releases for a specific match."

For the unversed, the match tickets went on sale at 6:30am IST on Monday (February 7). By 11:30 am, a statement on the&nbsp;ICC website read, 'public ticket allocation' for India Vs Pakistan has been exhausted.'

Thus, the buzz for the India-Pakistan clash remains at an all-time high as the tickets have already been sold out; more than eight months in advance.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/hes-their-battings-backbone-shaheen-afridi-lauds-virat-kohli-reflects-on-magical-t20-wc-spell-vs-india-449473">'He's their batting's backbone': Shaheen Afridi lauds Virat Kohli, reflects on magical T20 WC spell vs India</a>

Talking about the last two both sides met in the T20 WC, in the last year's edition, Virat Kohli-led India's unbeaten run&nbsp;versus the Men in Green&nbsp;in World Cup history came to an end. India's famed batting line-up was restricted for a moderate 151-7 after being asked to bat first at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai on October 24.&nbsp;

In reply, Babar-led Pakistan finished the run-chase with ten wickets and 13 balls to spare.

India and Pakistan's senior men's cricket team is set to meet each other in the 2022 T20 World Cup, to be held in Australia later this year. The Rohit Sharma-led Indian team and Babar Azam's Pakistan are once again placed in the same group (as was the case in the 2021 edition), i.

India and Pakistan's senior men's cricket team is set to meet each other in the 2022 T20 World Cup, to be held in Australia later this year. The Rohit Sharma-led Indian team and Babar Azam's Pakistan are once again placed in the same group (as was the case in the 2021 edition), i.e. Pool 2, and are set to lock horns with each other at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground, Melbourne (MCG) on October 23. Ahead of the Indo-Pak clash, which has already generated a lot of excitement and buzz among the ardent cricket fans, the tickets for the marquee encounter has already been 'exhausted'. ALSO READ | ICC reveals full schedule for 2022 T20 World Cup, Rohit Sharma's Team India to begin campaign vs Pakistan Announcing the opening of the ticket sales, an ICC release said, "Tickets may still be available through the Official Hospitality and ICC Travel and Tours Programmes. Alternatively, you can join the Waitlist for this match and receive email updates with details of any ticket releases for a specific match." For the unversed, the match tickets went on sale at 6:30am IST on Monday (February 7). By 11:30 am, a statement on the ICC website read, 'public ticket allocation' for India Vs Pakistan has been exhausted.' Thus, the buzz for the India-Pakistan clash remains at an all-time high as the tickets have already been sold out; more than eight months in advance. ALSO READ | 'He's their batting's backbone': Shaheen Afridi lauds Virat Kohli, reflects on magical T20 WC spell vs India Talking about the last two both sides met in the T20 WC, in the last year's edition, Virat Kohli-led India's unbeaten run versus the Men in Green in World Cup history came to an end. India's famed batting line-up was restricted for a moderate 151-7 after being asked to bat first at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai on October 24. In reply, Babar-led Pakistan finished the run-chase with ten wickets and 13 balls to spare.

T20 World Cup 2022: Tickets for India-Pakistan clash, at the MCG, SOLD OUT in a flash

India's limited-overs vice-captain KL Rahul has climbed up the ladder in the latest ICC T20I Rankings. With this, he has swapped places with England's Dawid Malan, who takes the fourth spot in the list spearheaded by Pakistan's Babar Azam.

The top-two batting spots are occupied by Pakistani openers -- Babar (on top with&nbsp;805 rating points) and Md Rizwan taking the second spot. South Africa's Aiden Markram (796 points) is at the fourth position. For Virat Kohli and white-ball captain Rohit Sharma, India's two mainstays with the bat,&nbsp;the former is at the tenth spot whereas Rohit follows suit.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2022-mega-event-to-be-held-in-india-franchises-eager-for-bcci-to-finalise-venues-report-449770">IPL 2022: Mega event to be held in India; franchises eager for BCCI to finalise venues - Report</a>

JASON HOLDER MAKES A GIANT LEAP

Left-arm spinner Akeal Hosein and fast-bowling all-rounder Jason Holder&nbsp;achieved career-best rankings in the bowling list following the end of the five-match T20I series between West Indies and England, in&nbsp;the Caribbean island. Meanwhile, there is not even a single Indian bowler in the top 15. Under-fire senior pacer Bhuvneshwar Kumar sits at the 19th spot. 
&nbsp; 
While Hosein has moved up 15 places to take the&nbsp;18th position -- returning with six scalps in the three&nbsp;games he featured in during the&nbsp;WI-England T20Is -- all-rounder Holder has moved up by three places to 23rd with a huge gain of 20 rating points. The lanky all-rounder ended with 15 wickets (including a hat-trick)&nbsp;to also walk away with the Player-of-the-Series award.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/4-wickets-in-4-balls-jason-holder-becomes-first-west-indies-bowler-to-take-a-t20i-hat-trick-watch-449246">4 wickets in 4 balls! Jason Holder becomes first West Indies bowler to take a T20I hat-trick - Watch</a>

Shakib Al Hasan occupies the 20th position whereas India's pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah is at the 25th spot. In the all-rounders' category, Moeen Ali has jumped up by six spots to enter the top 3. Mohammad Nabi leads the chart with Glenn Maxwell also featuring in the top 5, occupying the fourth spot.

India's limited-overs vice-captain KL Rahul has climbed up the ladder in the latest ICC T20I Rankings. With this, he has swapped places with England's Dawid Malan, who takes the fourth spot in the list spearheaded by Pakistan's Babar Azam.

India's limited-overs vice-captain KL Rahul has climbed up the ladder in the latest ICC T20I Rankings. With this, he has swapped places with England's Dawid Malan, who takes the fourth spot in the list spearheaded by Pakistan's Babar Azam. The top-two batting spots are occupied by Pakistani openers -- Babar (on top with 805 rating points) and Md Rizwan taking the second spot. South Africa's Aiden Markram (796 points) is at the fourth position. For Virat Kohli and white-ball captain Rohit Sharma, India's two mainstays with the bat, the former is at the tenth spot whereas Rohit follows suit. ALSO READ | IPL 2022: Mega event to be held in India; franchises eager for BCCI to finalise venues - Report JASON HOLDER MAKES A GIANT LEAP Left-arm spinner Akeal Hosein and fast-bowling all-rounder Jason Holder achieved career-best rankings in the bowling list following the end of the five-match T20I series between West Indies and England, in the Caribbean island. Meanwhile, there is not even a single Indian bowler in the top 15. Under-fire senior pacer Bhuvneshwar Kumar sits at the 19th spot. While Hosein has moved up 15 places to take the 18th position -- returning with six scalps in the three games he featured in during the WI-England T20Is -- all-rounder Holder has moved up by three places to 23rd with a huge gain of 20 rating points. The lanky all-rounder ended with 15 wickets (including a hat-trick) to also walk away with the Player-of-the-Series award. ALSO READ | 4 wickets in 4 balls! Jason Holder becomes first West Indies bowler to take a T20I hat-trick - Watch Shakib Al Hasan occupies the 20th position whereas India's pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah is at the 25th spot. In the all-rounders' category, Moeen Ali has jumped up by six spots to enter the top 3. Mohammad Nabi leads the chart with Glenn Maxwell also featuring in the top 5, occupying the fourth spot.

ICC T20I Rankings: KL Rahul climbs up the ladder; Jason Holder makes huge gain after England series

Indian pacer Mohammed Shami believes Babar Azam can go on to become one of the greats for Pakistan but it would be unfair to compare him with the likes of Virat Kohli, Steve Smith and Joe Root at present. Babar has been one of the best batters for Pakistan over the last few years and has been a prolific run-scorer across all formats of the game.

Babar was appointed as the captain of the Pakistan team across all formats in 2020 and his form has only got better with the added responsibility of leading the side as he continues to shine with the bat. The Pakistan skipper has often earned comparisons with the likes of Virat Kohli, Steve Smith and Joe Root for his consistency.

However, Shami believes Babar has a long way to go to earned comparisons with greats like Kohli, Smith and Root. The Indian fast bowler said it will be unfair on Babar to compare him with Kohli and that he needs to prove himself in the upcoming years to get where Kohli is currently at.

"Pakistan have been playing very good cricket of late and the emergence of three-four players have really helped them a lot. No doubt Babar Azam is a great player. But to compare him with the likes of Steve Smith, Joe Root or Virat Kohli will be unfair on him," Shami told India.com.

"I would say let him play for that many years and then maybe we can judge. At the moment, if he continues to play like that, then he would obviously end his career as one of the greats from Pakistan. Good luck Babar Azam, I would say," he added.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-am-not-married-to-him-harbhajan-singh-gives-cheeky-response-clears-air-on-rumoured-rift-with-ms-dhoni-449222">'I am not married to him': Harbhajan gives cheeky response, clears air on rumoured rift with MS Dhoni</a>

Kohli, who is regarded as one of the greatest batters of all time, is the only batsman at present to average over fifty across all three formats of the game. Kohli has 7962, 12285 and 3227 runs in 99 Tests, 257 ODIs and 95 T20Is, respectively. Despite not being on top of his game for the last couple of years, Kohli averages over 50 in all three formats - a testament to his incredible consistency.

Kohli is the second-highest run-getter of all time in T20Is and is on top of the list of active batters with the most centuries in international cricket. The former Indian captain has 70 international centuries to his name so far in his career.&nbsp;

Babar, on the other hand, has 2461 runs in 37 Tests at an average of 43.17, 3985 runs in 83 ODIs at an average of over 56 and 2620 runs in 73 matches at an average of over 45.

Indian pacer Mohammed Shami believes Babar Azam can go on to become one of the greats for Pakistan but it would be unfair to compare him with the likes of Virat Kohli, Steve Smith and Joe Root at present.

Indian pacer Mohammed Shami believes Babar Azam can go on to become one of the greats for Pakistan but it would be unfair to compare him with the likes of Virat Kohli, Steve Smith and Joe Root at present. Babar has been one of the best batters for Pakistan over the last few years and has been a prolific run-scorer across all formats of the game. Babar was appointed as the captain of the Pakistan team across all formats in 2020 and his form has only got better with the added responsibility of leading the side as he continues to shine with the bat. The Pakistan skipper has often earned comparisons with the likes of Virat Kohli, Steve Smith and Joe Root for his consistency. However, Shami believes Babar has a long way to go to earned comparisons with greats like Kohli, Smith and Root. The Indian fast bowler said it will be unfair on Babar to compare him with Kohli and that he needs to prove himself in the upcoming years to get where Kohli is currently at. "Pakistan have been playing very good cricket of late and the emergence of three-four players have really helped them a lot. No doubt Babar Azam is a great player. But to compare him with the likes of Steve Smith, Joe Root or Virat Kohli will be unfair on him," Shami told India.com. "I would say let him play for that many years and then maybe we can judge. At the moment, if he continues to play like that, then he would obviously end his career as one of the greats from Pakistan. Good luck Babar Azam, I would say," he added. Also Read: 'I am not married to him': Harbhajan gives cheeky response, clears air on rumoured rift with MS Dhoni Kohli, who is regarded as one of the greatest batters of all time, is the only batsman at present to average over fifty across all three formats of the game. Kohli has 7962, 12285 and 3227 runs in 99 Tests, 257 ODIs and 95 T20Is, respectively. Despite not being on top of his game for the last couple of years, Kohli averages over 50 in all three formats - a testament to his incredible consistency. Kohli is the second-highest run-getter of all time in T20Is and is on top of the list of active batters with the most centuries in international cricket. The former Indian captain has 70 international centuries to his name so far in his career. Babar, on the other hand, has 2461 runs in 37 Tests at an average of 43.17, 3985 runs in 83 ODIs at an average of over 56 and 2620 runs in 73 matches at an average of over 45.

'Let him play for that many years': Md. Shami on Babar Azam's comparison with Virat Kohli, Steve Smith

Babar Azam-led Pakistan were very impressive in the 2021 T20 World Cup, in the UAE. Being unbeaten enroute the semi-finals, the Men in Green couldn't enter the final after losing their semi-final fixture to eventual winners Aaron Finch-led Australia in Dubai.

There were many heroes for Pakistan throughout their campaign, such as Babar, Md Rizwan, Shaheen Afridi, Haris Rauf, Shoaib Malik, Asif Ali, etc. Recently, wicketkeeper-batter Rizwan recalled Pakistan's stunning ten-wicket win over Virat Kohli's Team India in the T20 WC.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/what-are-you-doing-rizwan-recalls-hilarious-chat-with-kohli-during-high-voltage-indo-pak-t20-wc-tie-445969">'What are you doing' - Rizwan recalls hilarious chat with Kohli during high-voltage Indo-Pak T20 WC tie</a>

"Honestly, it felt like a normal match, like any other game. We felt the hype of the World Cup after getting there (in UAE). Before the match, I had an interview with Indian media and they asked if I was nervous. I told them that I don't feel any different as of now but if and when I do, I will let you know (chuckles)," Rizwan told Cricket Pakistan in an interview.&nbsp;

After Pakistan returned home following their impressive run in the T20 WC, Rizwan revealed that it was then when the team realised how much their win over India meant to the countrymen. "But the response and love we received from the fans and the country cannot be explained in words. When we got home from the Bangladesh tour after the World Cup, the reception made me realise that playing against India is not ordinary because there's much more at stake than playing against any other opposition,” Rizwan added.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pak-better-than-india-akhtar-makes-bold-claim-predicts-men-in-green-to-win-2022-t20-wc-face-off-447142">PAK better than India: Akhtar makes bold claim, predicts Men in Green to win 2022 T20 WC face-off</a>

Recently, ICC revealed the full schedule for the 2022 T20 WC, to be held later this year in Australia. India and Pakistan are once again placed in the same group, i.e. Pool 2, and will lock horns with each other on October 23 at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground, MCG.

Babar Azam-led Pakistan were very impressive in the 2021 T20 World Cup, in the UAE. Being unbeaten enroute the semi-finals, the Men in Green couldn't enter the final after losing their semi-final fixture to eventual winners Aaron Finch-led Australia in Dubai.

Babar Azam-led Pakistan were very impressive in the 2021 T20 World Cup, in the UAE. Being unbeaten enroute the semi-finals, the Men in Green couldn't enter the final after losing their semi-final fixture to eventual winners Aaron Finch-led Australia in Dubai. There were many heroes for Pakistan throughout their campaign, such as Babar, Md Rizwan, Shaheen Afridi, Haris Rauf, Shoaib Malik, Asif Ali, etc. Recently, wicketkeeper-batter Rizwan recalled Pakistan's stunning ten-wicket win over Virat Kohli's Team India in the T20 WC. ALSO READ | 'What are you doing' - Rizwan recalls hilarious chat with Kohli during high-voltage Indo-Pak T20 WC tie "Honestly, it felt like a normal match, like any other game. We felt the hype of the World Cup after getting there (in UAE). Before the match, I had an interview with Indian media and they asked if I was nervous. I told them that I don't feel any different as of now but if and when I do, I will let you know (chuckles)," Rizwan told Cricket Pakistan in an interview. After Pakistan returned home following their impressive run in the T20 WC, Rizwan revealed that it was then when the team realised how much their win over India meant to the countrymen. "But the response and love we received from the fans and the country cannot be explained in words. When we got home from the Bangladesh tour after the World Cup, the reception made me realise that playing against India is not ordinary because there's much more at stake than playing against any other opposition,” Rizwan added. ALSO READ | PAK better than India: Akhtar makes bold claim, predicts Men in Green to win 2022 T20 WC face-off Recently, ICC revealed the full schedule for the 2022 T20 WC, to be held later this year in Australia. India and Pakistan are once again placed in the same group, i.e. Pool 2, and will lock horns with each other on October 23 at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground, MCG.

'Playing against India is...': Md Rizwan recalls Pakistan's historic triumph over Men in Blue in 2021 T20WC

Former Pakistan pacer Shoaib Akhtar feels Babar Azam-led Men in Green will be able to beat Team India in this year's Men's T20 World Cup, set to be held in Australia. On January 21, the International Cricket Council (ICC) revealed the full schedule for the mega event, which will begin on October 16 with the main draw commencing on October 22.

In the main draw of the showpiece event, India and Pakistan are once again placed in the same group (i.e. Pool 2). The two sides will face each other in their respective tournament-openers, on October 23, at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), Melbourne. After Men in Green defeated Virat Kohli-led India in the 2021 T20 WC, in Dubai, Akhtar feels Babar &amp; Co. will be able to make it two World Cup wins in a row over their arch-rivals.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/icc-reveals-full-schedule-for-2022-t20-world-cup-rohit-sharmas-team-india-to-begin-campaign-vs-pakistan-446363">ICC reveals full schedule for 2022 T20 World Cup, Rohit Sharma's Team India to begin campaign vs Pakistan</a>

"We will beat India again in Melbourne. Pakistan is a better side than India in T20 cricket. It's the Indian media that make unnecessary pressure on their team whenever we have the clash of both countries in cricket, it's normal for India to lose," Akhtar told news agency&nbsp;ANI.&nbsp;

During the 2021 T20 WC, Babar-led Pakistan hammered India by 10 wickets to win their first-ever game versus their neighbours in World Cup history. Opting to bowl first, Shaheen Afridi's three-fer had restricted India to 151-7. In reply, fifties from both Babar and Md Rizwan ensured a massive win for Team Pakistan.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rahul-dravid-has-a-big-task-ahead-has-to-prove-he-is-not-an-overrated-coach-shoaib-akhtar-446926">Rahul Dravid has a big task ahead, has to prove he is not an overrated coach: Shoaib Akhtar</a>

Talking about India, Pakistan-starrer Pool 2, it also comprises Bangladesh, South Africa whereas two more teams will join from the qualifiers. Pool 1 comprises Australia, New Zealand, Afghanistan and England. They will also see two more sides joining form the qualifying round.

Former Pakistan pacer Shoaib Akhtar feels Babar Azam-led Men in Green will be able to beat Team India in this year's Men's T20 World Cup, set to be held in Australia.

Former Pakistan pacer Shoaib Akhtar feels Babar Azam-led Men in Green will be able to beat Team India in this year's Men's T20 World Cup, set to be held in Australia. On January 21, the International Cricket Council (ICC) revealed the full schedule for the mega event, which will begin on October 16 with the main draw commencing on October 22. In the main draw of the showpiece event, India and Pakistan are once again placed in the same group (i.e. Pool 2). The two sides will face each other in their respective tournament-openers, on October 23, at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), Melbourne. After Men in Green defeated Virat Kohli-led India in the 2021 T20 WC, in Dubai, Akhtar feels Babar & Co. will be able to make it two World Cup wins in a row over their arch-rivals. ALSO READ | ICC reveals full schedule for 2022 T20 World Cup, Rohit Sharma's Team India to begin campaign vs Pakistan "We will beat India again in Melbourne. Pakistan is a better side than India in T20 cricket. It's the Indian media that make unnecessary pressure on their team whenever we have the clash of both countries in cricket, it's normal for India to lose," Akhtar told news agency ANI. During the 2021 T20 WC, Babar-led Pakistan hammered India by 10 wickets to win their first-ever game versus their neighbours in World Cup history. Opting to bowl first, Shaheen Afridi's three-fer had restricted India to 151-7. In reply, fifties from both Babar and Md Rizwan ensured a massive win for Team Pakistan. ALSO READ | Rahul Dravid has a big task ahead, has to prove he is not an overrated coach: Shoaib Akhtar Talking about India, Pakistan-starrer Pool 2, it also comprises Bangladesh, South Africa whereas two more teams will join from the qualifiers. Pool 1 comprises Australia, New Zealand, Afghanistan and England. They will also see two more sides joining form the qualifying round.

PAK better than India: Akhtar makes bold claim, predicts Men in Green to win 2022 T20 WC face-off

Pakistan skipper Babar Azam was on Monday named ICC ODI Cricketer of the Year while England Test captain Joe Root took home the top honours in the red-ball category, beating competition from, among others, Indian off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin.

The 27-year-old Azam scored 405 runs in six games at an average of 67.50 in 2021. He was the second-highest run-scorer with 228 runs and was the Player of the Match in both of Pakistan's wins in the 2-1 series victory against South Africa.

The architect of Pakistan's chase of 274 in the first ODI, Babar made a century and laid the foundation with an 82-ball 94 in the final ODI where the visitors posted 320 batting first.

He was the lone warrior for Pakistan when they were swept by England 3-0. He accumulated 177 runs in three games but found no support as none of the other batters managed to score more than 100 in the series.

Read Also |<a href="http://13.235.153.162/sports/india-paid-price-for-that-sanjay-manjrekar-blames-ashwins-return-for-rahul-cos-3-0-series-loss-vs-sa-447078">&nbsp;'India paid price for that': Sanjay Manjrekar blames Ashwin's return for Rahul &amp; Co.'s 3-0 series loss vs SA</a>

Babar's best performance this year came in a losing cause in the final ODI against England. Walking in to bat early in the innings, Babar strung a 92-run stand with Imam-ul-Haq to bail Pakistan out of trouble.

He was cautious in his approach initially, bringing up his half-century in 72 balls. He made up for it by bringing up the next fifty runs in just 32 balls ? it was his second ODI century of the year. 
 
Root wins Test Cricketer of the Year 
 
The magnitude of Root's sublime form in Test cricket in the year 2021 can be summed up by one simple stat -- he has become only the third player in history to aggregate over 1700 runs in Test cricket in a calendar year. Only Mohammad Yousuf and Sir Vivian Richards stand ahead of him.

Be it Asia or conditions back at home and against a range of bowling, the England skipper ruled everywhere with some sublime innings.

His knocks in Galle against Sri Lanka, and against India in both Chennai and Lord's are some of the finest witnessed in the modern era, and will be spoken of highly for a long, long time. He hasn't been shabby with the ball as well, chipping in with a handy 14 wickets, including a five-for in Ahmedabad.

Root's 218 in the first Test of the four-match series against India in Chennai was a masterclass in batting. He swatted away a quality bowling attack, both pace and spin, with utter ease. This was also a sign of things to come for the remainder of the year, as the 31-year-old played knock after knock of the highest calibre, irrespective of the opposition.

Ashwin was nominated in the same category along with Kyle Jamieson, and Dimuth Karunaratne.

Read Also |&nbsp;<a href="Virat Kohli gives deadly stare to Rishabh Pant after he throws away his wicket for a duck in 3rd ODI - WATCH">Virat Kohli gives deadly stare to Rishabh Pant after he throws away his wicket for a duck in 3rd ODI - WATCH</a> 
 
Lizelle Lee takes home women's ODI Cricketer of the Year 
 
South Africa opener Lizelle Lee was named the ODI Cricketer of the Year for her scintillating performance which saw her finish as the highest run-scorer in 2021 in the format.

The hard-hitting batter had two scores of 40 plus and played a vital role in South Africa's sweep off Pakistan. She was unstoppable on the tour of India thereafter, racking up big runs in the Proteas' 4-1 series win. With 288 runs, including a hundred and two fifties, she ended the series as the highest run-scorer and was awarded the Player of the Series.

She carried her form over to the series against West Indies as well and was once again the top run-getter in the series. 
 
Marais Erasmus Umpire of the Year 
 
South Africa umpire Marais Erasmus was named the Umpire of the Year for the third time after receiving the honour in 2016 and 2017.

The 57-year-old officiated in the just concluded series between hosts South Africa and India. On top of the T20 World Cup final, Erasmus oversaw 20 international fixtures across the three formats in 2021.

Pakistan skipper Babar Azam was on Monday named ICC ODI Cricketer of the Year while England Test captain Joe Root took home the top honours in the red-ball category, beating competition from, among others, Indian off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin.

Pakistan skipper Babar Azam was on Monday named ICC ODI Cricketer of the Year while England Test captain Joe Root took home the top honours in the red-ball category, beating competition from, among others, Indian off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin. The 27-year-old Azam scored 405 runs in six games at an average of 67.50 in 2021. He was the second-highest run-scorer with 228 runs and was the Player of the Match in both of Pakistan's wins in the 2-1 series victory against South Africa. The architect of Pakistan's chase of 274 in the first ODI, Babar made a century and laid the foundation with an 82-ball 94 in the final ODI where the visitors posted 320 batting first. He was the lone warrior for Pakistan when they were swept by England 3-0. He accumulated 177 runs in three games but found no support as none of the other batters managed to score more than 100 in the series. Read Also | 'India paid price for that': Sanjay Manjrekar blames Ashwin's return for Rahul & Co.'s 3-0 series loss vs SA Babar's best performance this year came in a losing cause in the final ODI against England. Walking in to bat early in the innings, Babar strung a 92-run stand with Imam-ul-Haq to bail Pakistan out of trouble. He was cautious in his approach initially, bringing up his half-century in 72 balls. He made up for it by bringing up the next fifty runs in just 32 balls ? it was his second ODI century of the year. Root wins Test Cricketer of the Year The magnitude of Root's sublime form in Test cricket in the year 2021 can be summed up by one simple stat -- he has become only the third player in history to aggregate over 1700 runs in Test cricket in a calendar year. Only Mohammad Yousuf and Sir Vivian Richards stand ahead of him. Be it Asia or conditions back at home and against a range of bowling, the England skipper ruled everywhere with some sublime innings. His knocks in Galle against Sri Lanka, and against India in both Chennai and Lord's are some of the finest witnessed in the modern era, and will be spoken of highly for a long, long time. He hasn't been shabby with the ball as well, chipping in with a handy 14 wickets, including a five-for in Ahmedabad. Root's 218 in the first Test of the four-match series against India in Chennai was a masterclass in batting. He swatted away a quality bowling attack, both pace and spin, with utter ease. This was also a sign of things to come for the remainder of the year, as the 31-year-old played knock after knock of the highest calibre, irrespective of the opposition. Ashwin was nominated in the same category along with Kyle Jamieson, and Dimuth Karunaratne. Read Also | Virat Kohli gives deadly stare to Rishabh Pant after he throws away his wicket for a duck in 3rd ODI - WATCH Lizelle Lee takes home women's ODI Cricketer of the Year South Africa opener Lizelle Lee was named the ODI Cricketer of the Year for her scintillating performance which saw her finish as the highest run-scorer in 2021 in the format. The hard-hitting batter had two scores of 40 plus and played a vital role in South Africa's sweep off Pakistan. She was unstoppable on the tour of India thereafter, racking up big runs in the Proteas' 4-1 series win. With 288 runs, including a hundred and two fifties, she ended the series as the highest run-scorer and was awarded the Player of the Series. She carried her form over to the series against West Indies as well and was once again the top run-getter in the series. Marais Erasmus Umpire of the Year South Africa umpire Marais Erasmus was named the Umpire of the Year for the third time after receiving the honour in 2016 and 2017. The 57-year-old officiated in the just concluded series between hosts South Africa and India. On top of the T20 World Cup final, Erasmus oversaw 20 international fixtures across the three formats in 2021.

Babar Azam named ODI Cricketer of The Year, Joe Root wins Test Cricketer of The Year at ICC Awards

The International Cricket Council (ICC), on Thursday (January 20), announced the Men's ODI team of 2021. Pakistan's Babar Azam has been named as the captain of the line-up, which includes no player from India, England and Australia. On Wednesday, the ICC had also shared the Men's T20I team of 2021, which didn't comprise a single Indian and had Babar as the captain.

Talking about the ODI XI, Ireland's Paul Stirling made the cut. He ended the calendar year with&nbsp;885 runs including 3 hundreds. South Africa's Janneman Malan was named the second opener with Babar at No. 3&nbsp;whereas Fakhar Zaman took the No. 4 spot. The rest of the middle-order comprises Rassie van der Dussen, who played a match-winning 129* versus India in the first ODI on Wednesday (January 19), along with Bangladeshi pair Shakib Al Hasan and Mushfiqur Rahim. Apart from Shakib, Sri Lanka's Wanindu Hasaranga and Ireland's Simi Singh are the two all-rounders whereas Mustafizur Rahman and Dushmantha Chameera were the two pacers included.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/icc-mens-t20i-team-of-2021-babar-azam-leads-star-studded-xi-no-team-india-player-makes-the-cut-446012">ICC Men's T20I team of 2021: Babar Azam leads star-studded XI, no Team India player makes the cut</a>

Babar had a great run in 2021, being named as the white-ball captain altogether by the ICC. Under Babar, Pakistan won the ODI series in South Africa and also reached the semi-finals of the 2021 T20 World Cup, held in the UAE.

The list had no mention of some of the big-ticket players, such as Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul, Shikhar Dhawan, Jos Buttler, David Warner, Jasprit Bumrah, Pat Cummins, etc. For the unversed, this was the first time since 2004 that no Indian was named in the Men's ODI Team of the Year.&nbsp;

While no Indian featured in the team, it is to be noted that the senior men's team played only a handful of ODIs in 2021 (same goes for other big teams as well). India played six ODIs -- winning four of them -- with many regulars missing the 50-over leg versus Sri Lanka, in the island nation, in mid-2021.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/icc-mens-test-team-of-2021-rohit-sharma-rishabh-pant-and-r-ashwin-included-in-star-studded-line-up-446190">ICC Men's Test team of 2021: Rohit Sharma, Rishabh Pant and R Ashwin included in star-studded line-up</a>

ICC Men's ODI Team of the Year:&nbsp;Babar Azam (captain), Paul Stirling, Janneman Malan, Fakhar Zaman, Rassie van der Dussen, Shakib Al Hasan, Mushfiqur Rahim (wicketkeeper), Wanidu Hasaranga, Mustafizur Rahman, Simi Singh, Dushmantha Chameera.

The International Cricket Council (ICC), on Thursday (January 20), announced the Men's ODI team of 2021. Pakistan's Babar Azam has been named as the captain of the line-up, which includes no player from India, England and Australia.

The International Cricket Council (ICC), on Thursday (January 20), announced the Men's ODI team of 2021. Pakistan's Babar Azam has been named as the captain of the line-up, which includes no player from India, England and Australia. On Wednesday, the ICC had also shared the Men's T20I team of 2021, which didn't comprise a single Indian and had Babar as the captain. Talking about the ODI XI, Ireland's Paul Stirling made the cut. He ended the calendar year with 885 runs including 3 hundreds. South Africa's Janneman Malan was named the second opener with Babar at No. 3 whereas Fakhar Zaman took the No. 4 spot. The rest of the middle-order comprises Rassie van der Dussen, who played a match-winning 129* versus India in the first ODI on Wednesday (January 19), along with Bangladeshi pair Shakib Al Hasan and Mushfiqur Rahim. Apart from Shakib, Sri Lanka's Wanindu Hasaranga and Ireland's Simi Singh are the two all-rounders whereas Mustafizur Rahman and Dushmantha Chameera were the two pacers included. ALSO READ | ICC Men's T20I team of 2021: Babar Azam leads star-studded XI, no Team India player makes the cut Babar had a great run in 2021, being named as the white-ball captain altogether by the ICC. Under Babar, Pakistan won the ODI series in South Africa and also reached the semi-finals of the 2021 T20 World Cup, held in the UAE. The list had no mention of some of the big-ticket players, such as Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul, Shikhar Dhawan, Jos Buttler, David Warner, Jasprit Bumrah, Pat Cummins, etc. For the unversed, this was the first time since 2004 that no Indian was named in the Men's ODI Team of the Year. While no Indian featured in the team, it is to be noted that the senior men's team played only a handful of ODIs in 2021 (same goes for other big teams as well). India played six ODIs -- winning four of them -- with many regulars missing the 50-over leg versus Sri Lanka, in the island nation, in mid-2021. ALSO READ | ICC Men's Test team of 2021: Rohit Sharma, Rishabh Pant and R Ashwin included in star-studded line-up ICC Men's ODI Team of the Year: Babar Azam (captain), Paul Stirling, Janneman Malan, Fakhar Zaman, Rassie van der Dussen, Shakib Al Hasan, Mushfiqur Rahim (wicketkeeper), Wanidu Hasaranga, Mustafizur Rahman, Simi Singh, Dushmantha Chameera.

ICC Men's ODI team of 2021: No Team India player makes the cut in Babar Azam-led XI

No Team India player made the cut in ICC Men's T20I team of 2021. The International Cricket Council (ICC), on Wednesday (January 19), announced the elite XI with Babar Azam named captain. Babar, who led Pakistan to the semi-finals of the 2021 T20 World Cup, has two more Men in Green players in the star-studded list.

Babar's opening partner and wicketkeeper Md Rizwan and Shaheen Afridi were a part of the list. Rizwan had a dream run in 2021 in the shortest format, ending with 1,326 runs in 29 matches with his skipper Babar being a distant second (with 939 runs). Shaheen, on the other hand, was impressive throughout the calendar year and ended with 23 wickets. He was also the Player-of-the-Match in Pakistan's first-ever victory over India in a World Cup clash (during the T20 WC).&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/what-are-you-doing-rizwan-recalls-hilarious-chat-with-kohli-during-high-voltage-indo-pak-t20-wc-tie-445969">'What are you doing' - Rizwan recalls hilarious chat with Kohli during high-voltage Indo-Pak T20 WC tie</a>

Some other big names in the list are England's Jos Buttler (only centurion in the T20 WC), Mitchell Marsh -- who was the Player-of-the-Match in the World Cup final last year, Sri Lanka's find Wanindu Hasaranga, South African trio Aiden Markram, David Miller and Tabriaz Shami (who was also the joint-highest wicket taker in the format in 2021). Shamsi returned with a whopping 36 scalps, along with SL's Hasaranga.

The other players in the list are Bangladesh's Mustafizur Rahman (28 wickets in 2021) and Australia's pacer Josh Hazlewood. The latter played a key role in Aaron Finch-led Australia's maiden T20 WC win, finishing with 11 scalps in 7 games at an average of 15.91.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rohit-sharma-falls-to-sixth-virat-kohli-climbs-to-seventh-spot-in-icc-test-rankings-445956">Rohit Sharma falls to sixth, Virat Kohli climbs to seventh spot in ICC Test Rankings</a>

No Team India player made the cut in the elusive list shared by the ICC. None of the Indian batter or bowler managed to finish in the top-ten, for&nbsp;most runs and wickets, respectively. Team India also had a forgettable 2021 in T20Is, being eliminated in the Super 12 round in the World Cup. Though Rohit Sharma did manage some good performances and ended with 424 runs, he wasn't impressive enough to enter the list.

Other big names such as David Warner, Glenn Maxwell, Kagiso Rabada, Quinton de Kock, Nicholas Pooran, Shakib Al Hasan, etc. also didn't feature in the XI. 
&nbsp; 
ICC Men's T20I Team of the Year for 2021

Babar Azan (captain), Jos Buttler, Mohammad Rizwan, Aiden Markram, Mitchell Marsh, David Miller, Tabraiz Shamsi, Josh Hazlewood, Wanidu Hasaranga, Mustafizur Rahman, Shaheen Afridi

No Team India player made the cut in ICC Men's T20I team of 2021. The International Cricket Council (ICC), on Wednesday (January 19), announced the elite XI with Babar Azam named captain.

No Team India player made the cut in ICC Men's T20I team of 2021. The International Cricket Council (ICC), on Wednesday (January 19), announced the elite XI with Babar Azam named captain. Babar, who led Pakistan to the semi-finals of the 2021 T20 World Cup, has two more Men in Green players in the star-studded list. Babar's opening partner and wicketkeeper Md Rizwan and Shaheen Afridi were a part of the list. Rizwan had a dream run in 2021 in the shortest format, ending with 1,326 runs in 29 matches with his skipper Babar being a distant second (with 939 runs). Shaheen, on the other hand, was impressive throughout the calendar year and ended with 23 wickets. He was also the Player-of-the-Match in Pakistan's first-ever victory over India in a World Cup clash (during the T20 WC). ALSO READ | 'What are you doing' - Rizwan recalls hilarious chat with Kohli during high-voltage Indo-Pak T20 WC tie Some other big names in the list are England's Jos Buttler (only centurion in the T20 WC), Mitchell Marsh -- who was the Player-of-the-Match in the World Cup final last year, Sri Lanka's find Wanindu Hasaranga, South African trio Aiden Markram, David Miller and Tabriaz Shami (who was also the joint-highest wicket taker in the format in 2021). Shamsi returned with a whopping 36 scalps, along with SL's Hasaranga. The other players in the list are Bangladesh's Mustafizur Rahman (28 wickets in 2021) and Australia's pacer Josh Hazlewood. The latter played a key role in Aaron Finch-led Australia's maiden T20 WC win, finishing with 11 scalps in 7 games at an average of 15.91. ALSO READ | Rohit Sharma falls to sixth, Virat Kohli climbs to seventh spot in ICC Test Rankings No Team India player made the cut in the elusive list shared by the ICC. None of the Indian batter or bowler managed to finish in the top-ten, for most runs and wickets, respectively. Team India also had a forgettable 2021 in T20Is, being eliminated in the Super 12 round in the World Cup. Though Rohit Sharma did manage some good performances and ended with 424 runs, he wasn't impressive enough to enter the list. Other big names such as David Warner, Glenn Maxwell, Kagiso Rabada, Quinton de Kock, Nicholas Pooran, Shakib Al Hasan, etc. also didn't feature in the XI. ICC Men's T20I Team of the Year for 2021 Babar Azan (captain), Jos Buttler, Mohammad Rizwan, Aiden Markram, Mitchell Marsh, David Miller, Tabraiz Shamsi, Josh Hazlewood, Wanidu Hasaranga, Mustafizur Rahman, Shaheen Afridi

ICC Men's T20I team of 2021: Babar Azam leads star-studded XI, no Team India player makes the cut

India and Pakistan locked horns with each other after a long time during the 2021 T20 World Cup, held in the UAE. The senior men's cricket teams faced each other for the first time after the 2019 ODI World Cup encounter and the stakes were high this time around as well.

Virat Kohli-led were asked to bat first as the one-time winners managed a modest 151-7, at the iconic Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai. Losing early wickets, Kohli's 57 and Rishabh Pant's 39, off 30 balls, took India to a respectable total. In reply, openers Babar Azam (68 not out) and Mohammad Rizwan (unbeaten 79) took the Men in Green home without losing a single wicket.

Recently, Rizwan recalled a hilarious chat with then Indian captain Kohli during the high-voltage clash. During India's innings, the Men in Blue were trying to recover from the early jolts -- with Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul and Suryakumar Yadav getting out for cheap -- courtesy Pant-Kohli's fourth-wicket stand. During their partnership, Pakistan went for a review against Pant -- who played a reverse sweep -- when Rizwan and Kohli had a hilarious conversation.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/there-was-always-pressure-former-india-pacer-shares-his-take-on-virat-kohlis-captaincy-resignation-445955">There was always pressure: Former India pacer shares his take on Virat Kohli's captaincy resignation</a>

Speaking to&nbsp;Pakt.tv, Rizwan revealed,&nbsp;"Some things are part of tactics. No doubt Virat Kohli is world’s No. 1. When we play cricket, it’s like family. I remember when we took the review against Pant when he played the reverse sweep, he (Kohli) said… ‘what are you doing? Getting everyone out inside 10 overs?’ But like I said, these are tactics. Later, when I walked out to bat, I spoke to him then too. Rest, whatever chats took place inside the change room, I can’t disclose but I can say that he’s a very nice person."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/there-comes-a-stage-where-you-cant-afridi-opines-on-virat-kohlis-decision-to-quit-test-captaincy-445655">'There comes a stage where you can't...': Afridi opines on Virat Kohli's decision to quit Test captaincy</a>

Talking about both sides' fortunes in the showpiece event, Team India were eliminated in the Super 12 round whereas Babar-led Pakistan lost the second semi-finals to eventual winners Australia to bow out of the tournament.

India and Pakistan locked horns with each other after a long time during the 2021 T20 World Cup, held in the UAE. The senior men's cricket teams faced each other for the first time after the 2019 ODI World Cup encounter and the stakes were high this time around as well.

India and Pakistan locked horns with each other after a long time during the 2021 T20 World Cup, held in the UAE. The senior men's cricket teams faced each other for the first time after the 2019 ODI World Cup encounter and the stakes were high this time around as well. Virat Kohli-led were asked to bat first as the one-time winners managed a modest 151-7, at the iconic Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai. Losing early wickets, Kohli's 57 and Rishabh Pant's 39, off 30 balls, took India to a respectable total. In reply, openers Babar Azam (68 not out) and Mohammad Rizwan (unbeaten 79) took the Men in Green home without losing a single wicket. Recently, Rizwan recalled a hilarious chat with then Indian captain Kohli during the high-voltage clash. During India's innings, the Men in Blue were trying to recover from the early jolts -- with Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul and Suryakumar Yadav getting out for cheap -- courtesy Pant-Kohli's fourth-wicket stand. During their partnership, Pakistan went for a review against Pant -- who played a reverse sweep -- when Rizwan and Kohli had a hilarious conversation. ALSO READ | There was always pressure: Former India pacer shares his take on Virat Kohli's captaincy resignation Speaking to Pakt.tv, Rizwan revealed, "Some things are part of tactics. No doubt Virat Kohli is world’s No. 1. When we play cricket, it’s like family. I remember when we took the review against Pant when he played the reverse sweep, he (Kohli) said… ‘what are you doing? Getting everyone out inside 10 overs?’ But like I said, these are tactics. Later, when I walked out to bat, I spoke to him then too. Rest, whatever chats took place inside the change room, I can’t disclose but I can say that he’s a very nice person." ALSO READ | 'There comes a stage where you can't...': Afridi opines on Virat Kohli's decision to quit Test captaincy Talking about both sides' fortunes in the showpiece event, Team India were eliminated in the Super 12 round whereas Babar-led Pakistan lost the second semi-finals to eventual winners Australia to bow out of the tournament.

'What are you doing' - Rizwan recalls hilarious chat with Kohli during high-voltage Indo-Pak T20 WC tie

The skipper of the Pakistan cricket team Babar Azam termed the win against Team India during ICC Men's T20 World Cup in the Super 12 stage as the "best moment" for his team in 2021.

Despite being the title favourites, India didn't get the start they needed as the Men In Blue lost their first two crucial matches against Pakistan and New Zealand.&nbsp;

However, they won the last three games of the Super 12 stage against Afghanistan, Scotland and Namibia but it wasn't enough for a semi-final berth for Virat Kohli &amp; Co. from Group 2.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/babar-and-rizwan-want-foreign-coaches-in-team-management-but-ramiz-raja-thinks-otherwise-watch-441645">Babar and Rizwan want foreign coaches in team management but Ramiz Raja thinks otherwise - Watch</a>

The India vs Pakistan match was significant from the perspective of cricket-mad fans in the South Asian nations. But it was Pakistan, who broke the jinx and defeated India by 10 wickets in the lopsided match. Before that Pakistan had never defeated India in World Cups.&nbsp;

In a podcast released by the Pakistan Cricket Board on Friday (December 31), Babar summed up 2021. He said beating India for the first time in a World Cup match was the high point.&nbsp;

"It was a fantastic achievement for us as a team because we had not been able to beat India in the World Cups for so many years. It was our best moment of the year," he said.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ms-dhoni-may-have-supported-some-bcci-officials-who-didnt-want-me-harbhajan-singh-makes-glaring-remark-441643">MS Dhoni may have supported some BCCI officials who didn't want me: Harbhajan Singh makes glaring remark</a>

He also stated that the win worked as a boost for the players to perform better in other matches. He said the win lifted the profile of the team.&nbsp;

Praising young talents, Babar said, "The biggest satisfaction was seeing young talent come through for us at crucial times. It is good we are now producing young talent."&nbsp;

Watch the podcast here:

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37th edition of PCB Podcast is out now! Follow the link to hear how Babar Azam reviews 2021 along with Ian Bishop and Simon Doull sharing their thoughts on the evolvement of Cricket in Pakistan. 
Full Podcast: <a href="https://t.co/Dk2K2a0nUi">https://t.co/Dk2K2a0nUi</a> <a href="https://t.co/B9LbS3yQz3">pic.twitter.com/B9LbS3yQz3</a>
— Pakistan Cricket (@TheRealPCB) <a href="https://twitter.com/TheRealPCB/status/1476785352249647104?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 31, 2021</a></blockquote>
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The skipper of the Pakistan cricket team Babar Azam termed the win against Team India during ICC Men's T20 World Cup in the Super 12 stage as the "best moment" for his team in 2021.

The skipper of the Pakistan cricket team Babar Azam termed the win against Team India during ICC Men's T20 World Cup in the Super 12 stage as the "best moment" for his team in 2021. Despite being the title favourites, India didn't get the start they needed as the Men In Blue lost their first two crucial matches against Pakistan and New Zealand. However, they won the last three games of the Super 12 stage against Afghanistan, Scotland and Namibia but it wasn't enough for a semi-final berth for Virat Kohli & Co. from Group 2. ALSO READ | Babar and Rizwan want foreign coaches in team management but Ramiz Raja thinks otherwise - Watch The India vs Pakistan match was significant from the perspective of cricket-mad fans in the South Asian nations. But it was Pakistan, who broke the jinx and defeated India by 10 wickets in the lopsided match. Before that Pakistan had never defeated India in World Cups. In a podcast released by the Pakistan Cricket Board on Friday (December 31), Babar summed up 2021. He said beating India for the first time in a World Cup match was the high point. "It was a fantastic achievement for us as a team because we had not been able to beat India in the World Cups for so many years. It was our best moment of the year," he said. ALSO READ | MS Dhoni may have supported some BCCI officials who didn't want me: Harbhajan Singh makes glaring remark He also stated that the win worked as a boost for the players to perform better in other matches. He said the win lifted the profile of the team. Praising young talents, Babar said, "The biggest satisfaction was seeing young talent come through for us at crucial times. It is good we are now producing young talent." Watch the podcast here: 37th edition of PCB Podcast is out now! Follow the link to hear how Babar Azam reviews 2021 along with Ian Bishop and Simon Doull sharing their thoughts on the evolvement of Cricket in Pakistan. Full Podcast: https://t.co/Dk2K2a0nUi pic.twitter.com/B9LbS3yQz3 — Pakistan Cricket (@TheRealPCB) December 31, 2021 ×

Watch: Pakistan's Babar Azam says beating India in T20 World Cup was 'best moment of 2021'

Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman Ramiz Raja revealed that skipper Babar Azam and wicketkeeper-batter Mohammad Rizwan have recommended including foreign coaches as part of the team management.&nbsp;

In a video published by the country's cricket board on its official Twitter handle, Raja weighed in on the goals for 2022 and also stated PCB's aim, which is to elevate the sport to the next level in the new year.&nbsp;

During his address, he mentioned that he had a word with Babar, Rizwan and interim head coach Saqlain Mushtaq regarding the team management.&nbsp;

He said that the inclusion of international coaches in the Pakistan team would be helpful.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ms-dhoni-may-have-supported-some-bcci-officials-who-didnt-want-me-harbhajan-singh-makes-glaring-remark-441643">MS Dhoni may have supported some BCCI officials who didn't want me: Harbhajan Singh makes glaring remark</a>

"I talked to Babar, Saqlain, Rizwan and they opined to integrate foreign coaches in the national team's dressing room," Cricket Pakistan quoted Ramiz Raja as saying.&nbsp;

He further informed what he thinks as he said, "But my way of thinking is quite open on this as I think that locals should be involved on away tours. You need regular coaches only to create the best dressing room environment."&nbsp;

Talking about the Bangladesh and West Indies series, the PCB chairman also said that the aim was to not involve so many technical coaches.&nbsp;

He said, "I wanted to see how they can stand on their feet with their own thinking. One can't have any idea of greatness when he can't grind in the difficult situation without any support."&nbsp;

For those who are now aware, the cricket board has advertised for the coaching staff for Pakistan's team. The board is looking for five player-support personnel roles.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tried-to-ask-ms-dhoni-but-got-no-reason-harbhajan-opens-up-on-his-sudden-omission-from-team-india-441226">'Tried to ask MS Dhoni but got no reason ' - Harbhajan opens up on his sudden omission from Team India</a>

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Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman Ramiz Raja revealed that skipper Babar Azam and wicketkeeper-batter Mohammad Rizwan have recommended including foreign coaches as part of the team management.

Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman Ramiz Raja revealed that skipper Babar Azam and wicketkeeper-batter Mohammad Rizwan have recommended including foreign coaches as part of the team management. In a video published by the country's cricket board on its official Twitter handle, Raja weighed in on the goals for 2022 and also stated PCB's aim, which is to elevate the sport to the next level in the new year. During his address, he mentioned that he had a word with Babar, Rizwan and interim head coach Saqlain Mushtaq regarding the team management. He said that the inclusion of international coaches in the Pakistan team would be helpful. ALSO READ | MS Dhoni may have supported some BCCI officials who didn't want me: Harbhajan Singh makes glaring remark "I talked to Babar, Saqlain, Rizwan and they opined to integrate foreign coaches in the national team's dressing room," Cricket Pakistan quoted Ramiz Raja as saying. He further informed what he thinks as he said, "But my way of thinking is quite open on this as I think that locals should be involved on away tours. You need regular coaches only to create the best dressing room environment." Talking about the Bangladesh and West Indies series, the PCB chairman also said that the aim was to not involve so many technical coaches. He said, "I wanted to see how they can stand on their feet with their own thinking. One can't have any idea of greatness when he can't grind in the difficult situation without any support." For those who are now aware, the cricket board has advertised for the coaching staff for Pakistan's team. The board is looking for five player-support personnel roles. ALSO READ | 'Tried to ask MS Dhoni but got no reason ' - Harbhajan opens up on his sudden omission from Team India ×

Babar and Rizwan want foreign coaches in team management but Ramiz Raja thinks otherwise - Watch

Former Pakistan captain Shahid Afridi has revealed he was not in favour of Babar Azam taking over as the captain of the national team. Babar was appointed as Pakistan's limited-overs captain in 2019 post the team's disappointing exit from the 2019 ODI World Cup in England. The batting maestro later took over from Azhar Ali as the captain of the Test side as well in 2020.

Afridi, one of the greatest all-rounders to have played for Pakistan, revealed he was not confident when Babar was appointed as the captain of the Pakistan team and had doubts over his leadership credentials. The former captain, however, is happy to have been proved wrong by Babar, who has not only performed consistently with the bat since taking over captaincy across all three formats but has also been a great leader.

During an interaction on Pakistani news channel Samaa TV, Afridi said how he was afraid of the captaincy burden increasing the pressure on Babar, which could have taken a toll on his batting.&nbsp;

"I was afraid that there would be a lot of pressure on Babar Azam,"&nbsp;Afridi said on Samaa Tv.

Pakistan team's captaincy is not a small thing. Being the captain, one needs to handle the media and players. The captain needs to speak to PCB and the selection committee as well. I was not confident that he (Azam) would be able to lead the squad. But, he has proved me wrong with his performance (as captain)," he added.

Babar led Pakistan to the semi-final of the T20 World Cup in 2021 where the Men in Green went down against eventual winners Australia. Pakistan were a dominant force in the year 2021 as they won 20 out of the 29 T20Is they played this year with Mohammad Rizwan and Babar finishing the year as the two highest run-getters in the format.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/hardik-pandya-is-so-weak-he-cant-survive-in-a-single-format-ex-pakistan-captain-criticises-all-rounder-439582">Hardik Pandya is so weak, he can't survive in a single format: Ex-Pakistan captain criticises all-rounder</a>

While Rizwan notched up 1326 runs in 29 matches, Babar amassed 939 runs in 29 games. Babar also was consistent in ODIs and Tests with 405 and 416 runs respectively in the two formats. The Pakistan skipper has been leading the side by example and will be hoping to continue his consistent run across formats next year.&nbsp;

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Former Pakistan captain Shahid Afridi has revealed he was not in favour of Babar Azam taking over as the captain of the national team. Babar was appointed as Pakistan's limited-overs captain in 2019 post the team's disappointing exit from the 2019 ODI World Cup in England.

Former Pakistan captain Shahid Afridi has revealed he was not in favour of Babar Azam taking over as the captain of the national team. Babar was appointed as Pakistan's limited-overs captain in 2019 post the team's disappointing exit from the 2019 ODI World Cup in England. The batting maestro later took over from Azhar Ali as the captain of the Test side as well in 2020. Afridi, one of the greatest all-rounders to have played for Pakistan, revealed he was not confident when Babar was appointed as the captain of the Pakistan team and had doubts over his leadership credentials. The former captain, however, is happy to have been proved wrong by Babar, who has not only performed consistently with the bat since taking over captaincy across all three formats but has also been a great leader. During an interaction on Pakistani news channel Samaa TV, Afridi said how he was afraid of the captaincy burden increasing the pressure on Babar, which could have taken a toll on his batting. "I was afraid that there would be a lot of pressure on Babar Azam," Afridi said on Samaa Tv. Pakistan team's captaincy is not a small thing. Being the captain, one needs to handle the media and players. The captain needs to speak to PCB and the selection committee as well. I was not confident that he (Azam) would be able to lead the squad. But, he has proved me wrong with his performance (as captain)," he added. Babar led Pakistan to the semi-final of the T20 World Cup in 2021 where the Men in Green went down against eventual winners Australia. Pakistan were a dominant force in the year 2021 as they won 20 out of the 29 T20Is they played this year with Mohammad Rizwan and Babar finishing the year as the two highest run-getters in the format. Also Read: Hardik Pandya is so weak, he can't survive in a single format: Ex-Pakistan captain criticises all-rounder While Rizwan notched up 1326 runs in 29 matches, Babar amassed 939 runs in 29 games. Babar also was consistent in ODIs and Tests with 405 and 416 runs respectively in the two formats. The Pakistan skipper has been leading the side by example and will be hoping to continue his consistent run across formats next year.

'I was not confident': Shahid Afridi reveals he was not in favour of Babar Azam becoming Pakistan's captain

Marnus Labuschagne of Australia has overtaken England's Joe Root to become the No. 1 batter in the ICC Men's Test Player Rankings, a position Root had held since August of this year.

Marnus made his first Ashes century in the second Test, which was held in Adelaide, and was named 'Player of the Match' for his innings of 103 and 51, which contributed to Australia's 275-run victory against England.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/not-the-selectors-call-former-india-pacer-feels-bcci-was-behind-virat-kohli-being-sacked-as-odi-captain-438994">Not the selectors' call: Former India pacer feels BCCI was behind Virat Kohli being sacked as ODI captain</a>

Labuschagne is the ninth Australian to reach the 900-point milestone with the bat, the elite list includes Sir Don Bradman, Ricky Pointing, Mathew Hayden, Steve Smith, Michael Clarke, and others.

Mitchell Starc has also returned to the world's top 10 Test bowlers for the first time since January. While his compatriot Pat Cummins maintained his lead despite missing the second Test.

On the other hand, England's Ollie Robinson has entered the world's top 25 bowlers for the first time, with a career-high 597 points, while Joe Root has entered the world's top 10 all-rounders for the first time after his 111th Test match.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/icc-rankings-marnus-labuschagne-rises-to-second-spot-in-tests-babar-azam-dethroned-in-t20is-437189">ICC Rankings: Marnus Labuschagne rises to second spot in Tests, Babar Azam dethroned in T20Is</a>

In the ICC Men's T20I Player Rankings, Pakistan's Babar Azam and England's Dawid Malan are tied at the first spot. Mohammad Rizwan currently has a career-high 798 points and is the second Pakistani in the top three.

The West Indies' bright spot in their 3-0 T20I series defeat to Pakistan was stand-in captain Nicholas Pooran. His 108 runs with a strike rate of 147.94 moved him up to 27th position, up from his previous career best of 30th.

(With inputs from agencies)

Marnus Labuschagne of Australia has overtaken England's Joe Root to become the No. 1 batter in the ICC Men's Test Player Rankings, a position Root had held since August of this year.

Marnus Labuschagne of Australia has overtaken England's Joe Root to become the No. 1 batter in the ICC Men's Test Player Rankings, a position Root had held since August of this year. Marnus made his first Ashes century in the second Test, which was held in Adelaide, and was named 'Player of the Match' for his innings of 103 and 51, which contributed to Australia's 275-run victory against England. ALSO READ | Not the selectors' call: Former India pacer feels BCCI was behind Virat Kohli being sacked as ODI captain Labuschagne is the ninth Australian to reach the 900-point milestone with the bat, the elite list includes Sir Don Bradman, Ricky Pointing, Mathew Hayden, Steve Smith, Michael Clarke, and others. Mitchell Starc has also returned to the world's top 10 Test bowlers for the first time since January. While his compatriot Pat Cummins maintained his lead despite missing the second Test. On the other hand, England's Ollie Robinson has entered the world's top 25 bowlers for the first time, with a career-high 597 points, while Joe Root has entered the world's top 10 all-rounders for the first time after his 111th Test match. ALSO READ: ICC Rankings: Marnus Labuschagne rises to second spot in Tests, Babar Azam dethroned in T20Is In the ICC Men's T20I Player Rankings, Pakistan's Babar Azam and England's Dawid Malan are tied at the first spot. Mohammad Rizwan currently has a career-high 798 points and is the second Pakistani in the top three. The West Indies' bright spot in their 3-0 T20I series defeat to Pakistan was stand-in captain Nicholas Pooran. His 108 runs with a strike rate of 147.94 moved him up to 27th position, up from his previous career best of 30th. (With inputs from agencies)

ICC Rankings: Labuschagne dethrones Root to become No. 1 Test batter, Babar reclaims top spot in T20Is

Pakistan pacer Shaheen Afridi recently named a teammate who he thinks is a better captain than Babar Azam. Babar is currently Pakistan's captain across all three formats and had recently led the team to the semi-finals of the T20 World Cup 2021 in the UAE. Pakistan had remained unbeaten in the group stages and recorded a massive ten-wicket win against arch-rivals India in the tournament.

Babar has been lauded by many for leading the team by example with his consistent performances with the bat. However, Afridi believes his opening partner Mohammad Rizwan is a better captain and has great leadership qualities. Afridi, who had started his domestic career under Rizwan's captaincy, rated Rizwan above Babar in the best captain debate.

“I like [Mohammad] Rizwan’s personality. I started playing domestic competition with him from KPK’s side and I would rate him as the best. Since Babar has done a fantastic job with the national team, I will rank him second,” Afridi was quoted as saying by Cricket Pakistan.

However, the pacer, who was recently named captain of his Pakistan Super League (PSL) side Lahore Qalandars, called Babar the best batsman in the world. He also lauded the Pakistan skipper for leading the national team well and taking the side to greater heights.

“Babar Azam is my favourite batsman and he is the number one batter as well. He has done fantastically well as a captain for the national team and we are reaching new heights under him,” said&nbsp;Shaheen Afridi.

Also Read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-had-defensive-mindset-during-dravids-time-virats-approach-is-to-win-kohlis-childhood-coach-438784">&nbsp;India had defensive mindset during Dravid's time, Virat's approach is to win: Kohli's childhood coach</a>

Afridi's comments are certainly not going to go down well with fans of Babar. Nonetheless, the batting maestro is likely to be Pakistan's skipper across formats for a number of years. He was appointed as Pakistan's captain for the first time after the team's disappointing exit from the 2019 ODI World Cup and has since done a terrific job while leading the side. 
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Pakistan pacer Shaheen Afridi recently named a teammate who he thinks is a better captain than Babar Azam. Babar is currently Pakistan's captain across all three formats and had recently led the team to the semi-finals of the T20 World Cup 2021 in the UAE.

Pakistan pacer Shaheen Afridi recently named a teammate who he thinks is a better captain than Babar Azam. Babar is currently Pakistan's captain across all three formats and had recently led the team to the semi-finals of the T20 World Cup 2021 in the UAE. Pakistan had remained unbeaten in the group stages and recorded a massive ten-wicket win against arch-rivals India in the tournament. Babar has been lauded by many for leading the team by example with his consistent performances with the bat. However, Afridi believes his opening partner Mohammad Rizwan is a better captain and has great leadership qualities. Afridi, who had started his domestic career under Rizwan's captaincy, rated Rizwan above Babar in the best captain debate. “I like [Mohammad] Rizwan’s personality. I started playing domestic competition with him from KPK’s side and I would rate him as the best. Since Babar has done a fantastic job with the national team, I will rank him second,” Afridi was quoted as saying by Cricket Pakistan. However, the pacer, who was recently named captain of his Pakistan Super League (PSL) side Lahore Qalandars, called Babar the best batsman in the world. He also lauded the Pakistan skipper for leading the national team well and taking the side to greater heights. “Babar Azam is my favourite batsman and he is the number one batter as well. He has done fantastically well as a captain for the national team and we are reaching new heights under him,” said Shaheen Afridi. Also Read: India had defensive mindset during Dravid's time, Virat's approach is to win: Kohli's childhood coach Afridi's comments are certainly not going to go down well with fans of Babar. Nonetheless, the batting maestro is likely to be Pakistan's skipper across formats for a number of years. He was appointed as Pakistan's captain for the first time after the team's disappointing exit from the 2019 ODI World Cup and has since done a terrific job while leading the side.

Not Babar Azam! Shaheen Afridi rates Pakistan teammate as better captain

Danish Kaneria, the former Pakistan spinner, recently revealed his T20 XI of the year. With the calendar year coming to an end, there was plenty of cricketing action across formats. In the shortest format, the T20 World Cup was held in the UAE in the last quarter whereas several bilateral series also took place, across the globe, as a build-up for the marquee event.

Hence, many top stars performed as per expectations whereas some new faces impressed the most. On the other hand, some big names failed to live upto expectations. In this regard, Kaneria's list features some top names from the game but didn't have both Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma; two of the most consistent performers in the format and among the top-three run-getters in T20Is overall.

Kaneria told on his Youtube channel, "Mohammad Rizwan and Babar Azam are my openers as performed really well throughout 2021. They were outstanding in the T20 World Cup (2021) and they played well in the recently concluded series against West Indies as well," Kaneria said.&nbsp;

"People will say at one down it should be Rohit Sharma or KL Rahul or Virat Kohli but no I have a different opinion, I will go with Jos Buttler. He (Buttler) played really well and he had also scored a hundred in World Cup. So, he deserves the spot," Kaneria explained.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-is-no-1-league-but-akram-opines-on-indias-t20-wc-debacle-explains-why-they-need-to-think-back-438451">'IPL is No. 1 league but...': Akram opines on India's T20 WC debacle, explains why 'they need to think back'</a>

The rest of his line-up comprised England's big-hitter Liam Livingstone (who had a decent T20 WC), Mitchell Marsh (Player-of-the-Match in T20 WC finale), Ravindra Jadeja, R Ashwin (who has 9 scalps from 5 T20Is since his comeback in limited-overs setup) and Adam Zampa whereas his pacers included Shaheen Afridi, Trent Boult and Jasprit Bumrah. Rishabh Pant was named as the 12th man.

For the unversed, Kohli amassed 299 in 8 innings at 74.75 along with 4 fifties in the shortest format in 2021. Rohit, on the other hand, ended with 424 runs at a strike-rate of 150.88 with 5 half-centuries.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/main-objective-is-to-play-for-the-country-former-pak-captain-defends-bccis-silence-over-kohli-presser-row-438496">Main objective is to play for the country: Former Pak captain defends BCCI's silence over Kohli presser row</a>

Danish Kaneria's T20 XI of 2021:

Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan, Jos Buttler, Liam Livingstone, Mitchell Marsh, Ravindra Jadeja, Ravi Ashwin, Shaheen Afridi, Trent Boult, Jasprit Bumrah, Adam Zampa; Rishabh Pant (12th Man).&nbsp; 
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Danish Kaneria, the former Pakistan spinner, recently revealed his T20 XI of the year. With the calendar year coming to an end, there was plenty of cricketing action across formats.

Danish Kaneria, the former Pakistan spinner, recently revealed his T20 XI of the year. With the calendar year coming to an end, there was plenty of cricketing action across formats. In the shortest format, the T20 World Cup was held in the UAE in the last quarter whereas several bilateral series also took place, across the globe, as a build-up for the marquee event. Hence, many top stars performed as per expectations whereas some new faces impressed the most. On the other hand, some big names failed to live upto expectations. In this regard, Kaneria's list features some top names from the game but didn't have both Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma; two of the most consistent performers in the format and among the top-three run-getters in T20Is overall. Kaneria told on his Youtube channel, "Mohammad Rizwan and Babar Azam are my openers as performed really well throughout 2021. They were outstanding in the T20 World Cup (2021) and they played well in the recently concluded series against West Indies as well," Kaneria said. "People will say at one down it should be Rohit Sharma or KL Rahul or Virat Kohli but no I have a different opinion, I will go with Jos Buttler. He (Buttler) played really well and he had also scored a hundred in World Cup. So, he deserves the spot," Kaneria explained. ALSO READ | 'IPL is No. 1 league but...': Akram opines on India's T20 WC debacle, explains why 'they need to think back' The rest of his line-up comprised England's big-hitter Liam Livingstone (who had a decent T20 WC), Mitchell Marsh (Player-of-the-Match in T20 WC finale), Ravindra Jadeja, R Ashwin (who has 9 scalps from 5 T20Is since his comeback in limited-overs setup) and Adam Zampa whereas his pacers included Shaheen Afridi, Trent Boult and Jasprit Bumrah. Rishabh Pant was named as the 12th man. For the unversed, Kohli amassed 299 in 8 innings at 74.75 along with 4 fifties in the shortest format in 2021. Rohit, on the other hand, ended with 424 runs at a strike-rate of 150.88 with 5 half-centuries. ALSO READ | Main objective is to play for the country: Former Pak captain defends BCCI's silence over Kohli presser row Danish Kaneria's T20 XI of 2021: Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan, Jos Buttler, Liam Livingstone, Mitchell Marsh, Ravindra Jadeja, Ravi Ashwin, Shaheen Afridi, Trent Boult, Jasprit Bumrah, Adam Zampa; Rishabh Pant (12th Man).

No Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma! Kaneria's T20 XI of 2021 features Bumrah, Rishabh Pant & 2 more Indians

On a day when Pakistan`s Test opener, Abid Ali competed 9,000 First-class runs, the 34-year-old was rushed to hospital after complaining of chest pain during a Quaid-e-Azam trophy match. 
 
Reports said that Abid, who plays for Central Punjab, felt pain twice while batting against Khyber Pakhtunkhwa at UBL Cricket Ground here. Abid was unbeaten on 61 when he returned to the dressing room. 
 
The cricketer has since reportedly undergone a thorough medical examination and is currently under observation. However, it is not known if the pain was linked to any heart-related problem.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-contemplated-giving-up-the-sport-r-ashwin-admits-to-have-thought-of-retirement-between-2018-20-438664">I contemplated giving up the sport: R Ashwin admits to have thought of retirement between 2018-20</a>

Central Punjab`s manager Ashraf Ali confirmed to cricketpakistan.com.pk that Abid had been taken to hospital. "Nothing can be said right now, the real situation will be revealed only after the check-up," Ashraf said. 
 
Since his Quaid-e-Azam Trophy debut in 2007, Abid has been a constant presence on Pakistan`s domestic circuit, amassing over 6,000 runs. He batted for Islamabad in 2017/18, scoring 231; then followed that up with an undefeated 249 in his ODI debut a few months later. He first represented Pakistan internationally at the age of 31, according to geo.tv. 
 
The prolific right-handed batter has played 16 Tests and scored 1180 runs at an average of over 49, with his highest being an unbeaten 215.

On a day when Pakistan`s Test opener, Abid Ali competed 9,000 First-class runs, the 34-year-old was rushed to hospital after complaining of chest pain during a Quaid-e-Azam trophy match.

On a day when Pakistan`s Test opener, Abid Ali competed 9,000 First-class runs, the 34-year-old was rushed to hospital after complaining of chest pain during a Quaid-e-Azam trophy match. Reports said that Abid, who plays for Central Punjab, felt pain twice while batting against Khyber Pakhtunkhwa at UBL Cricket Ground here. Abid was unbeaten on 61 when he returned to the dressing room. The cricketer has since reportedly undergone a thorough medical examination and is currently under observation. However, it is not known if the pain was linked to any heart-related problem. ALSO READ | I contemplated giving up the sport: R Ashwin admits to have thought of retirement between 2018-20 Central Punjab`s manager Ashraf Ali confirmed to cricketpakistan.com.pk that Abid had been taken to hospital. "Nothing can be said right now, the real situation will be revealed only after the check-up," Ashraf said. Since his Quaid-e-Azam Trophy debut in 2007, Abid has been a constant presence on Pakistan`s domestic circuit, amassing over 6,000 runs. He batted for Islamabad in 2017/18, scoring 231; then followed that up with an undefeated 249 in his ODI debut a few months later. He first represented Pakistan internationally at the age of 31, according to geo.tv. The prolific right-handed batter has played 16 Tests and scored 1180 runs at an average of over 49, with his highest being an unbeaten 215.

Pakistan Test opener Abid Ali rushed to hospital due to chest pain, under observation

After New Zealand had abandoned Pakistan tour right before the toss of the tour-opener was set to take place on September 17, there were severe criticism of the NZC. However, looks like bygones are now bygones as the New Zealand Cricket Board (NZC) and Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) have reached a conclusion as the Black Caps are set to tour Pakistan twice in late 2022-early 2023 and also return for more limited-overs fixtures in April 2023.&nbsp;

The official Twitter handle of the PCB shared the development with one and all on Monday (December 20) and wrote, "Brace yourselves! New Zealand to tour Pakistan for two Tests and three ODIs in December/January 2022-23 and will return in April 2023 for 10 white-ball matches. Exciting, right?"

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-announces-appointment-of-various-committees-at-the-90th-annual-general-meeting-437993">BCCI announces appointment of various committees at the 90th Annual General Meeting</a>

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Brace yourselves! New Zealand to tour Pakistan for two Tests and three ODIs in December/January 2022-23 and will return in April 2023 for 10 white-ball matches. Exciting, right?<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/harhaalmaincricket?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#harhaalmaincricket</a> <a href="https://t.co/IRwgcOsYoq">pic.twitter.com/IRwgcOsYoq</a>
— Pakistan Cricket (@TheRealPCB) <a href="https://twitter.com/TheRealPCB/status/1472786336889278469?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 20, 2021</a></blockquote>
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ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/2000-runs-in-a-year-mohammad-rizwan-sets-new-t20-world-record-with-87-run-knock-against-west-indies-437594">2000 runs in a year! Mohammad Rizwan sets new T20 world record with 87-run knock against West Indies</a>

PCB chairman and former Pakistan captain Ramiz Raja was quoted as saying, I am pleased with the outcomes of our discussions and negotiations, and thank Martin Snedden and his board for their understanding and support. This reflects the strong, cordial and historic relations the two boards have and reconfirms Pakistan’s status as an important member of the cricket fraternity."&nbsp;

Black Caps' first visit to Pakistan, in late 2022 and early 2023, will comprise two Tests (as a part of the second cycle of the ICC World Championship) and three ODIs as part of the ICC Super League.&nbsp;

Then, the Kiwis will again return to the Asian country for ten more limited-overs fixtures, in the form of five ODIs and equal number of T20Is. Thus, the fans who were deprived of NZ-Pak rivalry earlier this year will have plenty of action between the two cricketing giants in the coming future.

For the unversed, Pakistan will also host Australia and England in their backyard in the near future and have been granted the hosting rights for the 2025 Champions Trophy as well.

After New Zealand had abandoned Pakistan tour right before the toss of the tour-opener was set to take place on September 17, there were severe criticism of the NZC.

After New Zealand had abandoned Pakistan tour right before the toss of the tour-opener was set to take place on September 17, there were severe criticism of the NZC. However, looks like bygones are now bygones as the New Zealand Cricket Board (NZC) and Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) have reached a conclusion as the Black Caps are set to tour Pakistan twice in late 2022-early 2023 and also return for more limited-overs fixtures in April 2023. The official Twitter handle of the PCB shared the development with one and all on Monday (December 20) and wrote, "Brace yourselves! New Zealand to tour Pakistan for two Tests and three ODIs in December/January 2022-23 and will return in April 2023 for 10 white-ball matches. Exciting, right?" ALSO READ | BCCI announces appointment of various committees at the 90th Annual General Meeting Brace yourselves! New Zealand to tour Pakistan for two Tests and three ODIs in December/January 2022-23 and will return in April 2023 for 10 white-ball matches. Exciting, right?#harhaalmaincricket pic.twitter.com/IRwgcOsYoq — Pakistan Cricket (@TheRealPCB) December 20, 2021 × ALSO READ | 2000 runs in a year! Mohammad Rizwan sets new T20 world record with 87-run knock against West Indies PCB chairman and former Pakistan captain Ramiz Raja was quoted as saying, I am pleased with the outcomes of our discussions and negotiations, and thank Martin Snedden and his board for their understanding and support. This reflects the strong, cordial and historic relations the two boards have and reconfirms Pakistan’s status as an important member of the cricket fraternity." Black Caps' first visit to Pakistan, in late 2022 and early 2023, will comprise two Tests (as a part of the second cycle of the ICC World Championship) and three ODIs as part of the ICC Super League. Then, the Kiwis will again return to the Asian country for ten more limited-overs fixtures, in the form of five ODIs and equal number of T20Is. Thus, the fans who were deprived of NZ-Pak rivalry earlier this year will have plenty of action between the two cricketing giants in the coming future. For the unversed, Pakistan will also host Australia and England in their backyard in the near future and have been granted the hosting rights for the 2025 Champions Trophy as well.

2 Tests, 8 ODIs, 5 T20Is: Babar Azam-led Pakistan to host Kane Williamson's New Zealand in 2022-23

Taking a dig at Indian cricket team fans, former Pakistan captain Rashid Latif has said Indians will now say they don't have players like Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan in their team. Latif lauded the Pakistani opening duo for their batting heroics in T20Is this year and hailed them for their remarkable consistency.

Babar and Rizwan displayed sensational form throughout the year and dominated the proceedings in T20Is. The duo produced several memorable match-winning partnerships for Pakistan and broke a number of records with their batting exploits in the shortest format of the game.&nbsp;

While Rizwan is the top run-getter in T20Is in 2021 with 1326 runs to his name, Babar is at the second spot having amassed 939 runs in T20Is this year. The duo was also in terrific form in the T20 World Cup 2021 where they helped the Men in Green reach the semi-finals.

Hailing Babar and Rizwan for their brilliant consistency, Latif took a dig at Indian fans during a show on Pakistani news channel&nbsp;PTV Sports&nbsp;and said - "About a year ago, we used to say that Pakistan doesn’t have players like Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma or KL Rahul, especially in T20 cricket. But I think, after some time, Indians will also say that we don’t have players like Rizwan and Babar.”

Babar and Rizwan are the only players to have crossed the 900-run mark in T20Is this year and have been sensational as an opening duo for Pakistan. Rizwan had recently become the first batsman in the world to notch up 2000 runs in a calendar year in T20 cricket. 1326 of those came in T20 internationals for Pakistan, including twelve half-centuries and a hundred.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-like-virat-kohlis-attitude-but-he-fights-a-lot-says-bcci-president-sourav-ganguly-amid-captaincy-row-438107">I like Virat Kohli's attitude but he fights a lot, says BCCI president Sourav Ganguly amid captaincy row</a>

Despite being consistent performers for their team in T20Is, Babar and Rizwan have often been criticised for their moderate strike rate. However, Latif believes the duo has made up for their strike rate by pacing their innings perfectly.

"Earlier, we also had our reservations about their scoring rate, but they made up for it by pacing their innings perfectly," said the former Pakistan captain.

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Taking a dig at Indian cricket team fans, former Pakistan captain Rashid Latif has said Indians will now say they don't have players like Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan in their team.

Taking a dig at Indian cricket team fans, former Pakistan captain Rashid Latif has said Indians will now say they don't have players like Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan in their team. Latif lauded the Pakistani opening duo for their batting heroics in T20Is this year and hailed them for their remarkable consistency. Babar and Rizwan displayed sensational form throughout the year and dominated the proceedings in T20Is. The duo produced several memorable match-winning partnerships for Pakistan and broke a number of records with their batting exploits in the shortest format of the game. While Rizwan is the top run-getter in T20Is in 2021 with 1326 runs to his name, Babar is at the second spot having amassed 939 runs in T20Is this year. The duo was also in terrific form in the T20 World Cup 2021 where they helped the Men in Green reach the semi-finals. Hailing Babar and Rizwan for their brilliant consistency, Latif took a dig at Indian fans during a show on Pakistani news channel PTV Sports and said - "About a year ago, we used to say that Pakistan doesn’t have players like Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma or KL Rahul, especially in T20 cricket. But I think, after some time, Indians will also say that we don’t have players like Rizwan and Babar.” Babar and Rizwan are the only players to have crossed the 900-run mark in T20Is this year and have been sensational as an opening duo for Pakistan. Rizwan had recently become the first batsman in the world to notch up 2000 runs in a calendar year in T20 cricket. 1326 of those came in T20 internationals for Pakistan, including twelve half-centuries and a hundred. Also Read: I like Virat Kohli's attitude but he fights a lot, says BCCI president Sourav Ganguly amid captaincy row Despite being consistent performers for their team in T20Is, Babar and Rizwan have often been criticised for their moderate strike rate. However, Latif believes the duo has made up for their strike rate by pacing their innings perfectly. "Earlier, we also had our reservations about their scoring rate, but they made up for it by pacing their innings perfectly," said the former Pakistan captain.

We used to say Pakistan don't have Kohli, Rohit. Now India will say we don't have Babar, Rizwan: Rashid Latif

Mohammad Rizwan and Babar Azam starred with the bat as Pakistan defeated West Indies by seven wickets in the third and final T20I here at the National Stadium on Thursday.

With this win, Pakistan won the three-match series 3-0.

Chasing 208, Pakistan got off to a good start as openers Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan put on 60 runs inside the first six overs. At the halfway mark, Pakistan's score read 98/0, with the hosts needing 110 runs to win from the final 10 overs.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pakistan-west-indies-odi-series-postponed-to-june-2022-after-covid-19-cases-found-in-visiting-camp-437468">Pakistan- West Indies ODI series postponed to June 2022 after COVID-19 cases found in visiting camp</a>

Babar and Rizwan put on 158 runs for the opening wicket, and this saw both batters going past their fifty-run mark. Babar departed after scoring 79 while Rizwan was sent back to the pavilion after scoring 86. In the end, Pakistan registered a seven-wicket win with seven balls to spare.

Earlier, Nicholas Pooran's 64-run knock helped West Indies post 207/3 in the allotted twenty overs. Opting to bat first, the visitors got off to a quickfire start as openers Brandon King and Shamarh Brooks put on 66 runs inside the first six overs.

Pakistan finally got the breakthroughs of King (43) and Brooks (49) to reduce West Indies to 99/2 in the 10th over. King was dismissed by Mohammad Wasim while Brooks was scalped by Shahnawaz Dahani.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/kohli-contradicting-him-in-public-former-pak-skipper-urges-ganguly-to-answer-amid-captaincy-row-437433">'Kohli contradicting him in public....': Former Pak skipper urges Ganguly to 'answer' amid captaincy row</a>

Skipper Nicholas Pooran smashed 64 from 37 balls with the help of two 4s and 6 sixes and as a result, Windies posted a total of more than the 200-run mark.

Brief Scores: West Indies 207/3 (Nicholas Pooran 64, Shamarh Brooks 49; Mohammad Wasim Jr 2-44); Pakistan 208/3 (Mohammad Rizwan 86, Babar Azam 79; Dominic Drakes 1-36).&nbsp;

Mohammad Rizwan and Babar Azam starred with the bat as Pakistan defeated West Indies by seven wickets in the third and final T20I here at the National Stadium on Thursday.

Mohammad Rizwan and Babar Azam starred with the bat as Pakistan defeated West Indies by seven wickets in the third and final T20I here at the National Stadium on Thursday. With this win, Pakistan won the three-match series 3-0. Chasing 208, Pakistan got off to a good start as openers Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan put on 60 runs inside the first six overs. At the halfway mark, Pakistan's score read 98/0, with the hosts needing 110 runs to win from the final 10 overs. ALSO READ: Pakistan- West Indies ODI series postponed to June 2022 after COVID-19 cases found in visiting camp Babar and Rizwan put on 158 runs for the opening wicket, and this saw both batters going past their fifty-run mark. Babar departed after scoring 79 while Rizwan was sent back to the pavilion after scoring 86. In the end, Pakistan registered a seven-wicket win with seven balls to spare. Earlier, Nicholas Pooran's 64-run knock helped West Indies post 207/3 in the allotted twenty overs. Opting to bat first, the visitors got off to a quickfire start as openers Brandon King and Shamarh Brooks put on 66 runs inside the first six overs. Pakistan finally got the breakthroughs of King (43) and Brooks (49) to reduce West Indies to 99/2 in the 10th over. King was dismissed by Mohammad Wasim while Brooks was scalped by Shahnawaz Dahani. ALSO READ: 'Kohli contradicting him in public....': Former Pak skipper urges Ganguly to 'answer' amid captaincy row Skipper Nicholas Pooran smashed 64 from 37 balls with the help of two 4s and 6 sixes and as a result, Windies posted a total of more than the 200-run mark. Brief Scores: West Indies 207/3 (Nicholas Pooran 64, Shamarh Brooks 49; Mohammad Wasim Jr 2-44); Pakistan 208/3 (Mohammad Rizwan 86, Babar Azam 79; Dominic Drakes 1-36).

Pak vs WI, 3rd T20I: Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan star as hosts chase down 208 to whitewash series 3-0

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