Pakistan defeated Sri Lanka by four wickets in their challenging 342-run chase in the first Test at Galle International Stadium, Galle on Wednesday (July 22). The Babar Azam-led side had conceded a slender four-run lead to the Dimuth Karunaratne-led Islanders and had a stiff task to chase 342, however, they rode on vital knocks from Babar, Md Rizwan and opener Abdullah Shafique's 160 not out to take a 1-0 lead in the two-match series.

After Pakistan's historic win, Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman Ramiz Raja has fired shots at some other teams by saying that he doesn't ever interfere in team selections even though it is his right. While he didn't mention any other team, sides such as South Africa, India, etc. are nowadays playing with different captains. India have had as many as six captains in 2022 with Shikhar Dhawan to join the list on Friday (July 22), in the ODI series opener versus hosts West Indies. On the other hand, SA are touring England with Keshav Maharaj leading in ODIs, David Miller in T20Is and Dean Elgar to captain the Test side.

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Speaking to Dawn, Ramiz said, "There are people who try to run cricket like football. Many nations are doing it. They will realise what they've done when they complete the calendar. They will realise that if your captain isn't strong, your team can't progress. I haven't interfered in the team selections, even though I can do it. It is my right."

"I know the strategies, I know our match-winners. But when you offer accountability and freedom to operate, the players can take the team further up with performances. You can't run cricket sitting on sidelines. It won't be a successful model. We have created a positive environment. Everyone knows I am a phone call away if there are any problems. As an ex-cricketer, I know the issues players might face, so it is important to create that sort of environment,” he added.

After a memorable win in the opening Test, Babar-led Pakistan will be eager to whitewash the series and increase their chances of entering the final of the ongoing ICC World Test Championship cycle.

Pakistan defeated Sri Lanka by four wickets in their challenging 342-run chase in the first Test at Galle International Stadium, Galle on Wednesday (July 22). The Babar Azam-led side had conceded a slender four-run lead to the Dimuth Karunaratne-led Islanders and had a stiff task to chase 342, however, they rode on vital knocks from Babar, Md Rizwan and opener Abdullah Shafique's 160 not out to take a 1-0 lead in the two-match series.

Pakistan defeated Sri Lanka by four wickets in their challenging 342-run chase in the first Test at Galle International Stadium, Galle on Wednesday (July 22). The Babar Azam-led side had conceded a slender four-run lead to the Dimuth Karunaratne-led Islanders and had a stiff task to chase 342, however, they rode on vital knocks from Babar, Md Rizwan and opener Abdullah Shafique's 160 not out to take a 1-0 lead in the two-match series. After Pakistan's historic win, Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman Ramiz Raja has fired shots at some other teams by saying that he doesn't ever interfere in team selections even though it is his right. While he didn't mention any other team, sides such as South Africa, India, etc. are nowadays playing with different captains. India have had as many as six captains in 2022 with Shikhar Dhawan to join the list on Friday (July 22), in the ODI series opener versus hosts West Indies. On the other hand, SA are touring England with Keshav Maharaj leading in ODIs, David Miller in T20Is and Dean Elgar to captain the Test side. ALSO READ | Shafique becomes 1st batter to script new world record during Pakistan's historic Test run-chase vs SL Speaking to Dawn, Ramiz said, "There are people who try to run cricket like football. Many nations are doing it. They will realise what they've done when they complete the calendar. They will realise that if your captain isn't strong, your team can't progress. I haven't interfered in the team selections, even though I can do it. It is my right." "I know the strategies, I know our match-winners. But when you offer accountability and freedom to operate, the players can take the team further up with performances. You can't run cricket sitting on sidelines. It won't be a successful model. We have created a positive environment. Everyone knows I am a phone call away if there are any problems. As an ex-cricketer, I know the issues players might face, so it is important to create that sort of environment,” he added. After a memorable win in the opening Test, Babar-led Pakistan will be eager to whitewash the series and increase their chances of entering the final of the ongoing ICC World Test Championship cycle.

Haven't interfered in team selections, even though I can, says Ramiz Raja after Pakistan's win over SL

Pakistan's out-of-favour keeper-batter Kamran Akmal isn't one to shy away from expressing his opinions and recently lashed out at the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) for not allowing opener Ahmed Shehzad's entry into the high-performance camp.&nbsp;

While Shehzad was in the news recently when he slammed Waqar Younis -- former Pakistan bowling coach -- for his omission from the national squad and&nbsp;and stated that he was not allowed to tell his side of the story, the elder of the Akmal brothers, i.e. Kamran also spoke about Shehzad not being allowed to enter the high-performance training camp on Youtube channel&nbsp;paktv.tv.

“They don't allow him in the high-performance training camp. They told him that players who are out of the side for the past 2 years are not allowed. This is the state (of cricket here). They are basically denying entry to players who have represented Pakistan in 100-150 matches. I don't know where we are going,” Akmal said.

In addition, the 40-year-old Akmal claimed&nbsp;that the process of sending an email to PCB to enter the high-performance camp should be solely for the&nbsp;U-19 players and not for the ones who have represented the senior men's team for a good amount of time. In this regard, he opined, "You've made high-performance camp for cricketers. At least make it available for them. Now, you have to send e-mail to team's office before entering. What's the logic behind this? Even if you are making such SOPs, do this for U19 players."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/abdullah-shafiques-158-propels-pakistan-to-their-2nd-highest-run-chase-beat-sri-lanka-in-galle-test-499148">Abdullah Shafique's 158* propels Pakistan to their 2nd-highest run-chase, beat Sri Lanka in Galle Test</a>

He shifted blame to current PCB chairman Ramiz Raja and pointed out, "When we were there, Ramiz bhai used to access the facilities inside the training camp. He knows these things. People should ask, why are these SOPs in place?

“He should take notice of this. Ramiz bhai used to come in the camp years after retiring from the game. Can the people at high performance camp dare to stop him now? Can they stop Wasim bhai, Shoaib Akhtar now? I was so sad when Ahmed was stopped from entering, they told him he can't use the facility because he has been out of the team for 2 years,” Akmal added.

Babar Azam-led Pakistan, on the other hand, completed their second-highest Test run-chase in Galle versus hosts Sri Lanka on Wednesday (July 20). Resuming their 342-run chase on Day 5, Pakistan rode on opener Abdullah Shafique's 158 not out to take his side to a stunning four-wicket win as Babar &amp; Co. go 1-0 up in the two-match series in the Island nation.

Pakistan's out-of-favour keeper-batter Kamran Akmal isn't one to shy away from expressing his opinions and recently lashed out at the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) for not allowing opener Ahmed Shehzad's entry into the high-performance camp.

Pakistan's out-of-favour keeper-batter Kamran Akmal isn't one to shy away from expressing his opinions and recently lashed out at the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) for not allowing opener Ahmed Shehzad's entry into the high-performance camp. While Shehzad was in the news recently when he slammed Waqar Younis -- former Pakistan bowling coach -- for his omission from the national squad and and stated that he was not allowed to tell his side of the story, the elder of the Akmal brothers, i.e. Kamran also spoke about Shehzad not being allowed to enter the high-performance training camp on Youtube channel paktv.tv. “They don't allow him in the high-performance training camp. They told him that players who are out of the side for the past 2 years are not allowed. This is the state (of cricket here). They are basically denying entry to players who have represented Pakistan in 100-150 matches. I don't know where we are going,” Akmal said. In addition, the 40-year-old Akmal claimed that the process of sending an email to PCB to enter the high-performance camp should be solely for the U-19 players and not for the ones who have represented the senior men's team for a good amount of time. In this regard, he opined, "You've made high-performance camp for cricketers. At least make it available for them. Now, you have to send e-mail to team's office before entering. What's the logic behind this? Even if you are making such SOPs, do this for U19 players." ALSO READ | Abdullah Shafique's 158* propels Pakistan to their 2nd-highest run-chase, beat Sri Lanka in Galle Test He shifted blame to current PCB chairman Ramiz Raja and pointed out, "When we were there, Ramiz bhai used to access the facilities inside the training camp. He knows these things. People should ask, why are these SOPs in place? “He should take notice of this. Ramiz bhai used to come in the camp years after retiring from the game. Can the people at high performance camp dare to stop him now? Can they stop Wasim bhai, Shoaib Akhtar now? I was so sad when Ahmed was stopped from entering, they told him he can't use the facility because he has been out of the team for 2 years,” Akmal added. Babar Azam-led Pakistan, on the other hand, completed their second-highest Test run-chase in Galle versus hosts Sri Lanka on Wednesday (July 20). Resuming their 342-run chase on Day 5, Pakistan rode on opener Abdullah Shafique's 158 not out to take his side to a stunning four-wicket win as Babar & Co. go 1-0 up in the two-match series in the Island nation.

'Don't know where...': Kamran lashes out at PCB for preventing Shehzad's entry into high-performance camp

On Wednesday (June 22), the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) announced an 18-member squad for Pakistan's forthcoming two-match Test series versus Sri Lanka, which will get underway on July 16 in Galle. The squad sees the return of former captain and wicketkeeper-batter Sarfaraz Ahmed whereas veteran spinner Yasir Shah has also regained his spot, after missing out on the home Test series versus Australia early this year.

Yasir was last seen in action for Pakistan against West Indies, held last year, but wasn't prefered for the home Tests against Pat Cummins-led Aussies. He reclaimed his place, leading to Sajid Khan's omission. After the team was announced, former spinner Danish Kaneria&nbsp;slammed PCB and came down heavily on the selection. He didn't approve of Sarfaraz's return and also feels that Sajid should have retained his spot after playing all Tests versus the Baggy Greens.

"I don't understand on what basis the selectors have picked the team. It seems like the selectors will never improve and think about players while picking a team. I don't know how Ramiz (Raja) approved this team. Some changes were needed after Australia defeated Pakistan in their own backyard. Off-spinner Sajid Khan played all the Test matches against Australia, but Pakistan didn't give a chance to Yasir Shah, who would have gotten exposed against the Aussie batters. Sajid has been unfairly treated. They also removed Usman Qadir and didn't play him against Australia either. Zahid Mahmood was also omitted without any reason. I'm not sure whether Babar (Azam) or (Mohammad) Wasim are picking the team or doing favours for friends," Kaneria said on his&nbsp;YouTube&nbsp;channel.

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"Sarfaraz has also been included in the Test set-up. He won't be getting into the eleven because of Mohammad Rizwan. Instead of Sarfaraz, a young player could have been a part of the side. They also put Haris Rauf in the Test squad, but Shahnawaz Dahani can be a better bowler in the longer format. Rauf should have been kept for the T20 format."

"Pakistan need to make a team for the future, but it seems like the current selection committee is doing favours. One who offers gifts and keeps selectors happy gets into the team. Hardworking and honest players are being treated unfairly," Kaneria added.

Babar-led Pakistan will play two Tests in the Island nation, next month, in Galle and Colombo, respectively. They are ranked fifth in the points table of the ongoing ICC World Test Championship, a spot below Dimuth Karunaratne-led Sri Lanka.

Squad: Babar Azam (captain), Mohammad Rizwan (vice-captain, wicketkeeper), Abdullah Shafique, Azhar Ali, Faheem Ashraf, Fawad Alam, Haris Rauf, Hasan Ali, Imam-ul-Haq, Mohammad Nawaz, Naseem Shah, Nauman Ali, Salman Ali Agha, Sarfaraz Ahmed (wicketkeeper), Saud Shakeel, Shaheen Afridi, Shan Masood and Yasir Sha

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</ul>

On Wednesday (June 22), the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) announced an 18-member squad for Pakistan's forthcoming two-match Test series versus Sri Lanka, which will get underway on July 16 in Galle.

On Wednesday (June 22), the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) announced an 18-member squad for Pakistan's forthcoming two-match Test series versus Sri Lanka, which will get underway on July 16 in Galle. The squad sees the return of former captain and wicketkeeper-batter Sarfaraz Ahmed whereas veteran spinner Yasir Shah has also regained his spot, after missing out on the home Test series versus Australia early this year. Yasir was last seen in action for Pakistan against West Indies, held last year, but wasn't prefered for the home Tests against Pat Cummins-led Aussies. He reclaimed his place, leading to Sajid Khan's omission. After the team was announced, former spinner Danish Kaneria slammed PCB and came down heavily on the selection. He didn't approve of Sarfaraz's return and also feels that Sajid should have retained his spot after playing all Tests versus the Baggy Greens. "I don't understand on what basis the selectors have picked the team. It seems like the selectors will never improve and think about players while picking a team. I don't know how Ramiz (Raja) approved this team. Some changes were needed after Australia defeated Pakistan in their own backyard. Off-spinner Sajid Khan played all the Test matches against Australia, but Pakistan didn't give a chance to Yasir Shah, who would have gotten exposed against the Aussie batters. Sajid has been unfairly treated. They also removed Usman Qadir and didn't play him against Australia either. Zahid Mahmood was also omitted without any reason. I'm not sure whether Babar (Azam) or (Mohammad) Wasim are picking the team or doing favours for friends," Kaneria said on his YouTube channel. ALSO READ | Pakistan pacer Hasan Ali trolled on Instagram by moral police after sharing pictures of his wife and daughter "Sarfaraz has also been included in the Test set-up. He won't be getting into the eleven because of Mohammad Rizwan. Instead of Sarfaraz, a young player could have been a part of the side. They also put Haris Rauf in the Test squad, but Shahnawaz Dahani can be a better bowler in the longer format. Rauf should have been kept for the T20 format." "Pakistan need to make a team for the future, but it seems like the current selection committee is doing favours. One who offers gifts and keeps selectors happy gets into the team. Hardworking and honest players are being treated unfairly," Kaneria added. Babar-led Pakistan will play two Tests in the Island nation, next month, in Galle and Colombo, respectively. They are ranked fifth in the points table of the ongoing ICC World Test Championship, a spot below Dimuth Karunaratne-led Sri Lanka. Squad: Babar Azam (captain), Mohammad Rizwan (vice-captain, wicketkeeper), Abdullah Shafique, Azhar Ali, Faheem Ashraf, Fawad Alam, Haris Rauf, Hasan Ali, Imam-ul-Haq, Mohammad Nawaz, Naseem Shah, Nauman Ali, Salman Ali Agha, Sarfaraz Ahmed (wicketkeeper), Saud Shakeel, Shaheen Afridi, Shan Masood and Yasir Sha

'One who offers gifts...': Danish Kaneria reacts, lashes out at PCB after Test team announced for SL tour

The deadly Covid-19 virus has affected several star athletes since its advent in early 2000. Former Pakistan skipper Zaheer Abbas is the latest to have contracted&nbsp;the infection. The legendary cricketer has been admitted to the ICU in Saint Mary’s Hospital in Paddington, in the city of Westminster in London, after being&nbsp; Covid-19 positive&nbsp;a&nbsp;few days back.

As per a report on Pakistan news Channel Goe News, Abbas was on oxygen support and after a couple of days,&nbsp;the situation continued to go downhill as the&nbsp;former opener has been shifted to a private hospital.

According to reports, Abbas contracted COVID-19 positive when he was enroute to England from Dubai. He firstly complained of kidney pain and was then diagnosed with pneumonia after arriving&nbsp;in London.

“He is currently on dialysis and the doctors have advised him to refrain from meeting people," the sources said as per quoted by Geo News.

For the unversed, the ex-Pakistani cricketer Abbas is on dialysis and is feeling weak so meeting him has been strictly prohibited, opined the source.

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Abbas, who amassed 5,062 runs in 72 Tests and 2,572 runs in ODIs, was one of the best batters of his generation. Post retirement, he served as an ICC match referee but didn't have a long stint, donning the role&nbsp;in only a solitary Test and three ODIs. In 2020, Abbas was&nbsp;inducted into the ICC Hall of Fame along with South Africa's all-rounder&nbsp;Jacques Kallis and Australia women's cricketer Lisa Sthalekar.

Wishes have been pouring in for the legendary 74-year-old cricketer on social media platforms. The likes of Mohammad Hafeez, Alan Wilkins, and many of Abbas' ardent fans have expressed their concerns and wished for his speedy recovery.

The deadly Covid-19 virus has affected several star athletes since its advent in early 2000. Former Pakistan skipper Zaheer Abbas is the latest to have contracted the infection.

The deadly Covid-19 virus has affected several star athletes since its advent in early 2000. Former Pakistan skipper Zaheer Abbas is the latest to have contracted the infection. The legendary cricketer has been admitted to the ICU in Saint Mary’s Hospital in Paddington, in the city of Westminster in London, after being Covid-19 positive a few days back. As per a report on Pakistan news Channel Goe News, Abbas was on oxygen support and after a couple of days, the situation continued to go downhill as the former opener has been shifted to a private hospital. According to reports, Abbas contracted COVID-19 positive when he was enroute to England from Dubai. He firstly complained of kidney pain and was then diagnosed with pneumonia after arriving in London. “He is currently on dialysis and the doctors have advised him to refrain from meeting people," the sources said as per quoted by Geo News. For the unversed, the ex-Pakistani cricketer Abbas is on dialysis and is feeling weak so meeting him has been strictly prohibited, opined the source. ALSO READ | R Ashwin to join Indian squad in England in next couple of days after missing flight due to COVID-19 Abbas, who amassed 5,062 runs in 72 Tests and 2,572 runs in ODIs, was one of the best batters of his generation. Post retirement, he served as an ICC match referee but didn't have a long stint, donning the role in only a solitary Test and three ODIs. In 2020, Abbas was inducted into the ICC Hall of Fame along with South Africa's all-rounder Jacques Kallis and Australia women's cricketer Lisa Sthalekar. Wishes have been pouring in for the legendary 74-year-old cricketer on social media platforms. The likes of Mohammad Hafeez, Alan Wilkins, and many of Abbas' ardent fans have expressed their concerns and wished for his speedy recovery.

Former Pakistan skipper Zaheer Abbas tests Covid positive, admitted to ICU of private hospital in London

Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has been rocked after a female cricketer levelled shocking allegations against a national-level coach in the country. The female cricketer alleged the coach got close to her with promises of selection in a domestic women's team and allegedly sexually molested her. The cricketer has registered a complaint with the police while PCB has also taken cognizance of the matter.

The cricketer has accused Nadeem Iqbal, a national-level coach in Pakistan of molesting her. As per reports in the Pakistani media, Nadeem, a former first-class cricketer, was one of the coaches when PCB women's trials were conducted in Multan a few years ago. The cricketer had gone there for trails where she met Nadeem.

She revealed the coach promised her selection in the team and also employment on the board before molesting her. She also claimed that Nadeem later also involved his friends and recorded videos of&nbsp;her to blackmail her with the footage.

"He got close to me with promises of selecting me for the women's team and also getting me employment on the board. But over time he kept on sexually molesting me and also involved his friends. He also had me video-taped and later kept on blackmailing me," the cricketer alleged in a video.

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The Pakistan Cricket Board has reacted sharply and decided to suspend Nadeem as a coach. The board, however, has refused to carry out an investigation into the matter with a PCB official suggesting that the police should rather conduct an enquiry into the case.

“Obviously, we can’t carry out any criminal investigation that is for the police to do but our inquiry will find out if he was in breach of his terms of contract with us," said a PCB official was quoted as saying by PTI, on conditions of anonymity.

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Nadeem, who hails from the Multan region, made his first-class debut in the same year as the legendary Waqar Younis and went on to play 80 matches in his first-class career picking up 258 wickets. He was known for his ability to swing the ball with pace and was once considered a better bowler than Younis, who scalped 789 wickets for Pakistan in international cricket.

Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has been rocked after a female cricketer levelled shocking allegations against a national-level coach in the country. The female cricketer alleged the coach got close to her with promises of selection in a domestic women's team and allegedly sexually molested her.

Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has been rocked after a female cricketer levelled shocking allegations against a national-level coach in the country. The female cricketer alleged the coach got close to her with promises of selection in a domestic women's team and allegedly sexually molested her. The cricketer has registered a complaint with the police while PCB has also taken cognizance of the matter. The cricketer has accused Nadeem Iqbal, a national-level coach in Pakistan of molesting her. As per reports in the Pakistani media, Nadeem, a former first-class cricketer, was one of the coaches when PCB women's trials were conducted in Multan a few years ago. The cricketer had gone there for trails where she met Nadeem. She revealed the coach promised her selection in the team and also employment on the board before molesting her. She also claimed that Nadeem later also involved his friends and recorded videos of her to blackmail her with the footage. "He got close to me with promises of selecting me for the women's team and also getting me employment on the board. But over time he kept on sexually molesting me and also involved his friends. He also had me video-taped and later kept on blackmailing me," the cricketer alleged in a video. Also Read: Rishabh Pant vs Dinesh Karthik? Dale Steyn picks India's wicket-keeper batter for T20 World Cup 2022 The Pakistan Cricket Board has reacted sharply and decided to suspend Nadeem as a coach. The board, however, has refused to carry out an investigation into the matter with a PCB official suggesting that the police should rather conduct an enquiry into the case. “Obviously, we can’t carry out any criminal investigation that is for the police to do but our inquiry will find out if he was in breach of his terms of contract with us," said a PCB official was quoted as saying by PTI, on conditions of anonymity. Also Read: 'Best white-ball cricketer in the world': Morgan lauds Buttler as England register highest-ever ODI score Nadeem, who hails from the Multan region, made his first-class debut in the same year as the legendary Waqar Younis and went on to play 80 matches in his first-class career picking up 258 wickets. He was known for his ability to swing the ball with pace and was once considered a better bowler than Younis, who scalped 789 wickets for Pakistan in international cricket.

'He kept on sexually molesting me': Pakistan cricket Board suspends coach after shocking allegations

The IPL media rights auction was a huge hit as many had their eyes glued on how the proceedings would eventually end. After a three-day auction, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI)&nbsp;laughed its way to the bank by earning a staggering&nbsp;INR 48,390.52 crore from the media rights auction for IPL 2023-27, i.e.&nbsp;more than&nbsp;two and a half times the amount it earned for the previous cycle&nbsp;in 2018.

Thus, IPL continues to grow worldwide and is now also the second most lucrative sports league across the globe, only behind National Football League (NFL). After the auction, BCCI Secretary Jay Shah was elated with IPL's rising demand and revealed that from the next season, the cash-rich league's window will expand further, i.e. for a two-and-a-half-month period.&nbsp;

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"From the next FTP cycle, IPL will have an official two-and-a-half-month window so that all the top international cricketers can participate. We have had discussions with various boards as well as the ICC," Shah had said in an interview with PTI. However, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) isn't happy with this development.

Reacting to Shah's revelation, PCB is now eyeing the ICC board meeting at the Commonwealth Games in Birmingham to discuss the topic in length.

"The ICC board meeting will be held during the Commonwealth Games in Birmingham in July and this matter will probably be discussed there," a PCB source said, as per PTI. "Mr Jay Shah has said the BCCI is committed to international bilateral cricket but with so many leagues cropping up and the IPL planning expansion this has to be discussed among the cricket boards," the PCB official further added.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/is-he-still-playing-cricket-with-same-motivation-afridi-talks-about-attitude-as-he-dwells-on-kohlis-form-488449">'Is he still playing cricket with same motivation?' Afridi talks about 'attitude' as he dwells on Kohli's form</a>

It will be interesting to see if the discussion is carried out at the next ICC board meeting, in Birmingham. If it does, its conclusion will be keenly awaited among all cricket fans.&nbsp;

The IPL media rights auction was a huge hit as many had their eyes glued on how the proceedings would eventually end. After a three-day auction, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) laughed its way to the bank by earning a staggering INR 48,390.

The IPL media rights auction was a huge hit as many had their eyes glued on how the proceedings would eventually end. After a three-day auction, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) laughed its way to the bank by earning a staggering INR 48,390.52 crore from the media rights auction for IPL 2023-27, i.e. more than two and a half times the amount it earned for the previous cycle in 2018. Thus, IPL continues to grow worldwide and is now also the second most lucrative sports league across the globe, only behind National Football League (NFL). After the auction, BCCI Secretary Jay Shah was elated with IPL's rising demand and revealed that from the next season, the cash-rich league's window will expand further, i.e. for a two-and-a-half-month period. ALSO READ | Listing world's most lucrative sports leagues after IPL media rights auction "From the next FTP cycle, IPL will have an official two-and-a-half-month window so that all the top international cricketers can participate. We have had discussions with various boards as well as the ICC," Shah had said in an interview with PTI. However, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) isn't happy with this development. Reacting to Shah's revelation, PCB is now eyeing the ICC board meeting at the Commonwealth Games in Birmingham to discuss the topic in length. "The ICC board meeting will be held during the Commonwealth Games in Birmingham in July and this matter will probably be discussed there," a PCB source said, as per PTI. "Mr Jay Shah has said the BCCI is committed to international bilateral cricket but with so many leagues cropping up and the IPL planning expansion this has to be discussed among the cricket boards," the PCB official further added. ALSO READ | 'Is he still playing cricket with same motivation?' Afridi talks about 'attitude' as he dwells on Kohli's form It will be interesting to see if the discussion is carried out at the next ICC board meeting, in Birmingham. If it does, its conclusion will be keenly awaited among all cricket fans.

PCB unhappy with IPL's 'two-and-a-half month window'? Discussion likely in ICC's board meeting

Babar Azam has been in sublime form in all forms of the game. In terms of ICC rankings for batters, the Pakistani captain is the No. 1 batsman in white-ball formats whereas he finds himself in the top five (5th spot) in Tests.&nbsp;

With him being consistent across formats of late for Men in Green, India's veteran keeper-batter Dinesh Karthik&nbsp;recently lavished huge praise on Babar and stated that he has the potential to become the top-ranked batter in all forms of the game.

"One-hundred per cent (Babar is capable of achieving that)," Karthik had said on The ICC Review. "He is a high-quality player who is at the peak of his batting prowess and he has got some Test matches coming up. He has been phenomenal in all three formats of the game and he has done well in different batting positions too. I wish him all the best and think he has the potential. He has got all the following of Pakistan helping him in abundance to go on and do special things for his country."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/a-lot-of-people-had-given-up-on-me-dinesh-karthik-reacts-after-his-memorable-team-india-comeback-481413">'A lot of people had given up on me' - Dinesh Karthik reacts after his memorable Team India comeback</a>

In response, Babar, during a press conference, stated, "Definitely, as a player it's a dream to become the No. 1 in all formats and for that, you have to focus and put in hard work. It's not like if you are the top player in 1 or 2 formats, you go easy. If you are to become No.1 in all three, you have to keep yourself fit and on track. There is back-to-back cricket and the gap is less. For that, you need to be extra fit. It's something I am preparing for. It's going well in white-ball and hopefully, I will be able to do well in Tests too."

The prolific right-hander has so far amassed&nbsp;2,851,&nbsp;4,261 and&nbsp;2,686 runs in Tests, ODIs and T20Is, respectively. He will soon lead the Men in Green in three ODIs versus West Indies at home.

Babar Azam has been in sublime form in all forms of the game. In terms of ICC rankings for batters, the Pakistani captain is the No. 1 batsman in white-ball formats whereas he finds himself in the top five (5th spot) in Tests.

Babar Azam has been in sublime form in all forms of the game. In terms of ICC rankings for batters, the Pakistani captain is the No. 1 batsman in white-ball formats whereas he finds himself in the top five (5th spot) in Tests. With him being consistent across formats of late for Men in Green, India's veteran keeper-batter Dinesh Karthik recently lavished huge praise on Babar and stated that he has the potential to become the top-ranked batter in all forms of the game. "One-hundred per cent (Babar is capable of achieving that)," Karthik had said on The ICC Review. "He is a high-quality player who is at the peak of his batting prowess and he has got some Test matches coming up. He has been phenomenal in all three formats of the game and he has done well in different batting positions too. I wish him all the best and think he has the potential. He has got all the following of Pakistan helping him in abundance to go on and do special things for his country." ALSO READ | 'A lot of people had given up on me' - Dinesh Karthik reacts after his memorable Team India comeback In response, Babar, during a press conference, stated, "Definitely, as a player it's a dream to become the No. 1 in all formats and for that, you have to focus and put in hard work. It's not like if you are the top player in 1 or 2 formats, you go easy. If you are to become No.1 in all three, you have to keep yourself fit and on track. There is back-to-back cricket and the gap is less. For that, you need to be extra fit. It's something I am preparing for. It's going well in white-ball and hopefully, I will be able to do well in Tests too." The prolific right-hander has so far amassed 2,851, 4,261 and 2,686 runs in Tests, ODIs and T20Is, respectively. He will soon lead the Men in Green in three ODIs versus West Indies at home.

Pak captain Babar Azam reacts to DK's 'he has potential to become No. 1 batter across formats' remark

Danish Kaneria's feud with former Pakistan captain and all-rounder Shahid Afridi continues to make the headlines. It all started with Kaneria's claims where he revealed that Afridi never wanted him to be part of the Pakistan cricket team, during his playing days, and didn't favour him on religious grounds.

"Shoaib Akhtar was the first person to talk about my problem in public. Hats off to him for saying it (how I was mistreated in the team because of being a Hindu). However, he was later pressured by several authorities. He then stopped talking about it. But yes, it did happen to me. I was always degraded by Shahid Afridi. We used to play together for the same department, he used to keep me on the bench and didn't let me play the one-day tournament," Kaneria had told IANS during a recent conversation.

To this, Afridi joined in and slammed the tainted Pakistani spinner with some hard-hitting remarks. "And the person saying all this, look at his own character. He is accusing me to get cheap fame and make money. Kaneria was like my younger brother and I played with him in the department for many years," Afridi was quoted as saying by the news.com.pk.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/shahid-afridi-was-a-liar-a-characterless-person-who-conspired-against-me-for-being-a-hindu-danish-kaneria-474845">Shahid Afridi was a liar, a characterless person who conspired against me for being a Hindu: Danish Kaneria</a>

On Monday morning (May 09), Kaneria fired shots once again at Afridi. Replying to Afridi's comments where he mentioned India as an enemy country, Kaneria schooled the ex all-rounder and wrote, "India is not our enemy. Our enemies are those who instigate people in the name of religion. If you consider India as your enemy, then don't ever go to any Indian media channel."

He soon tweeted saying, "When I raised my voice against forced conversion, I was threatened that my career would be destroyed."

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When I raised my voice against forced conversion, I was threatened that my career would be destroyed.
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ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/hes-giving-interviews-to-our-enemy-country-which-can-incite-religious-sentiments-afridi-on-kanerias-claims-476846">He's giving interviews to our enemy country which can incite religious sentiments: Afridi on Kaneria's claims</a>

While the war of words between Pakistani cricketers isn't new in world cricket, Kaneria and Afridi's feud is taking a turn for the worse with each passing day. Given that Kaneria -- who remains Pakistan's leading wicket-taker in Tests among spinners -- runs his own Youtube channel, he might drop some more big statements with regard to the whole controversy.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Afridi is also expected to hit back at his former teammate.

Danish Kaneria's feud with former Pakistan captain and all-rounder Shahid Afridi continues to make the headlines. It all started with Kaneria's claims where he revealed that Afridi never wanted him to be part of the Pakistan cricket team, during his playing days, and didn't favour him on religious grounds.

Danish Kaneria's feud with former Pakistan captain and all-rounder Shahid Afridi continues to make the headlines. It all started with Kaneria's claims where he revealed that Afridi never wanted him to be part of the Pakistan cricket team, during his playing days, and didn't favour him on religious grounds. "Shoaib Akhtar was the first person to talk about my problem in public. Hats off to him for saying it (how I was mistreated in the team because of being a Hindu). However, he was later pressured by several authorities. He then stopped talking about it. But yes, it did happen to me. I was always degraded by Shahid Afridi. We used to play together for the same department, he used to keep me on the bench and didn't let me play the one-day tournament," Kaneria had told IANS during a recent conversation. To this, Afridi joined in and slammed the tainted Pakistani spinner with some hard-hitting remarks. "And the person saying all this, look at his own character. He is accusing me to get cheap fame and make money. Kaneria was like my younger brother and I played with him in the department for many years," Afridi was quoted as saying by the news.com.pk. ALSO READ | Shahid Afridi was a liar, a characterless person who conspired against me for being a Hindu: Danish Kaneria On Monday morning (May 09), Kaneria fired shots once again at Afridi. Replying to Afridi's comments where he mentioned India as an enemy country, Kaneria schooled the ex all-rounder and wrote, "India is not our enemy. Our enemies are those who instigate people in the name of religion. If you consider India as your enemy, then don't ever go to any Indian media channel." He soon tweeted saying, "When I raised my voice against forced conversion, I was threatened that my career would be destroyed." When I raised my voice against forced conversion, I was threatened that my career would be destroyed. — Danish Kaneria (@DanishKaneria61) May 9, 2022 × ALSO READ | He's giving interviews to our enemy country which can incite religious sentiments: Afridi on Kaneria's claims While the war of words between Pakistani cricketers isn't new in world cricket, Kaneria and Afridi's feud is taking a turn for the worse with each passing day. Given that Kaneria -- who remains Pakistan's leading wicket-taker in Tests among spinners -- runs his own Youtube channel, he might drop some more big statements with regard to the whole controversy. Meanwhile, Afridi is also expected to hit back at his former teammate.

'India not our enemy country' - Danish Kaneria slams Shahid Afridi, makes explosive remark on Twitter

Former Pakistan spinner Danish Kaneria had made heads turn when he claimed that ex all-rounder and Men in Green captain Shahid Afridi didn't want him in the national team and even conspired against him on religious grounds.

Backing his case, Kaneria -- who remains Pakistan's leading wicket-taker among spinners in Test cricket -- had revealed that the matter was first raised by Rawalpindi Express Shoaib Akhtar. "Shoaib Akhtar was the first person to talk about my problem in public. Hats off to him for saying it (how I was mistreated in the team because of being a Hindu). However, he was later pressured by several authorities. He then stopped talking about it. But yes, it did happen to me. I was always degraded by Shahid Afridi. We used to play together for the same department, he used to keep me on the bench and didn't let me play the one-day tournament," Kaneria had told IANS during a recent conversation.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/shahid-afridi-was-a-liar-a-characterless-person-who-conspired-against-me-for-being-a-hindu-danish-kaneria-474845">Shahid Afridi was a liar, a characterless person who conspired against me for being a Hindu: Danish Kaneria</a>

To this, Afridi has&nbsp;broken his silence and gave a fitting response to Kaneria. "And the person saying all this, look at his own character. He is accusing me to get cheap fame and make money. Kaneria was like my younger brother and I played with him in the department for many years," Afridi was quoted as saying by the news.com.pk.

The former all-rounder added, "Everyone knows about his character. If my attitude was bad then why he did not complain to the&nbsp;Pakistan Cricket Board&nbsp;or the department he was playing for. He is giving interviews to our enemy country which can incite religious sentiments."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/team-couldve-declared-after-tendulkars-200-yuvraj-recalls-rahul-dravids-multan-test-declaration-476834">Team could've declared after Tendulkar's 200: Yuvraj recalls Rahul Dravid's Multan Test declaration</a>

Kaneria, who was involved in the spot-fixing controversy while playing the English County in 2009, ended his international career claiming 261 wickets in 61 Tests whereas he also accounted for 15&nbsp;ODI scalps in 18 games. Afridi, on the other hand, had an illustrious career where he represented Pakistan from 1996-2017. He ended with&nbsp;1,716, 8,064 and 1,416 runs in Tests, ODIs and T20Is, respectively. In addition, he returned with 48 Test, 395 ODI and 98 T20I scalps.

It will be interesting to see if Kaneria further reacts to Afridi's statements. Given that the tainted spinner runs a YouTube channel -- where he&nbsp;often shares his views on various aspects apart from making some big revelations from time to time -- expect another sensational remark from the former leggie very soon.&nbsp;

Former Pakistan spinner Danish Kaneria had made heads turn when he claimed that ex all-rounder and Men in Green captain Shahid Afridi didn't want him in the national team and even conspired against him on religious grounds.

Former Pakistan spinner Danish Kaneria had made heads turn when he claimed that ex all-rounder and Men in Green captain Shahid Afridi didn't want him in the national team and even conspired against him on religious grounds. Backing his case, Kaneria -- who remains Pakistan's leading wicket-taker among spinners in Test cricket -- had revealed that the matter was first raised by Rawalpindi Express Shoaib Akhtar. "Shoaib Akhtar was the first person to talk about my problem in public. Hats off to him for saying it (how I was mistreated in the team because of being a Hindu). However, he was later pressured by several authorities. He then stopped talking about it. But yes, it did happen to me. I was always degraded by Shahid Afridi. We used to play together for the same department, he used to keep me on the bench and didn't let me play the one-day tournament," Kaneria had told IANS during a recent conversation. ALSO READ | Shahid Afridi was a liar, a characterless person who conspired against me for being a Hindu: Danish Kaneria To this, Afridi has broken his silence and gave a fitting response to Kaneria. "And the person saying all this, look at his own character. He is accusing me to get cheap fame and make money. Kaneria was like my younger brother and I played with him in the department for many years," Afridi was quoted as saying by the news.com.pk. The former all-rounder added, "Everyone knows about his character. If my attitude was bad then why he did not complain to the Pakistan Cricket Board or the department he was playing for. He is giving interviews to our enemy country which can incite religious sentiments." ALSO READ | Team could've declared after Tendulkar's 200: Yuvraj recalls Rahul Dravid's Multan Test declaration Kaneria, who was involved in the spot-fixing controversy while playing the English County in 2009, ended his international career claiming 261 wickets in 61 Tests whereas he also accounted for 15 ODI scalps in 18 games. Afridi, on the other hand, had an illustrious career where he represented Pakistan from 1996-2017. He ended with 1,716, 8,064 and 1,416 runs in Tests, ODIs and T20Is, respectively. In addition, he returned with 48 Test, 395 ODI and 98 T20I scalps. It will be interesting to see if Kaneria further reacts to Afridi's statements. Given that the tainted spinner runs a YouTube channel -- where he often shares his views on various aspects apart from making some big revelations from time to time -- expect another sensational remark from the former leggie very soon.

He's giving interviews to our enemy country which can incite religious sentiments: Afridi on Kaneria's claims

India and Pakistan share one of the greatest rivalries in cricket history. Any contest between the arch-rivals at the international level is a blockbuster affair with millions of fans watching across the globe. The two teams have produced some of the most memorable cricketing encounters over the years but do not play any bilateral cricket against each other anymore.

India and Pakistan last played a bilateral series between them in 2013 and have since met only in major ICC competitions due to the political tensions between the two nations. Recently, former Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chief Tauqir Zia claimed the BCCI has never refused to play against Pakistan and that the problem lies at the 'government-to-government' level.

Tauqir opened up on the strained bilateral ties between India and Pakistan and claimed BCCI has never refused to play against Pakistan. He also stated that both current BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly and PCB chief Ramiz Raja want to promote cricket together. Both Ganguly and Raja are former cricketers turned administrators for their respective countries.

"BCCI has never refused to play against us [Pakistan]. The problem lies on the government-to-government level. Both cricketing boards are currently run by former cricketers who understand the importance of Pakistan-India matches. Sourav Ganguly and Ramiz Raja both want to promote cricket and there is nothing better than seeing a contest between these rivals," Tauqir told Cricket Pakistan.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/better-to-calm-down-maintain-limits-ex-pakistan-captain-on-useless-comparisons-between-ipl-and-psl-475759">'Better to calm down &amp; maintain limits': Ex-Pakistan captain on 'useless' comparisons between IPL and PSL</a>

PCB chief Raja had recently proposed a four-nation tournament involving India, Pakistan, England and Australia at ICC's annual meeting. However, his proposal was rejected. Sharing his views on the prospects of a four-nation tournament, Tauqir said the decision from ICC is understandable considering there is not much room left for such a tournament with the calendar already stacked up due to T20 franchise cricket across the globe.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ms-dhoni-got-support-from-virat-kohli-ravi-shastri-yuvraj-singh-rues-lack-of-backing-for-omission-475753">MS Dhoni got support from Virat Kohli-Ravi Shastri: Yuvraj Singh rues lack of backing for omission</a>

"Although the four-nation series was a great idea there are already so many franchise-model tournaments happening throughout the year. Because of this, I do not think there will be enough room left to gather the four nations in one timeframe," said the former PCB chief.

India and Pakistan last met each other in the T20 World Cup 2021 last year where Babar Azam-led Men in Green thrashed Virat Kohli-led India by ten wickets to register their first-ever&nbsp;win in a World Cup game&nbsp;against their arch-rivals.

India and Pakistan share one of the greatest rivalries in cricket history. Any contest between the arch-rivals at the international level is a blockbuster affair with millions of fans watching across the globe.

India and Pakistan share one of the greatest rivalries in cricket history. Any contest between the arch-rivals at the international level is a blockbuster affair with millions of fans watching across the globe. The two teams have produced some of the most memorable cricketing encounters over the years but do not play any bilateral cricket against each other anymore. India and Pakistan last played a bilateral series between them in 2013 and have since met only in major ICC competitions due to the political tensions between the two nations. Recently, former Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chief Tauqir Zia claimed the BCCI has never refused to play against Pakistan and that the problem lies at the 'government-to-government' level. Tauqir opened up on the strained bilateral ties between India and Pakistan and claimed BCCI has never refused to play against Pakistan. He also stated that both current BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly and PCB chief Ramiz Raja want to promote cricket together. Both Ganguly and Raja are former cricketers turned administrators for their respective countries. "BCCI has never refused to play against us [Pakistan]. The problem lies on the government-to-government level. Both cricketing boards are currently run by former cricketers who understand the importance of Pakistan-India matches. Sourav Ganguly and Ramiz Raja both want to promote cricket and there is nothing better than seeing a contest between these rivals," Tauqir told Cricket Pakistan. Also Read: 'Better to calm down & maintain limits': Ex-Pakistan captain on 'useless' comparisons between IPL and PSL PCB chief Raja had recently proposed a four-nation tournament involving India, Pakistan, England and Australia at ICC's annual meeting. However, his proposal was rejected. Sharing his views on the prospects of a four-nation tournament, Tauqir said the decision from ICC is understandable considering there is not much room left for such a tournament with the calendar already stacked up due to T20 franchise cricket across the globe. Also Read: MS Dhoni got support from Virat Kohli-Ravi Shastri: Yuvraj Singh rues lack of backing for omission "Although the four-nation series was a great idea there are already so many franchise-model tournaments happening throughout the year. Because of this, I do not think there will be enough room left to gather the four nations in one timeframe," said the former PCB chief. India and Pakistan last met each other in the T20 World Cup 2021 last year where Babar Azam-led Men in Green thrashed Virat Kohli-led India by ten wickets to register their first-ever win in a World Cup game against their arch-rivals.

BCCI has never refused to play against Pakistan, problem lies at government level, claims former PCB chief

Former Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman Zaka Ashraf has claimed that it was the decision of the cricket governing body&nbsp;to send the wives of the Pakistan cricketers during their last tour of India in 2012 along with the players.

Ashraf said that the aim of the move was to keep an eye on the Pakistan cricketers and avoid any possible controversies during the series which took place in December – January.

"During my time when our team went on a tour to India, I advised that all the wives of the players will accompany them. This decision was taken so that no controversy could be created as Indian media is always on the lookout for that. The wives meant to also keep a check on the players," Ashraf told Cricket Pakistan.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rajasthan-royals-vs-gujarat-titans-ipl-2022-head-to-head-record-trivia-stats-and-squads-470927" hreflang="en">Rajasthan Royals vs Gujarat Titans, IPL 2022: Head-to-head record, trivia, stats and squads</a>

"Everyone took it in a nice manner and went to India. Everyone remained disciplined. Everytime a Pakistan team had toured India, their country would always try to trap us and tarnish the image of our players and country. So that was avoided."

The tour comprised of three ODIs and two T20Is. Pakistan were able to clinch the ODI series with wins in Chennai and Kolkata but the T20I series ended in a 1-1 draw. Ashraf also said that the BCCI had said that the Indian cricket team will play a return series but that never happened.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2022-james-neesham-to-debut-rajasthan-royals-predicted-xi-against-gujarat-titans-470923" hreflang="en">IPL 2022: James Neesham to debut? Rajasthan Royals predicted XI against Gujarat Titans</a>

"We should always try to restore ties with the Indian government in regards to cricket. The biggest advantage we have right now is that General Bajwa is currently occupying the position and he himself wants to see Pakistan cricket prosper, Ashraf said.

"They invited us for a short series and once we went there, I met with BCCI chairman at the time Narayanaswami Srinivasan. He promised India's participation on Pakistan soil granted if fool proof security is given."

<o:p></o:p>

Former Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman Zaka Ashraf has claimed that it was the decision of the cricket governing body to send the wives of the Pakistan cricketers during their last tour of India in 2012 along with the players.

Former Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman Zaka Ashraf has claimed that it was the decision of the cricket governing body to send the wives of the Pakistan cricketers during their last tour of India in 2012 along with the players. Ashraf said that the aim of the move was to keep an eye on the Pakistan cricketers and avoid any possible controversies during the series which took place in December – January. "During my time when our team went on a tour to India, I advised that all the wives of the players will accompany them. This decision was taken so that no controversy could be created as Indian media is always on the lookout for that. The wives meant to also keep a check on the players," Ashraf told Cricket Pakistan. Also read | Rajasthan Royals vs Gujarat Titans, IPL 2022: Head-to-head record, trivia, stats and squads "Everyone took it in a nice manner and went to India. Everyone remained disciplined. Everytime a Pakistan team had toured India, their country would always try to trap us and tarnish the image of our players and country. So that was avoided." The tour comprised of three ODIs and two T20Is. Pakistan were able to clinch the ODI series with wins in Chennai and Kolkata but the T20I series ended in a 1-1 draw. Ashraf also said that the BCCI had said that the Indian cricket team will play a return series but that never happened. Also read | IPL 2022: James Neesham to debut? Rajasthan Royals predicted XI against Gujarat Titans "We should always try to restore ties with the Indian government in regards to cricket. The biggest advantage we have right now is that General Bajwa is currently occupying the position and he himself wants to see Pakistan cricket prosper, Ashraf said. "They invited us for a short series and once we went there, I met with BCCI chairman at the time Narayanaswami Srinivasan. He promised India's participation on Pakistan soil granted if fool proof security is given."

Wives were sent with Pakistan players to keep an eye on them during 2012 tour of India: Ex-PCB chairman

Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman Ramiz Raja is considering resigning from his position in the wake of the ouster of Imran Khan as prime minister of the country, according to sources.

Ramiz, who like Imran is also a former Pakistan captain, is presently in Dubai for the International Cricket Council (ICC) meetings which concluded on Sunday.

"Ramiz had only agreed to become the chairman of the Board on the insistence of Imran for whom all the players who played under his captaincy including Ramiz have a lot of regard and respect,"&nbsp;a source well aware of the developments said on Sunday.

"Ramiz was well set in a career as commentator, TV personality and expert and was busy with assignments. But on Imran's insistence he agreed to put aside all his media contacts and become chairman of the board,"&nbsp;the source said.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2022-royal-challengers-bangalore-share-mcc-law-after-virat-kohlis-controversial-dismissal-469973">IPL 2022: Royal Challengers Bangalore share MCC law after Virat Kohli's controversial dismissal</a>

"Ramiz had also made it clear to the PM that he would only remain in the Board until he (Imran Khan) was PM."

The source said that with Imran now ousted as PM, who is also Patron-in-Chief of the Board and directly nominates the chairman for a formal election process, it is highly unlikely Ramiz would stay on unless the new Premier wants him to carry on with his job.

Since Ramiz took over as PCB chairman last September he has made a lot of changes in the Board and also followed up on Imran's insistence on a domestic cricket structure based on just six first class provincial teams.

Soon after taking charge, he made it clear to Misbah-ul-Haq and Waqar Younis that they were no longer required as head coach and bowling coach of the national team and should resign.

He also asked the head of the high-performance centre in Lahore, Grant Bradburn, and some other coaches to resign.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2022-yuzvendra-chahal-ravichandran-ashwin-on-cusp-of-impressive-milestone-469967">IPL 2022: Rajasthan Royals' Yuzvendra Chahal and Ravichandran Ashwin on cusp of impressive milestone</a>

His biggest move was to create circumstances where Wasim Khan stepped down as CEO of the Board.

Since then, Ramiz has brought in a new CEO but with Imran's government now gone, it remains to be seen what will happen to the new appointments in the Board as it is no secret that political changes also have a big bearing on Pakistan cricket set-up.

"If Shahbaz Sharif becomes new Premier, then there is every likelihood he might convey to Ramiz his services are no longer required and bring back Najam Sethi to head the Board,"&nbsp;the source said.

But, with no international or domestic commitments for the national team until June, changes in the Board will not affect cricket affairs.

Sethi resigned soon after Imran won the last general elections as he never got along with the former captain on political issues.

Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman Ramiz Raja is considering resigning from his position in the wake of the ouster of Imran Khan as prime minister of the country, according to sources.

Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman Ramiz Raja is considering resigning from his position in the wake of the ouster of Imran Khan as prime minister of the country, according to sources. Ramiz, who like Imran is also a former Pakistan captain, is presently in Dubai for the International Cricket Council (ICC) meetings which concluded on Sunday. "Ramiz had only agreed to become the chairman of the Board on the insistence of Imran for whom all the players who played under his captaincy including Ramiz have a lot of regard and respect," a source well aware of the developments said on Sunday. "Ramiz was well set in a career as commentator, TV personality and expert and was busy with assignments. But on Imran's insistence he agreed to put aside all his media contacts and become chairman of the board," the source said. ALSO READ: IPL 2022: Royal Challengers Bangalore share MCC law after Virat Kohli's controversial dismissal "Ramiz had also made it clear to the PM that he would only remain in the Board until he (Imran Khan) was PM." The source said that with Imran now ousted as PM, who is also Patron-in-Chief of the Board and directly nominates the chairman for a formal election process, it is highly unlikely Ramiz would stay on unless the new Premier wants him to carry on with his job. Since Ramiz took over as PCB chairman last September he has made a lot of changes in the Board and also followed up on Imran's insistence on a domestic cricket structure based on just six first class provincial teams. Soon after taking charge, he made it clear to Misbah-ul-Haq and Waqar Younis that they were no longer required as head coach and bowling coach of the national team and should resign. He also asked the head of the high-performance centre in Lahore, Grant Bradburn, and some other coaches to resign. ALSO READ: IPL 2022: Rajasthan Royals' Yuzvendra Chahal and Ravichandran Ashwin on cusp of impressive milestone His biggest move was to create circumstances where Wasim Khan stepped down as CEO of the Board. Since then, Ramiz has brought in a new CEO but with Imran's government now gone, it remains to be seen what will happen to the new appointments in the Board as it is no secret that political changes also have a big bearing on Pakistan cricket set-up. "If Shahbaz Sharif becomes new Premier, then there is every likelihood he might convey to Ramiz his services are no longer required and bring back Najam Sethi to head the Board," the source said. But, with no international or domestic commitments for the national team until June, changes in the Board will not affect cricket affairs. Sethi resigned soon after Imran won the last general elections as he never got along with the former captain on political issues.

Ramiz Raja considering resigning as PCB chief in the wake of Imran Khan's ouster as Pakistan PM

India and Pakistan haven't played a bilateral series since early 2013. Due to the political tension between the neighbouring countries, both sides continue to meet each other only in multi-nation or ICC events. During last year's T20 World Cup, in the UAE, the two Asian giants squared off against each other in the Super 12 round, which was a sellout in no time.

Thus, Pakistan Cricket Board's (PCB) chairman Ramiz Raja remains hopeful of a fruitful talk with the Sourav Ganguly-led Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to convince their counterpart for a bilateral series in 2024-25. For the unversed, PCB will hold talks with the BCCI in Dubai, from April 7-10, and is expecting a favourable response from the latter, keeping politics aside.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/yuvraj-is-not-one-of-those-dhoni-is-paddy-upton-feels-ex-india-captain-a-massive-high-pressure-player-468850">Yuvraj is not one of those, Dhoni is: Paddy Upton feels ex-India captain a 'massive high-pressure' player</a>

As per PTI, Ramiz is planning to the senior BCCI officials on the sidelines of the ICC event and&nbsp;extend his proposal of a four-nation tournament along with discussing matters on the Asia Cup.

In a recent interview, Ramiz had mentioned that since the BCCI is being led by a cricketer, he has his hopes&nbsp;pinned&nbsp;on not leaving&nbsp;fans deprived&nbsp;of&nbsp;India-Pakistan bilateral series.

"India-Pakistan (2022 T20 World Cup) tickets were sold in one day, we don't have a political perspective on things and if a fellow cricketer is leading the BCCI, we should be approachable to each other since we don't know politics," said Ramiz.

"I'll talk to Ganguly regarding a four-nation tournament. The future of cricket is in triangular and four-nation competitions. Twenty20 leagues are taking away eyeballs from bilateral cricket, of which the novelty factor is decreasing," he further added.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/being-a-cricketer-i-have-suffered-ex-pakistan-captain-on-why-he-doesnt-want-his-son-to-take-up-cricket-468854">'Being a cricketer, I have suffered': Ex-Pakistan captain on why he doesn't want his son to take up cricket</a>

After the New Zealand tour of Pakistan got cancelled at the last minute in September 2021, with the tourists citing security concerns, the Men in Green have got back to hosting games and recently held an all-format series against Australia. Thus, Ramiz remains confident of Pakistan getting more hosting rights in the future and has a window open in the 2024-25 to host India.&nbsp;

India and Pakistan haven't played a bilateral series since early 2013. Due to the political tension between the neighbouring countries, both sides continue to meet each other only in multi-nation or ICC events.

India and Pakistan haven't played a bilateral series since early 2013. Due to the political tension between the neighbouring countries, both sides continue to meet each other only in multi-nation or ICC events. During last year's T20 World Cup, in the UAE, the two Asian giants squared off against each other in the Super 12 round, which was a sellout in no time. Thus, Pakistan Cricket Board's (PCB) chairman Ramiz Raja remains hopeful of a fruitful talk with the Sourav Ganguly-led Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to convince their counterpart for a bilateral series in 2024-25. For the unversed, PCB will hold talks with the BCCI in Dubai, from April 7-10, and is expecting a favourable response from the latter, keeping politics aside. ALSO READ | Yuvraj is not one of those, Dhoni is: Paddy Upton feels ex-India captain a 'massive high-pressure' player As per PTI, Ramiz is planning to the senior BCCI officials on the sidelines of the ICC event and extend his proposal of a four-nation tournament along with discussing matters on the Asia Cup. In a recent interview, Ramiz had mentioned that since the BCCI is being led by a cricketer, he has his hopes pinned on not leaving fans deprived of India-Pakistan bilateral series. "India-Pakistan (2022 T20 World Cup) tickets were sold in one day, we don't have a political perspective on things and if a fellow cricketer is leading the BCCI, we should be approachable to each other since we don't know politics," said Ramiz. "I'll talk to Ganguly regarding a four-nation tournament. The future of cricket is in triangular and four-nation competitions. Twenty20 leagues are taking away eyeballs from bilateral cricket, of which the novelty factor is decreasing," he further added. ALSO READ | 'Being a cricketer, I have suffered': Ex-Pakistan captain on why he doesn't want his son to take up cricket After the New Zealand tour of Pakistan got cancelled at the last minute in September 2021, with the tourists citing security concerns, the Men in Green have got back to hosting games and recently held an all-format series against Australia. Thus, Ramiz remains confident of Pakistan getting more hosting rights in the future and has a window open in the 2024-25 to host India.

PCB chairman Ramiz Raja pins hopes of bilateral series between India-Pakistan in 2024-25

Pakistan was 268 all out against the persistent pace of Australia captain Pat Cummins and impeccable reverse swing of Mitchell Starc to concede a massive 123-run lead on Wednesday in the third and final test.

In a sensational collapse after tea on Day 3, Pakistan lost seven wickets for 41 runs&nbsp;(the last four wickets without adding a run)&nbsp;as Cummins finished with 5-56 and Starc took 4-36.

Australia had stretched its lead to 134 runs by reaching 11-0 by stumps with Usman Khawaja not out on 7 and David Warner unbeaten on 4.

In-form opening batter Abdullah Shafique (81) and veteran Azhar Ali (78) had carried Pakistan to 170-1 and denied Australia a breakthrough in the first session after resuming on 90-1 before the visitors took control of the series-deciding test.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/icc-test-rankings-jadeja-regains-no-1-spot-among-all-rounders-babar-azam-breaks-into-top-5-for-batters-464891">ICC Test rankings: Jadeja regains No. 1 spot among all-rounders, Babar Azam breaks into top 5 for batters</a>

Nathan Lyon (1-95), who dried up the runs with his marathon spell of 30 overs on Day 3, provided the opening when he found the outside edge of Shafique's bat after lunch to end a patient 150-run stand.

Shafique's prolific run in the series has seen the opening batter score his maiden test hundred in the drawn first test in Rawalpindi before his patient 96 in Karachi led Pakistan to force a draw.

Shafique defied Australia with yet another patient knock off 228 balls which featured 11 fours before Lyon struck in the fifth over after lunch and successfully overturned umpire Aleem Dar's not out decision through a television referral.

With the second new ball only seven overs old, Cummins took a spectacular return catch to dismiss Azhar in his homecoming test match as Pakistan was restricted at 227-3 at tea.

Azhar, playing in his 94th test match but for the first time in his hometown of Lahore, became the fifth Pakistani batter to complete 7,000 test runs when he reached 74 by sweeping hard at Lyon to deep square leg for a single.

Former test captains Younis Khan (10,099), Javed Miandad (8,832), Inzamam-ul-Haq (8,829) and Mohammad Yousuf (7,530) are the other Pakistan batters to score more than 7,000 test runs.

But Pakistan folded against Cummins and Starc after tea, losing the last six wickets off 40 balls.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/greatest-of-this-era-are-virat-kohli-babar-azam-former-spinner-heaps-praise-on-pakistan-captain-464911">'Greatest of this era are Virat Kohli, Babar Azam' - Former spinner heaps praise on Pakistan captain</a>

Starc, who bowled only two overs with the second new ball, returned in the last session and knocked back the off stumps of Fawad Alam (13) and Mohammad Rizwan (1) with Pakistan batters struggling to cope with the reverse swing.

Pakistan's long tail didn't last long with captain Babar Azam making a 67 off 131 balls. The home team had dropped all-rounder Faheem Ashraf to go with an extra fast bowler after drawing the first two test matches.

Cummins hurried the collapse by claiming the wickets of Sajid Khan, Nauman Ali and Hasan Ali within two overs to register his first five-wicket haul against Pakistan in a test match.

Starc wrapped up Pakistan's innings by trapping Babar leg before wicket off a delivery which shaped into the skipper and then clean bowled No. 11 batter Naseem Shah off a searing full pitched delivery.

Pakistan was 268 all out against the persistent pace of Australia captain Pat Cummins and impeccable reverse swing of Mitchell Starc to concede a massive 123-run lead on Wednesday in the third and final test.

Pakistan was 268 all out against the persistent pace of Australia captain Pat Cummins and impeccable reverse swing of Mitchell Starc to concede a massive 123-run lead on Wednesday in the third and final test. In a sensational collapse after tea on Day 3, Pakistan lost seven wickets for 41 runs (the last four wickets without adding a run) as Cummins finished with 5-56 and Starc took 4-36. Australia had stretched its lead to 134 runs by reaching 11-0 by stumps with Usman Khawaja not out on 7 and David Warner unbeaten on 4. In-form opening batter Abdullah Shafique (81) and veteran Azhar Ali (78) had carried Pakistan to 170-1 and denied Australia a breakthrough in the first session after resuming on 90-1 before the visitors took control of the series-deciding test. ALSO READ: ICC Test rankings: Jadeja regains No. 1 spot among all-rounders, Babar Azam breaks into top 5 for batters Nathan Lyon (1-95), who dried up the runs with his marathon spell of 30 overs on Day 3, provided the opening when he found the outside edge of Shafique's bat after lunch to end a patient 150-run stand. Shafique's prolific run in the series has seen the opening batter score his maiden test hundred in the drawn first test in Rawalpindi before his patient 96 in Karachi led Pakistan to force a draw. Shafique defied Australia with yet another patient knock off 228 balls which featured 11 fours before Lyon struck in the fifth over after lunch and successfully overturned umpire Aleem Dar's not out decision through a television referral. With the second new ball only seven overs old, Cummins took a spectacular return catch to dismiss Azhar in his homecoming test match as Pakistan was restricted at 227-3 at tea. Azhar, playing in his 94th test match but for the first time in his hometown of Lahore, became the fifth Pakistani batter to complete 7,000 test runs when he reached 74 by sweeping hard at Lyon to deep square leg for a single. Former test captains Younis Khan (10,099), Javed Miandad (8,832), Inzamam-ul-Haq (8,829) and Mohammad Yousuf (7,530) are the other Pakistan batters to score more than 7,000 test runs. But Pakistan folded against Cummins and Starc after tea, losing the last six wickets off 40 balls. ALSO READ: 'Greatest of this era are Virat Kohli, Babar Azam' - Former spinner heaps praise on Pakistan captain Starc, who bowled only two overs with the second new ball, returned in the last session and knocked back the off stumps of Fawad Alam (13) and Mohammad Rizwan (1) with Pakistan batters struggling to cope with the reverse swing. Pakistan's long tail didn't last long with captain Babar Azam making a 67 off 131 balls. The home team had dropped all-rounder Faheem Ashraf to go with an extra fast bowler after drawing the first two test matches. Cummins hurried the collapse by claiming the wickets of Sajid Khan, Nauman Ali and Hasan Ali within two overs to register his first five-wicket haul against Pakistan in a test match. Starc wrapped up Pakistan's innings by trapping Babar leg before wicket off a delivery which shaped into the skipper and then clean bowled No. 11 batter Naseem Shah off a searing full pitched delivery.

Cummins, Starc put Australia in prime position after Pakistan's batting collapse on Day 3 of 3rd Test

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is being brutally trolled by Indian fans on Twitter after Australian cricketer Marnus Labuschagne recently shared a picture of one of his meals from the country. The Australian team is currently in Pakistan for a full-fledged tour consisting of three Tests, as many ODIs and a one-off T20I game.

Ahead of the second Test between the two sides at the National Stadium in Karachi, Labuschagne took to Twitter on Friday to share a picture of his 'daal and roti' meal. Daal is a thick&nbsp;lentil stew mostly consumed in countries like India, Pakistan, Bangladesh and Afghanistan, while roti is a bread made out of wheat flour.

As Labuschagne shared a picture of his meal on Twitter, Indian fans couldn't help but take a dig at the PCB for providing the Aussie batter with below-par food. Many wondered if the Aussie cricketer was 'in a jail' to be consuming daal which was deemed too watery by many.

Here is a look at some of the hilarious reactions by Indian fans to Labuschagne's post:

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That’s the saddest dal and roti I’ve seen Marnie. Hope you get some good dal and roti later this year <a href="https://t.co/alN2xDizKh">https://t.co/alN2xDizKh</a>
— Shriram Manohar (@ShriramManohar) <a href="https://twitter.com/ShriramManohar/status/1502334868318941186?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 11, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Are you in Jail or what??
— Priyaanka (@Priyank_hahaha) <a href="https://twitter.com/Priyank_hahaha/status/1502246576378421248?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 11, 2022</a></blockquote>
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My man Marnus is here to reaffirm that <a href="https://twitter.com/TheRealPCB?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@TheRealPCB</a> has actually kept all of them at a jail. <a href="https://t.co/fGnCDviM7A">https://t.co/fGnCDviM7A</a>
— Haider Maqbool (@haidermaqbool7) <a href="https://twitter.com/haidermaqbool7/status/1502339130432253952?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 11, 2022</a></blockquote>
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who eats that
— ashxTeja (@random1netizen) <a href="https://twitter.com/random1netizen/status/1502339128309989383?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 11, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Imagine the food in Australia to call this as delicious! <a href="https://t.co/9H8ZL3W8fM">https://t.co/9H8ZL3W8fM</a>
— Roy Kent (@Padycast) <a href="https://twitter.com/Padycast/status/1502494389947416578?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 12, 2022</a></blockquote>
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who lied to this man? <a href="https://t.co/A8z1X6VCXZ">https://t.co/A8z1X6VCXZ</a>
— Vithushan Ehantharajah (@Vitu_E) <a href="https://twitter.com/Vitu_E/status/1502306109754912772?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 11, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/he-reminds-me-of-imran-khan-aaqib-javed-names-pakistan-star-who-can-replace-babar-azam-as-captain-461589">‘He reminds me of Imran Khan’ – Aaqib Javed names Pakistan star who can replace Babar Azam as captain</a>

The first Test between Pakistan and Australia ended in a draw after a run-fest at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium in Rawalpindi. The Test match saw only 14 wickets fall over the course of five days as PCB was heavily criticised for the quality of the pitch offered.

It was a flat wicket where batters enjoyed great outings while the bowlers struggled immensely. ICC later rated the pitch 'below average' as PCB faced backlash from all corners. Australia and Pakistan are currently locking horns in the second Test of the three-match series in Karachi.

Also Read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virats-bad-patch-has-gone-for-too-long-ex-pakistan-captain-backs-kohli-to-end-his-century-drought-soon-461571">&nbsp;'Virat's bad patch has gone for too long': Ex-Pakistan captain backs Kohli to end his century drought soon</a>

Australia won the toss and opted to bat first in the game following which openers Usman Khawaja and David Warner got the visitors off to a great start. The duo posted an 82-run stand for the first wicket before Warner was dismissed on 36 off 48 balls. Labuschagne was then sent back on a duck before Steve Smith combined with Khawaja to steady the ship for the Aussies.

While Smith slammed his half-century, Khawaja went on to notch up his century with the duo sharing an unbeaten stand of over 100 runs for the third wicket.

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is being brutally trolled by Indian fans on Twitter after Australian cricketer Marnus Labuschagne recently shared a picture of one of his meals from the country.

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is being brutally trolled by Indian fans on Twitter after Australian cricketer Marnus Labuschagne recently shared a picture of one of his meals from the country. The Australian team is currently in Pakistan for a full-fledged tour consisting of three Tests, as many ODIs and a one-off T20I game. Ahead of the second Test between the two sides at the National Stadium in Karachi, Labuschagne took to Twitter on Friday to share a picture of his 'daal and roti' meal. Daal is a thick lentil stew mostly consumed in countries like India, Pakistan, Bangladesh and Afghanistan, while roti is a bread made out of wheat flour. As Labuschagne shared a picture of his meal on Twitter, Indian fans couldn't help but take a dig at the PCB for providing the Aussie batter with below-par food. Many wondered if the Aussie cricketer was 'in a jail' to be consuming daal which was deemed too watery by many. Here is a look at some of the hilarious reactions by Indian fans to Labuschagne's post: That’s the saddest dal and roti I’ve seen Marnie. Hope you get some good dal and roti later this year https://t.co/alN2xDizKh — Shriram Manohar (@ShriramManohar) March 11, 2022 × Are you in Jail or what?? — Priyaanka (@Priyank_hahaha) March 11, 2022 × My man Marnus is here to reaffirm that @TheRealPCB has actually kept all of them at a jail. https://t.co/fGnCDviM7A — Haider Maqbool (@haidermaqbool7) March 11, 2022 × who eats that — ashxTeja (@random1netizen) March 11, 2022 × Imagine the food in Australia to call this as delicious! https://t.co/9H8ZL3W8fM — Roy Kent (@Padycast) March 12, 2022 × who lied to this man? https://t.co/A8z1X6VCXZ — Vithushan Ehantharajah (@Vitu_E) March 11, 2022 × Also Read: ‘He reminds me of Imran Khan’ – Aaqib Javed names Pakistan star who can replace Babar Azam as captain The first Test between Pakistan and Australia ended in a draw after a run-fest at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium in Rawalpindi. The Test match saw only 14 wickets fall over the course of five days as PCB was heavily criticised for the quality of the pitch offered. It was a flat wicket where batters enjoyed great outings while the bowlers struggled immensely. ICC later rated the pitch 'below average' as PCB faced backlash from all corners. Australia and Pakistan are currently locking horns in the second Test of the three-match series in Karachi. Also Read: 'Virat's bad patch has gone for too long': Ex-Pakistan captain backs Kohli to end his century drought soon Australia won the toss and opted to bat first in the game following which openers Usman Khawaja and David Warner got the visitors off to a great start. The duo posted an 82-run stand for the first wicket before Warner was dismissed on 36 off 48 balls. Labuschagne was then sent back on a duck before Steve Smith combined with Khawaja to steady the ship for the Aussies. While Smith slammed his half-century, Khawaja went on to notch up his century with the duo sharing an unbeaten stand of over 100 runs for the third wicket.

'Are you in jail?': Indian fans troll PCB as Marnus Labuschagne shares pic of his 'daal and roti' meal

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has been facing criticism from all corners for the quality of pitch offered in the recently-concluded first Test between the hosts and Australia at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium in Rawalpindi. The flat track at the stadium sparked a run-fest as the two teams managed to pick up only 14 wickets through the course of five days.

Several former cricketers including the likes of Inzamam-ul-Haq, Shahid Afridi and Salman Butt among others criticised the PCB for the kind of pitch that was offered. The International Cricket Council (ICC) also branded the Rawalpindi track as 'below-average'.

Former Pakistan captain Rashid Latif has also slammed the Pakistan Cricket Board over the pitch fiasco in the Rawalpindi Test and has said the board is not doing a great job in marketing the series. Australia are touring Pakistan for the first time in 24 years and are the first major side to tour the country in recent times.

Latif believes PCB should be marketing the series in a better way to attract a global audience and other major teams to Pakistan. However, the former Pakistan skipper believes the pitch fiasco has harmed Pakistan cricket.

“This series is different. This is not a series that we're playing for winning. This is a series we are playing to market ourselves. Even if it goes 3-0, I would want that a Rs 100 product is marketed as Rs 150 product. But in the Rawalpindi Test, we sold a Rs 100 product for Rs 5, and it harmed our cricket,” Latif said in a video on his YouTube channel.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pakistan-vs-australia-2nd-test-visitors-brace-up-for-karachi-challenge-after-rawalpindi-run-feast-461307">Pakistan vs Australia, 2nd Test: Visitors brace up for Karachi challenge after Rawalpindi run-feast</a>

“Australia sent their no.1 team after 24 years, they're coming straight after beating England 4-0. Their batters are in their top-10 in the rankings, so are their bowlers. We would've wanted to play good cricket, winning or losing is a different thing. We would've wanted to attract people around the world,” he added.

After a disappointing first Test which ended in a draw, Pakistan and Australia will lock horns in the second Test of the three-match series at the National Stadium in Karachi. The Aussies will hope for a better pitch in Karachi to continue their domination against the Men in Green in the longest format.

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has been facing criticism from all corners for the quality of pitch offered in the recently-concluded first Test between the hosts and Australia at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium in Rawalpindi.

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has been facing criticism from all corners for the quality of pitch offered in the recently-concluded first Test between the hosts and Australia at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium in Rawalpindi. The flat track at the stadium sparked a run-fest as the two teams managed to pick up only 14 wickets through the course of five days. Several former cricketers including the likes of Inzamam-ul-Haq, Shahid Afridi and Salman Butt among others criticised the PCB for the kind of pitch that was offered. The International Cricket Council (ICC) also branded the Rawalpindi track as 'below-average'. Former Pakistan captain Rashid Latif has also slammed the Pakistan Cricket Board over the pitch fiasco in the Rawalpindi Test and has said the board is not doing a great job in marketing the series. Australia are touring Pakistan for the first time in 24 years and are the first major side to tour the country in recent times. Latif believes PCB should be marketing the series in a better way to attract a global audience and other major teams to Pakistan. However, the former Pakistan skipper believes the pitch fiasco has harmed Pakistan cricket. “This series is different. This is not a series that we're playing for winning. This is a series we are playing to market ourselves. Even if it goes 3-0, I would want that a Rs 100 product is marketed as Rs 150 product. But in the Rawalpindi Test, we sold a Rs 100 product for Rs 5, and it harmed our cricket,” Latif said in a video on his YouTube channel. Also Read: Pakistan vs Australia, 2nd Test: Visitors brace up for Karachi challenge after Rawalpindi run-feast “Australia sent their no.1 team after 24 years, they're coming straight after beating England 4-0. Their batters are in their top-10 in the rankings, so are their bowlers. We would've wanted to play good cricket, winning or losing is a different thing. We would've wanted to attract people around the world,” he added. After a disappointing first Test which ended in a draw, Pakistan and Australia will lock horns in the second Test of the three-match series at the National Stadium in Karachi. The Aussies will hope for a better pitch in Karachi to continue their domination against the Men in Green in the longest format.

'It harmed our cricket': Former Pakistan captain slams PCB over pitch fiasco against Australia

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."

&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/understand-fans-frustration-ramiz-raja-reacts-as-pcb-gets-slammed-for-flat-pitch-in-rawalpindi-test-460916">'Understand fans' frustration': Ramiz Raja reacts as PCB gets slammed for 'flat' pitch in Rawalpindi Test</a>

&nbsp;

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.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rohit-sharma-to-join-virat-kohli-ms-dhoni-in-elite-list-in-indias-pink-ball-test-vs-sri-lanka-460955">Rohit Sharma to join Virat Kohli, MS Dhoni in elite list in India's pink-ball Test vs Sri Lanka</a>

&nbsp;

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

Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has been facing flak from all corners for the sub-standard in Rawalpindi for the recently-concluded first Test between the hosts and Australia. The first Test between the two sides ended in a draw with just 14 wickets falling over the course of the five days as none of the teams managed to churn out a result.

Batting first, Pakistan posted a huge total of 476/4 in their first innings of the Test match before Australia responded with a total of 459 runs in their first innings. Pakistan then went on to score 252 runs without losing a wicket in their second innings as the Test match ended in a draw.

Both the Pakistani and Australian bowlers struggled to pick wickets at regular intervals as batters enjoyed a field day on the flat track in Rawalpindi. In an honest assessment of the pitch after the drawn game, PCB chief Ramiz Raja admitted the game was not a good advertisement for Test cricket.&nbsp;

"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," Raja said in a video message posted on YouTube.

The PCB chief then went on to explain that the board has already identified the need to revive pitches across Pakitan and the work for the same has already begun. Raja also clarified that the board could not have offered a pace and bounce-friendly track for the very first Test as it would have meant the Aussies would have had the advantage.

"First of all, a number of headlines were in relation to the comments I made when I took over [as chairman] that pitches in Pakistan need to be redone, massively redone, but I took over in September and the season had already begun," said Raja.

Also Read<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-on-cusp-of-surpassing-mark-waugh-gary-sobers-in-elite-list-as-india-take-on-sri-lanka-in-2nd-test-460878">:&nbsp;Kohli on cusp of surpassing Mark Waugh, Gary Sobers in elite list as India take on Sri Lanka in 2nd Test</a>

"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.

"I understand the frustration of the fans - undoubtedly it would have been very good if we had a result, but this is a three-Test series, and we need to understand that a lot of cricket still remains to be played. Just for the heck of it, we can't prepare a fast pitch or a bouncy pitch and put the game in Australia's lap," he added.

The second Test of the three-match series between the two sides will be played at the National Stadium in Karachi from March 12.

Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has been facing flak from all corners for the sub-standard in Rawalpindi for the recently-concluded first Test between the hosts and Australia.

Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has been facing flak from all corners for the sub-standard in Rawalpindi for the recently-concluded first Test between the hosts and Australia. The first Test between the two sides ended in a draw with just 14 wickets falling over the course of the five days as none of the teams managed to churn out a result. Batting first, Pakistan posted a huge total of 476/4 in their first innings of the Test match before Australia responded with a total of 459 runs in their first innings. Pakistan then went on to score 252 runs without losing a wicket in their second innings as the Test match ended in a draw. Both the Pakistani and Australian bowlers struggled to pick wickets at regular intervals as batters enjoyed a field day on the flat track in Rawalpindi. In an honest assessment of the pitch after the drawn game, PCB chief Ramiz Raja admitted the game was not a good advertisement for Test cricket. "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," Raja said in a video message posted on YouTube. The PCB chief then went on to explain that the board has already identified the need to revive pitches across Pakitan and the work for the same has already begun. Raja also clarified that the board could not have offered a pace and bounce-friendly track for the very first Test as it would have meant the Aussies would have had the advantage. "First of all, a number of headlines were in relation to the comments I made when I took over [as chairman] that pitches in Pakistan need to be redone, massively redone, but I took over in September and the season had already begun," said Raja. Also Read: Kohli on cusp of surpassing Mark Waugh, Gary Sobers in elite list as India take on Sri Lanka in 2nd Test "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. "I understand the frustration of the fans - undoubtedly it would have been very good if we had a result, but this is a three-Test series, and we need to understand that a lot of cricket still remains to be played. Just for the heck of it, we can't prepare a fast pitch or a bouncy pitch and put the game in Australia's lap," he added. The second Test of the three-match series between the two sides will be played at the National Stadium in Karachi from March 12.

'Understand fans' frustration': Ramiz Raja reacts as PCB gets slammed for 'flat' pitch in Rawalpindi Test

To celebrate Australia's first Test series in Pakistan in 24 years, the Pakistan Cricket Board and Cricket Australia on Wednesday announced the introduction of the Benaud-Qadir Trophy.

This will be a perpetual Trophy and will be presented at the end of each men's Test series played between the Pakistan and Australia cricket teams.

Pakistan captain Babar Azam and Australia captain Pat Cummins on Wednesday unveiled the Benaud-Qadir Trophy at the Pindi Cricket Stadium ahead of the first Test, which commences on Friday.

The Benaud-Qadir Trophy will be presented to the winning side at the headquarters of Pakistan cricket in Lahore where the three-Test series will culminate.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-sl-r-ashwin-on-verge-of-going-past-kapil-dev-in-elite-list-during-series-opener-in-mohali-458150">India vs SL: R Ashwin on verge of going past Kapil Dev in elite list during series opener in Mohali</a>

Benaud and Qadir were two skilful, distinguished and immensely respected cricketers of different eras who served the game with honour, pride and distinction.

Benaud got wrist-spin bowling noticed and recognised as an attacking and wicket-taking option, an art that was subsequently taken to the next level by Qadir with some incredible performances against high-quality batters at a time when express fast bowlers were ruling the roost.

Benaud captained Australia on the team's first full tour to Pakistan in 1959 and won the series 2-0, while Qadir played in 11 Tests against Australia in which he took 45 wickets, including 33 wickets in two three-Test series in 1982 and 1988 against Kim Hughes and Allan Border's sides respectively.

Individually, in 63 Tests from 1952 to 1964, Benaud took 248 wickets whereas Qadir took to Test cricket in 1977 and finished in 1990 with 236 wickets in 67 Tests.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-on-cusp-of-joining-sachin-tendulkar-rahul-dravid-co-in-elite-list-in-historic-100th-test-458045">Virat Kohli on cusp of joining Sachin Tendulkar, Rahul Dravid &amp; Co. in elite list in historic 100th Test</a>

For their respective heroics, achievements and accomplishments, Benaud was inducted into the ICC Hall of Fame in 2009, while Qadir was included in the PCB Hall of Fame in 2021.

Daphne Benaud, Richie's wife: "I am delighted to give my approval for Richie's name to be on this trophy alongside that of Abdul Qadir. Richie had very high regard for Abdul and the fact that both were leg-spinners has a nice ring to it."

Australia men's captain Pat Cummins: "To be able to compete for the Benaud-Qadir Trophy for the first time is a huge honour. As current players, we really are standing on the shoulders of these greats of the past who helped to grow and popularize the game in years gone by, and if my team can collect that trophy at the end of this series then it really would be the perfect end to the Test part of this historic tour."

Before the Benaud-Qadir Trophy, Pakistan and Australia have played 25 Test series with Australia winning 13 and Pakistan winning seven.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pakistan-pacer-haris-rauf-tests-positive-for-covid-19-ahead-of-test-series-against-australia-457929">Pakistan pacer Haris Rauf tests positive for COVID-19 ahead of Test series against Australia</a>

When Pakistan last hosted Australia in 1998, Mark Taylor's side won the series 1-0, while Sarfaraz Ahmed's men won 1-0 in Pakistan's last home series in the United Arab Emirates in 2018.

The last Test series between the two sides was played in Australia in 2019, which was won 2-0 by Australia.

Pakistan captain Babar Azam: "The game is today healthy, wealthy and strong because of such individuals and their legacy, as such, we must always recognise and acknowledge their contributions and services."

"We have our sights firmly on the Benaud-Qadir Trophy, both the sides will have to bring out their very best during this series as this promises to be a really competitive contest. This series will significantly enhance the quality of Test cricket, which cricket fans inside the venues and world-over can thoroughly enjoy," he added.

To celebrate Australia's first Test series in Pakistan in 24 years, the Pakistan Cricket Board and Cricket Australia on Wednesday announced the introduction of the Benaud-Qadir Trophy.

To celebrate Australia's first Test series in Pakistan in 24 years, the Pakistan Cricket Board and Cricket Australia on Wednesday announced the introduction of the Benaud-Qadir Trophy. This will be a perpetual Trophy and will be presented at the end of each men's Test series played between the Pakistan and Australia cricket teams. Pakistan captain Babar Azam and Australia captain Pat Cummins on Wednesday unveiled the Benaud-Qadir Trophy at the Pindi Cricket Stadium ahead of the first Test, which commences on Friday. The Benaud-Qadir Trophy will be presented to the winning side at the headquarters of Pakistan cricket in Lahore where the three-Test series will culminate. ALSO READ: India vs SL: R Ashwin on verge of going past Kapil Dev in elite list during series opener in Mohali Benaud and Qadir were two skilful, distinguished and immensely respected cricketers of different eras who served the game with honour, pride and distinction. Benaud got wrist-spin bowling noticed and recognised as an attacking and wicket-taking option, an art that was subsequently taken to the next level by Qadir with some incredible performances against high-quality batters at a time when express fast bowlers were ruling the roost. Benaud captained Australia on the team's first full tour to Pakistan in 1959 and won the series 2-0, while Qadir played in 11 Tests against Australia in which he took 45 wickets, including 33 wickets in two three-Test series in 1982 and 1988 against Kim Hughes and Allan Border's sides respectively. Individually, in 63 Tests from 1952 to 1964, Benaud took 248 wickets whereas Qadir took to Test cricket in 1977 and finished in 1990 with 236 wickets in 67 Tests. ALSO READ: Virat Kohli on cusp of joining Sachin Tendulkar, Rahul Dravid & Co. in elite list in historic 100th Test For their respective heroics, achievements and accomplishments, Benaud was inducted into the ICC Hall of Fame in 2009, while Qadir was included in the PCB Hall of Fame in 2021. Daphne Benaud, Richie's wife: "I am delighted to give my approval for Richie's name to be on this trophy alongside that of Abdul Qadir. Richie had very high regard for Abdul and the fact that both were leg-spinners has a nice ring to it." Australia men's captain Pat Cummins: "To be able to compete for the Benaud-Qadir Trophy for the first time is a huge honour. As current players, we really are standing on the shoulders of these greats of the past who helped to grow and popularize the game in years gone by, and if my team can collect that trophy at the end of this series then it really would be the perfect end to the Test part of this historic tour." Before the Benaud-Qadir Trophy, Pakistan and Australia have played 25 Test series with Australia winning 13 and Pakistan winning seven. ALSO READ: Pakistan pacer Haris Rauf tests positive for COVID-19 ahead of Test series against Australia When Pakistan last hosted Australia in 1998, Mark Taylor's side won the series 1-0, while Sarfaraz Ahmed's men won 1-0 in Pakistan's last home series in the United Arab Emirates in 2018. The last Test series between the two sides was played in Australia in 2019, which was won 2-0 by Australia. Pakistan captain Babar Azam: "The game is today healthy, wealthy and strong because of such individuals and their legacy, as such, we must always recognise and acknowledge their contributions and services." "We have our sights firmly on the Benaud-Qadir Trophy, both the sides will have to bring out their very best during this series as this promises to be a really competitive contest. This series will significantly enhance the quality of Test cricket, which cricket fans inside the venues and world-over can thoroughly enjoy," he added.

PCB introduces Benaud-Qadir Trophy to celebrate Australia's first Test series in Pakistan in 24 years

Australia batsman Steve Smith said on Tuesday the players felt "incredibly safe" on their first tour of Pakistan in nearly 25 years, despite spinner Ashton Agar receiving a death threat via social media just days before the start of the first Test. Agar was warned against travelling to Pakistan, though the threat was dismissed following an investigation by the boards of Pakistan and Australia and government security agencies.

Cricket Australia said extensive security plans were in place for such social media activity and that the threat was "not considered a risk". Smith said the team trusted the security arrangements in place. "We`re aware of social media and the unfortunate events that can occur on platforms," he told reporters ahead of the first test, which starts on Friday in Rawalpindi. "We`ve got a lot of people working here with us, we trust our security and we`re feeling incredibly safe in Pakistan." Top teams have largely shunned Pakistan since an attack on the Sri Lanka team bus in Lahore in 2009 that killed six policemen and two civilians.

International sides have recently started touring Pakistan again but in September New Zealand returned home after abruptly abandoning a tour minutes before the opening game in Rawalpindi following a government security alert. England followed suit three days later, withdrawing their men`s and women`s teams from a tour in October citing the "mental and physical well-being" of players.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australian-cricketer-ashton-agar-receives-death-threat-ahead-of-pakistans-test-series-against-aussies-457621">Australian cricketer Ashton Agar receives death threat ahead of Pakistan's Test series against Aussies</a>

Smith said that he was relishing the challenge of playing in Pakistan. "It`s great to be back here and playing cricket," he said. "It`s the first time a lot of us have been here and we`re excited. We know how passionate Pakistanis are about cricket."

Smith sustained a concussion in a match against Sri Lanka in Sydney last month, slamming his head to the ground after falling over the boundary rope but the 32-year-old said he had progressed well. "It`s the first session back for me facing fast bowling. I`m recovering from the concussion and I`ve faced some side-arm and spinners," Smith said.

"The head has progressed really well the last few days. I`m feeling in a good space, done a lot of stuff where I`ve got my heart rate up to a good amount and brought it down ... all part of the protocols of getting back to playing."

Australia batsman Steve Smith said on Tuesday the players felt "incredibly safe" on their first tour of Pakistan in nearly 25 years, despite spinner Ashton Agar receiving a death threat via social media just days before the start of the first Test.

Australia batsman Steve Smith said on Tuesday the players felt "incredibly safe" on their first tour of Pakistan in nearly 25 years, despite spinner Ashton Agar receiving a death threat via social media just days before the start of the first Test. Agar was warned against travelling to Pakistan, though the threat was dismissed following an investigation by the boards of Pakistan and Australia and government security agencies. Cricket Australia said extensive security plans were in place for such social media activity and that the threat was "not considered a risk". Smith said the team trusted the security arrangements in place. "We`re aware of social media and the unfortunate events that can occur on platforms," he told reporters ahead of the first test, which starts on Friday in Rawalpindi. "We`ve got a lot of people working here with us, we trust our security and we`re feeling incredibly safe in Pakistan." Top teams have largely shunned Pakistan since an attack on the Sri Lanka team bus in Lahore in 2009 that killed six policemen and two civilians. International sides have recently started touring Pakistan again but in September New Zealand returned home after abruptly abandoning a tour minutes before the opening game in Rawalpindi following a government security alert. England followed suit three days later, withdrawing their men`s and women`s teams from a tour in October citing the "mental and physical well-being" of players. ALSO READ | Australian cricketer Ashton Agar receives death threat ahead of Pakistan's Test series against Aussies Smith said that he was relishing the challenge of playing in Pakistan. "It`s great to be back here and playing cricket," he said. "It`s the first time a lot of us have been here and we`re excited. We know how passionate Pakistanis are about cricket." Smith sustained a concussion in a match against Sri Lanka in Sydney last month, slamming his head to the ground after falling over the boundary rope but the 32-year-old said he had progressed well. "It`s the first session back for me facing fast bowling. I`m recovering from the concussion and I`ve faced some side-arm and spinners," Smith said. "The head has progressed really well the last few days. I`m feeling in a good space, done a lot of stuff where I`ve got my heart rate up to a good amount and brought it down ... all part of the protocols of getting back to playing."

Steve Smith says Australian cricket team 'incredibly safe' in Pakistan despite Ashton Agar threat

Pakistan's experienced all-rounder Faheem Ashraf and pacer Hasan Ali were on Sunday ruled out of the first Test against Australia, beginning on Friday, due to fitness issues.

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) said that batter Iftikhar Ahmed and young all-rounder Muhammad Wasim junior will replace the two in the Pakistan squad for the first Test in Rawalpindi.

Both Iftikhar and Wasim will reach Islamabad on Sunday night and start their three-day isolation at the team hotel after which they will undergo COVID-19 tests before joining the rest of the squad.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/two-bullet-shells-recovered-from-bus-ferrying-sri-lankan-cricket-team-chandigarh-police-to-investigate-457153">Two bullet shells recovered from bus ferrying Sri Lankan cricket team, Chandigarh police to investigate</a>

The absence of Faheem and Hasan will be a big blow to Pakistan as they have been regular members of the Test side in the last 12 months.

Faheem missed Islamabad United's eliminator match against Lahore Qalandars in the Pakistan Super League due to his injury while Hasan has been struggling for form and fitness.

Both Faheem and Hasan are expected to regain full fitness before the second Test that will be played in Karachi from March 12 to 16.

Pakistan's experienced all-rounder Faheem Ashraf and pacer Hasan Ali were on Sunday ruled out of the first Test against Australia, beginning on Friday, due to fitness issues.

Pakistan's experienced all-rounder Faheem Ashraf and pacer Hasan Ali were on Sunday ruled out of the first Test against Australia, beginning on Friday, due to fitness issues. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) said that batter Iftikhar Ahmed and young all-rounder Muhammad Wasim junior will replace the two in the Pakistan squad for the first Test in Rawalpindi. Both Iftikhar and Wasim will reach Islamabad on Sunday night and start their three-day isolation at the team hotel after which they will undergo COVID-19 tests before joining the rest of the squad. ALSO READ: Two bullet shells recovered from bus ferrying Sri Lankan cricket team, Chandigarh police to investigate The absence of Faheem and Hasan will be a big blow to Pakistan as they have been regular members of the Test side in the last 12 months. Faheem missed Islamabad United's eliminator match against Lahore Qalandars in the Pakistan Super League due to his injury while Hasan has been struggling for form and fitness. Both Faheem and Hasan are expected to regain full fitness before the second Test that will be played in Karachi from March 12 to 16.

Hassan Ali, Faheem Ashraf set to miss Pakistan's first test against Australia due to fitness issues

Australian cricketer James Faulkner left the ongoing Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2022 on Saturday (February 18) and returned home due to non-payment by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB). Faulkner took to Twitter to reveal PCB and his franchise Quetta Gladiators have been continuously lying to him and have not 'honoured' his contractual agreement and payments.

Faulkner termed PCB's treatment of him as a 'disgrace' as he apologised to Pakistani fans for leaving the tournament midway. Responding to his accusations, PCB has termed Faulkner's allegations as 'baseless' and have also banned the Australian from taking part in the PSL for life.

As PCB faces criticism from all corners after Faulkner's allegations against the cricket board, former Pakistan captain Shahid Afridi has come out to defend the organisation. Afridi slammed Faulkner for levelling 'baseless' allegations against the board and claimed the payments of the players have never been delayed in the competition.

"Disappointed with @JamesFaulkner44 comments who reciprocated Pakistan's hospitality&amp;arrangements by levelling baseless allegations.We al have been treated with respect &amp;never ever our payments have been delayed. No one should be allowed to taint cricket &amp; the #HBLPSL brand," Afridi wrote in a tweet.

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Disappointed with <a href="https://twitter.com/JamesFaulkner44?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@JamesFaulkner44</a> comments who reciprocated Pakistan's hospitality&amp;arrangements by levelling baseless allegations.We al have been treated with respect &amp;never ever our payments have been delayed. No one should be allowed to taint cricket &amp; the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HBLPSL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HBLPSL</a> brand.
— Shahid Afridi (@SAfridiOfficial) <a href="https://twitter.com/SAfridiOfficial/status/1495050288327241728?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 19, 2022</a></blockquote>
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The Pakistan Cricket Board has also responded to the accusations made by Faulkner with a detailed statement. PCB said 70% of Faulkner's fee&nbsp;was deposited in his UK account in December last year. However, his agent later provided the board with revised banking details and requested the board to transfer the amount to his Australian bank account.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/false-and-misleading-pakistan-cricket-board-reacts-after-james-faulkners-non-payment-accusations-454652">'False and misleading': Pakistan Cricket Board reacts after James Faulkner's non-payment accusations</a>

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PCB and Quetta Gladiators strongly refute James Faulkner's baseless allegations 
More details ⤵️<a href="https://t.co/AwAOWjF126">https://t.co/AwAOWjF126</a> 
1/2 <a href="https://t.co/cR3Il1MKTd">pic.twitter.com/cR3Il1MKTd</a>
— Pakistan Cricket (@TheRealPCB) <a href="https://twitter.com/TheRealPCB/status/1495026673414193159?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 19, 2022</a></blockquote>
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However, PCB stated that at the time of money transfer to his UK account, Faulkner had acknowledged the receipt of payment and that sending the amount again to his Australian account would have meant paying him twice. Thus, PCB refrained from making a second payment as requested by the Aussie cricketer.

PCB also claimed that Faulkner tried to engage with Faulkner and ensure him that his grievances will be addressed. However, he didn't cooperate and didn't turn up for his franchise in a crucial game. The Australian cricketer allegedly also damaged some hotel property before leaving.

&nbsp;

Australian cricketer James Faulkner left the ongoing Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2022 on Saturday (February 18) and returned home due to non-payment by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB).

Australian cricketer James Faulkner left the ongoing Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2022 on Saturday (February 18) and returned home due to non-payment by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB). Faulkner took to Twitter to reveal PCB and his franchise Quetta Gladiators have been continuously lying to him and have not 'honoured' his contractual agreement and payments. Faulkner termed PCB's treatment of him as a 'disgrace' as he apologised to Pakistani fans for leaving the tournament midway. Responding to his accusations, PCB has termed Faulkner's allegations as 'baseless' and have also banned the Australian from taking part in the PSL for life. As PCB faces criticism from all corners after Faulkner's allegations against the cricket board, former Pakistan captain Shahid Afridi has come out to defend the organisation. Afridi slammed Faulkner for levelling 'baseless' allegations against the board and claimed the payments of the players have never been delayed in the competition. "Disappointed with @JamesFaulkner44 comments who reciprocated Pakistan's hospitality&arrangements by levelling baseless allegations.We al have been treated with respect &never ever our payments have been delayed. No one should be allowed to taint cricket & the #HBLPSL brand," Afridi wrote in a tweet. Disappointed with @JamesFaulkner44 comments who reciprocated Pakistan's hospitality&arrangements by levelling baseless allegations.We al have been treated with respect &never ever our payments have been delayed. No one should be allowed to taint cricket & the #HBLPSL brand. — Shahid Afridi (@SAfridiOfficial) February 19, 2022 × The Pakistan Cricket Board has also responded to the accusations made by Faulkner with a detailed statement. PCB said 70% of Faulkner's fee was deposited in his UK account in December last year. However, his agent later provided the board with revised banking details and requested the board to transfer the amount to his Australian bank account. Also Read: 'False and misleading': Pakistan Cricket Board reacts after James Faulkner's non-payment accusations PCB and Quetta Gladiators strongly refute James Faulkner's baseless allegations More details ⤵️https://t.co/AwAOWjF126 1/2 pic.twitter.com/cR3Il1MKTd — Pakistan Cricket (@TheRealPCB) February 19, 2022 × However, PCB stated that at the time of money transfer to his UK account, Faulkner had acknowledged the receipt of payment and that sending the amount again to his Australian account would have meant paying him twice. Thus, PCB refrained from making a second payment as requested by the Aussie cricketer. PCB also claimed that Faulkner tried to engage with Faulkner and ensure him that his grievances will be addressed. However, he didn't cooperate and didn't turn up for his franchise in a crucial game. The Australian cricketer allegedly also damaged some hotel property before leaving.

Shahid Afridi slams James Faulkner for 'baseless' accusations against Pakistan Cricket Board

Australian cricketer James Faulkner on Saturday (February 19) levelled serious allegations against the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) as he returned home midway through the ongoing Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2022. Faulkner withdrew from the tournament, accusing PCB and his franchise Quetta Gladiators of lying and not 'honouring' a contractual and a payment agreement.

Faulkner took to Twitter to reveal he had to leave the tournament due to non-payment issues and called the PCB a disgrace. Faulkner was part of the Quetta Gladiators squad and had already played six matches this season before deciding to depart home and expose PCB's unprofessional behaviour.

Faulkner took to Twitter to apologise from cricket fans in the country and said he has to leave due to non-payment and contractual disagreement. The Australian cricketer said he wanted to play his part in getting international cricket back in Pakistan but the treatment handed out by PCB has been a 'disgrace'.

"I apologise to the Pakistan cricket fans. But unfortunately, I've had to withdraw from the last two matches and leave the PSL due to the PCB not honouring my contractual agreements/payments.&nbsp;I've been here the whole duration and they have continued to lie to me," said Faulkner in a tweet.

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I apologise to the Pakistan cricket fans. 
But unfortunately I’ve had to withdraw from the last 2 matches and leave the <a href="https://twitter.com/thePSLt20?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@thePSLt20</a> due to the <a href="https://twitter.com/TheRealPCB?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@TheRealPCB</a> not honouring my contractual agreement/payments. 
I’ve been here the whole duration and they have continued to lie to me.
— James Faulkner (@JamesFaulkner44) <a href="https://twitter.com/JamesFaulkner44/status/1494975761144504327?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 19, 2022</a></blockquote>
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"It hurts to leave as I wanted to help to get international cricket back in Pakistan as there is so much young talent and the fans are amazing. But the treatment I have received has been a disgrace from the @TheRealPCB and @thePSLt20. I'm sure you all understand my position," he added in another tweet.

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2/2 
It hurts to leave as I wanted to help to get international cricket back in Pakistan as there is so much young talent and the fans are amazing. 
But the treatment I have received has been a disgrace from the <a href="https://twitter.com/TheRealPCB?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@TheRealPCB</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/thePSLt20?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@thePSLt20</a> 
 
I’m sure you all understand my position.
— James Faulkner (@JamesFaulkner44) <a href="https://twitter.com/JamesFaulkner44/status/1494976081581215744?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 19, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australian-cricketer-james-faulkner-leaves-pakistan-super-league-due-to-payment-dispute-with-pcb-454618">Australian cricketer James Faulkner leaves Pakistan Super League due to payment dispute with PCB</a>

Australian cricketer James Faulkner on Saturday (February 19) levelled serious allegations against the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) as he returned home midway through the ongoing Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2022. Faulkner withdrew from the tournament, accusing PCB and his franchise Quetta Gladiators of lying and not 'honouring' a contractual and a payment agreement.

Faulkner took to Twitter to reveal he had to leave the tournament due to non-payment issues and called the PCB a disgrace. Faulkner was part of the Quetta Gladiators squad and had already played six matches this season before deciding to depart home and expose PCB's unprofessional behaviour.

Faulkner took to Twitter to apologise from cricket fans in the country and said he has to leave due to non-payment and contractual disagreement. The Australian cricketer said he wanted to play his part in getting international cricket back in Pakistan but the treatment handed out by PCB has been a 'disgrace'.

"I apologise to the Pakistan cricket fans. But unfortunately, I've had to withdraw from the last two matches and leave the PSL due to the PCB not honouring my contractual agreements/payments.&nbsp;I've been here the whole duration and they have continued to lie to me," said Faulkner in a tweet.

"It hurts to leave as I wanted to help to get international cricket back in Pakistan as there is so much young talent and the fans are amazing. But the treatment I have received has been a disgrace from the @TheRealPCB and @thePSLt20. I'm sure you all understand my position," he added in another tweet.

 
Pakistan Cricket Board responds&nbsp;

Responding to the accusations levelled against the board by Faulkner, Pakistan Cricket Board termed the allegations 'baseless' and handed out a life ban to the Aussie cricketer.

"The PCB and Quetta Gladiators have regretfully taken note of Mr James Faulkner's false and misleading accusations and will shortly be releasing a detailed statement on the matter," PCB said in a tweet.

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The PCB and Quetta Gladiators have regretfully taken note of Mr James Faulkner's false and misleading accusations and will shortly be releasing a detailed statement on the matter.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HBLPSL7?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HBLPSL7</a>
— Pakistan Cricket (@TheRealPCB) <a href="https://twitter.com/TheRealPCB/status/1494989090143539202?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 19, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Later in a statement, the PCB confirmed that Faulkner will not be allowed to take part in the PSL ever again in the future as his accusations are an attempt to bring disrepute to Pakistan cricket.

"In wake of the above, and taking serious note of Mr James Faulkner's gross misconduct that was an attempt to bring the PCB, Pakistan cricket and the HBL Pakistan Super League into disrepute, it has been unanimously agreed by the PCB and the franchises that Mr James Faulkner will not be drafted in future HBL Pakistan Super League events," PCB said in a statement. 
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Australian cricketer James Faulkner on Saturday (February 19) levelled serious allegations against the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) as he returned home midway through the ongoing Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2022.

Australian cricketer James Faulkner on Saturday (February 19) levelled serious allegations against the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) as he returned home midway through the ongoing Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2022. Faulkner withdrew from the tournament, accusing PCB and his franchise Quetta Gladiators of lying and not 'honouring' a contractual and a payment agreement. Faulkner took to Twitter to reveal he had to leave the tournament due to non-payment issues and called the PCB a disgrace. Faulkner was part of the Quetta Gladiators squad and had already played six matches this season before deciding to depart home and expose PCB's unprofessional behaviour. Faulkner took to Twitter to apologise from cricket fans in the country and said he has to leave due to non-payment and contractual disagreement. The Australian cricketer said he wanted to play his part in getting international cricket back in Pakistan but the treatment handed out by PCB has been a 'disgrace'. "I apologise to the Pakistan cricket fans. But unfortunately, I've had to withdraw from the last two matches and leave the PSL due to the PCB not honouring my contractual agreements/payments. I've been here the whole duration and they have continued to lie to me," said Faulkner in a tweet. 1/2 I apologise to the Pakistan cricket fans. But unfortunately I’ve had to withdraw from the last 2 matches and leave the @thePSLt20 due to the @TheRealPCB not honouring my contractual agreement/payments. I’ve been here the whole duration and they have continued to lie to me. — James Faulkner (@JamesFaulkner44) February 19, 2022 × "It hurts to leave as I wanted to help to get international cricket back in Pakistan as there is so much young talent and the fans are amazing. But the treatment I have received has been a disgrace from the @TheRealPCB and @thePSLt20. I'm sure you all understand my position," he added in another tweet. 2/2 It hurts to leave as I wanted to help to get international cricket back in Pakistan as there is so much young talent and the fans are amazing. But the treatment I have received has been a disgrace from the @TheRealPCB and @thePSLt20 I’m sure you all understand my position. — James Faulkner (@JamesFaulkner44) February 19, 2022 × Also Read: Australian cricketer James Faulkner leaves Pakistan Super League due to payment dispute with PCB Australian cricketer James Faulkner on Saturday (February 19) levelled serious allegations against the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) as he returned home midway through the ongoing Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2022. Faulkner withdrew from the tournament, accusing PCB and his franchise Quetta Gladiators of lying and not 'honouring' a contractual and a payment agreement. Faulkner took to Twitter to reveal he had to leave the tournament due to non-payment issues and called the PCB a disgrace. Faulkner was part of the Quetta Gladiators squad and had already played six matches this season before deciding to depart home and expose PCB's unprofessional behaviour. Faulkner took to Twitter to apologise from cricket fans in the country and said he has to leave due to non-payment and contractual disagreement. The Australian cricketer said he wanted to play his part in getting international cricket back in Pakistan but the treatment handed out by PCB has been a 'disgrace'. "I apologise to the Pakistan cricket fans. But unfortunately, I've had to withdraw from the last two matches and leave the PSL due to the PCB not honouring my contractual agreements/payments. I've been here the whole duration and they have continued to lie to me," said Faulkner in a tweet. "It hurts to leave as I wanted to help to get international cricket back in Pakistan as there is so much young talent and the fans are amazing. But the treatment I have received has been a disgrace from the @TheRealPCB and @thePSLt20. I'm sure you all understand my position," he added in another tweet. Pakistan Cricket Board responds Responding to the accusations levelled against the board by Faulkner, Pakistan Cricket Board termed the allegations 'baseless' and handed out a life ban to the Aussie cricketer. "The PCB and Quetta Gladiators have regretfully taken note of Mr James Faulkner's false and misleading accusations and will shortly be releasing a detailed statement on the matter," PCB said in a tweet. The PCB and Quetta Gladiators have regretfully taken note of Mr James Faulkner's false and misleading accusations and will shortly be releasing a detailed statement on the matter.#HBLPSL7 — Pakistan Cricket (@TheRealPCB) February 19, 2022 × Later in a statement, the PCB confirmed that Faulkner will not be allowed to take part in the PSL ever again in the future as his accusations are an attempt to bring disrepute to Pakistan cricket. "In wake of the above, and taking serious note of Mr James Faulkner's gross misconduct that was an attempt to bring the PCB, Pakistan cricket and the HBL Pakistan Super League into disrepute, it has been unanimously agreed by the PCB and the franchises that Mr James Faulkner will not be drafted in future HBL Pakistan Super League events," PCB said in a statement.

'False and misleading': Pakistan Cricket Board reacts after James Faulkner's non-payment accusations

Australian all-rounder James Faulkner abruptly left the Pakistan Super League (PSL) on Saturday citing payment disputes, though the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has denied the allegation.

Faulkner did not play the last three games of his Quetta Gladiators franchise and announced his shock withdrawal on Twitter.

"...unfortunately I’ve had to withdraw from the last 2 matches and leave the @thePSLt20 due to the @TheRealPCB not honouring my contractual agreement/payments," Faulkner said in the first of his two posts.

"I've been here the whole duration and they have continued to lie to me."

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-wi-rohit-gives-hilarious-reaction-after-pant-wins-player-of-the-match-in-2nd-t20i-watch-454607">Ind vs WI: Rohit gives hilarious reaction after Pant wins Player of the Match in 2nd T20I - Watch</a>

"It hurts to leave as I wanted to help to get international cricket back in Pakistan as there is so much young talent and the fans are amazing. But the treatment I have received has been a disgrace..." he added.

The PCB did not reply immediately to a Reuters email seeking details but denied Faulkner's allegation in a Twitter post.

"The PCB and Quetta Gladiators have regretfully taken note of Mr James Faulkner's false and misleading accusations and will shortly be releasing a detailed statement on the matter," it said.

Australian all-rounder James Faulkner abruptly left the Pakistan Super League (PSL) on Saturday citing payment disputes, though the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has denied the allegation.

Australian all-rounder James Faulkner abruptly left the Pakistan Super League (PSL) on Saturday citing payment disputes, though the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has denied the allegation. Faulkner did not play the last three games of his Quetta Gladiators franchise and announced his shock withdrawal on Twitter. "...unfortunately I’ve had to withdraw from the last 2 matches and leave the @thePSLt20 due to the @TheRealPCB not honouring my contractual agreement/payments," Faulkner said in the first of his two posts. "I've been here the whole duration and they have continued to lie to me." ALSO READ: Ind vs WI: Rohit gives hilarious reaction after Pant wins Player of the Match in 2nd T20I - Watch "It hurts to leave as I wanted to help to get international cricket back in Pakistan as there is so much young talent and the fans are amazing. But the treatment I have received has been a disgrace..." he added. The PCB did not reply immediately to a Reuters email seeking details but denied Faulkner's allegation in a Twitter post. "The PCB and Quetta Gladiators have regretfully taken note of Mr James Faulkner's false and misleading accusations and will shortly be releasing a detailed statement on the matter," it said.

Australian cricketer James Faulkner leaves Pakistan Super League due to payment dispute with PCB