Pakistan captain Babar Azam is one of the best batters in the world at present. He has been a consistent performer for the Men in Green across formats and has been shattering records at will. He has often earned comparisons with the likes of Virat Kohli, Steve Smith, Joe Root and others due to his batting exploits in international cricket but the Pakistan skipper has always maintained there is still significant room for improvement.

Babar, who took over as Pakistan's full-time captain across all three formats in 2019, was seen primarily as a white-ball star at the start of his career. However, he has gone on to showcase his consistency in Tests as well and has established his credentials in the whites for Pakistan.

Legendary fast bowler Waqar Younis recently heaped praise on Babar when asked about his comparisons with the best players of his generation. The former Pakistan captain called Babar a million-dollar player but insisted his career should be judged only when he is done with his international career.

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"Babar Azam in modern-day cricket looks a million dollars and he is definitely as good as all the big names. Babar is still very young and has plenty of cricket ahead of him and once he has retired you can perhaps sit down and start comparing him with others," Waqar said on ICC digital.

"But all those greats have their own strengths and their own class and all of them played in different eras and we should not forget that," he added.

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Babar has so far played 40 Tests, 89 ODIs and 74 T20Is in his international career amassing 2851, 4442 and 2686 runs in the three formats respectively. He is currently the number one ranked batter in both ODIs and T20Is and will be hoping to continue his fine form with the willow in the upcoming series for Pakistan.

Pakistan captain Babar Azam is one of the best batters in the world at present. He has been a consistent performer for the Men in Green across formats and has been shattering records at will.

Pakistan captain Babar Azam is one of the best batters in the world at present. He has been a consistent performer for the Men in Green across formats and has been shattering records at will. He has often earned comparisons with the likes of Virat Kohli, Steve Smith, Joe Root and others due to his batting exploits in international cricket but the Pakistan skipper has always maintained there is still significant room for improvement. Babar, who took over as Pakistan's full-time captain across all three formats in 2019, was seen primarily as a white-ball star at the start of his career. However, he has gone on to showcase his consistency in Tests as well and has established his credentials in the whites for Pakistan. Legendary fast bowler Waqar Younis recently heaped praise on Babar when asked about his comparisons with the best players of his generation. The former Pakistan captain called Babar a million-dollar player but insisted his career should be judged only when he is done with his international career. Also Read: You can't rest in IPL but want to rest when you play for India: Sunil Gavaskar slams Team India stars "Babar Azam in modern-day cricket looks a million dollars and he is definitely as good as all the big names. Babar is still very young and has plenty of cricket ahead of him and once he has retired you can perhaps sit down and start comparing him with others," Waqar said on ICC digital. "But all those greats have their own strengths and their own class and all of them played in different eras and we should not forget that," he added. Also Read: Virat Kohli likely to miss ODI series opener vs England due to injury concerns: Sources Babar has so far played 40 Tests, 89 ODIs and 74 T20Is in his international career amassing 2851, 4442 and 2686 runs in the three formats respectively. He is currently the number one ranked batter in both ODIs and T20Is and will be hoping to continue his fine form with the willow in the upcoming series for Pakistan.

'Babar Azam looks like a million dollars': Waqar Younis on Pakistan skipper's comparisons with other greats

All eyes are now on the 2022 T20 World Cup. All teams have dived into the preparations and will go all-out against each other in the showpiece event, which is set to be held in Australia from October-November. In the last edition, held in the UAE, Pakistan broke their World Cup jinx versus India and beat them comfortably, by ten wickets, to send their fans into a frenzy.

Ahead of India and Pakistan's much-awaited face-off in the 2022 edition, Rawalpindi Express Shoaib Akhtar has opened up on the much-anticipated clash and made a big claim.

"India will come up with proper planning this time around. It will not be easy for Pakistan to beat India in T20 WC this time. Predicting match results now is quite difficult but Pakistan should bowl second as [the] pitch in Melbourne offers bounce to fast bowlers,” Akhtar was quoted as saying by&nbsp;Cricket Pakistan.

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In the 2021 edition, Virat Kohli-led India were blown away by Babar Azam &amp; Co. courtesy of Shaheen Afridi's three-fer. Opting to bowl first, in Dubai, Pakistan restricted India to 158-7 before openers Babar and Md Rizwan's unbroken stand propelled the Men in Green to an easy ten-wicket win.&nbsp;

This time around, India will enter the marquee event with Rohit Sharma as the captain, who took over from Kohli last year. The Men in Blue have adopted an aggressive approach with the bat and will like to settle scores with Pakistan in the forthcoming tournament. Before the T20 WC, both sides will also meet in the Asia Cup 2022.

All eyes are now on the 2022 T20 World Cup. All teams have dived into the preparations and will go all-out against each other in the showpiece event, which is set to be held in Australia from October-November.

All eyes are now on the 2022 T20 World Cup. All teams have dived into the preparations and will go all-out against each other in the showpiece event, which is set to be held in Australia from October-November. In the last edition, held in the UAE, Pakistan broke their World Cup jinx versus India and beat them comfortably, by ten wickets, to send their fans into a frenzy. Ahead of India and Pakistan's much-awaited face-off in the 2022 edition, Rawalpindi Express Shoaib Akhtar has opened up on the much-anticipated clash and made a big claim. "India will come up with proper planning this time around. It will not be easy for Pakistan to beat India in T20 WC this time. Predicting match results now is quite difficult but Pakistan should bowl second as [the] pitch in Melbourne offers bounce to fast bowlers,” Akhtar was quoted as saying by Cricket Pakistan. ALSO READ | He can single-handedly win you World Cups: Former India selector backs under-fire Virat Kohli In the 2021 edition, Virat Kohli-led India were blown away by Babar Azam & Co. courtesy of Shaheen Afridi's three-fer. Opting to bowl first, in Dubai, Pakistan restricted India to 158-7 before openers Babar and Md Rizwan's unbroken stand propelled the Men in Green to an easy ten-wicket win. This time around, India will enter the marquee event with Rohit Sharma as the captain, who took over from Kohli last year. The Men in Blue have adopted an aggressive approach with the bat and will like to settle scores with Pakistan in the forthcoming tournament. Before the T20 WC, both sides will also meet in the Asia Cup 2022.

'It will not be easy': Shoaib Akhtar explains why Pakistan might not be able to beat India in T20 WC 2022

Virat Kohli's disastrous run with the bat continued in the second T20I between India and England at Edgbaston in Birmingham on Saturday (July 09). Kohli made his much-awaited comeback to the Indian T20I team after four months in the second game of the series after missing the series-opener. All eyes were on the batting maestro, who was expected to fire all cylinders and respond to his critics in style amid his lean patch.

However, Kohli failed to get going once again as he endured yet another disappointing outing with the bat. The former India skipper was dismissed after scoring just 1 run off three balls and failed to make an impact in the game. He was roped into the playing XI in the place of in-form Deepak Hooda but failed to justify his inclusion.

Kohli was expected to open the batting with skipper Rohit Sharma after Ishan Kishan was dropped from the XI but India instead promoted wicket-keeper batter Rishabh Pant at the top in a move that surprised many. Kohli came out to bat his usual no.3 spot but it was the same story for the Indian star.

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Former Pakistan cricketer Danish Kaneria slammed Kohli for his poor show in the 2nd T20I and said he is becoming a liability for Team India now. Kaneria believes Kohli should give up his spot in India's T20I squad if he cannot bounce back to form ahead of the T20 World Cup 2022 in Australia this year.

"When the big guns were out, even then the team was performing, the youngsters were doing the job. The big player should understand that he is becoming a liability to the team. Virat Kohli has become a liability now. So, either he needs to give up his place or make a comeback before the T20 World Cup," Kaneria said in a video on his YouTube channel.

Kohli was playing only his 3rd T20I for India since leaving captaincy in the shortest format last year. He did not feature in the home series against New Zealand last year and also missed the series against Sri Lanka and South Africa this year. He has been enduring a lean patch across formats in international cricket over the last few years and has struggled to score runs consistently.

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However, despite his poor show in the game on Saturday, India managed to beat England comprehensively by 49 runs in the 2nd T20I to register their second win on the trot and clinch the three-match series 2-0. India will now aim for a clean sweep when they take on England in the 3rd and final T20I on Sunday (July 10).

Virat Kohli's disastrous run with the bat continued in the second T20I between India and England at Edgbaston in Birmingham on Saturday (July 09). Kohli made his much-awaited comeback to the Indian T20I team after four months in the second game of the series after missing the series-opener.

Virat Kohli's disastrous run with the bat continued in the second T20I between India and England at Edgbaston in Birmingham on Saturday (July 09). Kohli made his much-awaited comeback to the Indian T20I team after four months in the second game of the series after missing the series-opener. All eyes were on the batting maestro, who was expected to fire all cylinders and respond to his critics in style amid his lean patch. However, Kohli failed to get going once again as he endured yet another disappointing outing with the bat. The former India skipper was dismissed after scoring just 1 run off three balls and failed to make an impact in the game. He was roped into the playing XI in the place of in-form Deepak Hooda but failed to justify his inclusion. Kohli was expected to open the batting with skipper Rohit Sharma after Ishan Kishan was dropped from the XI but India instead promoted wicket-keeper batter Rishabh Pant at the top in a move that surprised many. Kohli came out to bat his usual no.3 spot but it was the same story for the Indian star. Also Read: Derbyshire's Mattie McKiernan creates world record for most expensive 4-over spell in T20 cricket Former Pakistan cricketer Danish Kaneria slammed Kohli for his poor show in the 2nd T20I and said he is becoming a liability for Team India now. Kaneria believes Kohli should give up his spot in India's T20I squad if he cannot bounce back to form ahead of the T20 World Cup 2022 in Australia this year. "When the big guns were out, even then the team was performing, the youngsters were doing the job. The big player should understand that he is becoming a liability to the team. Virat Kohli has become a liability now. So, either he needs to give up his place or make a comeback before the T20 World Cup," Kaneria said in a video on his YouTube channel. Kohli was playing only his 3rd T20I for India since leaving captaincy in the shortest format last year. He did not feature in the home series against New Zealand last year and also missed the series against Sri Lanka and South Africa this year. He has been enduring a lean patch across formats in international cricket over the last few years and has struggled to score runs consistently. Also Read: 'Very promising leading into T20 WC': Vaughan lauds India after 49-run win over England in 2nd T20I However, despite his poor show in the game on Saturday, India managed to beat England comprehensively by 49 runs in the 2nd T20I to register their second win on the trot and clinch the three-match series 2-0. India will now aim for a clean sweep when they take on England in the 3rd and final T20I on Sunday (July 10).

'He is becoming liability': Former Pakistan cricketer slams Virat Kohli after poor show in 2nd T20I vs England

All eyes are on the forthcoming Asia Cup 2022. The upcoming mega event will be held in Sri Lanka despite the political and economical unrest in the country. Amid the chaos in the Island nation, Sri Lanka Cricket Board (SLC)&nbsp;got the green light to host the tournament and it will be played in the T20I format.&nbsp;

This will be the second time that the Asia Cup will be held in the shortest format, as a preparation for the 2022 T20 World Cup. Moreover, this will also be the first time that the Asia Cup will take place after the 2018 edition. In 2018, Rohit Sharma-led India won the tournament, beating Bangladesh in a humdinger of a final, and the Men in Blue will be eager to win the trophy for the third time in a row (which will be seventh overall). Ahead of the official schedule is released, which is expected to be out very soon, many reports have suggested that India will take on arch-rivals Pakistan on August 28.&nbsp;

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India and Pakistan are set to be in the same group and, thus, can play with each other more than once before again meeting in the T20 World Cup 2022 edition. Both sides have once again been named in the same group in the ICC event, to be held in Australia, and, hence, will look at the Asia Cup as a dress rehearsal for the showpiece event.&nbsp;

India and Pakistan had met each other last during the 2021 T20 World Cup, where Babar Azam &amp; Co. had beaten Virat Kohli-led Men in Blue by ten wickets to break their World Cup jinx versus the Asian neighbours.&nbsp;

All eyes are on the forthcoming Asia Cup 2022. The upcoming mega event will be held in Sri Lanka despite the political and economical unrest in the country. Amid the chaos in the Island nation, Sri Lanka Cricket Board (SLC) got the green light to host the tournament and it will be played in the T20I format.

All eyes are on the forthcoming Asia Cup 2022. The upcoming mega event will be held in Sri Lanka despite the political and economical unrest in the country. Amid the chaos in the Island nation, Sri Lanka Cricket Board (SLC) got the green light to host the tournament and it will be played in the T20I format. This will be the second time that the Asia Cup will be held in the shortest format, as a preparation for the 2022 T20 World Cup. Moreover, this will also be the first time that the Asia Cup will take place after the 2018 edition. In 2018, Rohit Sharma-led India won the tournament, beating Bangladesh in a humdinger of a final, and the Men in Blue will be eager to win the trophy for the third time in a row (which will be seventh overall). Ahead of the official schedule is released, which is expected to be out very soon, many reports have suggested that India will take on arch-rivals Pakistan on August 28. ALSO READ | ENG vs IND prediction: Who will win 1st T20I between England and India in Southampton India and Pakistan are set to be in the same group and, thus, can play with each other more than once before again meeting in the T20 World Cup 2022 edition. Both sides have once again been named in the same group in the ICC event, to be held in Australia, and, hence, will look at the Asia Cup as a dress rehearsal for the showpiece event. India and Pakistan had met each other last during the 2021 T20 World Cup, where Babar Azam & Co. had beaten Virat Kohli-led Men in Blue by ten wickets to break their World Cup jinx versus the Asian neighbours.

Asia Cup 2022: Rohit Sharma-led India to square off against Pakistan on August 28 - Reports

Rishabh Pant got a chance to lead the Indian team for the first time in the recently-concluded T20I series against South Africa at home. It was his debut series as captain and Pant got off to a poor start losing the first two matches in a row before helping the team bounce back and draw the five-match series 2-2. The final game of the series was washed out due to rain resulting in a stalemate.

It was in the absence of regular skipper Rohit Sharma and vice-captain KL Rahul that Pant was appointed as India's stand-in skipper for the T20I series against the Proteas. While he managed to impress with his captaincy after helping India bounce back following two back-to-back losses in the first two games, his personal form with the bat was far from the best.

Pant was appointed as stand-in captain for the series in the absence of regular skipper Rohit Sharma and vice-captain KL Rahul. While he managed to score only 58 runs in five games, his captaincy stint was also a bitter-sweet one with two wins and as many losses in the series.

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Pant getting a chance to lead the Indian team clearly indicates that he is part of the leadership group in the side and might be one of the future leaders. However, former Pakistan spinner Danish Kaneria believes Pant is not yet mature enough to lead India. Kaneria said the wicket-keeper batter did a horrible job while leading the team against South Africa at home.

"Rishabh Pant is not mature enough to be captain. He got a chance to lead the side in the South Africa series, but did a horrible job. Captaincy also tends to take a toll on his batting. I feel that he shouldn't be the captain anymore," Kaneria said in a video on his YouTube channel.

His comments came ahead of India's all-important one-off fifth Test against England in Edgbaston starting from July 01. The rescheduled Test match will decide the fate of India's away Test series against England last year where the visitors took a 2-1 lead before the final match was postponed due to COVID-19.

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With Indian captain Rohit Sharma testing positive for COVID-19 ahead of the 5th Test, India are likely to name a stand-in skipper for the game in case the Hitman fails to recover fully in time. Pacer Jasprit Bumrah is the favourite to take over the captaincy baton in Rohit's absence but Kaneria believes the fast bowler should not be burdened with the responsibility.

"BCCI has indicated that Rishabh Pant, Jasprit Bumrah or Ravichandran Ashwin could be given the captaincy if Rohit Sharma isn't available. Bumrah shouldn't be given the load of captaincy and he should rather concentrate on his bowling. I wouldn't want him to lead the side in the fifth Test," said the former Pakistan spinner.

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Rishabh Pant got a chance to lead the Indian team for the first time in the recently-concluded T20I series against South Africa at home. It was his debut series as captain and Pant got off to a poor start losing the first two matches in a row before helping the team bounce back and draw the five-match series 2-2.

Rishabh Pant got a chance to lead the Indian team for the first time in the recently-concluded T20I series against South Africa at home. It was his debut series as captain and Pant got off to a poor start losing the first two matches in a row before helping the team bounce back and draw the five-match series 2-2. The final game of the series was washed out due to rain resulting in a stalemate. It was in the absence of regular skipper Rohit Sharma and vice-captain KL Rahul that Pant was appointed as India's stand-in skipper for the T20I series against the Proteas. While he managed to impress with his captaincy after helping India bounce back following two back-to-back losses in the first two games, his personal form with the bat was far from the best. Pant was appointed as stand-in captain for the series in the absence of regular skipper Rohit Sharma and vice-captain KL Rahul. While he managed to score only 58 runs in five games, his captaincy stint was also a bitter-sweet one with two wins and as many losses in the series. Also Read: 'Shoaib Akhtar who?': Twitter left baffled as Bhuvneshwar Kumar bowls '201 kmph' delivery vs Ireland Pant getting a chance to lead the Indian team clearly indicates that he is part of the leadership group in the side and might be one of the future leaders. However, former Pakistan spinner Danish Kaneria believes Pant is not yet mature enough to lead India. Kaneria said the wicket-keeper batter did a horrible job while leading the team against South Africa at home. "Rishabh Pant is not mature enough to be captain. He got a chance to lead the side in the South Africa series, but did a horrible job. Captaincy also tends to take a toll on his batting. I feel that he shouldn't be the captain anymore," Kaneria said in a video on his YouTube channel. His comments came ahead of India's all-important one-off fifth Test against England in Edgbaston starting from July 01. The rescheduled Test match will decide the fate of India's away Test series against England last year where the visitors took a 2-1 lead before the final match was postponed due to COVID-19. Also Read: 'Had a chat with him': Hardik Pandya explains why Umran Malik bowled only 1 over in 1st T20I vs Ireland With Indian captain Rohit Sharma testing positive for COVID-19 ahead of the 5th Test, India are likely to name a stand-in skipper for the game in case the Hitman fails to recover fully in time. Pacer Jasprit Bumrah is the favourite to take over the captaincy baton in Rohit's absence but Kaneria believes the fast bowler should not be burdened with the responsibility. "BCCI has indicated that Rishabh Pant, Jasprit Bumrah or Ravichandran Ashwin could be given the captaincy if Rohit Sharma isn't available. Bumrah shouldn't be given the load of captaincy and he should rather concentrate on his bowling. I wouldn't want him to lead the side in the fifth Test," said the former Pakistan spinner.

He did a horrible job in SA series: Ex-Pakistan cricketer feels Rishabh Pant not mature enough to lead India

Former Pakistan batter Salman Butt recently opened up on his infamous fight with his former ex-Pakistan teammate Shahid Afridi and said he was not a friend but treated him well at times when the duo shared the dressing room together. They were involved in a heated clash on the Pakistan team bus during the team's camp in Abbottabad in 2007. The controversial fight had tarnished the image of Pakistan cricket back then.

Pakistan cricket is no stranger to controversies and several Pakistani cricketers have over the years been involved in numerous such incidents. The fight between Butt and Afridi on the team bus was one such instance and it had also left then Pakistan team manager Tahat Ali infuriated.

Recently, former Pakistan pacer Shoaib Akhtar had shared details of the fight between Afridi and Butt which also saw the former all-rounder being sent back home by the team management for his behaviour. Following Akhtar's revelations, Butt himself opened up on the incident and said every team has at least one such incident to tell.

"Every team has at least one such incident to tell. He (Afridi) was my senior. He was not a friend but treated me well at times. We had good exchanges too. But sometimes a bit of misunderstanding happens between two players. These things should not be shared publicly," Butt said in a video on his YouTube channel.

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Meanwhile, Akhtar has shared details of the incident while speaking on a TV show 'Game on Hai' where he revealed it was team manager Talat, who had lost his cool and questioned Afridi after the former all-rounder came to the bus and asked Butt to vacate the seat where he was sitting.

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"It so happened that we were returning on the bus from training and I was sitting with Salman Butt upfront. Afridi came inside and asked Butt to vacate the seat to which Talat lost his cool and questioned why Butt should leave his seat," Akhtar said.

"Afridi also exchanged some words with Talat. Later that night Shoaib Malik told me they had decided to send Afridi back home because of the incident. I then took up the issue with Talat sahab and the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB)," he added. 
&nbsp;

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Former Pakistan batter Salman Butt recently opened up on his infamous fight with his former ex-Pakistan teammate Shahid Afridi and said he was not a friend but treated him well at times when the duo shared the dressing room together.

Former Pakistan batter Salman Butt recently opened up on his infamous fight with his former ex-Pakistan teammate Shahid Afridi and said he was not a friend but treated him well at times when the duo shared the dressing room together. They were involved in a heated clash on the Pakistan team bus during the team's camp in Abbottabad in 2007. The controversial fight had tarnished the image of Pakistan cricket back then. Pakistan cricket is no stranger to controversies and several Pakistani cricketers have over the years been involved in numerous such incidents. The fight between Butt and Afridi on the team bus was one such instance and it had also left then Pakistan team manager Tahat Ali infuriated. Recently, former Pakistan pacer Shoaib Akhtar had shared details of the fight between Afridi and Butt which also saw the former all-rounder being sent back home by the team management for his behaviour. Following Akhtar's revelations, Butt himself opened up on the incident and said every team has at least one such incident to tell. "Every team has at least one such incident to tell. He (Afridi) was my senior. He was not a friend but treated me well at times. We had good exchanges too. But sometimes a bit of misunderstanding happens between two players. These things should not be shared publicly," Butt said in a video on his YouTube channel. Also Read: 'Allegations came from BCCI': Tainted umpire Rauf on running shops in Pakistan after leaving cricket Meanwhile, Akhtar has shared details of the incident while speaking on a TV show 'Game on Hai' where he revealed it was team manager Talat, who had lost his cool and questioned Afridi after the former all-rounder came to the bus and asked Butt to vacate the seat where he was sitting. Also Read: 'Alex Ferguson of Ranji Trophy': Karthik hails head coach Chandrakant Pandit as MP claim maiden title "It so happened that we were returning on the bus from training and I was sitting with Salman Butt upfront. Afridi came inside and asked Butt to vacate the seat to which Talat lost his cool and questioned why Butt should leave his seat," Akhtar said. "Afridi also exchanged some words with Talat. Later that night Shoaib Malik told me they had decided to send Afridi back home because of the incident. I then took up the issue with Talat sahab and the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB)," he added.

'He was not a friend': Former Pak batter Salman Butt opens up on controversial 'bus fight' with Shahid Afridi

Tainted Pakistani umpire Asad Rauf currently runs two shops in Lahore's Landa Bazaar in Pakistan to make ends meet after leaving cricket. He was banned by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) for five years in 2016 after being found guilty of being involved in match-fixing and spot-fixing. Allegations of betting in Indian Premier League (IPL) matches were also levelled against him leading to the official ban.

Rauf was a member of the ICC Elite Umpire Panel from 2006 to 2013 and officiated in 170 international matches from 2010 to 2013. He was one of the regulars in the Indian Premier League (IPL) but his umpiring career went downhill after fixing allegations were first levelled against him in 2013.

Images of Rauf from his shop in Pakistan's Lahore went viral on social media a few days back after a local Pakistani channel interviewed him. The former umpire claimed he has not followed cricket since 2013. Rauf also went on to claim the allegations came from BCCI and that the board's decision to ban him was final.

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"Unse mera toh koi lena dena tha hi nahi, wo unhi (BCCI) ki taraf se aaye aur unhone hi decision le liye (I had nothing to do with these issues, the allegations came from the BCCI’s side and they took the decision on me themselves)," said the former Pakistani umpire.

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The International Cricket Counil (ICC) had withdrawn Rauf's name from the Elite Umpire Panel after his name cropped up in the IPL spot-fixing scandal in 2013. Back then, it was alleged that the former Pakistani umpire took gifts and bribe from bookies. He was also charged for illgeal betting, cheating and fraud by the Mumbai police but denied the allegations before being found guilty.

Tainted Pakistani umpire Asad Rauf currently runs two shops in Lahore's Landa Bazaar in Pakistan to make ends meet after leaving cricket. He was banned by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) for five years in 2016 after being found guilty of being involved in match-fixing and spot-fixing.

Tainted Pakistani umpire Asad Rauf currently runs two shops in Lahore's Landa Bazaar in Pakistan to make ends meet after leaving cricket. He was banned by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) for five years in 2016 after being found guilty of being involved in match-fixing and spot-fixing. Allegations of betting in Indian Premier League (IPL) matches were also levelled against him leading to the official ban. Rauf was a member of the ICC Elite Umpire Panel from 2006 to 2013 and officiated in 170 international matches from 2010 to 2013. He was one of the regulars in the Indian Premier League (IPL) but his umpiring career went downhill after fixing allegations were first levelled against him in 2013. Images of Rauf from his shop in Pakistan's Lahore went viral on social media a few days back after a local Pakistani channel interviewed him. The former umpire claimed he has not followed cricket since 2013. Rauf also went on to claim the allegations came from BCCI and that the board's decision to ban him was final. Also Read: He is very deserving of coming close to a Test squad: Manjrekar lauds Sarfaraz Khan after dream run "Unse mera toh koi lena dena tha hi nahi, wo unhi (BCCI) ki taraf se aaye aur unhone hi decision le liye (I had nothing to do with these issues, the allegations came from the BCCI’s side and they took the decision on me themselves)," said the former Pakistani umpire. Also Read: Madhya Pradesh beat Mumbai by 6 wickets in final to cinch historic maiden Ranji Trophy title The International Cricket Counil (ICC) had withdrawn Rauf's name from the Elite Umpire Panel after his name cropped up in the IPL spot-fixing scandal in 2013. Back then, it was alleged that the former Pakistani umpire took gifts and bribe from bookies. He was also charged for illgeal betting, cheating and fraud by the Mumbai police but denied the allegations before being found guilty.

'Allegations came from BCCI': Tainted umpire Asad Rauf on running shops in Pakistan after leaving cricket

Former Pakistan captain Rashid Latif has made some sensational remarks against ex-India head coach Ravi Shastri, blaming him for the downfall of Virat Kohli. The Indian batting maestro has been enduring a rough patch with the willow across formats for the past few years now. Kohli is yet to score a century in international cricket since November 2019 and has looked far from his best for the Men in Blue.

While he has struggled to deliver consistently for the Indian team, his rough patch continued in the recently-concluded Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022. While Kohli has been scoring runs in patches and has not been completely out of form, his performances still have been below-par considering the standards set by the batting maestro.

One of the best batters in the world at present, Kohli has failed to notch up a big score for India for over 2.5 years now and will be hopeful of sparking a turnaround soon. Speaking about his poor patch, former Pakistan captain&nbsp;Latif recently blamed Shastri for Kohli's abysmal run and said had the former India all-rounder not been appointed as head coach, Kohli would not have been out of form.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/no-rest-for-virat-kohli-rohit-sharma-duo-likely-to-be-available-for-t20i-series-against-england-report-490582">No rest for Kohli &amp; Rohit, duo likely to be available for T20I series against England - Report</a>

"It is because of him (Ravi Shastri) that this has happened. In 2019 (Shastri was appointed as India head coach in 2017), you sidelined a player like Kumble and in came Ravi Shastri. Whether he had the accreditation or not, I have no idea. He was a broadcaster. Had no business in coaching,"&nbsp;Latif said in a video on his YouTube channel.

"Barring Virat Kohli, I am sure there would have been other people who played a role in getting Shastri in. But that is backfiring now, isn't it? Had he (Shastri) not become the coach, he (Kohli) wouldn’t have gone out (of form)," he added.

Shastri had first worked with the Indian team as a director for two years from 2014 to 2016 before being appointed as the head coach of the team in 2017 following the sacking of Kumble as the head coach. He formed a great relationship with then captain Kohli and the duo enjoyed tremendous success as a coach-captain pair.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/best-acquisition-of-a-player-former-rcb-owner-vijay-mallya-catches-up-with-universe-boss-chris-gayle-490642">'Best acquisition of a player': Former RCB owner Vijay Mallya catches up with&nbsp;Chris Gayle</a>

India became a force to reckon with under Shastri and Kohli and were the number one Test team in the world for a long period. They also became the first Asian team to win a historic Test series in Australia in 2018-19. Shastri's contract was renewed ahead of the ICC ODI World Cup in 2019 and he served as India's head coach till 2021.

While India failed to win a major ICC trophy under him, Shastri and Kohli guided India to some memorable series wins both at home and away from home. India won their second straight Test series under Shastri in Australia in 2020-21 in the absence of Kohli.

Former Pakistan captain Rashid Latif has made some sensational remarks against ex-India head coach Ravi Shastri, blaming him for the downfall of Virat Kohli. The Indian batting maestro has been enduring a rough patch with the willow across formats for the past few years now.

Former Pakistan captain Rashid Latif has made some sensational remarks against ex-India head coach Ravi Shastri, blaming him for the downfall of Virat Kohli. The Indian batting maestro has been enduring a rough patch with the willow across formats for the past few years now. Kohli is yet to score a century in international cricket since November 2019 and has looked far from his best for the Men in Blue. While he has struggled to deliver consistently for the Indian team, his rough patch continued in the recently-concluded Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022. While Kohli has been scoring runs in patches and has not been completely out of form, his performances still have been below-par considering the standards set by the batting maestro. One of the best batters in the world at present, Kohli has failed to notch up a big score for India for over 2.5 years now and will be hopeful of sparking a turnaround soon. Speaking about his poor patch, former Pakistan captain Latif recently blamed Shastri for Kohli's abysmal run and said had the former India all-rounder not been appointed as head coach, Kohli would not have been out of form. Also Read: No rest for Kohli & Rohit, duo likely to be available for T20I series against England - Report "It is because of him (Ravi Shastri) that this has happened. In 2019 (Shastri was appointed as India head coach in 2017), you sidelined a player like Kumble and in came Ravi Shastri. Whether he had the accreditation or not, I have no idea. He was a broadcaster. Had no business in coaching," Latif said in a video on his YouTube channel. "Barring Virat Kohli, I am sure there would have been other people who played a role in getting Shastri in. But that is backfiring now, isn't it? Had he (Shastri) not become the coach, he (Kohli) wouldn’t have gone out (of form)," he added. Shastri had first worked with the Indian team as a director for two years from 2014 to 2016 before being appointed as the head coach of the team in 2017 following the sacking of Kumble as the head coach. He formed a great relationship with then captain Kohli and the duo enjoyed tremendous success as a coach-captain pair. Also Read: 'Best acquisition of a player': Former RCB owner Vijay Mallya catches up with Chris Gayle India became a force to reckon with under Shastri and Kohli and were the number one Test team in the world for a long period. They also became the first Asian team to win a historic Test series in Australia in 2018-19. Shastri's contract was renewed ahead of the ICC ODI World Cup in 2019 and he served as India's head coach till 2021. While India failed to win a major ICC trophy under him, Shastri and Kohli guided India to some memorable series wins both at home and away from home. India won their second straight Test series under Shastri in Australia in 2020-21 in the absence of Kohli.

'This has happened because of him': Ex-Pakistan captain blames Ravi Shastri for Virat Kohli's poor form

Pakistan pacer Hasan Ali was viciously trolled online by the moral police after he recently shared a couple of pictures with his wife Samiya and their daughter from his vacation in the country. Ali, who is one of the key members of the Pakistan bowling attack across formats, has often been the target of trolls over his performances on the pitch. However, the fast bowler found himself on the receiving end of unnecessary trolling this time around over his wife's clothes and poses in the pictures shared by him.

Ali recently took to Instagram to share some pictures with his family from their vacation in Hunza, Pakistan. The Pakistan pacer can be seen sitting on a boat holding his daughter with his wife alongside them. While many appreciated the&nbsp;scenic photos, some trolls resorted to moral policing.

People went on to question the character and morals of the Pakistani cricketer and his wife while advising him to cover her face. Some also objected to Samiya's choice of clothes and the way she posed for the pictures with her husband. Some even dragged religion into it and asked Hasan to not show his wife's face to the public.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/no-rest-for-virat-kohli-rohit-sharma-duo-likely-to-be-available-for-t20i-series-against-england-report-490582">No rest for Virat Kohli &amp; Rohit Sharma, duo likely to be available for T20I series against England - Report</a> 
&nbsp;

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This is not the first time Ali has been troleld on social media for sharing a picture with his wife and has faced&nbsp;abuse and moral policing in the past as well. The Pakistan pacer is currently enjoying his break with the national team not in action. The Pakistan team will be next seen in action when they tour Netherlands for three T20Is in August this year.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-sa-t20is-i-would-have-stopped-rishabh-pant-from-becoming-captain-says-former-india-cricketer-490579">I would have stopped Rishabh Pant from becoming captain, says former India cricketer</a>

Ali was last seen in action during Pakistan's recently-concluded ODI series against West Indies at home. The fast bowler played two matches in the series and returned with two wickets. He has not managed to get a consistent run for the national team in the recent times and will be hoping to get a long run in the side by impressing with his performances.

Pakistan pacer Hasan Ali was viciously trolled online by the moral police after he recently shared a couple of pictures with his wife Samiya and their daughter from his vacation in the country.

Pakistan pacer Hasan Ali was viciously trolled online by the moral police after he recently shared a couple of pictures with his wife Samiya and their daughter from his vacation in the country. Ali, who is one of the key members of the Pakistan bowling attack across formats, has often been the target of trolls over his performances on the pitch. However, the fast bowler found himself on the receiving end of unnecessary trolling this time around over his wife's clothes and poses in the pictures shared by him. Ali recently took to Instagram to share some pictures with his family from their vacation in Hunza, Pakistan. The Pakistan pacer can be seen sitting on a boat holding his daughter with his wife alongside them. While many appreciated the scenic photos, some trolls resorted to moral policing. People went on to question the character and morals of the Pakistani cricketer and his wife while advising him to cover her face. Some also objected to Samiya's choice of clothes and the way she posed for the pictures with her husband. Some even dragged religion into it and asked Hasan to not show his wife's face to the public. Also Read: No rest for Virat Kohli & Rohit Sharma, duo likely to be available for T20I series against England - Report View this post on Instagram A post shared by Hassan Ali (@ha55an_ali) × This is not the first time Ali has been troleld on social media for sharing a picture with his wife and has faced abuse and moral policing in the past as well. The Pakistan pacer is currently enjoying his break with the national team not in action. The Pakistan team will be next seen in action when they tour Netherlands for three T20Is in August this year. Also Read: I would have stopped Rishabh Pant from becoming captain, says former India cricketer Ali was last seen in action during Pakistan's recently-concluded ODI series against West Indies at home. The fast bowler played two matches in the series and returned with two wickets. He has not managed to get a consistent run for the national team in the recent times and will be hoping to get a long run in the side by impressing with his performances.

Pakistan pacer Hasan Ali trolled on Instagram by moral police after sharing pictures of his wife and daughter

Former Pakistan pacer Mohammad Amir has responded to current India captain Rohit Sharma's comments for him from 2016. Ahead of the Asia Cup clash between India and Pakistan in 2016, Rohit had called Amir 'just a normal bowler' while speaking to the reporters. He had also urged the media to stop creating hype around the left-arm fast bowler stating that he still required consistency in his game and needed to prove himself despite being good.

Back then, Amir was making his comeback to international cricket after serving a five-year ban for his involvement in the 2010 spot-fixing scandal in England. Amir was in red-hot form with the ball during the Asia Cup 2016 and was raring to breathe fire against arch-rivals India.

India were chasing only 85 runs in the game but were in trouble early in their run-chase after Amir dismissed both openers Rohit and Ajinkya Rahane on ducks before also getting rid of Suresh Raina on just 1 run. He bowled an excellent spell of 3/18 in his 4 overs but Pakistan lost the game by 5 wickets as India chased down the total comfortably.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/he-had-tears-rolling-tim-paine-recalls-md-sirajs-racism-incident-during-india-australia-sydney-test-490147">'He had tears rolling...': Tim Paine recalls Md Siraj's racism incident during India-Australia Sydney Test</a>

Speaking to a local Pakistani news channel recently, Amir was asked about Rohit's comments about him back in 2016. The former Pakistan pacer said he didn't take the current Indian captain's comments seriously and said it was impossible that everyone to rate him as a world-class fast bowler.

"I don’t take Rohit Sharma’s statement seriously. Everyone has his own opinion and it is impossible that everyone regards me as a world-class bowler," Amir was quoted as saying ASports.

"There is nothing to be felt bad about it, and as a professional, we should not take such things in a negative way. You cannot be everyone’s favourite," he added.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-spinner-r-ashwin-tests-positive-for-covid-19-does-not-board-flight-to-england-report-490103">India spinner R Ashwin tests positive for COVID-19, does not board flight to England: Report</a>

The former Pakistan pacer recalled his duels with Rohit in the past and said the Indian skipper is a world-class batter without any doubt. Despite having dismissed him on several occasions in international cricket and having troubled him with the ball, Amir maintained Rohit is one of the best in the world.

"No doubt he is a world-class batsman. I bowled well every time I faced Rohit and he struggled while facing me, still, I will call him a world-class player," Amir said.

Former Pakistan pacer Mohammad Amir has responded to current India captain Rohit Sharma's comments for him from 2016. Ahead of the Asia Cup clash between India and Pakistan in 2016, Rohit had called Amir 'just a normal bowler' while speaking to the reporters.

Former Pakistan pacer Mohammad Amir has responded to current India captain Rohit Sharma's comments for him from 2016. Ahead of the Asia Cup clash between India and Pakistan in 2016, Rohit had called Amir 'just a normal bowler' while speaking to the reporters. He had also urged the media to stop creating hype around the left-arm fast bowler stating that he still required consistency in his game and needed to prove himself despite being good. Back then, Amir was making his comeback to international cricket after serving a five-year ban for his involvement in the 2010 spot-fixing scandal in England. Amir was in red-hot form with the ball during the Asia Cup 2016 and was raring to breathe fire against arch-rivals India. India were chasing only 85 runs in the game but were in trouble early in their run-chase after Amir dismissed both openers Rohit and Ajinkya Rahane on ducks before also getting rid of Suresh Raina on just 1 run. He bowled an excellent spell of 3/18 in his 4 overs but Pakistan lost the game by 5 wickets as India chased down the total comfortably. Also Read: 'He had tears rolling...': Tim Paine recalls Md Siraj's racism incident during India-Australia Sydney Test Speaking to a local Pakistani news channel recently, Amir was asked about Rohit's comments about him back in 2016. The former Pakistan pacer said he didn't take the current Indian captain's comments seriously and said it was impossible that everyone to rate him as a world-class fast bowler. "I don’t take Rohit Sharma’s statement seriously. Everyone has his own opinion and it is impossible that everyone regards me as a world-class bowler," Amir was quoted as saying ASports. "There is nothing to be felt bad about it, and as a professional, we should not take such things in a negative way. You cannot be everyone’s favourite," he added. Also Read: India spinner R Ashwin tests positive for COVID-19, does not board flight to England: Report The former Pakistan pacer recalled his duels with Rohit in the past and said the Indian skipper is a world-class batter without any doubt. Despite having dismissed him on several occasions in international cricket and having troubled him with the ball, Amir maintained Rohit is one of the best in the world. "No doubt he is a world-class batsman. I bowled well every time I faced Rohit and he struggled while facing me, still, I will call him a world-class player," Amir said.

Ex-Pakistan pacer Md. Amir responds to Rohit Sharma's 'he is just a normal bowler' comment from 2016

Wasim Akram is regarded as one of the greatest fast bowlers to have played the game. The former Pakistan cricketer was known for his brilliant in-swinging yorkers during his playing days and it seems he can still nail one of those to perfection despite having retired from cricket nearly two decades ago. Akram recently rolled back the years during a charity match between some of the legends of the game.

The celebrity charity match was organised in the remembrance of the late Shane Warne, who tragically passed away earlier this year after suffering a heart attack while holidaying in Thailand. The charity match featured some of the cricketing greats like Akram, Brian Lara, the legendary Clive Lloyd and Atherton among others.

During the game, Akram produced a lethal in-swinging yorker against Atherton to clean up the former England captain and send cricket fans on a nostalgia trip. The toe-crushing yorker from the former Pakistan pacer rattled Atherton's middle and leg stump as he was seen departing with a smile. The video of the dismissal has since gone viral on social media with fans hailing Akram.

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A classic <a href="https://twitter.com/wasimakramlive?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@wasimakramlive</a> inswinging yorker is too good for Michael Atherton! 
 
These legends are playing in the <a href="https://twitter.com/WellbeingofWmen?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@WellbeingofWmen</a> Celebrity Charity Match in remembrance of the great Shane Warne <a href="https://t.co/7GwcCL97kP">pic.twitter.com/7GwcCL97kP</a>
— Cricket District (@cricketdistrict) <a href="https://twitter.com/cricketdistrict/status/1538585294093668352?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 19, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Akram and Atherton came up against each other on several occasions during their playing days and the former Pakistan pacer managed to get the better of the ex-England captain in a few matches. The duo also played together for English county side Lancashire.&nbsp;

After dismissing him once again in the charity game recently, Akram took to Twitter to pull Atherton's leg and remind him that 'some things will stay the same'.&nbsp;“Sorry @Athersmike we might get older, but some things will stay the same," Akram wrote in a tweet replying to a video of the former England skipper's dismissal.

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Sorry <a href="https://twitter.com/Athersmike?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Athersmike</a> we might get older but some things will stay the same ! <a href="https://t.co/k2SnvKGvX5">https://t.co/k2SnvKGvX5</a>
— Wasim Akram (@wasimakramlive) <a href="https://twitter.com/wasimakramlive/status/1538591395321085957?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 19, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Akram is regarded as one of the best fast bowlers to have played the game and was the first-ever bowler to reach 500 wickets in ODIs. The Pakistan legend picked up a total of 502 ODI wickets in his career in 356 matches at an average of 23.52. He also picked up 414 wickets in 104 Test matches and is Pakistan's highest wicket-taker in international cricket.

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Wasim Akram is regarded as one of the greatest fast bowlers to have played the game. The former Pakistan cricketer was known for his brilliant in-swinging yorkers during his playing days and it seems he can still nail one of those to perfection despite having retired from cricket nearly two decades ago.

Wasim Akram is regarded as one of the greatest fast bowlers to have played the game. The former Pakistan cricketer was known for his brilliant in-swinging yorkers during his playing days and it seems he can still nail one of those to perfection despite having retired from cricket nearly two decades ago. Akram recently rolled back the years during a charity match between some of the legends of the game. The celebrity charity match was organised in the remembrance of the late Shane Warne, who tragically passed away earlier this year after suffering a heart attack while holidaying in Thailand. The charity match featured some of the cricketing greats like Akram, Brian Lara, the legendary Clive Lloyd and Atherton among others. During the game, Akram produced a lethal in-swinging yorker against Atherton to clean up the former England captain and send cricket fans on a nostalgia trip. The toe-crushing yorker from the former Pakistan pacer rattled Atherton's middle and leg stump as he was seen departing with a smile. The video of the dismissal has since gone viral on social media with fans hailing Akram. A classic @wasimakramlive inswinging yorker is too good for Michael Atherton! These legends are playing in the @WellbeingofWmen Celebrity Charity Match in remembrance of the great Shane Warne pic.twitter.com/7GwcCL97kP — Cricket District (@cricketdistrict) June 19, 2022 × Also Read: No stamp that says Rishabh Pant will surely play in T20 WC 2022: Ex-India pacer makes big statement Akram and Atherton came up against each other on several occasions during their playing days and the former Pakistan pacer managed to get the better of the ex-England captain in a few matches. The duo also played together for English county side Lancashire. After dismissing him once again in the charity game recently, Akram took to Twitter to pull Atherton's leg and remind him that 'some things will stay the same'. “Sorry @Athersmike we might get older, but some things will stay the same," Akram wrote in a tweet replying to a video of the former England skipper's dismissal. Sorry @Athersmike we might get older but some things will stay the same ! https://t.co/k2SnvKGvX5 — Wasim Akram (@wasimakramlive) June 19, 2022 × Also Read: WATCH: Netizens divided over Ruturaj Gaikwad's behaviour with groundsman in Bengaluru T20I Akram is regarded as one of the best fast bowlers to have played the game and was the first-ever bowler to reach 500 wickets in ODIs. The Pakistan legend picked up a total of 502 ODI wickets in his career in 356 matches at an average of 23.52. He also picked up 414 wickets in 104 Test matches and is Pakistan's highest wicket-taker in international cricket.

WATCH: Wasim Akram sends cricket fans on nostalgia trip as he cleans up Michael Atherton in charity game

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

Out-of-favour middle-order batter Umar Akmal has lashed out at former Pakistan head coach Mickey Arthur and ex-bowling coach Waqar Younis, accusing them of spoiling his career. Akmal has not played international cricket for more than two years&nbsp;and has been out of the side following his two successive golden ducks in the home T20Is versus Sri Lanka in late 2019.

In a recent interview with&nbsp;Cricket Pakistan, the 32-year-old Umar slammed former coach Mickey Arthur. The equation between the two has never been ideal and, hence, the right-hander&nbsp;revealed, "Mickey Arthur had personal issues with me but the team management at that time did not raise a voice for me and they have been silent till today. However, Mickey Arthur later did admit that he used harsh words on me. I am among those rare cricketers of Pakistan who have been ignored at every turn,” said the now-ousted middle-order batter.

However, the South African coach&nbsp;didn't take the criticism kindly. Taking cognisance of Umar's statement posted by Pakistani journalist Aalia Rasheed on Twitter, Arthur retweeted and wrote, "Take a look in the mirror Umar!!"

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Take a look in the mirror Umar!! <a href="https://t.co/VvZKio0WpP">https://t.co/VvZKio0WpP</a>
— Mickey Arthur (@Mickeyarthurcr1) <a href="https://twitter.com/Mickeyarthurcr1/status/1536678401536311298?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 14, 2022</a></blockquote>
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In addition, Akmal&nbsp;criticised Pakistan legend and former bowling coach Waqar Younis, claiming that he refused to promote him up the order in the Pakistani batting line-up, despite receiving&nbsp;advice from former Prime Minister Imran Khan. In this regard, he pointed out, "I asked Imran Khan to recommend team management to send me at number three. Imran Khan himself asked Waqar Younis why I was not a part of the top-order. Waqar Younis was a legendary fast bowler but I could not understand him as a head coach."

It will be interesting to see if Waqar also replies to Umar's claims. For the unversed, the latter announced his arrival in international cricket in style by becoming only the second Pakistani batter to slam a hundred on debut away from home. He further also registered his maiden ODI ton in his third appearance and was known for his power-hitting. Nonetheless, attitude and fitness issues derailed his progress and it now seems unlikely that he will make a return to the highest level.

Out-of-favour middle-order batter Umar Akmal has lashed out at former Pakistan head coach Mickey Arthur and ex-bowling coach Waqar Younis, accusing them of spoiling his career.

Out-of-favour middle-order batter Umar Akmal has lashed out at former Pakistan head coach Mickey Arthur and ex-bowling coach Waqar Younis, accusing them of spoiling his career. Akmal has not played international cricket for more than two years and has been out of the side following his two successive golden ducks in the home T20Is versus Sri Lanka in late 2019. In a recent interview with Cricket Pakistan, the 32-year-old Umar slammed former coach Mickey Arthur. The equation between the two has never been ideal and, hence, the right-hander revealed, "Mickey Arthur had personal issues with me but the team management at that time did not raise a voice for me and they have been silent till today. However, Mickey Arthur later did admit that he used harsh words on me. I am among those rare cricketers of Pakistan who have been ignored at every turn,” said the now-ousted middle-order batter. However, the South African coach didn't take the criticism kindly. Taking cognisance of Umar's statement posted by Pakistani journalist Aalia Rasheed on Twitter, Arthur retweeted and wrote, "Take a look in the mirror Umar!!" Take a look in the mirror Umar!! https://t.co/VvZKio0WpP — Mickey Arthur (@Mickeyarthurcr1) June 14, 2022 × ALSO READ | Babar Azam-led Pakistan surpass Team India in ICC ODI Team Rankings In addition, Akmal criticised Pakistan legend and former bowling coach Waqar Younis, claiming that he refused to promote him up the order in the Pakistani batting line-up, despite receiving advice from former Prime Minister Imran Khan. In this regard, he pointed out, "I asked Imran Khan to recommend team management to send me at number three. Imran Khan himself asked Waqar Younis why I was not a part of the top-order. Waqar Younis was a legendary fast bowler but I could not understand him as a head coach." It will be interesting to see if Waqar also replies to Umar's claims. For the unversed, the latter announced his arrival in international cricket in style by becoming only the second Pakistani batter to slam a hundred on debut away from home. He further also registered his maiden ODI ton in his third appearance and was known for his power-hitting. Nonetheless, attitude and fitness issues derailed his progress and it now seems unlikely that he will make a return to the highest level.

Umar Akmal accuses Mickey Arthur of sabotaging his career, criticises Waqar; ex-Pakistan coach hits back

Babar Azam has been on a rampage. The Pakistan captain has been in splendid form across formats. In the three-match ODI series opener between Pakistan and West Indies, the 27-year-old Babar scored his 17th ton to become the first batsman&nbsp;to have done the unthinkable, of having pulled off a special feat of scoring&nbsp;three centuries on the trot twice.&nbsp;

On Friday (June 10), Babar shattered a world record during the second and penultimate ODI versus the Men in Maroon after slamming an impressive 77 in Pakistan's easy win. By virtue of his knock, Babar created history for slamming nine consecutive fifty-plus scores in international cricket (across all formats).&nbsp;No batsman has managed to do this before. Mithali Raj, former India women's captain, was the first-ever cricketer, overall, to&nbsp;achieve the feat in 2016-17.

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Babar's dream run started when he scored a memorable 196 in Pakistan-Australia second Test, at Karachi. From thereon, he continued his good form and returned with&nbsp;66 and 55 in the final Test. In the three ODIs and one-off T20I, that followed suit versus the Aussies, Babar registered scores of&nbsp;57, 114, 105* and 66. In the first ODI versus the Windies, he ended with a match-winning 103 and his latest knock has helped him create&nbsp;history.

After Pakistan beat Nicholas Pooran-led Windies by 120 runs in the second ODI, in defence of 275/8, Babar said at the post-match presentation, "The wicket was double-paced early on. We wanted to build a partnership as we knew it'd be tough for new batters. Unfortunately, there was a run-out. Because of me we were 10-15 runs short. We saved him (Khushdil) for the end, because we all know what he can do in the slog overs. I was confident that our spinners would bowl well. Nawaz was outstanding, he picked wickets at crucial moments."

Babar Azam has been on a rampage. The Pakistan captain has been in splendid form across formats. In the three-match ODI series opener between Pakistan and West Indies, the 27-year-old Babar scored his 17th ton to become the first batsman to have done the unthinkable, of having pulled off a special feat of scoring three centuries on the trot twice.

Babar Azam has been on a rampage. The Pakistan captain has been in splendid form across formats. In the three-match ODI series opener between Pakistan and West Indies, the 27-year-old Babar scored his 17th ton to become the first batsman to have done the unthinkable, of having pulled off a special feat of scoring three centuries on the trot twice. On Friday (June 10), Babar shattered a world record during the second and penultimate ODI versus the Men in Maroon after slamming an impressive 77 in Pakistan's easy win. By virtue of his knock, Babar created history for slamming nine consecutive fifty-plus scores in international cricket (across all formats). No batsman has managed to do this before. Mithali Raj, former India women's captain, was the first-ever cricketer, overall, to achieve the feat in 2016-17. ALSO READ | Babar Azam creates history, Pakistan captain becomes 1st batter to score 3 successive ODI tons twice Babar's dream run started when he scored a memorable 196 in Pakistan-Australia second Test, at Karachi. From thereon, he continued his good form and returned with 66 and 55 in the final Test. In the three ODIs and one-off T20I, that followed suit versus the Aussies, Babar registered scores of 57, 114, 105* and 66. In the first ODI versus the Windies, he ended with a match-winning 103 and his latest knock has helped him create history. After Pakistan beat Nicholas Pooran-led Windies by 120 runs in the second ODI, in defence of 275/8, Babar said at the post-match presentation, "The wicket was double-paced early on. We wanted to build a partnership as we knew it'd be tough for new batters. Unfortunately, there was a run-out. Because of me we were 10-15 runs short. We saved him (Khushdil) for the end, because we all know what he can do in the slog overs. I was confident that our spinners would bowl well. Nawaz was outstanding, he picked wickets at crucial moments."

PAK vs WI: Babar Azam shatters World Record, 1st batsman to score 9 consecutive 50+ scores in int'l cricket

Pakistan got off to a winning start in their ongoing three-match ODI series against West Indies at home with a comprehensive five-wicket victory in the series-opener at the Multan Cricket Stadium in Multan on Wednesday (June 08). Captain Babar Azam led from the front with the willow and slammed a match-winning century to help the hosts chase down the target of 306 runs comfortably.

Asked to chase down 306 runs in the first ODI in Multan, Pakistan got off to a shaky start losing opener Fakhar Zaman cheaply on 11 before Imam-ul-Haq and skipper Babar combined to steady the ship for the hosts. While Babar continued his stellar run with the willow and notched up a century, Imam played a crucial knock of 65 runs off 71 balls.

The duo added 103 runs for the second wicket before Babar added another important stand of 108 runs for the third wicket with Mohammad Rizwan (59) to set up a comfortable run-chase for Pakistan. Babar notched up&nbsp;103 runs off 1107 deliveries laced with 9 fours.

En route to his century, the Pakistan skipper also broke&nbsp;former India captain Virat Kohli's record of being the fastest skipper to reach 1,000 runs in ODIs. Kohli had achieved the feat in 17 innings while Babar managed to reach the milestone in just 13 innings.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/do-you-ask-the-same-question-to-a-male-cricketer-when-mithali-raj-stumped-a-reporter-with-her-response-486312">'Do you ask the same question to a male cricketer': When Mithali&nbsp;stumped a reporter with her response</a>

He was 98 runs away from becoming the fastest batter to reach the 1,000-run mark in ODIs as captain heading into the first ODI against the visitors and managed to complete the milestone in style with a remarkable century.&nbsp;

Fastest to 1,000 ODI runs as captain:

Babar Azam - 13 innings

Virat Kohli - 17 innings

AB de Villiers - 18 innings

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One of the best batters in the world at present, Babar has been in red-hot form for Pakistan across formats. He is currently ranked no.1 in T20Is and ODI rankings and is at the 4th spot in the Test rankings for batsmen. The Pakistan skipper will be hoping to continue his terrific run with the bat when Pakistan take on West Indies in the second ODI of the series on Friday (June 10).

Pakistan got off to a winning start in their ongoing three-match ODI series against West Indies at home with a comprehensive five-wicket victory in the series-opener at the Multan Cricket Stadium in Multan on Wednesday (June 08).

Pakistan got off to a winning start in their ongoing three-match ODI series against West Indies at home with a comprehensive five-wicket victory in the series-opener at the Multan Cricket Stadium in Multan on Wednesday (June 08). Captain Babar Azam led from the front with the willow and slammed a match-winning century to help the hosts chase down the target of 306 runs comfortably. Asked to chase down 306 runs in the first ODI in Multan, Pakistan got off to a shaky start losing opener Fakhar Zaman cheaply on 11 before Imam-ul-Haq and skipper Babar combined to steady the ship for the hosts. While Babar continued his stellar run with the willow and notched up a century, Imam played a crucial knock of 65 runs off 71 balls. The duo added 103 runs for the second wicket before Babar added another important stand of 108 runs for the third wicket with Mohammad Rizwan (59) to set up a comfortable run-chase for Pakistan. Babar notched up 103 runs off 1107 deliveries laced with 9 fours. En route to his century, the Pakistan skipper also broke former India captain Virat Kohli's record of being the fastest skipper to reach 1,000 runs in ODIs. Kohli had achieved the feat in 17 innings while Babar managed to reach the milestone in just 13 innings. Also Read: 'Do you ask the same question to a male cricketer': When Mithali stumped a reporter with her response He was 98 runs away from becoming the fastest batter to reach the 1,000-run mark in ODIs as captain heading into the first ODI against the visitors and managed to complete the milestone in style with a remarkable century. Fastest to 1,000 ODI runs as captain: Babar Azam - 13 innings Virat Kohli - 17 innings AB de Villiers - 18 innings Also Read: Kohli started crying, didn't sleep that night: Ex-teammate recalls brutal prank on former India captain One of the best batters in the world at present, Babar has been in red-hot form for Pakistan across formats. He is currently ranked no.1 in T20Is and ODI rankings and is at the 4th spot in the Test rankings for batsmen. The Pakistan skipper will be hoping to continue his terrific run with the bat when Pakistan take on West Indies in the second ODI of the series on Friday (June 10).

Pakistan captain Babar Azam breaks Virat Kohli's reacord with brilliant century in 1st ODI against West Indies

On Wednesday (June 08), Pakistan captain Babar Azam continued to be among runs as the Men in Green locked horns with Nicholas Pooran's West Indies in the series opener of the three ODIs, in Multan. Chasing 306, Babar-led hosts went past the finish line courtesy of their captain who scripted a brilliant record with his century against the Windies.

Scoring his 17th ton in the shortest format, Babar scripted history as he&nbsp;became the&nbsp;first batter to score three consecutive hundreds on two separate occasions in ODIs. For the unversed, his earlier three consectuive centuries had come against West Indies in 2016, when he made 120, 123, and 117.

In addition, the 27-year-old Babar surpassed the long-standing record of Virat Kohli, former Indian skipper, to become the quickest to score 1,000 runs as an ODI captain. He&nbsp;got to the milestone in his 13th innings;&nbsp;four innings less than Kohli (who achieved the same in 17 outings).

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pakistan-captain-babar-azam-breaks-virat-kohlis-reacord-with-brilliant-century-in-1st-odi-against-west-indies-486416">Pakistan captain Babar Azam breaks Virat Kohli's reacord with brilliant century in 1st ODI against West Indies</a>

Talking about the first ODI, Pooran-led Windies opted to bat first and rode on Shai Hope's 127, along with fifty from Shamarh Brooks (70) and vital knocks from Romario Shepherd and&nbsp;Rovman Powell, to post 305-8 as Haris Rauf and Shaheen Afridi claimed four and two scalps, respectively. In reply, Pakistan chased down the total with five wickets, and four balls, to spare. Apart from Babar, Md Rizwan scored a fifty whereas Khushdil Shah's entertaining 23-ball 41* ensured no further hiccups for the hosts in the final few overs.&nbsp;

At the post-match presentation, Babar said, "I always try to continue my game and work on my strengths. There was a little bit of a problem during the calling when I was batting with Imam. But it got better as the partnership moved on. The wicket was a little double-paced and wasn't that easy. There was heat but that is not an excuse. Credit to the bowlers. Shadab came back and did well. The standards he sets on the field is brilliant as well. Cricket is changing. We have to plan and play with a lot of intensity. Outstanding finish from Khushdil. You have to take it deep so that there is less pressure on the finishers."

On Wednesday (June 08), Pakistan captain Babar Azam continued to be among runs as the Men in Green locked horns with Nicholas Pooran's West Indies in the series opener of the three ODIs, in Multan.

On Wednesday (June 08), Pakistan captain Babar Azam continued to be among runs as the Men in Green locked horns with Nicholas Pooran's West Indies in the series opener of the three ODIs, in Multan. Chasing 306, Babar-led hosts went past the finish line courtesy of their captain who scripted a brilliant record with his century against the Windies. Scoring his 17th ton in the shortest format, Babar scripted history as he became the first batter to score three consecutive hundreds on two separate occasions in ODIs. For the unversed, his earlier three consectuive centuries had come against West Indies in 2016, when he made 120, 123, and 117. In addition, the 27-year-old Babar surpassed the long-standing record of Virat Kohli, former Indian skipper, to become the quickest to score 1,000 runs as an ODI captain. He got to the milestone in his 13th innings; four innings less than Kohli (who achieved the same in 17 outings). ALSO READ | Pakistan captain Babar Azam breaks Virat Kohli's reacord with brilliant century in 1st ODI against West Indies Talking about the first ODI, Pooran-led Windies opted to bat first and rode on Shai Hope's 127, along with fifty from Shamarh Brooks (70) and vital knocks from Romario Shepherd and Rovman Powell, to post 305-8 as Haris Rauf and Shaheen Afridi claimed four and two scalps, respectively. In reply, Pakistan chased down the total with five wickets, and four balls, to spare. Apart from Babar, Md Rizwan scored a fifty whereas Khushdil Shah's entertaining 23-ball 41* ensured no further hiccups for the hosts in the final few overs. At the post-match presentation, Babar said, "I always try to continue my game and work on my strengths. There was a little bit of a problem during the calling when I was batting with Imam. But it got better as the partnership moved on. The wicket was a little double-paced and wasn't that easy. There was heat but that is not an excuse. Credit to the bowlers. Shadab came back and did well. The standards he sets on the field is brilliant as well. Cricket is changing. We have to plan and play with a lot of intensity. Outstanding finish from Khushdil. You have to take it deep so that there is less pressure on the finishers."

Babar Azam creates history, Pakistan captain becomes 1st batter to score 3 successive ODI tons twice

Pakistan batter Mohammad Rizwan recently recalled the time when he met Indian superstar Virat Kohli during the T20 World Cup in the UAE last year. India and Pakistan had locked horns in the group stages of the tournament where Babar Azam-led Men in Green thumped Kohli &amp; Co. by ten wickets to register their first-ever win in a World Cup match against their arch-rivals. Rizwan and captain Babar had taken Pakistan home while remaining unbeaten in the run-chase.

After Pakistan's victory in the high-pressure encounter, Rizwan and Babar had both met then Indian skipper Kohli on the ground. Kohli was seen embracing Rizwan while congratulating him for his match-winning knock. Rizwan said he was told by many that Kohli is aggressive on the field but it was a completely different experience for the Pakistan batter when he met the former India captain for the first time.

Rizwan also clarified his 'Virat Kohli is ours' comment and said he said it because cricketers are part of one big family and respect each other both on and off the field.&nbsp;

"It was the first time I had met Kohli. The kind of things I had heard about him like other players told me 'Virat is aggressive and all'. But the way he met me before and after the match was amazing. If I said 'he is our Virat Kohli', it's because we all are a family," Rizwan said on Pakistani journalist&nbsp;Waheed Khan's Youtube show Cricket Baaz.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/we-need-to-be-realistic-rahul-dravid-on-umran-maliks-potential-debut-for-india-in-south-africa-t20i-series-486033">'We need to be realistic': Dravid on Umran Malik's potential debut for India in South Africa T20I series</a>

Rizwan also spoke about his Pakistani teammates' meeting with the legendary MS Dhoni after the game and said there was only love and affection from both sides when the Pakistan players met their Indian counterparts. Dhoni was India's mentor during the T20 World Cup 2021.

"Obviously, when we enter the ground, no one is a star," said Rizwan.

"There we have no brotherhood or anything of that sort. But outside the field, when we met Kohli, and some of our players also met MS Dhoni, we met with a lot of love and affection. Nothing was different," he added.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/england-speedster-stuart-broad-dismisses-speculations-of-rift-with-ex-test-captain-joe-root-485992">England speedster Stuart Broad dismisses speculations of rift with ex-Test captain Joe Root</a>

Rizwan also shared the dressing room with veteran India batter Cheteshwar Pujara while playing for Sussex in the county circuit in England. Rizwan developed a great bond with Pujara while playing alongside him and revealed the duo spend time together with love and he is the one who keeps bugging the Indian batter all the time.

"Even in County cricket, where Pujara is with me, believe me, we live with so much love. In fact, I am the one who keeps bugging him, call him out. He keeps laughing," said Rizwan.

"Similarly, it was same with Virat Kohli as well. When I met him the first time, it was with a lot of love and affection," he added.

Pakistan batter Mohammad Rizwan recently recalled the time when he met Indian superstar Virat Kohli during the T20 World Cup in the UAE last year. India and Pakistan had locked horns in the group stages of the tournament where Babar Azam-led Men in Green thumped Kohli & Co.

Pakistan batter Mohammad Rizwan recently recalled the time when he met Indian superstar Virat Kohli during the T20 World Cup in the UAE last year. India and Pakistan had locked horns in the group stages of the tournament where Babar Azam-led Men in Green thumped Kohli & Co. by ten wickets to register their first-ever win in a World Cup match against their arch-rivals. Rizwan and captain Babar had taken Pakistan home while remaining unbeaten in the run-chase. After Pakistan's victory in the high-pressure encounter, Rizwan and Babar had both met then Indian skipper Kohli on the ground. Kohli was seen embracing Rizwan while congratulating him for his match-winning knock. Rizwan said he was told by many that Kohli is aggressive on the field but it was a completely different experience for the Pakistan batter when he met the former India captain for the first time. Rizwan also clarified his 'Virat Kohli is ours' comment and said he said it because cricketers are part of one big family and respect each other both on and off the field. "It was the first time I had met Kohli. The kind of things I had heard about him like other players told me 'Virat is aggressive and all'. But the way he met me before and after the match was amazing. If I said 'he is our Virat Kohli', it's because we all are a family," Rizwan said on Pakistani journalist Waheed Khan's Youtube show Cricket Baaz. Also Read: 'We need to be realistic': Dravid on Umran Malik's potential debut for India in South Africa T20I series Rizwan also spoke about his Pakistani teammates' meeting with the legendary MS Dhoni after the game and said there was only love and affection from both sides when the Pakistan players met their Indian counterparts. Dhoni was India's mentor during the T20 World Cup 2021. "Obviously, when we enter the ground, no one is a star," said Rizwan. "There we have no brotherhood or anything of that sort. But outside the field, when we met Kohli, and some of our players also met MS Dhoni, we met with a lot of love and affection. Nothing was different," he added. Also Read: England speedster Stuart Broad dismisses speculations of rift with ex-Test captain Joe Root Rizwan also shared the dressing room with veteran India batter Cheteshwar Pujara while playing for Sussex in the county circuit in England. Rizwan developed a great bond with Pujara while playing alongside him and revealed the duo spend time together with love and he is the one who keeps bugging the Indian batter all the time. "Even in County cricket, where Pujara is with me, believe me, we live with so much love. In fact, I am the one who keeps bugging him, call him out. He keeps laughing," said Rizwan. "Similarly, it was same with Virat Kohli as well. When I met him the first time, it was with a lot of love and affection," he added.

There was love and affection when we met Virat Kohli and MS Dhoni, says Pakistan star Mohammad Rizwan

The cricketing action continues worldwide as Babar Azam-led Pakistan will lock horns with Nicholas Pooran's West Indies in a three-match ODI series in Multan.&nbsp;The series was part of the West Indies' white-ball tour of Pakistan in December last year, however, the 50-over series&nbsp;were postponed following the three T20Is which saw the then Kieron Pollard &amp; Co. lose 3-0.

Babar &amp; Co. will look to start from where they left in the Australia home series, which saw them win the three ODIs 2-1 but concede the T20Is 1-0. On the other hand, West Indies have commenced a new era under Pooran, after Pollard's retirement, and whitewashed the lowly-ranked Netherlands in three ODIs in the latter's&nbsp;own backyard recently. Thus, the series' top-performers such as&nbsp;Shai Hope, Pooran,&nbsp;Kyle Mayers, Brandon King,&nbsp;Alzarri Joseph,&nbsp;Akeal Hosein, etc. will be eager to make a mark versus the Men in Green as well.

Here's everything to know about the squads, streaming, schedule and telecast details of the three ODIs:

Squads:

Pakistan: Babar Azam (c), Shadab Khan (vc), Abdullah Shafique, Fakhar Zaman, Haris Rauf, Hasan Ali, Iftikhar Ahmed, Imam-ul-Haq, Khushdil Shah, Mohammad Haris, Mohammad Nawaz, Mohammad Rizwan, Mohammad Wasim Junior, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Shahnawaz Dahani and Zahid Mahmood

West Indies: Nicholas Pooran (c), Shai Hope (vc), Nkrumah Bonner, Shamarh Brooks, Keacy Carty, Akeal Hosein, Alzarri Joseph, Brandon King, Shermon Lewis, Kyle Mayers, Anderson Phillip, Rovman Powell, Jayden Seales, Romario Shepherd, Hayden Walsh Jr

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/kl-rahul-woulve-been-told-he-is-next-in-line-irfan-pathan-on-rahul-dravids-communication-with-india-captain-485852">KL Rahul would've been told he's next-in-line: Irfan Pathan on Rahul Dravid's communication with India captain</a>

Schedule

June 8 - 1st ODI

June 10 - 2nd ODI

June 12 - 3rd ODI

All the games will be held at the Multan Cricket Stadium,&nbsp;Multan. The matches will kick off at 4:30 pm IST (i.e. day-night affairs).

Live telecast and streaming details

For the unversed, the live telecast of the three-match ODI series between Pakistan and West Indies will be on Sony Sports Network. Meanwhile,&nbsp;it will be live-streamed on the SonyLiv app and website.&nbsp;

The cricketing action continues worldwide as Babar Azam-led Pakistan will lock horns with Nicholas Pooran's West Indies in a three-match ODI series in Multan. The series was part of the West Indies' white-ball tour of Pakistan in December last year, however, the 50-over series were postponed following the three T20Is which saw the then Kieron Pollard & Co.

The cricketing action continues worldwide as Babar Azam-led Pakistan will lock horns with Nicholas Pooran's West Indies in a three-match ODI series in Multan. The series was part of the West Indies' white-ball tour of Pakistan in December last year, however, the 50-over series were postponed following the three T20Is which saw the then Kieron Pollard & Co. lose 3-0. Babar & Co. will look to start from where they left in the Australia home series, which saw them win the three ODIs 2-1 but concede the T20Is 1-0. On the other hand, West Indies have commenced a new era under Pooran, after Pollard's retirement, and whitewashed the lowly-ranked Netherlands in three ODIs in the latter's own backyard recently. Thus, the series' top-performers such as Shai Hope, Pooran, Kyle Mayers, Brandon King, Alzarri Joseph, Akeal Hosein, etc. will be eager to make a mark versus the Men in Green as well. Here's everything to know about the squads, streaming, schedule and telecast details of the three ODIs: Squads: Pakistan: Babar Azam (c), Shadab Khan (vc), Abdullah Shafique, Fakhar Zaman, Haris Rauf, Hasan Ali, Iftikhar Ahmed, Imam-ul-Haq, Khushdil Shah, Mohammad Haris, Mohammad Nawaz, Mohammad Rizwan, Mohammad Wasim Junior, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Shahnawaz Dahani and Zahid Mahmood West Indies: Nicholas Pooran (c), Shai Hope (vc), Nkrumah Bonner, Shamarh Brooks, Keacy Carty, Akeal Hosein, Alzarri Joseph, Brandon King, Shermon Lewis, Kyle Mayers, Anderson Phillip, Rovman Powell, Jayden Seales, Romario Shepherd, Hayden Walsh Jr ALSO READ | KL Rahul would've been told he's next-in-line: Irfan Pathan on Rahul Dravid's communication with India captain Schedule June 8 - 1st ODI June 10 - 2nd ODI June 12 - 3rd ODI All the games will be held at the Multan Cricket Stadium, Multan. The matches will kick off at 4:30 pm IST (i.e. day-night affairs). Live telecast and streaming details For the unversed, the live telecast of the three-match ODI series between Pakistan and West Indies will be on Sony Sports Network. Meanwhile, it will be live-streamed on the SonyLiv app and website.

Pakistan vs West Indies ODIs: Everything to know about squads, schedule, telecast, streaming details

Young Umran Malik took the recently-concluded Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 by storm with his impressive show for Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH). Umran was awarded the Emerging Player of the Tournament award after troubling the batters with his raw pace throughout the tournament. The 22-year-old clocked over 150 kmph consistently and also bowled the second fastest delivery in the tournament at 157 kmph behind only Lockie Ferguson, who produced a 157.3 kmph thunderbolt against Jos Buttler in the IPL 2022 final.

Umran was roped in by Sunrisers Hyderabad as a replacement for injured T Natarajan in IPL 2021 last year after impressing the team management as a net bowler for the franchise. He managed to play only a handful games in the IPL last year but did enough to convince the coaches of his extraordinary skills and talent.

The young fast bowler was retained by SRH ahead of the mega auction this year and went on to become a regular member of the playing XI this season. Umran rattled batters with his express pace and finished as the highest wicket-taker for SRH with 22 wickets from 14 matches. He also managed to earn his maiden call-up in the Indian team on the back of his impressive show in IPL 2022.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/when-we-need-them-to-score-runs-they-get-out-kapil-dev-on-indias-top-orders-t20-batting-approach-485465">When we need them to score runs, they get out: Kapil Dev on India's top order's T20 batting approach</a>

The 22-year-old has often been compared with former Pakistan pacer Waqar Younis with many believing his action is quite similar to that of the Pakistan pace legend. However, Umran recently revealed he has never followed Waqar and that his pace-bowling idols are three Indian pacers.

“I have not followed Waqar Younis. I have a natural action. My idols include (Jasprit) Bumrah, (Mohammed) Shami and Bhuvneshwar (Kumar) bhai. I used to follow them when I was playing while coming through the ranks,” Umran said during Indian Express Idea Exchange.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/had-sourav-ganguly-not-backed-me-in-2001-he-would-have-been-sacked-from-captaincy-harbhajan-singh-485359">Had Ganguly not backed me in 2001, he would have been sacked from captaincy: Harbhajan Singh</a>

While Umran shares the dressing room with Bhuvneshwar at Sunrisers Hyderabad and shares a great rapport with the senior Indian pacer, he might soon get a chance to play with both Shami and Bumrah for the Indian team. Umran has already set his sight on impressing for India in the upcoming T20I series against South Africa at home and wants to win games for his country.

“There’s no point getting carried away. If it is destined to happen, it will Inshallah. I want to do my best for my country. I have got an opportunity in these five (T20I) matches (against South Africa). My goal will be that we win all five matches, I perform well and single-handedly win those games for India," said the young pacer.

“Firstly, I am really grateful for all the love and respect that I have been getting from all over India. Relatives and other people keep coming home, it feels very good. I have been a bit busy after the IPL, but have not missed training and practice," he added.

 
&nbsp;

Young Umran Malik took the recently-concluded Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 by storm with his impressive show for Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH). Umran was awarded the Emerging Player of the Tournament award after troubling the batters with his raw pace throughout the tournament.

Young Umran Malik took the recently-concluded Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 by storm with his impressive show for Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH). Umran was awarded the Emerging Player of the Tournament award after troubling the batters with his raw pace throughout the tournament. The 22-year-old clocked over 150 kmph consistently and also bowled the second fastest delivery in the tournament at 157 kmph behind only Lockie Ferguson, who produced a 157.3 kmph thunderbolt against Jos Buttler in the IPL 2022 final. Umran was roped in by Sunrisers Hyderabad as a replacement for injured T Natarajan in IPL 2021 last year after impressing the team management as a net bowler for the franchise. He managed to play only a handful games in the IPL last year but did enough to convince the coaches of his extraordinary skills and talent. The young fast bowler was retained by SRH ahead of the mega auction this year and went on to become a regular member of the playing XI this season. Umran rattled batters with his express pace and finished as the highest wicket-taker for SRH with 22 wickets from 14 matches. He also managed to earn his maiden call-up in the Indian team on the back of his impressive show in IPL 2022. Also Read: When we need them to score runs, they get out: Kapil Dev on India's top order's T20 batting approach The 22-year-old has often been compared with former Pakistan pacer Waqar Younis with many believing his action is quite similar to that of the Pakistan pace legend. However, Umran recently revealed he has never followed Waqar and that his pace-bowling idols are three Indian pacers. “I have not followed Waqar Younis. I have a natural action. My idols include (Jasprit) Bumrah, (Mohammed) Shami and Bhuvneshwar (Kumar) bhai. I used to follow them when I was playing while coming through the ranks,” Umran said during Indian Express Idea Exchange. Also Read: Had Ganguly not backed me in 2001, he would have been sacked from captaincy: Harbhajan Singh While Umran shares the dressing room with Bhuvneshwar at Sunrisers Hyderabad and shares a great rapport with the senior Indian pacer, he might soon get a chance to play with both Shami and Bumrah for the Indian team. Umran has already set his sight on impressing for India in the upcoming T20I series against South Africa at home and wants to win games for his country. “There’s no point getting carried away. If it is destined to happen, it will Inshallah. I want to do my best for my country. I have got an opportunity in these five (T20I) matches (against South Africa). My goal will be that we win all five matches, I perform well and single-handedly win those games for India," said the young pacer. “Firstly, I am really grateful for all the love and respect that I have been getting from all over India. Relatives and other people keep coming home, it feels very good. I have been a bit busy after the IPL, but have not missed training and practice," he added.

'I have not followed Waqar Younis': Umran Malik reveals his 3 idols after comparisons with ex-Pakistan pacer

Former Pakistan pacer Shoaib Akhtar recently revealed he intentionally wanted to hit Sachin Tendulkar during the Karachi Test between India and Pakistan in 2006. It was a memorable encounter between the two arch-rivals at the National Stadium in Karachi where Akhtar breathed fire with the ball against the Indian batters. Recalling the game, Akhtar said he was determined to wound Tendulkar at any cost during the match.

One of the fastest bowlers to have graced the game, Akhtar used to be a nightmare to face for the best of bowlers during his playing days. Famously known as the Rawalpindi express for his raw pace, Akhtar enjoyed some intense duels with Tendulkar on the field and Karachi Test was one of those.

Recalling the Test match, Akhtar said his intention was to hit Tendulkar and he even managed to rock his helmet with one of the deliveries which he thought would be enough to stop the Master Blaster, however, the batting legend managed to survive and batted well.

"I'm revealing this for the first time. I intentionally wanted to hit Sachin in that Test match. I was determined that I had to wound Sachin in that Test at any cost. Inzamam kept saying that bowl in front of the wickets, but I wanted to hit Sachin. So, I hit him on his helmet, and I felt he was done. But when I watched the video, I saw Sachin had managed to save his head," Akhtar said on Sportskeeda.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/harbhajan-singh-recalls-infamous-sreesanth-slapgate-row-i-made-a-mistake-it-should-not-have-happened-485244">Harbhajan recalls infamous Sreesanth slapgate row: 'I made a mistake, It should not have happened'</a>

Akhtar then went on to reveal that he tried to injure Tendulkar once again after the batting maestro got away despite being hit on the helmet. The former Pakistan pacer also praised Mohammad Asif, who bowled exceedingly well in the game and troubled the Indian batters continuously.

"I again tried to injure him. But on the other hand, Indian batting was facing music in the shape of Asif. I had rarely seen anyone bowl as well as the way Asif bowled on that particular day," Akhtar added.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/want-virat-kohli-to-break-sachins-record-of-100-international-centuries-says-rohits-childhood-coach-485099">Want Virat Kohli to break Sachin's record of 100 international centuries, says Rohit's childhood coach</a>

The match is famously known for Irfan Pathan's stunning hat-trick in the very first over of Pakistan's first innings. Irfan claimed a hat-trick in the first over to help India bundle out the hosts for 245 runs in their first innings.

However, India could manage only 238 runs in reply before Pakistan scored a mammoth 599 runs in their second innings and won the game comfortably by 341 runs. Asif was the pick of the bowlers for Pakistan with seven wickets across the two innings. 
&nbsp;

Former Pakistan pacer Shoaib Akhtar recently revealed he intentionally wanted to hit Sachin Tendulkar during the Karachi Test between India and Pakistan in 2006.

Former Pakistan pacer Shoaib Akhtar recently revealed he intentionally wanted to hit Sachin Tendulkar during the Karachi Test between India and Pakistan in 2006. It was a memorable encounter between the two arch-rivals at the National Stadium in Karachi where Akhtar breathed fire with the ball against the Indian batters. Recalling the game, Akhtar said he was determined to wound Tendulkar at any cost during the match. One of the fastest bowlers to have graced the game, Akhtar used to be a nightmare to face for the best of bowlers during his playing days. Famously known as the Rawalpindi express for his raw pace, Akhtar enjoyed some intense duels with Tendulkar on the field and Karachi Test was one of those. Recalling the Test match, Akhtar said his intention was to hit Tendulkar and he even managed to rock his helmet with one of the deliveries which he thought would be enough to stop the Master Blaster, however, the batting legend managed to survive and batted well. "I'm revealing this for the first time. I intentionally wanted to hit Sachin in that Test match. I was determined that I had to wound Sachin in that Test at any cost. Inzamam kept saying that bowl in front of the wickets, but I wanted to hit Sachin. So, I hit him on his helmet, and I felt he was done. But when I watched the video, I saw Sachin had managed to save his head," Akhtar said on Sportskeeda. Also Read: Harbhajan recalls infamous Sreesanth slapgate row: 'I made a mistake, It should not have happened' Akhtar then went on to reveal that he tried to injure Tendulkar once again after the batting maestro got away despite being hit on the helmet. The former Pakistan pacer also praised Mohammad Asif, who bowled exceedingly well in the game and troubled the Indian batters continuously. "I again tried to injure him. But on the other hand, Indian batting was facing music in the shape of Asif. I had rarely seen anyone bowl as well as the way Asif bowled on that particular day," Akhtar added. Also Read: Want Virat Kohli to break Sachin's record of 100 international centuries, says Rohit's childhood coach The match is famously known for Irfan Pathan's stunning hat-trick in the very first over of Pakistan's first innings. Irfan claimed a hat-trick in the first over to help India bundle out the hosts for 245 runs in their first innings. However, India could manage only 238 runs in reply before Pakistan scored a mammoth 599 runs in their second innings and won the game comfortably by 341 runs. Asif was the pick of the bowlers for Pakistan with seven wickets across the two innings.

'Intentionally wanted to hit Sachin': Shoaib Akhtar recalls his fiery spell vs Tendulkar in 2006 Karachi Test

Umran Mailk turned out to be one of the finds of the recently-concluded Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 as he impressed with his stunning pace. The Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) youngster clocked over 150 kmph consistently throughout the tournament and troubled some of the best batters in the world with his speed and skills. Umran also bowled the second-fastest delivery in IPL 2020 at 157 kmph.

He would have held the record for the fastest delivery bowled in the 15th edition of the tournament, however, his feat was surpassed by Gujarat Titans (GT) pacer Lockie Ferguson in the IPL 2022 final against Rajasthan Royals. Ferguson went past Umran with a sensational 157.3 kmph yorker against Jos Buttler.

Not just Umran and Lockie but there were several other Indian and overseas fast bowlers who displayed great pace throughout the tournament and clocked good speed consistently. Recently, Pakistan's pace spearhead Shaheen Shah Afridi was asked about the stunning pace of the likes of Umran and Lockie in IPL 2022.

One of the finest fast bowlers in the world at present, Afridi had a very interesting response. The Pakistan pacer said speed is nothing if a bowler doesn't have proper line and length along with variations.

“Speed can’t help you if you don’t have line and length and swing,” Shaheen told reporters during a press conference ahead of Pakistan's ODI series against West Indies at home.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/my-wife-and-kids-helped-me-to-stand-r-ashwin-recalls-indias-miraculous-escape-in-scg-test-484780">My wife and kids helped me to stand: R Ashwin recalls India's miraculous escape in SCG Test</a>

Shaheen has also had a remarkable rise in international cricket over the years. From a young prodigious talent, the pacer has grown into one of the best in the world at present and was awarded the Sir Garfield Sobers Trophy for being the Men's Cricketer of the Year in 2021. He has been Pakistan's best performer with the ball across formats.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pak-captain-babar-azam-reacts-to-dks-he-has-potential-to-become-no-1-batter-across-formats-remark-484448">Pak captain Babar Azam reacts to DK's 'he has potential to become No. 1 batter across formats' remark</a>

Shaheen was the destructor-in-chief for Pakistan in their home series against Australia earlier this year and will be hoping to continue his fine form against West Indies. The Pakistan pacer believes it will be challenging for the fast bowlers to bowl long spells in intense heat but they are ready for the challenge.

“The weather is hot but we are looking forward to playing good cricket in it. It would be a tough challenge for the fast bowlers to bowl long spells in summer but as a professional, we are ready to face it,” said Shaheen.

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Umran Mailk turned out to be one of the finds of the recently-concluded Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 as he impressed with his stunning pace. The Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) youngster clocked over 150 kmph consistently throughout the tournament and troubled some of the best batters in the world with his speed and skills.

Umran Mailk turned out to be one of the finds of the recently-concluded Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 as he impressed with his stunning pace. The Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) youngster clocked over 150 kmph consistently throughout the tournament and troubled some of the best batters in the world with his speed and skills. Umran also bowled the second-fastest delivery in IPL 2020 at 157 kmph. He would have held the record for the fastest delivery bowled in the 15th edition of the tournament, however, his feat was surpassed by Gujarat Titans (GT) pacer Lockie Ferguson in the IPL 2022 final against Rajasthan Royals. Ferguson went past Umran with a sensational 157.3 kmph yorker against Jos Buttler. Not just Umran and Lockie but there were several other Indian and overseas fast bowlers who displayed great pace throughout the tournament and clocked good speed consistently. Recently, Pakistan's pace spearhead Shaheen Shah Afridi was asked about the stunning pace of the likes of Umran and Lockie in IPL 2022. One of the finest fast bowlers in the world at present, Afridi had a very interesting response. The Pakistan pacer said speed is nothing if a bowler doesn't have proper line and length along with variations. “Speed can’t help you if you don’t have line and length and swing,” Shaheen told reporters during a press conference ahead of Pakistan's ODI series against West Indies at home. Also Read: My wife and kids helped me to stand: R Ashwin recalls India's miraculous escape in SCG Test Shaheen has also had a remarkable rise in international cricket over the years. From a young prodigious talent, the pacer has grown into one of the best in the world at present and was awarded the Sir Garfield Sobers Trophy for being the Men's Cricketer of the Year in 2021. He has been Pakistan's best performer with the ball across formats. Also Read: Pak captain Babar Azam reacts to DK's 'he has potential to become No. 1 batter across formats' remark Shaheen was the destructor-in-chief for Pakistan in their home series against Australia earlier this year and will be hoping to continue his fine form against West Indies. The Pakistan pacer believes it will be challenging for the fast bowlers to bowl long spells in intense heat but they are ready for the challenge. “The weather is hot but we are looking forward to playing good cricket in it. It would be a tough challenge for the fast bowlers to bowl long spells in summer but as a professional, we are ready to face it,” said Shaheen.

'Speed can't help you...': Pakistan pacer Shaheen Afridi reacts to Umran Mailk's stunning pace in IPL 2022

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."

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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

KL Rahul was criticised by many for failing to change gears in time during his side Lucknow Super Giants (LSG)'s clash against Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in the Eliminator of the recently-concluded Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022. Chasing a big target of 208 runs, Rahul scored 79 off 58 balls for LSG but failed to get them over the line as they lost the game by 14 runs.

While his skills and talent is there to see for everyone, Rahul didn't quite manage to make the best use of his potential for LSG in IPL 2022. He was often scrutinised for being too slow in his approach and was also slammed by fans for not accelerating his strike rate despite the team being under pressure.

Rahul had yet another prolific season with the bat for LSG, amassing 616 runs in 15 matches for his team but failed to inspire them to their maiden title. LSG bowed out of the tournament after losing against RCB in the Eliminator. Former Pakistan captain Rashid Latif recently shared his views on Rahul's batting.

Latif said there is no doubt that Rahul is a fine batter and a special player but he is not in the same league as the likes of Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma. The former Pakistan skipper explained that Rahul plays a lot of dot balls and needs to work on that to improve his game.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/from-hardik-pandya-to-ravindra-jadeja-how-new-captains-fared-in-ipl-2022-483927">From Hardik Pandya to Ravindra Jadeja: How new captains fared in IPL 2022?</a>

"Wasn't he playing for Punjab Kings before this? He used to bat till the 15th-18th over, while Glenn Maxwell hardly faced 2 balls. The team did not qualify. Even Gayle was there but he played in the end. See, there is no doubt that KL Rahul is a fine player, and the pitches he played on and scored hundreds were the same where Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma and Ishan Kishan struggled. Sometimes when an opener bats, he thinks it is his responsibility to bat through," Latif said on his YouTube channel&nbsp;'Caught Behind'.

"Rahul is not like Rohit Sharma. Rohit and Kohli belong to a different league, but Rahul too is a special player. Having said that he needs to improve a little. He plays a few too many dot balls for his liking. Since the runs he scores are big, the balls faced a lot too. When he was playing for Punjab, I noticed the same," the former Pakistan skipper added.

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Rahul has been one of the most consistent performers with the willow in the IPL over the last few seasons. He was the highest run-getter in the league in IPL 2020 before finishing third on the list in IPL 2021 last year. He once again went past the 600-run mark this season to continue his purple patch. However, his efforts were not enough to take his side to the final of the season.

KL Rahul was criticised by many for failing to change gears in time during his side Lucknow Super Giants (LSG)'s clash against Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in the Eliminator of the recently-concluded Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022.

KL Rahul was criticised by many for failing to change gears in time during his side Lucknow Super Giants (LSG)'s clash against Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in the Eliminator of the recently-concluded Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022. Chasing a big target of 208 runs, Rahul scored 79 off 58 balls for LSG but failed to get them over the line as they lost the game by 14 runs. While his skills and talent is there to see for everyone, Rahul didn't quite manage to make the best use of his potential for LSG in IPL 2022. He was often scrutinised for being too slow in his approach and was also slammed by fans for not accelerating his strike rate despite the team being under pressure. Rahul had yet another prolific season with the bat for LSG, amassing 616 runs in 15 matches for his team but failed to inspire them to their maiden title. LSG bowed out of the tournament after losing against RCB in the Eliminator. Former Pakistan captain Rashid Latif recently shared his views on Rahul's batting. Latif said there is no doubt that Rahul is a fine batter and a special player but he is not in the same league as the likes of Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma. The former Pakistan skipper explained that Rahul plays a lot of dot balls and needs to work on that to improve his game. Also Read: From Hardik Pandya to Ravindra Jadeja: How new captains fared in IPL 2022? "Wasn't he playing for Punjab Kings before this? He used to bat till the 15th-18th over, while Glenn Maxwell hardly faced 2 balls. The team did not qualify. Even Gayle was there but he played in the end. See, there is no doubt that KL Rahul is a fine player, and the pitches he played on and scored hundreds were the same where Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma and Ishan Kishan struggled. Sometimes when an opener bats, he thinks it is his responsibility to bat through," Latif said on his YouTube channel 'Caught Behind'. "Rahul is not like Rohit Sharma. Rohit and Kohli belong to a different league, but Rahul too is a special player. Having said that he needs to improve a little. He plays a few too many dot balls for his liking. Since the runs he scores are big, the balls faced a lot too. When he was playing for Punjab, I noticed the same," the former Pakistan skipper added. Also Read: Hardik Pandya captains Aakash Chopra's IPL 2022 XI, no place for DK, Rashid Khan and Umran Malik Rahul has been one of the most consistent performers with the willow in the IPL over the last few seasons. He was the highest run-getter in the league in IPL 2020 before finishing third on the list in IPL 2021 last year. He once again went past the 600-run mark this season to continue his purple patch. However, his efforts were not enough to take his side to the final of the season.

KL Rahul a special player but Kohli and Rohit belong in a different league, says former Pakistan captain

Simon Taufel is widely regarded as one of the best umpires in world cricket. The Australian bid goodbye to international umpiring in 2012 after having won the ICC Umpire of the Year award as many as five times. He was a favourite among players and, thus, many garnered rich praise for him for his outstanding judgments on the 22-yard cricket strip.

Recently, Taufel recalled his time while officiating in India-Pakistan matches at the highest level. The ex-umpire claimed that&nbsp;“presidential-level security” used to be in place during the matches between the two Asian giants.

"The India-Pakistan clashes came with added scrutiny and expectations because the game is being analyzed by all the armchair experts," Taufel was quoted as saying. "You had people with machine guns guarding you and presidential-level security was assigned to the teams. You have to remain grounded as I tried my level best to focus on the task ahead and take things one ball at a time,"&nbsp;he further opined.

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While Taufel admitted to missing the excitement of officiating in high-voltage games, he was quick to point out how he feels blessed to be spending more time with his family.&nbsp;"I miss being part of the excitement of international cricket, but I don’t miss the travel and time away from family. I certainly don’t miss the scrutiny. It is now time to help the new generation and I am loving every bit of that,” he added.

Talking about Indo-Pak clashes at the international level, it only takes place during multi-nation or ICC events. The senior men's cricket teams from India and Pakistan last locked horns with each other during the last year's T20 World Cup in the UAE.

Simon Taufel is widely regarded as one of the best umpires in world cricket. The Australian bid goodbye to international umpiring in 2012 after having won the ICC Umpire of the Year award as many as five times.

Simon Taufel is widely regarded as one of the best umpires in world cricket. The Australian bid goodbye to international umpiring in 2012 after having won the ICC Umpire of the Year award as many as five times. He was a favourite among players and, thus, many garnered rich praise for him for his outstanding judgments on the 22-yard cricket strip. Recently, Taufel recalled his time while officiating in India-Pakistan matches at the highest level. The ex-umpire claimed that “presidential-level security” used to be in place during the matches between the two Asian giants. "The India-Pakistan clashes came with added scrutiny and expectations because the game is being analyzed by all the armchair experts," Taufel was quoted as saying. "You had people with machine guns guarding you and presidential-level security was assigned to the teams. You have to remain grounded as I tried my level best to focus on the task ahead and take things one ball at a time," he further opined. ALSO READ | Thought of quitting ODI cricket after MS Dhoni dropped me, reveals former Indian opener Virender Sehwag While Taufel admitted to missing the excitement of officiating in high-voltage games, he was quick to point out how he feels blessed to be spending more time with his family. "I miss being part of the excitement of international cricket, but I don’t miss the travel and time away from family. I certainly don’t miss the scrutiny. It is now time to help the new generation and I am loving every bit of that,” he added. Talking about Indo-Pak clashes at the international level, it only takes place during multi-nation or ICC events. The senior men's cricket teams from India and Pakistan last locked horns with each other during the last year's T20 World Cup in the UAE.

You had people with machine guns guarding you: Simon Taufel recalls officiating in India-Pakistan matches