Afghanistan announced their intentions of being more than mere pushovers as they stunned Pakistan by three wickets in a World Cup warm-up game that went to the wire.&nbsp;

Young middle-order batsman Hashmatullah Shahidi played the role of sheet anchor to perfection with an unbeaten 74 as Afghanistan chased down a below-par target of 263 set by Pakistan with a couple of balls to spare.

If the IPL stars Mohammed Nabi (3/46) and Rashid Khan (2/27) set it up by restricting Pakistan to well below 300, it was Shahidi's composure that saw Afghanistan cross the finishing line despite some late hiccups.

Veteran Nabi after a good bowling performance also did his bit with the bat, scoring 34 off 41 balls, including three boundaries.

Shahidi's patient knock had seven fours and he played 102 balls. A lot of credit should also go to opener Hazrtullah Zazai for his 49 off 28 balls that had eight fours and two sixes. It was after Mohammed Shahzad retired hurt for 23.

Zazai set the pace in the Powerplay overs which enabled Shahidi to deal in singles and the occasional boundary as the Pakistan bowling looked pedestrian.

Mohammed Aamir (0/27 in 6 overs) didn't get the ball to swing as most of his deliveries were seen angling across the right-handers while Wahab Riaz did bowl well at the death getting the ball to reverse.

Earlier, when Pakistan batted, their no 1 batsman Babar Azam (112 off 108 balls) was the lone bright spot in an otherwise disappointing batting show as Nabi and Rashid choked the run-flow in the middle overs.

Brief Scores: Pakistan 262 in 47.5 overs (Babar Azam 112 off 108 balls, Shoaib Malik 44 off 59 balls, Mohammed Nabi 3/46 in 10 overs, Rashid Khan 2/27 in 9 overs)

Afghanistan 263 in 49.4 overs (Hazratullah Zazai 48 off 29 balls, Hashmatullah Shahidi 74 no off 102 balls, Mohammed Nabi 34 off 41 balls, Wahab Riaz 3/46).&nbsp;

Afghanistan announced their intentions of being more than mere pushovers as they stunned Pakistan by three wickets in a World Cup warm-up game that went to the wire.

Afghanistan announced their intentions of being more than mere pushovers as they stunned Pakistan by three wickets in a World Cup warm-up game that went to the wire. Young middle-order batsman Hashmatullah Shahidi played the role of sheet anchor to perfection with an unbeaten 74 as Afghanistan chased down a below-par target of 263 set by Pakistan with a couple of balls to spare. If the IPL stars Mohammed Nabi (3/46) and Rashid Khan (2/27) set it up by restricting Pakistan to well below 300, it was Shahidi's composure that saw Afghanistan cross the finishing line despite some late hiccups. Veteran Nabi after a good bowling performance also did his bit with the bat, scoring 34 off 41 balls, including three boundaries. Shahidi's patient knock had seven fours and he played 102 balls. A lot of credit should also go to opener Hazrtullah Zazai for his 49 off 28 balls that had eight fours and two sixes. It was after Mohammed Shahzad retired hurt for 23. Zazai set the pace in the Powerplay overs which enabled Shahidi to deal in singles and the occasional boundary as the Pakistan bowling looked pedestrian. Mohammed Aamir (0/27 in 6 overs) didn't get the ball to swing as most of his deliveries were seen angling across the right-handers while Wahab Riaz did bowl well at the death getting the ball to reverse. Earlier, when Pakistan batted, their no 1 batsman Babar Azam (112 off 108 balls) was the lone bright spot in an otherwise disappointing batting show as Nabi and Rashid choked the run-flow in the middle overs. Brief Scores: Pakistan 262 in 47.5 overs (Babar Azam 112 off 108 balls, Shoaib Malik 44 off 59 balls, Mohammed Nabi 3/46 in 10 overs, Rashid Khan 2/27 in 9 overs) Afghanistan 263 in 49.4 overs (Hazratullah Zazai 48 off 29 balls, Hashmatullah Shahidi 74 no off 102 balls, Mohammed Nabi 34 off 41 balls, Wahab Riaz 3/46).

World Cup Warm-Up: Young Hashmatullah Shahidi shines as Afghanistan stun Pakistan

Pakistan captain Sarfraz Ahmed said on Monday that being underdogs in next month's World Cup eases the pressure on his young team, who leave for the tournament this week.

Pakistan will play three warm-up matches before taking on joint-hosts England in a five-match one-day series and a Twenty20.

The 1992 World Cup winners start their campaign against the West Indies in Nottingham on May 31.

Sarfraz he would prefer his side to go into the tournament under the radar.

"Look, when we go as favourites, then it's a problem, but if we go as underdogs then other teams feel the danger, so I think being underdogs is good for us and eases the pressure," Sarfraz told a press conference in Lahore before they depart for England and Wales on Tuesday.

Sarfraz, 31, was among five key players rested for the whitewash ODI series defeat by Australia last month to freshen up the squad before the competition.&nbsp;

He was handed a four-match suspension in January by the International Cricket Council after he made a racist comment about South Africa's Andile&nbsp;Phehlukwayo during an ODI.

All ten teams will play each other in the tournament starting on May 30 with England taking on South Africa in the opening fixture. The top four teams will qualify for the semi-finals.

The high-voltage clash between arch-rivals Pakistan and India scheduled for Manchester on June 16 promises to be one of the most tense of the tournament.

Pakistan and India, who both possess nuclear weapons, came to the brink of all-out war recently after fresh sparring over the disputed region of Kashmir, adding to the intensity of the match.

But Sarfraz played down the hype, saying all games are important.

"For us all nine matches are important so we will take every match as a match against India," he said of Pakistan's bitter rivals -- who have won all six of their previous World Cup clashes.

But Pakistan took the Champions Trophy against India in 2017 with a stunning 180-run victory in the final.

"We have beaten India in a bigger event recently so we will have that advantage," said Sarfraz.

'We have, we will'

He said the theme of Pakistan's World Cup mission is "we have, we will", citing the team's previous glories.

Along with the Champions Trophy two years ago, Pakistan won the 1992 World Cup and the 2009 World Twenty20.

"I think these are exciting times for Pakistan cricket and for the team," said Mickey Arthur, who took over as head coach in May 2016.

"We leave on a journey for which we have worked really hard," he said, adding that they have "a good team, both in talent and attitude".

"The initial thing is to qualify for the last four and take it from there, so I think we have the potential to certainly go all the way but before that we have to play very well," South African Arthur added.

Pakistan have named two extra players in their squad for the five-match one-day series against England, with paceman Mohammad Amir and batsman Asif Ali in addition to the 15 for the World Cup.

But they have until May 23 to finalise their squad for the tournament.

Pakistan captain Sarfraz Ahmed said on Monday that being underdogs in next month's World Cup eases the pressure on his young team, who leave for the tournament this week.

Pakistan captain Sarfraz Ahmed said on Monday that being underdogs in next month's World Cup eases the pressure on his young team, who leave for the tournament this week. Pakistan will play three warm-up matches before taking on joint-hosts England in a five-match one-day series and a Twenty20. The 1992 World Cup winners start their campaign against the West Indies in Nottingham on May 31. Sarfraz he would prefer his side to go into the tournament under the radar. "Look, when we go as favourites, then it's a problem, but if we go as underdogs then other teams feel the danger, so I think being underdogs is good for us and eases the pressure," Sarfraz told a press conference in Lahore before they depart for England and Wales on Tuesday. Sarfraz, 31, was among five key players rested for the whitewash ODI series defeat by Australia last month to freshen up the squad before the competition. He was handed a four-match suspension in January by the International Cricket Council after he made a racist comment about South Africa's Andile Phehlukwayo during an ODI. All ten teams will play each other in the tournament starting on May 30 with England taking on South Africa in the opening fixture. The top four teams will qualify for the semi-finals. The high-voltage clash between arch-rivals Pakistan and India scheduled for Manchester on June 16 promises to be one of the most tense of the tournament. Pakistan and India, who both possess nuclear weapons, came to the brink of all-out war recently after fresh sparring over the disputed region of Kashmir, adding to the intensity of the match. But Sarfraz played down the hype, saying all games are important. "For us all nine matches are important so we will take every match as a match against India," he said of Pakistan's bitter rivals -- who have won all six of their previous World Cup clashes. But Pakistan took the Champions Trophy against India in 2017 with a stunning 180-run victory in the final. "We have beaten India in a bigger event recently so we will have that advantage," said Sarfraz. 'We have, we will' He said the theme of Pakistan's World Cup mission is "we have, we will", citing the team's previous glories. Along with the Champions Trophy two years ago, Pakistan won the 1992 World Cup and the 2009 World Twenty20. "I think these are exciting times for Pakistan cricket and for the team," said Mickey Arthur, who took over as head coach in May 2016. "We leave on a journey for which we have worked really hard," he said, adding that they have "a good team, both in talent and attitude". "The initial thing is to qualify for the last four and take it from there, so I think we have the potential to certainly go all the way but before that we have to play very well," South African Arthur added. Pakistan have named two extra players in their squad for the five-match one-day series against England, with paceman Mohammad Amir and batsman Asif Ali in addition to the 15 for the World Cup. But they have until May 23 to finalise their squad for the tournament.

Good to be World Cup underdogs, says Pakistan captain Sarfraz Ahmed

Pakistan's newly selected opener Abid Ali on Sunday expressed confidence that despite strained political relations India's legendary batsman Sachin Tendulkar will give him a hug and a few batting tips at next month's World Cup.

The 31-year old has been a prolific run scorer in Pakistan's domestic cricket and broke into the national one-day squad for the World Cup after smashing a century on his debut against Australia in Dubai last month.

Abid is almost the same height as Tendulkar and bats in a similar style, but has a long way to match the Indian maestro's phenomenal record of most Test runs (15,921), most one-day runs (18,426), most Test hundreds (51) and most one-day centuries (49) to name a few.

"It's my wish and hope that I meet Sachin Tendulkar," Abid told a group of journalists.

"Definitely, I would like to hug him and I am sure that just like all great players meet youngsters I am sure that he will not turn me down.

"I am sure that if I want to get any information on cricket from Sachin, he will give a positive reply."

Abid said it will be a memorable day when he meets his idol.

"It will be the best day in my life when I meet him (Tendulkar) because he was one of the best batsmen.

"West Indian Viv Richards was also a great so I want to meet all the great players and learn from them," said Abid.

Tension between India and Pakistan rose to a near-war level since February 14 militant attacks on Indian side of Kashmir which left 44 army personnel killed.

India claimed it responded with an attack on a militant base in Balakot in the Pakistan side of Kashmir which was followed by Pakistan shutting down its airspace and later shooting down two Indian air force planes, capturing a pilot.

The Indian pilot was later released as a sign of goodwill and peace.

There were calls that India should not play the 2019 World Cup match with Pakistan scheduled for Manchester on June 16.&nbsp;

Despite the bitterness, players from both sides enjoy cordial relations.&nbsp;

Indian captain Virat Kohli presented his bat to Pakistan's fast bowler Mohammad Amir during the World Twenty20 in India three years ago as a sign of appreciation of his talent.

Abid said he had followed Tendulkar's batting style from his early days.

"Actually I have followed Sachin's technique from day one of my career and after watching him I tried to play like him. He was a great player, just like our own Inzamam-ul-Haq and Mohammad Yousuf.&nbsp;

"I adopt their good things and leave any bad thing. If I meet him I will try to talk to him and get some advice, mentally and technically, so that it helps me improve my batting."

Abid said he will do his best to be known as a good batsman.

"Tendulkar's record is awesome," said Abid of the Indian master who retired in 2013.&nbsp;

Pakistan's newly selected opener Abid Ali on Sunday expressed confidence that despite strained political relations India's legendary batsman Sachin Tendulkar will give him a hug and a few batting tips at next month's World Cup.

Pakistan's newly selected opener Abid Ali on Sunday expressed confidence that despite strained political relations India's legendary batsman Sachin Tendulkar will give him a hug and a few batting tips at next month's World Cup. The 31-year old has been a prolific run scorer in Pakistan's domestic cricket and broke into the national one-day squad for the World Cup after smashing a century on his debut against Australia in Dubai last month. Abid is almost the same height as Tendulkar and bats in a similar style, but has a long way to match the Indian maestro's phenomenal record of most Test runs (15,921), most one-day runs (18,426), most Test hundreds (51) and most one-day centuries (49) to name a few. "It's my wish and hope that I meet Sachin Tendulkar," Abid told a group of journalists. "Definitely, I would like to hug him and I am sure that just like all great players meet youngsters I am sure that he will not turn me down. "I am sure that if I want to get any information on cricket from Sachin, he will give a positive reply." Abid said it will be a memorable day when he meets his idol. "It will be the best day in my life when I meet him (Tendulkar) because he was one of the best batsmen. "West Indian Viv Richards was also a great so I want to meet all the great players and learn from them," said Abid. Tension between India and Pakistan rose to a near-war level since February 14 militant attacks on Indian side of Kashmir which left 44 army personnel killed. India claimed it responded with an attack on a militant base in Balakot in the Pakistan side of Kashmir which was followed by Pakistan shutting down its airspace and later shooting down two Indian air force planes, capturing a pilot. The Indian pilot was later released as a sign of goodwill and peace. There were calls that India should not play the 2019 World Cup match with Pakistan scheduled for Manchester on June 16. Despite the bitterness, players from both sides enjoy cordial relations. Indian captain Virat Kohli presented his bat to Pakistan's fast bowler Mohammad Amir during the World Twenty20 in India three years ago as a sign of appreciation of his talent. Abid said he had followed Tendulkar's batting style from his early days. "Actually I have followed Sachin's technique from day one of my career and after watching him I tried to play like him. He was a great player, just like our own Inzamam-ul-Haq and Mohammad Yousuf. "I adopt their good things and leave any bad thing. If I meet him I will try to talk to him and get some advice, mentally and technically, so that it helps me improve my batting." Abid said he will do his best to be known as a good batsman. "Tendulkar's record is awesome," said Abid of the Indian master who retired in 2013.

Pakistan's Abid Ali wants World Cup advice from Indian great Tendulkar

Pakistan all-rounder Shadab Khan faces a race against time to be fit for the Cricket World Cup after he was ruled out of the limited-overs series in England with an illness.

The 20-year-old has played 34 one-day internationals for Pakistan and was included in their 15-man squad for the May 30-July 14 World Cup in England and Wales.

The 1992 champions will play a lone Twenty20 international and five ODIs on their tour of England, which begins on May 5.

"Wrist spinner Shadab Khan has been ruled out of the series against England after tests revealed a virus that will require treatment and rest for, at least, four weeks," the Pakistan Cricket Board said in a statement.

The board said it would set up appointments with specialists in England to help Shadab, who is also a useful lower-order batsman, recover in time for Pakistan's World Cup opener against West Indies on May 31.

All teams are allowed to make changes to their World Cup squads until May 23. Pakistan selectors have already put batsman Asif Ali and seamer Mohammad Amir on standby should they have to make changes to their squad.

Pakistan all-rounder Shadab Khan faces a race against time to be fit for the Cricket World Cup after he was ruled out of the limited-overs series in England with an illness.

Pakistan all-rounder Shadab Khan faces a race against time to be fit for the Cricket World Cup after he was ruled out of the limited-overs series in England with an illness. The 20-year-old has played 34 one-day internationals for Pakistan and was included in their 15-man squad for the May 30-July 14 World Cup in England and Wales. The 1992 champions will play a lone Twenty20 international and five ODIs on their tour of England, which begins on May 5. "Wrist spinner Shadab Khan has been ruled out of the series against England after tests revealed a virus that will require treatment and rest for, at least, four weeks," the Pakistan Cricket Board said in a statement. The board said it would set up appointments with specialists in England to help Shadab, who is also a useful lower-order batsman, recover in time for Pakistan's World Cup opener against West Indies on May 31. All teams are allowed to make changes to their World Cup squads until May 23. Pakistan selectors have already put batsman Asif Ali and seamer Mohammad Amir on standby should they have to make changes to their squad.

Pakistan's Shadab Khan ruled out of England tour with illness

Pakistan Cricket Board, yesterday,&nbsp;announced their World Cup squad and the biggest talking point of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pakistan-announce-world-cup-squad-pacer-mohammad-amir-left-out-211570">announcement was the exclusion of&nbsp;Mohammad Amir</a>.

The left arm pacer had recently cleared the fitness test but was replaced by young gun, Mohammad Hasnain, who was <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pm-imran-khan-shares-past-world-cup-experiences-with-pakistan-cricket-team-211780">Pakistan's highest wicket-taker in the Under 19 World Cup, last year.</a>

Surprised by the decision, former pacer Shoaib Akhtar took to Twitter, informing&nbsp;why Amir&nbsp;will be a 'lethal weapon' for Pakistan in English conditions.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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My biggest concern is the pace dept. This squad lacks a leader of the pace attack, leader of the herd who is aggressive and goes out to attack. Hopefully Amir can be that. 
In case that doesn't happen, <a href="https://twitter.com/RealHa55an?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RealHa55an</a> has to step up and fill that role along with <a href="https://twitter.com/JunaidkhanREAL?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@JunaidkhanREAL</a>
— Shoaib Akhtar (@shoaib100mph) <a href="https://twitter.com/shoaib100mph/status/1118868092107538437?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 18, 2019</a></blockquote>
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And ofcourse <a href="https://twitter.com/MHafeez22?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MHafeez22</a> with his all round ability can play a very important role. He is lethal with the ball, specially to check the run rate of the opposition. 
I hope his fitness issues get resolved and he is 100% fit to contribute his bit. 
Ker day kaamal Hafeez.
— Shoaib Akhtar (@shoaib100mph) <a href="https://twitter.com/shoaib100mph/status/1118863854048616448?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 18, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Akhtar, who is often referred to as Rawalpindi Express for his pace, stressed that Amir has the ability to swing the ball both ways.&nbsp;He also added that Amir can prove his worth in the upcoming England series and book his place in the playing XI.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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I still think <a href="https://twitter.com/iamamirofficial?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@iamamirofficial</a> could be a lethal weapon to have in English conditions. He has a chance to prove that in the England series and be selected for World Cup by May 23rd. Good luck Amir, you can do it.
— Shoaib Akhtar (@shoaib100mph) <a href="https://twitter.com/shoaib100mph/status/1118860855809122304?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 18, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Amir&nbsp;has been picked in the squad for the England series which will be played just before the World Cup.

For the uninitiated, the teams can make changes till May 23 without seeking permission from the ICC's event technical committee.&nbsp;

Pakistan Cricket Board, yesterday, announced their World Cup squad and the biggest talking point of the announcement was the exclusion of Mohammad Amir. The left arm pacer had recently cleared the fitness test but was replaced by young gun, Mohammad Hasnain, who was Pakistan's highest wicket-taker in the Under 19 World Cup, last year.

Pakistan Cricket Board, yesterday, announced their World Cup squad and the biggest talking point of the announcement was the exclusion of Mohammad Amir. The left arm pacer had recently cleared the fitness test but was replaced by young gun, Mohammad Hasnain, who was Pakistan's highest wicket-taker in the Under 19 World Cup, last year. Surprised by the decision, former pacer Shoaib Akhtar took to Twitter, informing why Amir will be a 'lethal weapon' for Pakistan in English conditions. My biggest concern is the pace dept. This squad lacks a leader of the pace attack, leader of the herd who is aggressive and goes out to attack. Hopefully Amir can be that. In case that doesn't happen, @RealHa55an has to step up and fill that role along with @JunaidkhanREAL — Shoaib Akhtar (@shoaib100mph) April 18, 2019 × And ofcourse @MHafeez22 with his all round ability can play a very important role. He is lethal with the ball, specially to check the run rate of the opposition. I hope his fitness issues get resolved and he is 100% fit to contribute his bit. Ker day kaamal Hafeez. — Shoaib Akhtar (@shoaib100mph) April 18, 2019 × Akhtar, who is often referred to as Rawalpindi Express for his pace, stressed that Amir has the ability to swing the ball both ways. He also added that Amir can prove his worth in the upcoming England series and book his place in the playing XI. I still think @iamamirofficial could be a lethal weapon to have in English conditions. He has a chance to prove that in the England series and be selected for World Cup by May 23rd. Good luck Amir, you can do it. — Shoaib Akhtar (@shoaib100mph) April 18, 2019 × Amir has been picked in the squad for the England series which will be played just before the World Cup. For the uninitiated, the teams can make changes till May 23 without seeking permission from the ICC's event technical committee.

Without Amir, Pakistan World Cup squad 'lacks leader of the pace attack', feels Shoaib Akhtar

United States President Joe Biden on Friday (March 31) told Russia to release Wall Street Journal journalist Evan Gershkovich who was arrested by Moscow on espionage charges.

United States President Joe Biden on Friday (March 31) told Russia to release Wall Street Journal journalist Evan Gershkovich who was arrested by Moscow on espionage charges. “Let him go,” Biden said to reporters at the White House on Friday morning when asked about his message to Russia on the arrest of Gershkovich. Russia's Federal Security Service has accused Evan Gershkovich of trying to obtain classified information. Gershkovich was detained in Yekaterinburg and will be in detention until May 29 pending trial. This is the first time an American journalist has been detained on accusations of spying since the Cold War. ALSO READ | Who is Evan Gershkovich, the US journalist arrested in Russia for espionage On Thursday, the Wall Street Journal's board of opinion editors published a piece where they called for the expulsion of Russia's ambassador to the US and also all Russian journalists working here. "The timing of the arrest looks like a calculated provocation to embarrass the US and intimidate the foreign press still working in Russia," the piece read. Responding to the newspaper's demand for expelling Russian journalists, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said the newspaper could say that, but it should not happen. "There's just no reason for this," Peskov added, the news agency AFP reported. The Kremlin spokesperson also said Gershkovich was caught red-handed. US President Biden, meanwhile, said that expelling Russian journalists was not the plan right now. Don't travel to Russia: White House warns Americans Following Evan Gershkovich's arrest, the White House warned Americans not to travel to Russia and also advised those now inside the country to leave for their safety. In a statement, White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said, "The targeting of American citizens by the Russian government is unacceptable. We condemn the detention of Mr Gershkovich in the strongest terms." American officials, meanwhile, said that they were in touch with the journalist's family and the State Department had contacted Russia. (With inputs from Russia) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

PM Imran Khan shares past World Cup experiences with Pakistan cricket team

The 53rd meeting of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Board of Governors, was adjourned on Wednesday for a later date due to an incomplete quorum.

The meeting was adjourned for a brief period, as five members attempted to table a resolution which was not part of the meeting's agenda.

The PCB Chairman, Ehsan Mani, had proposed that any business other than the agenda could be considered under 'Any Other Items' at the end of the meeting. But, the Khan Research Laboratory (KRL) and the four other regional representatives refused to return for the completion of the meeting.

"I am hugely disappointed by today's events as I was looking forward to an interactive, productive and constructive discussion, which was aimed at taking Pakistan cricket forward," PCB Chairman Ehsan Mani said in an official statement.

"Yesterday, we called on the honourable Chief Minister of Balochistan and engaged in fruitful and enlightening discussions to promote cricket in Balochistan.

It is, therefore, particularly disappointing that the representative from Balochistan also refused to return for the BoG meeting. We reaffirm our commitment to doing what is right for Pakistan cricket and once again becoming a strong force in the world game, and must not get derailed by personal agendas," he added.

Ehsan Mani, PCB Chairman, Asad Ali Khan, Kabir Ahmed Khan, Muhammad Ayaz Butt, Muhammad Numan Butt, Shah Dost, Shahrez Abdullah Khan , Akbar Durrani attended the meeting whereas Lt Gen (R) Muzammil Hussain and Lt Gen (R) Javed Zia were not able to attend the meeting due to prior engagements.

Earlier, the meeting had started with the members offering "fateha" for all those people who lost their lives in the tragic incident in Quetta's Hazarganji market as well as Naseem Khan who passed away recently. Khan was a first-class cricketer and a PCB coach.

The 53rd meeting of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Board of Governors, was adjourned on Wednesday for a later date due to an incomplete quorum. The meeting was adjourned for a brief period, as five members attempted to table a resolution which was not part of the meeting's agenda.

The 53rd meeting of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Board of Governors, was adjourned on Wednesday for a later date due to an incomplete quorum. The meeting was adjourned for a brief period, as five members attempted to table a resolution which was not part of the meeting's agenda. The PCB Chairman, Ehsan Mani, had proposed that any business other than the agenda could be considered under 'Any Other Items' at the end of the meeting. But, the Khan Research Laboratory (KRL) and the four other regional representatives refused to return for the completion of the meeting. "I am hugely disappointed by today's events as I was looking forward to an interactive, productive and constructive discussion, which was aimed at taking Pakistan cricket forward," PCB Chairman Ehsan Mani said in an official statement. "Yesterday, we called on the honourable Chief Minister of Balochistan and engaged in fruitful and enlightening discussions to promote cricket in Balochistan. It is, therefore, particularly disappointing that the representative from Balochistan also refused to return for the BoG meeting. We reaffirm our commitment to doing what is right for Pakistan cricket and once again becoming a strong force in the world game, and must not get derailed by personal agendas," he added. Ehsan Mani, PCB Chairman, Asad Ali Khan, Kabir Ahmed Khan, Muhammad Ayaz Butt, Muhammad Numan Butt, Shah Dost, Shahrez Abdullah Khan , Akbar Durrani attended the meeting whereas Lt Gen (R) Muzammil Hussain and Lt Gen (R) Javed Zia were not able to attend the meeting due to prior engagements. Earlier, the meeting had started with the members offering "fateha" for all those people who lost their lives in the tragic incident in Quetta's Hazarganji market as well as Naseem Khan who passed away recently. Khan was a first-class cricketer and a PCB coach.

PCB Board of Governors meeting adjourned due to incomplete quorum

Australia cruised to an 80-run victory over Pakistan in the third one-dayer in Abu Dhabi on Wednesday and took an unassailable 3-0 lead in the five-match series.

Captain <a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?q=Aaron+Finch">Aaron Finch</a> fell 10 runs short of becoming the first Australian to score three consecutive ODI centuries but negotiated difficult conditions to help his team finish with a decent total of 266-6.

The right-handed opener made 90 off 136 deliveries before Glenn Maxwell stepped up the scoring rate with a 55-ball 71 on a pitch that offered more assistance to the bowlers than the last two matches in Sharjah.

It was Maxwell's highest ODI score in over two years, giving him an edge in intense competition for the middle-order batting spots for the World Cup starting on May 30 in England and Wales.

"It wasn't the easiest wicket to start on," Maxwell said. "Once I got through that, it got easier.

"We've been really focussed about what we want to do here. We want to build on this momentum ... It's been a continual build for our team since last year, and we're starting to get it right."

Finch, whose role as a captain was questioned a month ago because of his form slump, has responded with 479 runs in his last six one-day innings.

The 32-year-old was perfectly placed for a 14th hundred in the 50-overs format but holed out to leg-spinner Yasir Shah in the 42nd over.

Maxwell and wicketkeeper-batsman Alex Carey (25 not out) added a quickfire 61 for the sixth wicket as Australia hit 90 in the last 10 overs.

Chasing a target of 267, Pakistan were rattled by a testing new-ball spell from Australian fast bowler Pat Cummins, who removed opener Shan Masood, Haris Sohail and Mohammad Rizwan with just 16 runs on the board.

Imam-ul-Haq and captain Shoaib Malik shared a 59-run partnership for the fourth wicket before the Australian spinners stepped up.

Part-time off-spinner Maxwell trapped Imam lbw for 46 and Nathan Lyon removed Malik for 32, leaving Pakistan on the brink of a fourth straight defeat in the format.

Leg-spinner Adam Zampa hurried through the tail with a career-best ODI spell of 4-43 to bowl out Pakistan for 186 in the 45th over.

The win was Australia's sixth in a row after their 3-2 comeback victory in the series in India this month. The fourth one-dayer will be played on Friday in Dubai.

Australia cruised to an 80-run victory over Pakistan in the third one-dayer in Abu Dhabi on Wednesday and took an unassailable 3-0 lead in the five-match series.

Australia cruised to an 80-run victory over Pakistan in the third one-dayer in Abu Dhabi on Wednesday and took an unassailable 3-0 lead in the five-match series. Captain Aaron Finch fell 10 runs short of becoming the first Australian to score three consecutive ODI centuries but negotiated difficult conditions to help his team finish with a decent total of 266-6. The right-handed opener made 90 off 136 deliveries before Glenn Maxwell stepped up the scoring rate with a 55-ball 71 on a pitch that offered more assistance to the bowlers than the last two matches in Sharjah. It was Maxwell's highest ODI score in over two years, giving him an edge in intense competition for the middle-order batting spots for the World Cup starting on May 30 in England and Wales. "It wasn't the easiest wicket to start on," Maxwell said. "Once I got through that, it got easier. "We've been really focussed about what we want to do here. We want to build on this momentum ... It's been a continual build for our team since last year, and we're starting to get it right." Finch, whose role as a captain was questioned a month ago because of his form slump, has responded with 479 runs in his last six one-day innings. The 32-year-old was perfectly placed for a 14th hundred in the 50-overs format but holed out to leg-spinner Yasir Shah in the 42nd over. Maxwell and wicketkeeper-batsman Alex Carey (25 not out) added a quickfire 61 for the sixth wicket as Australia hit 90 in the last 10 overs. Chasing a target of 267, Pakistan were rattled by a testing new-ball spell from Australian fast bowler Pat Cummins, who removed opener Shan Masood, Haris Sohail and Mohammad Rizwan with just 16 runs on the board. Imam-ul-Haq and captain Shoaib Malik shared a 59-run partnership for the fourth wicket before the Australian spinners stepped up. Part-time off-spinner Maxwell trapped Imam lbw for 46 and Nathan Lyon removed Malik for 32, leaving Pakistan on the brink of a fourth straight defeat in the format. Leg-spinner Adam Zampa hurried through the tail with a career-best ODI spell of 4-43 to bowl out Pakistan for 186 in the 45th over. The win was Australia's sixth in a row after their 3-2 comeback victory in the series in India this month. The fourth one-dayer will be played on Friday in Dubai.

AUSvsPAK, 3rd ODI: Australia overpower Pakistan to clinch ODI series

Amid speculation&nbsp;that <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/indo-pak-world-cup-match-bound-by-icc-agreement-icc-chief-david-richardson-204177">India might not&nbsp;play Pakistan at the upcoming ICC Cricket World Cup 2019</a>, former India opener Gautam Gambhir has urged the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to develop a firm stand on cricketing relations with Pakistan.&nbsp;

Gambhir, who was addressing the media on the sidelines of a promotional event, stressed that BCCI should either snap all cricketing ties with Pakistan, including multi-lateral events, or engage with India's arch-rivals at every level as "there can't be conditional bans".&nbsp;

After the Pulwama terror attack, Gambhir had voiced his opinion — of snapping all cricketing ties with Pakistan — several times and said BCCI has to decide and then be prepared for the consequences.

"There can't be conditional bans. Either you ban everything with Pakistan or open everything with Pakistan. What has happened in Pulwama is absolutely not acceptable," Gambhir had said.

"I am sure its going to be difficult for India to boycott them in ICC tournaments but stop playing Pakistan in the Asia Cup," the left-hander said.

Gambhir reiterated that there should be a blanket ban on engagement with Pakistan even if it comes at the cost of being ostracised by the sporting community.

"There could be repercussions and we may not qualify for the semi-finals. No media should blame the Indian team if they plan to boycott playing Pakistan," he said.

The BCCI had appealed to the ICC to snap ties with countries from where terror emanates in a veiled reference to Pakistan but the request was turned down at the ICC board meeting in Dubai.

When asked what should be done if the two teams meet in the final, Gambhir said that in that case, India should forfeit the final.

Amid speculation that India might not play Pakistan at the upcoming ICC Cricket World Cup 2019, former India opener Gautam Gambhir has urged the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to develop a firm stand on cricketing relations with Pakistan.

Amid speculation that India might not play Pakistan at the upcoming ICC Cricket World Cup 2019, former India opener Gautam Gambhir has urged the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to develop a firm stand on cricketing relations with Pakistan. Gambhir, who was addressing the media on the sidelines of a promotional event, stressed that BCCI should either snap all cricketing ties with Pakistan, including multi-lateral events, or engage with India's arch-rivals at every level as "there can't be conditional bans". After the Pulwama terror attack, Gambhir had voiced his opinion — of snapping all cricketing ties with Pakistan — several times and said BCCI has to decide and then be prepared for the consequences. "There can't be conditional bans. Either you ban everything with Pakistan or open everything with Pakistan. What has happened in Pulwama is absolutely not acceptable," Gambhir had said. "I am sure its going to be difficult for India to boycott them in ICC tournaments but stop playing Pakistan in the Asia Cup," the left-hander said. Gambhir reiterated that there should be a blanket ban on engagement with Pakistan even if it comes at the cost of being ostracised by the sporting community. "There could be repercussions and we may not qualify for the semi-finals. No media should blame the Indian team if they plan to boycott playing Pakistan," he said. The BCCI had appealed to the ICC to snap ties with countries from where terror emanates in a veiled reference to Pakistan but the request was turned down at the ICC board meeting in Dubai. When asked what should be done if the two teams meet in the final, Gambhir said that in that case, India should forfeit the final.

Either snap all cricketing ties or engage at every level with Pakistan: Gautam Gambhir to BCCI

The International Cricket Council is confident the June 16 <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-sources-on-india-playing-pak-at-cricket-world-cup-will-not-play-if-government-does-not-want-us-to-198443">World Cup match between Indian and Pakistan </a>will go ahead despite last week's attack claimed by Pakistan-based militants on Indian forces in disputed Kashmir, chief executive David Richardson has said.

A suicide bomber on Thursday attacked a paramilitary police convoy in India's Kashmir, killing at least 40 in the deadliest single assault on Indian forces in 30 years of insurgency in the Muslim-majority region.

Angry Indian fans have demanded boycotting the marquee match in England though neither of the cricket boards has publicly expressed any such desire.&nbsp;

"Certainly there are no indications any of the matches, including the Pakistan-India match, will not be played as planned at the World Cup," ICC chief executive David Richardson told cricket website http://www.cricinfo.com

"But ... we will continue to monitor the situation."

However, some sources in BCCI have said&nbsp;India will not play Pakistan at the 2019&nbsp;World Cup if the government does not want them to.&nbsp;The sources said the "situation will get clearer after some time, a little closer to the World Cup. &nbsp;

Bitter rivals India and Pakistan are scheduled to clash at Old Trafford in Manchester in what would be one of the most eagerly-anticipated matches at the May 30-July 14 tournament.

More than 400,000 applications had been made for the 25,000 tickets available for the match, organisers said.

"To put that in perspective, England v Australia was around 230-240,000," World Cup tournament director Steve Elworthy told Cricinfo. "And the final was around about 260-270,000 applications for tickets.

"So that gives you a bit of perspective for the demand for this match.

"It's a big game."

The International Cricket Council is confident the June 16 World Cup match between Indian and Pakistan will go ahead despite last week's attack claimed by Pakistan-based militants on Indian forces in disputed Kashmir, chief executive David Richardson has said.

The International Cricket Council is confident the June 16 World Cup match between Indian and Pakistan will go ahead despite last week's attack claimed by Pakistan-based militants on Indian forces in disputed Kashmir, chief executive David Richardson has said. A suicide bomber on Thursday attacked a paramilitary police convoy in India's Kashmir, killing at least 40 in the deadliest single assault on Indian forces in 30 years of insurgency in the Muslim-majority region. Angry Indian fans have demanded boycotting the marquee match in England though neither of the cricket boards has publicly expressed any such desire. "Certainly there are no indications any of the matches, including the Pakistan-India match, will not be played as planned at the World Cup," ICC chief executive David Richardson told cricket website http://www.cricinfo.com "But ... we will continue to monitor the situation." However, some sources in BCCI have said India will not play Pakistan at the 2019 World Cup if the government does not want them to. The sources said the "situation will get clearer after some time, a little closer to the World Cup. Bitter rivals India and Pakistan are scheduled to clash at Old Trafford in Manchester in what would be one of the most eagerly-anticipated matches at the May 30-July 14 tournament. More than 400,000 applications had been made for the 25,000 tickets available for the match, organisers said. "To put that in perspective, England v Australia was around 230-240,000," World Cup tournament director Steve Elworthy told Cricinfo. "And the final was around about 260-270,000 applications for tickets. "So that gives you a bit of perspective for the demand for this match. "It's a big game."

ICC expects India-Pakistan game to go through despite tensions

Sarfraz Ahmed will continue as Pakistan captain at the World Cup in May despite serving a suspension for breaching the anti-racism code, Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Ehsan Mani said on Tuesday.

Sarfraz was suspended for four matches by the International Cricket Council (ICC) when an on-field taunt aimed at South Africa's Andile Phehlukwayo was caught by stump microphones. Sarfraz admitted the offence and apoligised for his conduct.

"Sarfraz will remain Pakistan captain until the World Cup, I was always clear in my mind that Sarfraz would be the captain," Mani told reporters in Lahore.

"He will remain so until any other decision is taken," Mani added, saying Sarfraz's performance as captain would be evaluated only after the World Cup.

The PCB had rallied in support of Sarfraz, saying they were disappointed by the ICC's decision to suspend him after the matter had been resolved, and Mani backed him to lead the team.

The 31-year-old wicketkeeper, who led Pakistan to the ICC Champions Trophy title in 2017, was thankful for the board's support.

"The past few weeks have been extremely difficult for me as a person and professional, but I am delighted that the PCB has reassured its confidence and faith in me," Sarfraz said.

"In the lead up to the World Cup, Pakistan will play five ODIs each against Australia and England, which will also allow us the opportunity to further fine-tune our preparations."

Pakistan, who last won the World Cup in 1992, will begin their campaign against West Indies at Trent Bridge on May 31. The final of the 50-over tournament is scheduled for Sunday, July 14.

Sarfraz Ahmed will continue as Pakistan captain at the World Cup in May despite serving a suspension for breaching the anti-racism code, Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Ehsan Mani said on Tuesday.

Sarfraz Ahmed will continue as Pakistan captain at the World Cup in May despite serving a suspension for breaching the anti-racism code, Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Ehsan Mani said on Tuesday. Sarfraz was suspended for four matches by the International Cricket Council (ICC) when an on-field taunt aimed at South Africa's Andile Phehlukwayo was caught by stump microphones. Sarfraz admitted the offence and apoligised for his conduct. "Sarfraz will remain Pakistan captain until the World Cup, I was always clear in my mind that Sarfraz would be the captain," Mani told reporters in Lahore. "He will remain so until any other decision is taken," Mani added, saying Sarfraz's performance as captain would be evaluated only after the World Cup. The PCB had rallied in support of Sarfraz, saying they were disappointed by the ICC's decision to suspend him after the matter had been resolved, and Mani backed him to lead the team. The 31-year-old wicketkeeper, who led Pakistan to the ICC Champions Trophy title in 2017, was thankful for the board's support. "The past few weeks have been extremely difficult for me as a person and professional, but I am delighted that the PCB has reassured its confidence and faith in me," Sarfraz said. "In the lead up to the World Cup, Pakistan will play five ODIs each against Australia and England, which will also allow us the opportunity to further fine-tune our preparations." Pakistan, who last won the World Cup in 1992, will begin their campaign against West Indies at Trent Bridge on May 31. The final of the 50-over tournament is scheduled for Sunday, July 14.

Sarfraz Ahmed to captain Pakistan at World Cup, says PCB chief

Indian cricket team head coach Ravi Shastri on Tuesday compared skipper Virat Kohli to iconic former Pakistan cricket captain Imran Khan.

"The closest I have seen to the great man. Virat is in your face, he wants to dominate and has a work ethic like no one else. Whether it comes to discipline, training, sacrifice or self-denial, it is unbelievable.

"I think India is lucky to have a leader of that sort. He reminds me of Imran Khan in many ways - in the way he sets the example and sets the standards, and goes about defining it in his own way and leading from the front," Shastri said.

However, Shastri is confident that Kohli will evolve further as a captain.

"As far as I am concerned, tactically, there is still room for plenty of improvement as captain. He has gotten better and better, and better, and I thought in the Australian Test series, tactically he outsmarted Australia.

"I still see more room across formats for him to evolve. As a captain, Virat will evolve further," said Shastri.

Speaking about Indian bowlers, Shastri asserted that Kuldeep Yadav is firmly ahead of veteran Ravichandran Ashwin in the pecking order as India's frontline spinner on foreign soil.&nbsp;

Shastri cited Kuldeep's five-wicket haul against Australia in the Sydney Test this year.&nbsp;

Shastri made it clear that going forward, wrist spinners will be in vogue in Test cricket and Kuldeep is "already" ahead of Ashwin and Jadeja as country's No.1 spinner.

"Already! He plays overseas Test cricket and he gets five wickets, so he becomes our primary overseas spinner. Going ahead, if we have to play one spinner, he is the one we will pick," Shastri told the 'Cricbuzz' website.

"There is a time for everyone (referring to Ashwin's poor fitness record in 2018). But now Kuldeep is our frontline number one overseas spinner," he added.

Kuldeep bagged a five-for in the rain-affected Sydney Test and most of the Australian batsmen failed to read him.

"I was very impressed with the way Kuldeep bowled in Sydney. Even in Test cricket, it is going to be the age of wrist spin, especially in overseas Test cricket. The way he bowled in Sydney, he becomes our number one spinner in overseas Test cricket," Shastri said.

Cheteshwar Pujara was a revelation during the tour of Australia where he played a massive role in the country's first ever 2-1 series win, fetching the player of the series award for it.

However, the same Pujara was dropped for the first Test against England in Birmingham and Shastri revealed how a minor glitch in his stance was corrected, which wasn't entirely technical.&nbsp;

"It wasn't a technical issue. It was in his posture and the way he stood at the crease. It was a small thing, which can happen when you have played day in, and day out. I felt it was an issue," Shastri said.&nbsp;

"We had to factor in if we wanted to take the risk of that first Test or get him right for the next 7-8 Tests. Or, take that chance of playing in all 8 Tests and he doesn't have enough time to sort that," the coach, known for his cricketing acumen, said.

According to Shastri, the problem crept in when Pujara was playing county cricket in 2018 and it was a "conscious decision" to drop Pujara in England.

"And I will do that again if I get the results like the way I have," said the straight talking coach.

Since coming back from Australia, Pujara has played three back to back first-class games for Saurashtra, including the ongoing Ranji final in Nagpur and the coach feels it's time he takes some rest.&nbsp;

"...I feel like calling him from New Zealand and saying, enough Puji, take off your pads now and sit down!"

"And like I said earlier, he is the quintessential professional. That guy, when he gets in, he smells the leather. He doesn't let the bowler make him smell the leather. Chin music is different, when the bowler makes the ball go past you," he said.

And then there was an inimitable Shastri comment about how Pujara goes about his job, saying no one smells the leather in defence better than Pujara.

Indian cricket team head coach Ravi Shastri on Tuesday compared skipper Virat Kohli to iconic former Pakistan cricket captain Imran Khan. "The closest I have seen to the great man.

Indian cricket team head coach Ravi Shastri on Tuesday compared skipper Virat Kohli to iconic former Pakistan cricket captain Imran Khan. "The closest I have seen to the great man. Virat is in your face, he wants to dominate and has a work ethic like no one else. Whether it comes to discipline, training, sacrifice or self-denial, it is unbelievable. "I think India is lucky to have a leader of that sort. He reminds me of Imran Khan in many ways - in the way he sets the example and sets the standards, and goes about defining it in his own way and leading from the front," Shastri said. However, Shastri is confident that Kohli will evolve further as a captain. "As far as I am concerned, tactically, there is still room for plenty of improvement as captain. He has gotten better and better, and better, and I thought in the Australian Test series, tactically he outsmarted Australia. "I still see more room across formats for him to evolve. As a captain, Virat will evolve further," said Shastri. Speaking about Indian bowlers, Shastri asserted that Kuldeep Yadav is firmly ahead of veteran Ravichandran Ashwin in the pecking order as India's frontline spinner on foreign soil. Shastri cited Kuldeep's five-wicket haul against Australia in the Sydney Test this year. Shastri made it clear that going forward, wrist spinners will be in vogue in Test cricket and Kuldeep is "already" ahead of Ashwin and Jadeja as country's No.1 spinner. "Already! He plays overseas Test cricket and he gets five wickets, so he becomes our primary overseas spinner. Going ahead, if we have to play one spinner, he is the one we will pick," Shastri told the 'Cricbuzz' website. "There is a time for everyone (referring to Ashwin's poor fitness record in 2018). But now Kuldeep is our frontline number one overseas spinner," he added. Kuldeep bagged a five-for in the rain-affected Sydney Test and most of the Australian batsmen failed to read him. "I was very impressed with the way Kuldeep bowled in Sydney. Even in Test cricket, it is going to be the age of wrist spin, especially in overseas Test cricket. The way he bowled in Sydney, he becomes our number one spinner in overseas Test cricket," Shastri said. Cheteshwar Pujara was a revelation during the tour of Australia where he played a massive role in the country's first ever 2-1 series win, fetching the player of the series award for it. However, the same Pujara was dropped for the first Test against England in Birmingham and Shastri revealed how a minor glitch in his stance was corrected, which wasn't entirely technical. "It wasn't a technical issue. It was in his posture and the way he stood at the crease. It was a small thing, which can happen when you have played day in, and day out. I felt it was an issue," Shastri said. "We had to factor in if we wanted to take the risk of that first Test or get him right for the next 7-8 Tests. Or, take that chance of playing in all 8 Tests and he doesn't have enough time to sort that," the coach, known for his cricketing acumen, said. According to Shastri, the problem crept in when Pujara was playing county cricket in 2018 and it was a "conscious decision" to drop Pujara in England. "And I will do that again if I get the results like the way I have," said the straight talking coach. Since coming back from Australia, Pujara has played three back to back first-class games for Saurashtra, including the ongoing Ranji final in Nagpur and the coach feels it's time he takes some rest. "...I feel like calling him from New Zealand and saying, enough Puji, take off your pads now and sit down!" "And like I said earlier, he is the quintessential professional. That guy, when he gets in, he smells the leather. He doesn't let the bowler make him smell the leather. Chin music is different, when the bowler makes the ball go past you," he said. And then there was an inimitable Shastri comment about how Pujara goes about his job, saying no one smells the leather in defence better than Pujara.

Virat Kohli 'reminds me of Imran Khan', says India coach Ravi Shastri

Pakistan skipper Sarfaraz Ahmed has stated that former pacer Shoaib Akhtar is making a personal attack by criticising him following his suspension for hurling racial remarks at South African fast bowler&nbsp;Andile Phehlukwayo during their second ODI in Durban, last week.

The 31-year-old further stated that he has <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/pakistan-captain-sarfraz-ahmed-accepts-mistake-says-have-learnt-lesson-193764">accepted his mistake</a> and is now looking forward to improving his performance.“He [Shoaib Akhtar] is attacking me personally not criticising,” Geo TV quoted Sarfaraz, as saying.

“I accepted my mistake and received the punishment. I want to thank PCB for handling this case and fulfilling requirements. I will improve myself and my performance in the future and I thank my supporters for their backing,” he added.&nbsp;

Akhtar had, reportedly, said that with four-match suspension for the incident, <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/pcb-says-its-disappointed-at-icc-decision-to-suspend-sarfraz-ahmed-for-4-matches-193287">Sarfaraz has gotten off easily</a>.

The right-arm bowler had also criticised the captain’s remarks saying that such comments are not acceptable in Pakistan.“This [Sarafaz incident] is not acceptable as a Pakistani. In my opinion he [Sarfaraz] did this in the heat of the moment. I think he should apologize publically,” Akhtar had said in a Twitter video.

When quizzed about the decision of Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) to call him back to the country, the wicket-keeper batsman said that there is nothing surprising about it as he has been playing cricket for past five months and that he would now take some rest.

“I don`t see anything in it as I was playing cricket for the last five months. I will rest and then play Pakistan Super League,” he said.

Sarfaraz was handed over a <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/pakistan-cricket-captain-sarfraz-ahmed-gets-4-match-suspension-over-racist-remark-by-icc-193139">four-match suspension by the International Cricket Council (ICC)</a> for breaching their anti-racism code.

He was picked up by the stump mic saying, "Hey black [man], where is your mother sitting? What prayer did you get her to say for you today?" (Abay kaalay, teri ammi aaj kahan baitheen hain? Kya parhwa ke aya hai aaj tu?).As the issue raked up, the batsman had apologised personally to Phehlukwayo and had also issued a public apology.&nbsp;

Pakistan skipper Sarfaraz Ahmed has stated that former pacer Shoaib Akhtar is making a personal attack by criticising him following his suspension for hurling racial remarks at South African fast bowler Andile Phehlukwayo during their second ODI in Durban, last week.

Pakistan skipper Sarfaraz Ahmed has stated that former pacer Shoaib Akhtar is making a personal attack by criticising him following his suspension for hurling racial remarks at South African fast bowler Andile Phehlukwayo during their second ODI in Durban, last week. The 31-year-old further stated that he has accepted his mistake and is now looking forward to improving his performance.“He [Shoaib Akhtar] is attacking me personally not criticising,” Geo TV quoted Sarfaraz, as saying. “I accepted my mistake and received the punishment. I want to thank PCB for handling this case and fulfilling requirements. I will improve myself and my performance in the future and I thank my supporters for their backing,” he added. Akhtar had, reportedly, said that with four-match suspension for the incident, Sarfaraz has gotten off easily. The right-arm bowler had also criticised the captain’s remarks saying that such comments are not acceptable in Pakistan.“This [Sarafaz incident] is not acceptable as a Pakistani. In my opinion he [Sarfaraz] did this in the heat of the moment. I think he should apologize publically,” Akhtar had said in a Twitter video. When quizzed about the decision of Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) to call him back to the country, the wicket-keeper batsman said that there is nothing surprising about it as he has been playing cricket for past five months and that he would now take some rest. “I don`t see anything in it as I was playing cricket for the last five months. I will rest and then play Pakistan Super League,” he said. Sarfaraz was handed over a four-match suspension by the International Cricket Council (ICC) for breaching their anti-racism code. He was picked up by the stump mic saying, "Hey black [man], where is your mother sitting? What prayer did you get her to say for you today?" (Abay kaalay, teri ammi aaj kahan baitheen hain? Kya parhwa ke aya hai aaj tu?).As the issue raked up, the batsman had apologised personally to Phehlukwayo and had also issued a public apology.

Sarfaraz Ahmed: Shoaib Akhtar making personal attacks on me

Accepting his "mistake" after being <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/pakistan-cricket-captain-sarfraz-ahmed-gets-4-match-suspension-over-racist-remark-by-icc-193139">banned for his racial remarks</a> against a South African cricketer, banned <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/pcb-says-its-disappointed-at-icc-decision-to-suspend-sarfraz-ahmed-for-4-matches-193287">Pakistan captain Sarfraz Ahmed</a> on Tuesday said that he has learnt a lesson from the unsavoury episode. &nbsp;

Soon after returning from South Africa, Sarfaraz has said that he has realised his mistake and that is why he had immediately apologised publicly after the episode.

"It was a mistake and I have learnt from it," Sarfraz told reporters.

Sarfaraz, who is Pakistan's permanent captain in all three formats, has been forced to return home after the ICC had imposed a four-match ban on him for making racially motivated comments about Andile Phehlukwayo during the third ODI in Durban.

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) was quick to express its utter disappointment about the ICC's decision to ban Sarfaraz, noting that he had apologised immediately for his remarks to the South African team and also went and met with Phehlukwayo and expressed regrets to him.

Sarfraz thanked PCB for its support but his supporters raised slogans against the ICC for the ban soon after his forced return to the country.

"I am thankful to the PCB for the way they have handled this case," Sarfaraz said.

"I also accept the ICC decision to ban me for four matches and for me that issue is closed but I will do whatever the PCB tells me to do," he added.

Sarfaraz had returned home from South Africa to a rousing and emotional welcome from his supporters.

Around a 100 people holding banners and placards in favour of Sarfaraz and against the ICC were at the Karachi airport to greet him when he came out of the terminal building.

Slogans were raised in his favour with some shouting loudly that Sarfaraz is the permanent captain of the team and no one should think about removing him.

Pakistan will still have the third and final T20 international to play against South Africa on February 6 after the ban on Sarfaraz ends, but the PCB has called him back and appointed veteran Shoaib Malik to lead the team in his absence.

Malik led the team to victory in the fourth ODI to level the five-match ODI series at 2-2 with the decider to be played on Wednesday.

Speculations are rife in Pakistan cricket that if Malik manages to win the ODI and T20 series, he could well be considered to lead Pakistan in the ICC World Cup in

England, something which has greatly upset the supporters of Sarfaraz.

"I have no issues with the PCB decision to call me back. In a way I see it as a good chance to get some rest and prepare for the coming Pakistan Super League as I have been playing non-stop cricket for around five months now," Sarfraz said.

Asked about comments made by former fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar about him after the incident, Sarfaraz said what Akhtar had said had nothing to do with cricket and it was a personal attack.

"That is all I want to say," he said when asked again about the matter.

The PCB has kept quiet about the future of Sarfaraz as captain but an official noted that it was the policy of the board to appoint the skipper on a series-to-series basis.

Accepting his "mistake" after being banned for his racial remarks against a South African cricketer, banned Pakistan captain Sarfraz Ahmed on Tuesday said that he has learnt a lesson from the unsavoury episode.

Accepting his "mistake" after being banned for his racial remarks against a South African cricketer, banned Pakistan captain Sarfraz Ahmed on Tuesday said that he has learnt a lesson from the unsavoury episode. Soon after returning from South Africa, Sarfaraz has said that he has realised his mistake and that is why he had immediately apologised publicly after the episode. "It was a mistake and I have learnt from it," Sarfraz told reporters. Sarfaraz, who is Pakistan's permanent captain in all three formats, has been forced to return home after the ICC had imposed a four-match ban on him for making racially motivated comments about Andile Phehlukwayo during the third ODI in Durban. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) was quick to express its utter disappointment about the ICC's decision to ban Sarfaraz, noting that he had apologised immediately for his remarks to the South African team and also went and met with Phehlukwayo and expressed regrets to him. Sarfraz thanked PCB for its support but his supporters raised slogans against the ICC for the ban soon after his forced return to the country. "I am thankful to the PCB for the way they have handled this case," Sarfaraz said. "I also accept the ICC decision to ban me for four matches and for me that issue is closed but I will do whatever the PCB tells me to do," he added. Sarfaraz had returned home from South Africa to a rousing and emotional welcome from his supporters. Around a 100 people holding banners and placards in favour of Sarfaraz and against the ICC were at the Karachi airport to greet him when he came out of the terminal building. Slogans were raised in his favour with some shouting loudly that Sarfaraz is the permanent captain of the team and no one should think about removing him. Pakistan will still have the third and final T20 international to play against South Africa on February 6 after the ban on Sarfaraz ends, but the PCB has called him back and appointed veteran Shoaib Malik to lead the team in his absence. Malik led the team to victory in the fourth ODI to level the five-match ODI series at 2-2 with the decider to be played on Wednesday. Speculations are rife in Pakistan cricket that if Malik manages to win the ODI and T20 series, he could well be considered to lead Pakistan in the ICC World Cup in England, something which has greatly upset the supporters of Sarfaraz. "I have no issues with the PCB decision to call me back. In a way I see it as a good chance to get some rest and prepare for the coming Pakistan Super League as I have been playing non-stop cricket for around five months now," Sarfraz said. Asked about comments made by former fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar about him after the incident, Sarfaraz said what Akhtar had said had nothing to do with cricket and it was a personal attack. "That is all I want to say," he said when asked again about the matter. The PCB has kept quiet about the future of Sarfaraz as captain but an official noted that it was the policy of the board to appoint the skipper on a series-to-series basis.

Pakistan captain Sarfraz Ahmed accepts mistake, says 'have learnt' lesson

Pakistan Cricket Board will set up an inquiry to find out the reasons behind the national team's poor performance in the recent three-Test series against South Africa, said its chairman Ehsan Mani.

Pakistan suffered a 0-3 defeat to South Africa in the Test series and Mani said that recent results are disappointing and understandably cricket fans were also upset with the Test performances.

Talking to the media in Islamabad, Mani said that after the tour to South Africa is over, the PCB would have an inquiry into the team's poor Test performances.

"No doubt everyone is disappointed with the way our team played in the Test series in South Africa. We will do our best to find out the causes of defeat by holding an in-depth inquiry," Mani said.

Pakistan was whitewashed by the South Africans and before that they lost a three-match Test series to New Zealand in the UAE by 1-2.

A well-informed source in the board told PTI that Mani had already spoken to the head of the cricket committee, Mohsin Khan and asked him to meet with his committee members and prepare a report on what they felt went wrong in the Test matches.

The cricket committee also includes former captains, Wasim Akram and Misbah-ul-Haq and former national women's team skipper, Urooj Mumtaz.

Though the cricket committee can only recommend and make suggestions to the Chairman but the source said that they had been closely watching the performances of the

Pakistan team and had some reservations over some selections and other issues.

Pakistan bounced back in the first match of the five-match one-day international series, winning by five wickets on Saturday.

Mani also said that the PCB was paying a lot of attention to the national women's team and providing more facilities and structure for women's cricket.

He said efforts were being made to encourage more girls to take up the game and also bring in new players into the national side.

He also made it clear that national sports federations needed to understand that sports cant be run through just government funding and these federations also needed to get sponsorship from big corporates and banks and build up their resources.&nbsp;

Pakistan Cricket Board will set up an inquiry to find out the reasons behind the national team's poor performance in the recent three-Test series against South Africa, said its chairman Ehsan Mani.

Pakistan Cricket Board will set up an inquiry to find out the reasons behind the national team's poor performance in the recent three-Test series against South Africa, said its chairman Ehsan Mani. Pakistan suffered a 0-3 defeat to South Africa in the Test series and Mani said that recent results are disappointing and understandably cricket fans were also upset with the Test performances. Talking to the media in Islamabad, Mani said that after the tour to South Africa is over, the PCB would have an inquiry into the team's poor Test performances. "No doubt everyone is disappointed with the way our team played in the Test series in South Africa. We will do our best to find out the causes of defeat by holding an in-depth inquiry," Mani said. Pakistan was whitewashed by the South Africans and before that they lost a three-match Test series to New Zealand in the UAE by 1-2. A well-informed source in the board told PTI that Mani had already spoken to the head of the cricket committee, Mohsin Khan and asked him to meet with his committee members and prepare a report on what they felt went wrong in the Test matches. The cricket committee also includes former captains, Wasim Akram and Misbah-ul-Haq and former national women's team skipper, Urooj Mumtaz. Though the cricket committee can only recommend and make suggestions to the Chairman but the source said that they had been closely watching the performances of the Pakistan team and had some reservations over some selections and other issues. Pakistan bounced back in the first match of the five-match one-day international series, winning by five wickets on Saturday. Mani also said that the PCB was paying a lot of attention to the national women's team and providing more facilities and structure for women's cricket. He said efforts were being made to encourage more girls to take up the game and also bring in new players into the national side. He also made it clear that national sports federations needed to understand that sports cant be run through just government funding and these federations also needed to get sponsorship from big corporates and banks and build up their resources.

PCB to probe Pakistan's poor Test performance in South Africa: Chairman Ehsan Mani

South Africa need seven more wickets to clinch the third test and the series after Pakistan were 153 for the loss of three wickets at stumps on Sunday.&nbsp;

The 'Men in Green' are still 228 runs short of a daunting winning target.

For the Proteas, Dale Steyn claimed two wickets and Duane Olivier the other for his 22nd of the series as South Africa removed the top order after Pakistan had made a solid start with a 67-run opening wicket partnership.

Pakistan had been set a target of 381 to win after bowling their hosts out for 303 before tea on the third day of the test in Johannesburg.

They will resume on Monday with Asad Shafiq not out on 48 and Babar Azam on 17.

Meanwhile, Quinton de Kock hit the highest score of the series to put South Africa in a position for a third successive test win.

He scored 129 off 138 balls for only the second century of the series, following Faf du Plessis’ 103 in the second test in Cape Town last week.

South Africa need seven more wickets to clinch the third test and the series after Pakistan were 153 for the loss of three wickets at stumps on Sunday. The 'Men in Green' are still 228 runs short of a daunting winning target.

South Africa need seven more wickets to clinch the third test and the series after Pakistan were 153 for the loss of three wickets at stumps on Sunday. The 'Men in Green' are still 228 runs short of a daunting winning target. For the Proteas, Dale Steyn claimed two wickets and Duane Olivier the other for his 22nd of the series as South Africa removed the top order after Pakistan had made a solid start with a 67-run opening wicket partnership. Pakistan had been set a target of 381 to win after bowling their hosts out for 303 before tea on the third day of the test in Johannesburg. They will resume on Monday with Asad Shafiq not out on 48 and Babar Azam on 17. Meanwhile, Quinton de Kock hit the highest score of the series to put South Africa in a position for a third successive test win. He scored 129 off 138 balls for only the second century of the series, following Faf du Plessis’ 103 in the second test in Cape Town last week.

PAK vs SA: Proteas need seven wickets to sweep third Test, series

By&nbsp;Kavya Nath

Six-time Grand Slam winner Sania Mirza is adjusting to her new responsibilities of being a mother alongside her long-term love for the sport - Tennis.&nbsp;

The former World No. 1 has been out of action since October 2017,&nbsp;due to pregnancy, and gave birth to her first child- Izhaan - with Pakistani cricketer Shoaib Malik.

The 32-year old, however, is planning an early return to the court as she feels that being a mother doesn't mean one should give up on their dreams.

"There are many tennis playing mothers who have done really well in the past as well, whether it was Kim Clijsters or Serena Williams today. They are definitely inspirational in many ways but I always believe that we being pregnant like a lot of people think is not the end of your world, its the beginning of your world, of your life, you should not give up on your own dreams just because you have a child, that is one of my inspirations to get back," Sania said in an exclusive interview with WION.

"Whatever I wish to do in my life whether it is playing tennis or anything else that I love, I don't think having a child should hold me back," she added.

When asked if there is any specific tournament with which she would like to make her return, Sania said she has no 'definite timeline' and first wants to get back to peak fitness.

"Roughly I would like to set end of the year or something, because honestly being pregnant, the whole thing it takes a lot of you, it takes a lot out of your body, to get back to peak fitness I will need some time, right now I am focusing on losing all the pregnancy weight, I start training with my trainer next month, we will see how may body reacts as well, I have no idea how its going to react. I am looking forward to a whole new journey, a new experience with my son and hopefully by the end of the year, if things go well I should be back."

Throughout her career, Mirza has established herself as the most successful and highest-paid female Indian tennis player ever.&nbsp;

From 2003 until her retirement from singles in 2013, Sania was ranked &nbsp;India's No. 1 player in both the categories by the WTA.

On being asked if it was a tough decision for her to become a parent at the peak of her career, Sania said she felt 'it was the right time'.&nbsp;

"I always wanted to be a parent and a mother. With my knee injury Shoaib and I spoke about it, it was either going to be this year or the next year that we were going to have a baby so we just thought the timing was right and everything turned out well, when we got pregnant we were elated and very happy."

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Sania, the former World No. 1 in the doubles discipline, will make her return as a working mom and was in a dilemma when questioned how tough it would be tough for her to play professionally and be a mom at the same time.

Terming it a bit of a hypothetical question, Sania said, "If you ask me as a mother on court yet I don't know...as a mother otherwise of course it is."&nbsp;

"You don't get the amount of sleep that you require, stuff like that is normal with a baby, by the end of the year he will be a little older as well, there will be a pattern to things, eating, sleeping and everything."

Sania, however, concluded the interview, saying it would be nice to travel for her tournaments with a new member, her son, on board.

(Kavya Nath is an Associate Producer, Sports with WION)

By Kavya Nath Six-time Grand Slam winner Sania Mirza is adjusting to her new responsibilities of being a mother alongside her long-term love for the sport - Tennis.

By Kavya Nath Six-time Grand Slam winner Sania Mirza is adjusting to her new responsibilities of being a mother alongside her long-term love for the sport - Tennis. The former World No. 1 has been out of action since October 2017, due to pregnancy, and gave birth to her first child- Izhaan - with Pakistani cricketer Shoaib Malik. The 32-year old, however, is planning an early return to the court as she feels that being a mother doesn't mean one should give up on their dreams. "There are many tennis playing mothers who have done really well in the past as well, whether it was Kim Clijsters or Serena Williams today. They are definitely inspirational in many ways but I always believe that we being pregnant like a lot of people think is not the end of your world, its the beginning of your world, of your life, you should not give up on your own dreams just because you have a child, that is one of my inspirations to get back," Sania said in an exclusive interview with WION. "Whatever I wish to do in my life whether it is playing tennis or anything else that I love, I don't think having a child should hold me back," she added. When asked if there is any specific tournament with which she would like to make her return, Sania said she has no 'definite timeline' and first wants to get back to peak fitness. "Roughly I would like to set end of the year or something, because honestly being pregnant, the whole thing it takes a lot of you, it takes a lot out of your body, to get back to peak fitness I will need some time, right now I am focusing on losing all the pregnancy weight, I start training with my trainer next month, we will see how may body reacts as well, I have no idea how its going to react. I am looking forward to a whole new journey, a new experience with my son and hopefully by the end of the year, if things go well I should be back." Throughout her career, Mirza has established herself as the most successful and highest-paid female Indian tennis player ever. From 2003 until her retirement from singles in 2013, Sania was ranked India's No. 1 player in both the categories by the WTA. On being asked if it was a tough decision for her to become a parent at the peak of her career, Sania said she felt 'it was the right time'. "I always wanted to be a parent and a mother. With my knee injury Shoaib and I spoke about it, it was either going to be this year or the next year that we were going to have a baby so we just thought the timing was right and everything turned out well, when we got pregnant we were elated and very happy." × Sania, the former World No. 1 in the doubles discipline, will make her return as a working mom and was in a dilemma when questioned how tough it would be tough for her to play professionally and be a mom at the same time. Terming it a bit of a hypothetical question, Sania said, "If you ask me as a mother on court yet I don't know...as a mother otherwise of course it is." "You don't get the amount of sleep that you require, stuff like that is normal with a baby, by the end of the year he will be a little older as well, there will be a pattern to things, eating, sleeping and everything." Sania, however, concluded the interview, saying it would be nice to travel for her tournaments with a new member, her son, on board. (Kavya Nath is an Associate Producer, Sports with WION)

'No definite timeline' but being a mother won't 'hold me back' from tennis: Sania Mirza to WION

South Africa have named uncapped batsman Rassie van der Dussen in their 14-man squad for the first two contests of the five-match home one-day international series against Pakistan as they explore options ahead of the World Cup later this year.

The 29-year-old Van der Dussen was the highest scorer in the recent Mzansi Super League domestic Twenty20 competition, averaging almost 60 in 12 matches at a strike-rate of close to 140.

Returning to the squad are seamer Dane Paterson and stalwart batsman Hashim Amla, who missed the away series win in Australia in November through injury.&nbsp;

Batsman JP Duminy and fast bowler Lungi Ngidi have not been considered because of injury.

"We need to look at all the options available to us as we get closer to selecting our final squad for this year`s World Cup and Rassie and Dane are two players who have been knocking strongly on the door in all formats," Cricket South Africa selection convener Linda Zondi said in a statement on Thursday.

"Those players who went to Australia and have not been selected for the first two matches -- Farhaan Behardien, Aiden Markram and Chris Morris -- are by no means out of the picture, and they may well get further opportunities in the second half of the series."

The first ODI will be played in Port Elizabeth on Jan. 19, with the second in Durban three days later.

The 50-over World Cup is being held in England and Wales from May 30-July 14.

Squad: 
Faf du Plessis (captain), Hashim Amla, Quinton de Kock, Reeza Hendricks, Imran Tahir, Heinrich Klaasen, David Miller, Dane Paterson, Andile Phehlukwayo, Dwaine Pretorius, Kagiso Rabada, Tabraiz Shamsi, Dale Steyn, Rassie van der Dussen.

South Africa have named uncapped batsman Rassie van der Dussen in their 14-man squad for the first two contests of the five-match home one-day international series against Pakistan as they explore options ahead of the World Cup later this year.

South Africa have named uncapped batsman Rassie van der Dussen in their 14-man squad for the first two contests of the five-match home one-day international series against Pakistan as they explore options ahead of the World Cup later this year. The 29-year-old Van der Dussen was the highest scorer in the recent Mzansi Super League domestic Twenty20 competition, averaging almost 60 in 12 matches at a strike-rate of close to 140. Returning to the squad are seamer Dane Paterson and stalwart batsman Hashim Amla, who missed the away series win in Australia in November through injury. Batsman JP Duminy and fast bowler Lungi Ngidi have not been considered because of injury. "We need to look at all the options available to us as we get closer to selecting our final squad for this year`s World Cup and Rassie and Dane are two players who have been knocking strongly on the door in all formats," Cricket South Africa selection convener Linda Zondi said in a statement on Thursday. "Those players who went to Australia and have not been selected for the first two matches -- Farhaan Behardien, Aiden Markram and Chris Morris -- are by no means out of the picture, and they may well get further opportunities in the second half of the series." The first ODI will be played in Port Elizabeth on Jan. 19, with the second in Durban three days later. The 50-over World Cup is being held in England and Wales from May 30-July 14. Squad: Faf du Plessis (captain), Hashim Amla, Quinton de Kock, Reeza Hendricks, Imran Tahir, Heinrich Klaasen, David Miller, Dane Paterson, Andile Phehlukwayo, Dwaine Pretorius, Kagiso Rabada, Tabraiz Shamsi, Dale Steyn, Rassie van der Dussen.

South Africa select uncapped Van der Dussen for Pakistan ODIs

Banned former Pakistan batsman Nasir Jamshed has been charged with bribery offences as part of an investigation into spot-fixing in cricket, Britain's National Crime Agency said on Thursday (December 20).

Jamshed was banned for 10 years in August by an anti-corruption tribunal for his part in the spot-fixing scandal that engulfed the Pakistan Super League (PSL) in 2017.

The NCA said that Jamshed, along with British nationals Yousaf Anwar, 35, and Mohammed Ijaz, 33, were arrested in February 2017 as part of an investigation into spot-fixing in tournaments arranged by national cricket boards in Pakistan and Bangladesh.

Prosecutors served the trio with written summonses charging them each with two counts of bribery. They will appear before Manchester Magistrates Court on Jan. 15.

The Pakistan Cricket Board's legal advisor Taffazul Rizvi has said that Jamshed was the "linchpin" in the scandal (PSL).

Batsmen Sharjeel Khan and Khalid Latif have been handed five-year bans for their role, while paceman Mohammad Irfan and all-rounder Mohammad Nawaz received shorter suspensions.

Britain has taken action over match-fixing in cricket before. In 2011, Pakistan cricketers Salman Butt and Mohammad Asif were found guilty of taking bribes to fix part of a test match against England in a case that prosecutors said revealed rampant corruption at the heart of international cricket.

A third cricketer, Mohammad Amir, admitted his part in the scam, which involved deliberately bowling no-balls at pre-arranged times, before the trial started.

Banned former Pakistan batsman Nasir Jamshed has been charged with bribery offences as part of an investigation into spot-fixing in cricket, Britain's National Crime Agency said on Thursday (December 20).

Banned former Pakistan batsman Nasir Jamshed has been charged with bribery offences as part of an investigation into spot-fixing in cricket, Britain's National Crime Agency said on Thursday (December 20). Jamshed was banned for 10 years in August by an anti-corruption tribunal for his part in the spot-fixing scandal that engulfed the Pakistan Super League (PSL) in 2017. The NCA said that Jamshed, along with British nationals Yousaf Anwar, 35, and Mohammed Ijaz, 33, were arrested in February 2017 as part of an investigation into spot-fixing in tournaments arranged by national cricket boards in Pakistan and Bangladesh. Prosecutors served the trio with written summonses charging them each with two counts of bribery. They will appear before Manchester Magistrates Court on Jan. 15. The Pakistan Cricket Board's legal advisor Taffazul Rizvi has said that Jamshed was the "linchpin" in the scandal (PSL). Batsmen Sharjeel Khan and Khalid Latif have been handed five-year bans for their role, while paceman Mohammad Irfan and all-rounder Mohammad Nawaz received shorter suspensions. Britain has taken action over match-fixing in cricket before. In 2011, Pakistan cricketers Salman Butt and Mohammad Asif were found guilty of taking bribes to fix part of a test match against England in a case that prosecutors said revealed rampant corruption at the heart of international cricket. A third cricketer, Mohammad Amir, admitted his part in the scam, which involved deliberately bowling no-balls at pre-arranged times, before the trial started.

PSL spot-fixing scandal: Banned former Pakistan cricketer Nasir Jamshed charged with bribery

The best bowling figures, a ten-wicket haul in an innings, is every bowler's dream in Test cricket, but taking ten wickets in one day has also the magnitude to define the strength of a bowler.

A similar dreamy spell was delivered on a pleasant day in Dubai when Pakistani bowler Yasir Shah took a career-best eight-wicket haul in one innings and a total of 10 wickets in a one day while playing against New Zealand in the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/yasir-shahs-career-best-8-wicket-haul-destroys-new-zealand-in-second-test-179576">second Test</a> of the three-match Test series.

With&nbsp;an extraordinary performance, the leg-spinner put bright smiles on Pakistani fans present at Dubai International Cricket Stadium on a gloomy day that began with rain and ended with darkness.&nbsp;

After achieving the feat he became the first bowler since Anil Kumble, in 1999, to take ten wickets in a day.

Yasir's 15th five-wicket haul - beat his previous best of 7-76 against Sri Lanka at Galle in 2015 and also the best against New Zealand.

Previously, Intikhab Alam (7-52) held the record for Pakistan's best bowling against New Zealand, achieved at Dunedin in 1973.

Shah, who is regarded as one of the best spinners in modern cricket by Shane Warne, is known for his leg spinners, flippers and googlies.&nbsp;

A specialist leg break spin bowler was born in Swabi in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa in 1986.

The 32-year-old made his Test debut&nbsp;for Pakistan against Australia in the United Arab Emirates on 22 October 2014 and played his first one-day match against Zimbabwe in 2011.

In January 2015 he was selected in Pakistan's squad for the ICC Cricket World Cup 2015 and made his World Cup debut against arch-rivals India on 15 February 2015.

He also served a three-month ban for taking a banned substance, despite all the ordeals, Shah&nbsp;delivered several remarkable spells giving Pakistan a great leg-spin option.

The best bowling figures, a ten-wicket haul in an innings, is every bowler's dream in Test cricket, but taking ten wickets in one day has also the magnitude to define the strength of a bowler.

The best bowling figures, a ten-wicket haul in an innings, is every bowler's dream in Test cricket, but taking ten wickets in one day has also the magnitude to define the strength of a bowler. A similar dreamy spell was delivered on a pleasant day in Dubai when Pakistani bowler Yasir Shah took a career-best eight-wicket haul in one innings and a total of 10 wickets in a one day while playing against New Zealand in the second Test of the three-match Test series. With an extraordinary performance, the leg-spinner put bright smiles on Pakistani fans present at Dubai International Cricket Stadium on a gloomy day that began with rain and ended with darkness. After achieving the feat he became the first bowler since Anil Kumble, in 1999, to take ten wickets in a day. Yasir's 15th five-wicket haul - beat his previous best of 7-76 against Sri Lanka at Galle in 2015 and also the best against New Zealand. Previously, Intikhab Alam (7-52) held the record for Pakistan's best bowling against New Zealand, achieved at Dunedin in 1973. Shah, who is regarded as one of the best spinners in modern cricket by Shane Warne, is known for his leg spinners, flippers and googlies. A specialist leg break spin bowler was born in Swabi in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa in 1986. The 32-year-old made his Test debut for Pakistan against Australia in the United Arab Emirates on 22 October 2014 and played his first one-day match against Zimbabwe in 2011. In January 2015 he was selected in Pakistan's squad for the ICC Cricket World Cup 2015 and made his World Cup debut against arch-rivals India on 15 February 2015. He also served a three-month ban for taking a banned substance, despite all the ordeals, Shah delivered several remarkable spells giving Pakistan a great leg-spin option.

Yasir Shah: 8 wicket haul in an innings puts Pak leg-spinner in elite list

Pakistani bowlers Hasan Ali and Yasir Shah snapped five wickets apiece to give Pakistan an upper hand on the third day of the first Test against New Zealand in Abu Dhabi on Sunday.

Hasan clinched his maiden five-wicket haul with figures 5-45, while Yasir finished with 5-110, his 14th five-wicket feat in an innings as New Zealand collapsed from 220-4 to 249 all out soon after tea.

That left Pakistan with 176 to win the Test and at close, they were 37-0 with Imam-ul-Haq on 25 not out and Mohammad Hafeez unbeaten on eight, needing another 139 to win with all ten wickets in hand and two days to play.&nbsp;

For the Kiwis, Bradley-John Watling with 59 and Henry Nicholls with 55 had defied Pakistan in the post-lunch session with a fighting stand of 112 for the fifth wicket but Yasir took four wickets off just 15 balls to bring his team back into contention.

Seeing the circumstances, Pakistan has high hopes of enforcing a 1-0 lead in the three-match series.&nbsp;

Pakistani bowlers Hasan Ali and Yasir Shah snapped five wickets apiece to give Pakistan an upper hand on the third day of the first Test against New Zealand in Abu Dhabi on Sunday.

Pakistani bowlers Hasan Ali and Yasir Shah snapped five wickets apiece to give Pakistan an upper hand on the third day of the first Test against New Zealand in Abu Dhabi on Sunday. Hasan clinched his maiden five-wicket haul with figures 5-45, while Yasir finished with 5-110, his 14th five-wicket feat in an innings as New Zealand collapsed from 220-4 to 249 all out soon after tea. That left Pakistan with 176 to win the Test and at close, they were 37-0 with Imam-ul-Haq on 25 not out and Mohammad Hafeez unbeaten on eight, needing another 139 to win with all ten wickets in hand and two days to play. For the Kiwis, Bradley-John Watling with 59 and Henry Nicholls with 55 had defied Pakistan in the post-lunch session with a fighting stand of 112 for the fifth wicket but Yasir took four wickets off just 15 balls to bring his team back into contention. Seeing the circumstances, Pakistan has high hopes of enforcing a 1-0 lead in the three-match series.

Hasan, Yasir set Pakistan on victory path in first Test

Pakistan captain Sarfraz Ahmed won the toss and elected to bat first in the second and final test against Australia in Abu Dhabi on Tuesday, banking that a cover of grass on the wicket would quickly dry out and leave a featherbed pitch.

Pakistan named two debutants in Fakhar Zaman, who replaces the injured opening batsman Imam-ul-Haq, and left-arm seamer Mir Hamza, who came in for Wahab Riaz after the paceman went wicketless in the drawn first test in Dubai.

Tim Paine`s Australia, bidding to win their first series in Asia since 2011, are unchanged from Dubai, where they dug deep in an epic fourth innings rearguard to save the match.

Despite the green-tinged strip, Paine said he would also have chosen to bat first.

"I think we would have had a bat, but what`s the old saying? If there`s anything there, it will be there in the first hour, I guess," the wicketkeeper said.

"We certainly gained a lot from that second innings in particular (in Dubai), so we`ve got some momentum. Hopefully we can get a couple of early wickets and get right into their middle order."

Teams:

Pakistan - Fakhar Zaman, Mohammad Hafeez, Azhar Ali, Haris Sohail, Babar Azam, Asad Shafiq, Sarfraz Ahmed (captain), Mir Hamza, Bilal Asif, Mohammad Abbas, Yasir Shah.

Australia - Usman Khawaja, Aaron Finch, Shaun Marsh, Mitchell Marsh, Travis Head, Marnus Labuschangne, Tim Paine (captain), Mitchell Starc, Peter Siddle, Nathan Lyon, Jon Holland.

Pakistan captain Sarfraz Ahmed won the toss and elected to bat first in the second and final test against Australia in Abu Dhabi on Tuesday, banking that a cover of grass on the wicket would quickly dry out and leave a featherbed pitch.

Pakistan captain Sarfraz Ahmed won the toss and elected to bat first in the second and final test against Australia in Abu Dhabi on Tuesday, banking that a cover of grass on the wicket would quickly dry out and leave a featherbed pitch. Pakistan named two debutants in Fakhar Zaman, who replaces the injured opening batsman Imam-ul-Haq, and left-arm seamer Mir Hamza, who came in for Wahab Riaz after the paceman went wicketless in the drawn first test in Dubai. Tim Paine`s Australia, bidding to win their first series in Asia since 2011, are unchanged from Dubai, where they dug deep in an epic fourth innings rearguard to save the match. Despite the green-tinged strip, Paine said he would also have chosen to bat first. "I think we would have had a bat, but what`s the old saying? If there`s anything there, it will be there in the first hour, I guess," the wicketkeeper said. "We certainly gained a lot from that second innings in particular (in Dubai), so we`ve got some momentum. Hopefully we can get a couple of early wickets and get right into their middle order." Teams: Pakistan - Fakhar Zaman, Mohammad Hafeez, Azhar Ali, Haris Sohail, Babar Azam, Asad Shafiq, Sarfraz Ahmed (captain), Mir Hamza, Bilal Asif, Mohammad Abbas, Yasir Shah. Australia - Usman Khawaja, Aaron Finch, Shaun Marsh, Mitchell Marsh, Travis Head, Marnus Labuschangne, Tim Paine (captain), Mitchell Starc, Peter Siddle, Nathan Lyon, Jon Holland.

Pakistan opt to bat in second test against Australia

Usman Khawaja batted bravely for nearly nine hours to make 141 and help Australia salvage a draw in the first test against Pakistan in Dubai on Thursday.

Set an improbable victory target of 462, Australia resumed on 136-3 hoping to survive the final day to force a draw at the Dubai International&nbsp;Cricket&nbsp;Stadium.

The overnight pair of Khawaja and Travis Head played sensibly to deny the Pakistan attack in the morning session and guide their team to 215-3 at lunch.

Pakistan threatened to slice through the Australian middle order when Head was trapped lbw for 72 by off-spinner Mohammad Hafeez.

Debutant Marnus Labuschagne soon followed, dismissed by leg-spinner Yasir Shah for 13.

After looking vulnerable against the spinners for the first half hour on a deteriorating pitch, Australia captain Tim Paine settled down and built a crucial partnership with Khawaja.

Khawaja completed his century off 224 balls with 10 fours, becoming only the fifth Australian to score a hundred in the fourth innings of a test match in Asia.

"(The plan was to) Just bat. Wasn't thinking too much," Khawaja, who was adjudged man-of-the-match award, said.

"It was decent but it was getting tougher and tougher. We thought that if we batted two sessions we'd be in good stead."

Shah went on remove Khawaja, Mitchell Starc and Peter Siddle in quick succession, keeping Pakistan's victory hopes alive until the last over of the match.

But Paine (61) and Nathan Lyon (5) remained unbeaten to seal the draw as Australia finished on 362-8 - the second highest fourth-innings score by a visiting team in a test in Asia.

"It was extremely tough test match. Pakistan played very well and had us under the pump for three days," Paine said.

"Everyone had a plan. Usman was more defensive than usual. There was a bit of a collapse but the guys have been working hard over the last few months and I'm happy everything's gone to plan."

Abu Dhabi will host the second and final test starting on Tuesday.

Usman Khawaja batted bravely for nearly nine hours to make 141 and help Australia salvage a draw in the first test against Pakistan in Dubai on Thursday. Set an improbable victory target of 462, Australia resumed on 136-3 hoping to survive the final day to force a draw at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium.

Usman Khawaja batted bravely for nearly nine hours to make 141 and help Australia salvage a draw in the first test against Pakistan in Dubai on Thursday. Set an improbable victory target of 462, Australia resumed on 136-3 hoping to survive the final day to force a draw at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium. The overnight pair of Khawaja and Travis Head played sensibly to deny the Pakistan attack in the morning session and guide their team to 215-3 at lunch. Pakistan threatened to slice through the Australian middle order when Head was trapped lbw for 72 by off-spinner Mohammad Hafeez. Debutant Marnus Labuschagne soon followed, dismissed by leg-spinner Yasir Shah for 13. After looking vulnerable against the spinners for the first half hour on a deteriorating pitch, Australia captain Tim Paine settled down and built a crucial partnership with Khawaja. Khawaja completed his century off 224 balls with 10 fours, becoming only the fifth Australian to score a hundred in the fourth innings of a test match in Asia. "(The plan was to) Just bat. Wasn't thinking too much," Khawaja, who was adjudged man-of-the-match award, said. "It was decent but it was getting tougher and tougher. We thought that if we batted two sessions we'd be in good stead." Shah went on remove Khawaja, Mitchell Starc and Peter Siddle in quick succession, keeping Pakistan's victory hopes alive until the last over of the match. But Paine (61) and Nathan Lyon (5) remained unbeaten to seal the draw as Australia finished on 362-8 - the second highest fourth-innings score by a visiting team in a test in Asia. "It was extremely tough test match. Pakistan played very well and had us under the pump for three days," Paine said. "Everyone had a plan. Usman was more defensive than usual. There was a bit of a collapse but the guys have been working hard over the last few months and I'm happy everything's gone to plan." Abu Dhabi will host the second and final test starting on Tuesday.

Usman Khawaja steers Australia to battling draw with Pakistan

After bundling out Australia for mere 202 runs, Pakistan lost three early wickets to finish the day with 45 runs in their second innings of the first Test against in Duabi on Tuesday,&nbsp;

The team now have an overall lead of 325 runs.

Imam-ul-Haq was unbeaten on 23 while Azhar Ali was dismissed for four in the last over of the day.&nbsp;

Off-spinner Bilal Asif took 6 wickets for 36runs and pacer Mohammad Abbas finished with 4 for 29. Usman Khawaja top-scored for Australia with 85.

After bundling out Australia for mere 202 runs, Pakistan lost three early wickets to finish the day with 45 runs in their second innings of the first Test against in Duabi on Tuesday, The team now have an overall lead of 325 runs.

After bundling out Australia for mere 202 runs, Pakistan lost three early wickets to finish the day with 45 runs in their second innings of the first Test against in Duabi on Tuesday, The team now have an overall lead of 325 runs. Imam-ul-Haq was unbeaten on 23 while Azhar Ali was dismissed for four in the last over of the day. Off-spinner Bilal Asif took 6 wickets for 36runs and pacer Mohammad Abbas finished with 4 for 29. Usman Khawaja top-scored for Australia with 85.

1st Test: Pakistan 45/3 at close against Australia