<p>Former England captain Michael Vaughan believes the treatment that has been meted to Babar Azam is a 'disgrace'&nbsp;since the ODI World Cup is still underway. Vaughan referred to the recent spate of leaks coming from the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and media where Babar has been criticised and his captaincy has been put under the pump.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While Babar is leading the national side in the marquee tournament, Pakistani media reports have claimed that PCB is actively looking to replace him with Shaheen Shah Afridi or Sarfaraz Ahmed, once the tournament ends.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I just don't like the lack of respect that Babar Azam is getting. I just think it's a disgrace that these stories are being leaked. The stories that Shaheen is going to be the captain and all that," Vaughan told <em>Cricbuzz</em>.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Babar is a wonderful player, he has been fantastic for Pakistan, and fantastic for the world game. This kind of stories in the middle of the World Cup...leave it to the end."</p>

<p>Babar-led Pakistan has been put under the pump since the start of the tournament. The team has only won two matches while losing four. Any other loss would mean an end to the World Cup campaign which could get the knives out for Babar's captaincy.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"If at the end of the World Cup, you think that he is not the right person to take Pakistan, I can understand, you are allowed to make that decision. But during the World Cup, the kind of gossip coming from your board and people within Pakistan cricket, I find that really disrespectful," added Vaughan.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-2023-inzamam-ul-haq-resigns-from-pakistan-chief-selector-post-after-string-of-bad-results-653131"><strong>Also read | World Cup 2023: Inzamam-ul-Haq resigns as Pakistan's chief selector after string of bad results</strong></a></p>

<h2><strong>Controversies abound&nbsp;in Pakistan cricket&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Last week, PCB boss Zaka Ashraf met Sarfaraz Ahmed, fuelling rumours that the&nbsp;former captain was set to take over the captaincy duties.&nbsp;Additionally, Babar's private chats with Zaka were leaked in the Pakistani&nbsp;media.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, some reports claimed that Babar had lost the dressing room with vice-captain Shadab Khan feeling left out due to the tactics of the Pakistan captain.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
<br />
&nbsp;</p>

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Former England captain Michael Vaughan believes the treatment that has been meted to Babar Azam is a 'disgrace' since the ODI World Cup is still underway. Vaughan referred to the recent spate of leaks coming from the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and media where Babar has been criticised and his captaincy has been put under the pump.

Former England captain Michael Vaughan believes the treatment that has been meted to Babar Azam is a 'disgrace' since the ODI World Cup is still underway. Vaughan referred to the recent spate of leaks coming from the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and media where Babar has been criticised and his captaincy has been put under the pump. While Babar is leading the national side in the marquee tournament, Pakistani media reports have claimed that PCB is actively looking to replace him with Shaheen Shah Afridi or Sarfaraz Ahmed, once the tournament ends. "I just don't like the lack of respect that Babar Azam is getting. I just think it's a disgrace that these stories are being leaked. The stories that Shaheen is going to be the captain and all that," Vaughan told Cricbuzz. "Babar is a wonderful player, he has been fantastic for Pakistan, and fantastic for the world game. This kind of stories in the middle of the World Cup...leave it to the end." Babar-led Pakistan has been put under the pump since the start of the tournament. The team has only won two matches while losing four. Any other loss would mean an end to the World Cup campaign which could get the knives out for Babar's captaincy. "If at the end of the World Cup, you think that he is not the right person to take Pakistan, I can understand, you are allowed to make that decision. But during the World Cup, the kind of gossip coming from your board and people within Pakistan cricket, I find that really disrespectful," added Vaughan. Also read | World Cup 2023: Inzamam-ul-Haq resigns as Pakistan's chief selector after string of bad results Controversies abound in Pakistan cricket Last week, PCB boss Zaka Ashraf met Sarfaraz Ahmed, fuelling rumours that the former captain was set to take over the captaincy duties. Additionally, Babar's private chats with Zaka were leaked in the Pakistani media. Meanwhile, some reports claimed that Babar had lost the dressing room with vice-captain Shadab Khan feeling left out due to the tactics of the Pakistan captain. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

World Cup 2023: 'It's a disgrace', former England captain calls out PCB, Pakistan media for targeting Babar

<p>Nothing is clicking for Pakistan at the moment in the ODI World Cup in India. After starting the 2023 edition with two back-to-back wins, Babar Azam &amp; Co. have lost the plot and conceded four games in a row.&nbsp;Their last defeat came against South Africa in Chennai on Friday (Oct 27). Amid their campaign falling apart, a lot has been said and written about the players. Questions are being raised left, right and centre on the players, team management and the selection committee.</p>

<p>Amidst this chaos, former fast bowler Waqar Younis has extended his support to 'Pakistan's asset' Babar after an alleged WhatsApp chat involving him&nbsp;surfaced.&nbsp;It is to be noted that the&nbsp;sender --&nbsp;Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) COO Salman Naseer --&nbsp;asked&nbsp;Babar if he tried to get in touch with the board chairman&nbsp;Zaka Ashraf. However, it was met with a negative response.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>“Babar, there’s also been this news circulating on TV and social media that you have been calling Chairman and he’s not answering. Have you called him recently?"</em>&nbsp;the text read from Salman.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Babar -- whose&nbsp;number was saved as ‘Babar Azam New’ -- responded by saying,&nbsp;<em>“Salam Salman bhai, ma ny to sir ko koi call nai ke (Hello brother, I did not call sir)."</em></p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cwc-23-how-pakistan-can-still-qualify-for-semi-finals-after-four-successive-defeats-scenarios-explained-652943">CWC '23: How Pakistan can still qualify for semi-finals after four successive defeats - Scenarios EXPLAINED</a></strong></p>

<p>Now, the entire saga has not been well received by former Pakistan captain Waqar Younis. The former legendary pacer said that instead of focusing on such incidents and pointing fingers at Babar, one should treasure him, who he believes is the “asset” of Pakistan cricket.</p>

<p><em>“Ya kya Karna ki koshish kar raha ho aap loog??? What are you trying to achieve? This is pathetic !!! Khush ho gaya aap loog (Are you guys happy?). Please leave @babarazam258 alone. He’s an asset of Pakistan Cricket,"&nbsp;</em>Waqar wrote on X, formerly Twitter.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Ya kya Karna ki koshish kar raha ho aap loog??? This is pathetic !!!<br />
Khush ho gaya aap loog. Please leave <a href="https://twitter.com/babarazam258?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@babarazam258</a> alone 🙏🏽. He’s an asset of Pakistan Cricket <a href="https://twitter.com/TheRealPCB?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@TheRealPCB</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/ARYNEWSOFFICIAL?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ARYNEWSOFFICIAL</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/Salman_ARY?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Salman_ARY</a> <a href="https://t.co/pcM90yUGqy">https://t.co/pcM90yUGqy</a></p>
— Waqar Younis (@waqyounis99) <a href="https://twitter.com/waqyounis99/status/1718866372820935048?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 30, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>At present, Babar is under tremendous pressure. While he has scored three half-centuries in the ongoing ODI World Cup in India, his strike rate has been a topic of discussion. Meanwhile, Pakistan are also starring on the brink of early elimination with four back-to-back defeats. They will lock horns with Bangladesh at the iconic Eden Gardens, Kolkata on Tuesday (Oct 31) in a bid to stay alive in the ten-team tournament.&nbsp;</p>

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Nothing is clicking for Pakistan at the moment in the ODI World Cup in India. After starting the 2023 edition with two back-to-back wins, Babar Azam & Co. have lost the plot and conceded four games in a row.

Nothing is clicking for Pakistan at the moment in the ODI World Cup in India. After starting the 2023 edition with two back-to-back wins, Babar Azam & Co. have lost the plot and conceded four games in a row. Their last defeat came against South Africa in Chennai on Friday (Oct 27). Amid their campaign falling apart, a lot has been said and written about the players. Questions are being raised left, right and centre on the players, team management and the selection committee. Amidst this chaos, former fast bowler Waqar Younis has extended his support to 'Pakistan's asset' Babar after an alleged WhatsApp chat involving him surfaced. It is to be noted that the sender -- Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) COO Salman Naseer -- asked Babar if he tried to get in touch with the board chairman Zaka Ashraf. However, it was met with a negative response. “Babar, there’s also been this news circulating on TV and social media that you have been calling Chairman and he’s not answering. Have you called him recently?" the text read from Salman. Babar -- whose number was saved as ‘Babar Azam New’ -- responded by saying, “Salam Salman bhai, ma ny to sir ko koi call nai ke (Hello brother, I did not call sir)." Also read: CWC '23: How Pakistan can still qualify for semi-finals after four successive defeats - Scenarios EXPLAINED Now, the entire saga has not been well received by former Pakistan captain Waqar Younis. The former legendary pacer said that instead of focusing on such incidents and pointing fingers at Babar, one should treasure him, who he believes is the “asset” of Pakistan cricket. “Ya kya Karna ki koshish kar raha ho aap loog??? What are you trying to achieve? This is pathetic !!! Khush ho gaya aap loog (Are you guys happy?). Please leave @babarazam258 alone. He’s an asset of Pakistan Cricket," Waqar wrote on X, formerly Twitter. Ya kya Karna ki koshish kar raha ho aap loog??? This is pathetic !!! Khush ho gaya aap loog. Please leave @babarazam258 alone 🙏🏽. He’s an asset of Pakistan Cricket @TheRealPCB @ARYNEWSOFFICIAL @Salman_ARY https://t.co/pcM90yUGqy — Waqar Younis (@waqyounis99) October 30, 2023 × At present, Babar is under tremendous pressure. While he has scored three half-centuries in the ongoing ODI World Cup in India, his strike rate has been a topic of discussion. Meanwhile, Pakistan are also starring on the brink of early elimination with four back-to-back defeats. They will lock horns with Bangladesh at the iconic Eden Gardens, Kolkata on Tuesday (Oct 31) in a bid to stay alive in the ten-team tournament. 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.

'Please leave Babar Azam alone, he's...': Waqar REACTS after alleged leaked chats of Pak captain surface

<p>Pakistan Cricket, both on and off the field, is in shambles. While the cricket team has failed to produce noteworthy performances during World Cup 2023, the drama unfolding outside of it has created unrest among players and the board.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Following allegations laid by ex-Pakistan captain Rashid Latif on national TV of PCB head Zaka Ashraf avoiding Babar Azam’s call or messages, PCB’s Chief Operating Officer, Salman Naseer, cleared the air by allowing the WhatsApp chat between the two to get showcased on live TV.</p>

<p>After Latif’s remarks made headlines, a local TV channel contacted Zaka Ashraf to get clarity on the matter. Revealing the details of any conversation between the two, Zaka commented,&nbsp;</p>

<p>“He [Latif] says that I don’t pick up his [Babar’s] call,” Ashraf said. “He’s never given me a call. The chief operating officer or the director of international cricket is expected to speak with the captain of the team,” the PCB chief added.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cwc-23-how-pakistan-can-still-qualify-for-semi-finals-after-four-successive-defeats-scenarios-explained-652943">CWC '23: How Pakistan can still qualify for semi-finals after four successive defeats - Scenarios EXPLAINED</a></strong></p>

<p>To support his claim, Salman Naseer, on behalf of Zaka, during a live chat, allowed the interviewer to showcase the WhatsApp chat between the two. In the leaked WhatsApp chat revealed, Naseer asked Babar,&nbsp;“Babar, there’s also been news circulating on TV and social media that you have been calling Chairman, and he’s not answering. Have you lately given him a call?”<br />
<br />
To which Babar’s response was, “Salam Salman bhai, I have not made any call to sir.”</p>

<h2>Unrest in Pakistan Cricket</h2>

<p>The Pakistan Team has won just two out of the six contested matches and suffered losses in four of them. Such results have impacted their chances of making the semis.</p>

<p>Although mathematically, they can still make through, given the unrest inside the dressing room and outside of it, they look unlikely to break loose and reach the final four.</p>

<p>Following losing to Afghanistan in a shocker in Chennai, the PCB released a statement asking fans and pundits to back the players instead of putting them under the bus.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, former Pakistan coach and legend Waqar Younis slammed those behind this episode, saying people involved must be happy now. Waqar requested fans and people to do this in future, as Babar is an asset to Pakistan cricket.&nbsp;</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Ya kya Karna ki koshish kar raha ho aap loog??? This is pathetic !!!<br />
Khush ho gaya aap loog. Please leave <a href="https://twitter.com/babarazam258?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@babarazam258</a> alone 🙏🏽. He’s an asset of Pakistan Cricket <a href="https://twitter.com/TheRealPCB?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@TheRealPCB</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/ARYNEWSOFFICIAL?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ARYNEWSOFFICIAL</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/Salman_ARY?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Salman_ARY</a> <a href="https://t.co/pcM90yUGqy">https://t.co/pcM90yUGqy</a></p>
— Waqar Younis (@waqyounis99) <a href="https://twitter.com/waqyounis99/status/1718866372820935048?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 30, 2023</a></blockquote>
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Pakistan Cricket, both on and off the field, is in shambles. While the cricket team has failed to produce noteworthy performances during World Cup 2023, the drama unfolding outside of it has created unrest among players and the board.

Pakistan Cricket, both on and off the field, is in shambles. While the cricket team has failed to produce noteworthy performances during World Cup 2023, the drama unfolding outside of it has created unrest among players and the board. Following allegations laid by ex-Pakistan captain Rashid Latif on national TV of PCB head Zaka Ashraf avoiding Babar Azam’s call or messages, PCB’s Chief Operating Officer, Salman Naseer, cleared the air by allowing the WhatsApp chat between the two to get showcased on live TV. After Latif’s remarks made headlines, a local TV channel contacted Zaka Ashraf to get clarity on the matter. Revealing the details of any conversation between the two, Zaka commented, “He [Latif] says that I don’t pick up his [Babar’s] call,” Ashraf said. “He’s never given me a call. The chief operating officer or the director of international cricket is expected to speak with the captain of the team,” the PCB chief added. ALSO READ: CWC '23: How Pakistan can still qualify for semi-finals after four successive defeats - Scenarios EXPLAINED To support his claim, Salman Naseer, on behalf of Zaka, during a live chat, allowed the interviewer to showcase the WhatsApp chat between the two. In the leaked WhatsApp chat revealed, Naseer asked Babar, “Babar, there’s also been news circulating on TV and social media that you have been calling Chairman, and he’s not answering. Have you lately given him a call?” To which Babar’s response was, “Salam Salman bhai, I have not made any call to sir.” Unrest in Pakistan Cricket The Pakistan Team has won just two out of the six contested matches and suffered losses in four of them. Such results have impacted their chances of making the semis. Although mathematically, they can still make through, given the unrest inside the dressing room and outside of it, they look unlikely to break loose and reach the final four. Following losing to Afghanistan in a shocker in Chennai, the PCB released a statement asking fans and pundits to back the players instead of putting them under the bus. Meanwhile, former Pakistan coach and legend Waqar Younis slammed those behind this episode, saying people involved must be happy now. Waqar requested fans and people to do this in future, as Babar is an asset to Pakistan cricket. Ya kya Karna ki koshish kar raha ho aap loog??? This is pathetic !!! Khush ho gaya aap loog. Please leave @babarazam258 alone 🙏🏽. He’s an asset of Pakistan Cricket @TheRealPCB @ARYNEWSOFFICIAL @Salman_ARY https://t.co/pcM90yUGqy — Waqar Younis (@waqyounis99) October 30, 2023 × 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.

Babar Azam’s private chat leaked on TV; PCB chief Zaka Ashraf clarifies stance on alleged rift

<p>Pakistan have not lived up to expectations so far in the ongoing ICC Men's ODI World Cup in India. After winning their first two games, Babar Azam-led Men in Green were on a roll before losing four games on the trot. Thus, they are languishing at the sixth position with four points, and a Net Run Rate of -0.387, and are on the brink of an early elimination. They faced high-flying South Africa in match 26 of the ten-team tournament on Friday (Oct 27), in Chennai, and went down by a wicket in a thriller, in defence of 270, to further decrease their chances of going ahead into the semi-finals.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, Babar &amp; Co. are not out of the semi-final race as yet. There is a remote chance of them making it to the semi-finals but they need to win all their remaining games, that too by a big margin, and also hope for other results to go in their favour. As per a report in <em>Cricket Addictor</em>,&nbsp;<strong>Here are all the possible scenarios for the 1992 winners:</strong></p>

<h2><strong>Pakistan's Qualification Scenario For Semi-Finals:</strong></h2>

<p>- To win all their remaining games, beat New Zealand, Bangladesh and England (by big margins as well)<br />
- Hope for England,&nbsp;Afghanistan and Bangladesh to beat five-time winners Australia<br />
- For Pakistan to remain alive, they need the Kiwis to&nbsp;defeat Sri Lanka<br />
- Hope for India's win over the Netherlands.<br />
- South Africa and Sri Lanka to beat Afghanistan, who have defeated Pakistan and England in the ongoing competition<br />
- India or Bangladesh to defeat Sri Lanka</p>

<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics-five-big-moments-from-indias-splendid-win-against-england-in-lucknow-652799">In Pics | Five big moments from India's splendid win against England in Lucknow</a></strong></p>

<p>Talking about Pakistan's game versus the Proteas, the Babar-led side opted to bat first and rode on the captain's 50, Saud Shakeel's 52 and Shadab Khan's vital 43 to post 270 in 46.4 overs. In reply, Temba Bavuma-led South Africa chased down the score in the 48th over with one wicket in hand. Aiden Markram (91) and Tabraiz Shamsi (4 for 60 and 4 not out) were the star performers for the Proteas, with the latter earning the Player-of-the-Match award.&nbsp;</p>

<p>At the post-match presentation, Babar said after the loss, "We are very close, we did not finish&nbsp;well. Very disappointing for the whole team. We fought back very&nbsp;well. In the batting we were 10-15 short. The fast bowlers&nbsp;and spinners fought well but unfortunately it was not to be. It is part of the game, in DRS it is part of the game. Had he given it out, it would have favored us. We have an opportunity to win this and stay in the race but not to be. We will try our best in the next 3 matches and put our efforts and play for Pakistan. Let's see where we will stand after that."</p>

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Pakistan have not lived up to expectations so far in the ongoing ICC Men's ODI World Cup in India. After winning their first two games, Babar Azam-led Men in Green were on a roll before losing four games on the trot.

Pakistan have not lived up to expectations so far in the ongoing ICC Men's ODI World Cup in India. After winning their first two games, Babar Azam-led Men in Green were on a roll before losing four games on the trot. Thus, they are languishing at the sixth position with four points, and a Net Run Rate of -0.387, and are on the brink of an early elimination. They faced high-flying South Africa in match 26 of the ten-team tournament on Friday (Oct 27), in Chennai, and went down by a wicket in a thriller, in defence of 270, to further decrease their chances of going ahead into the semi-finals. However, Babar & Co. are not out of the semi-final race as yet. There is a remote chance of them making it to the semi-finals but they need to win all their remaining games, that too by a big margin, and also hope for other results to go in their favour. As per a report in Cricket Addictor, Here are all the possible scenarios for the 1992 winners: Pakistan's Qualification Scenario For Semi-Finals: - To win all their remaining games, beat New Zealand, Bangladesh and England (by big margins as well) - Hope for England, Afghanistan and Bangladesh to beat five-time winners Australia - For Pakistan to remain alive, they need the Kiwis to defeat Sri Lanka - Hope for India's win over the Netherlands. - South Africa and Sri Lanka to beat Afghanistan, who have defeated Pakistan and England in the ongoing competition - India or Bangladesh to defeat Sri Lanka Also read: In Pics | Five big moments from India's splendid win against England in Lucknow Talking about Pakistan's game versus the Proteas, the Babar-led side opted to bat first and rode on the captain's 50, Saud Shakeel's 52 and Shadab Khan's vital 43 to post 270 in 46.4 overs. In reply, Temba Bavuma-led South Africa chased down the score in the 48th over with one wicket in hand. Aiden Markram (91) and Tabraiz Shamsi (4 for 60 and 4 not out) were the star performers for the Proteas, with the latter earning the Player-of-the-Match award. At the post-match presentation, Babar said after the loss, "We are very close, we did not finish well. Very disappointing for the whole team. We fought back very well. In the batting we were 10-15 short. The fast bowlers and spinners fought well but unfortunately it was not to be. It is part of the game, in DRS it is part of the game. Had he given it out, it would have favored us. We have an opportunity to win this and stay in the race but not to be. We will try our best in the next 3 matches and put our efforts and play for Pakistan. Let's see where we will stand after that." 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.

CWC '23: How Pakistan can still qualify for semi-finals after four successive defeats - Scenarios EXPLAINED

<p>Former Pakistan cricketer Rashid Latif has dropped a bombshell saying the national men's team players haven't been paid their salaries for the last five months. Latif's revelation comes at a time when Pakistan are on the precipice of crashing out of the World Cup in India after a string of disappointing performances.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to Latif, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) informed players that the central contracts they had signed were now being reconsidered, which prompted captain Babar Azam to approach the governing body for cricket in the subcontinent nation.</p>

<p>Latif added that Babar was being ignored by the top officials of PCB as he attempted to have some clarification regarding the situation.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>"In the Pakistani media, many things are happening. Perhaps they are false news. I will provide you with the true news, which was kept on hold. Babar Azam has been trying to contact the chairman for the past two days, but they are not responding. He is messaging Salman Naseer (Chief Operating Officer), and he is messaging Usman Walha (Director of International Cricket),” said Latif.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"If players haven't been paid for five months, do you think they will play?," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The legendary Pakistan wicketkeeper stated that he had enough information about the rot in PCB that even a two-hour show would not be enough.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="rtl" lang="ur">سابق کرکٹر راشد لطیف صاحب نے حیرت انگیز انکشاف کیا ہے کہ جناب پروفیشنل چئیرمین پی سی بی مینجمنٹ کمیٹی ذکاء اشرف صاحب قومی ٹیم کے کپتان بابر اعظم کے میسجز اور کالز کا جواب نہیں دے رہے.. کپتان نے عثمان واہلہ سلمان نصیر سے بھی رابطہ کیا انہوں نے بھی کوئی جواب نہیں دیا...<br />
اور اب ذکاء… <a href="https://t.co/QBgDnO14HS">pic.twitter.com/QBgDnO14HS</a></p>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>PCB issues statement denying rift</strong></h2>

<p>Latif making the rather scandalous claims comes days after PCB released a statement saying there was no rift within the Pakistan dressing room.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The Pakistan Cricket Board strongly denies recent speculations about any internal discord in the national cricket team currently participating in the ICC World Cup 2023," read the statement.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-2023-rift-brewing-in-pakistan-dressing-room-pcb-releases-a-statement-650274"><strong>Also read | World Cup 2023: Rift brewing in Pakistan dressing room? PCB releases a statement</strong></a></p>

<p>"Contrary to rumours circulated by a certain section of the media, the PCB unequivocally assures that the team is cohesive and there is no evidence to support these unsubstantiated claims."</p>

<p>Some reports claimed that Babar and vice-captain Shadab Khan had a falling out after the latter was left out of the game against Australia. The off-field controversies might have had a negative effect on Pakistan's performance as the team has lost four games on the bounce and look all set to exit the quadrennial tournament.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Former Pakistan cricketer Rashid Latif has dropped a bombshell saying the national men's team players haven't been paid their salaries for the last five months. Latif's revelation comes at a time when Pakistan are on the precipice of crashing out of the World Cup in India after a string of disappointing performances.

Former Pakistan cricketer Rashid Latif has dropped a bombshell saying the national men's team players haven't been paid their salaries for the last five months. Latif's revelation comes at a time when Pakistan are on the precipice of crashing out of the World Cup in India after a string of disappointing performances. According to Latif, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) informed players that the central contracts they had signed were now being reconsidered, which prompted captain Babar Azam to approach the governing body for cricket in the subcontinent nation. Latif added that Babar was being ignored by the top officials of PCB as he attempted to have some clarification regarding the situation. "In the Pakistani media, many things are happening. Perhaps they are false news. I will provide you with the true news, which was kept on hold. Babar Azam has been trying to contact the chairman for the past two days, but they are not responding. He is messaging Salman Naseer (Chief Operating Officer), and he is messaging Usman Walha (Director of International Cricket),” said Latif. "If players haven't been paid for five months, do you think they will play?," he added. The legendary Pakistan wicketkeeper stated that he had enough information about the rot in PCB that even a two-hour show would not be enough. سابق کرکٹر راشد لطیف صاحب نے حیرت انگیز انکشاف کیا ہے کہ جناب پروفیشنل چئیرمین پی سی بی مینجمنٹ کمیٹی ذکاء اشرف صاحب قومی ٹیم کے کپتان بابر اعظم کے میسجز اور کالز کا جواب نہیں دے رہے.. کپتان نے عثمان واہلہ سلمان نصیر سے بھی رابطہ کیا انہوں نے بھی کوئی جواب نہیں دیا... اور اب ذکاء… pic.twitter.com/QBgDnO14HS — Qadir Khawaja (@iamqadirkhawaja) October 27, 2023 × PCB issues statement denying rift Latif making the rather scandalous claims comes days after PCB released a statement saying there was no rift within the Pakistan dressing room. "The Pakistan Cricket Board strongly denies recent speculations about any internal discord in the national cricket team currently participating in the ICC World Cup 2023," read the statement. Also read | World Cup 2023: Rift brewing in Pakistan dressing room? PCB releases a statement "Contrary to rumours circulated by a certain section of the media, the PCB unequivocally assures that the team is cohesive and there is no evidence to support these unsubstantiated claims." Some reports claimed that Babar and vice-captain Shadab Khan had a falling out after the latter was left out of the game against Australia. The off-field controversies might have had a negative effect on Pakistan's performance as the team has lost four games on the bounce and look all set to exit the quadrennial tournament. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

World Cup 2023: 'Players haven't been paid for 5 months', former Pakistan cricketer makes bombshell claim

<p>Pakistan Cricket Team unlocked its worst record at the World Cups by losing their fourth straight game in this edition, this time to South Africa by just one wicket in Chennai the other night. Although unlike how they played in the matches before this, Pakistan were competitive and took the game to the wire, thanks to their seamers, but eventually fell shy of winning over the Proteas. Head coach Mickey Arthur shared his thoughts on an almost ‘perfect game’ for Pakistan, but first, he had a request for the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB).</p>

<p>After Pakistan’s shocking defeat at the hands of Afghanistan at the same venue on Monday, PCB, in its efforts to curb the pressure on the team and the management, sent out a message for everyone, asking fans to support the team in this dark hour instead of criticising them.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Replying to the same, Arthur noted that despite the best efforts from everyone present inside the dressing room, the blame game, the ‘witch-hunt’ would begin. He urged the PCB to stop with it as Pakistan, mathematically, still has a chance of reaching the semis despite four losses in six matches.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/odi-world-cup-2023-watch-pakistans-mohammad-wasim-hits-dhoni-like-helicopter-shot-for-six-vs-sa-652249">ODI World Cup 2023: WATCH | Pakistan's Mohammad Wasim hits Dhoni-like HELICOPTER SHOT for six vs SA</a></strong></p>

<p>"They're going to be blaming everybody, don't worry. It's just the way of the world,” Arthur said during the post-match presentation after South Africa’s game.</p>

<p>"It's really unfair to start a witch-hunt, certainly on Babar Azam, on Inzi [chief selector, Inzamam-ul-Haq], on our coaches, on the management team."</p>

<p>"What I do know is the boys have tried, and the effort of the coaching staff, the effort of the players has been first-class. If they would see the amount of effort that the players and staff put in, they would be amazed," the head coach added.</p>

<h2>You never know – Arthur on team’s semis chances</h2>

<p>Realistically, Pakistan looks unlikely to reach the semis, but with numbers involved, they can. Outside of winning their remaining matches with better NRRs, the Pakistan Team will rely on several permutations and combinations that could help them reach the last four.</p>

<p>With their bowling clicking this late in their campaign, Pakistan would give themselves another chance to stay alive in the tournament.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Speaking on the same lines, Arthur sounded optimistic and said, still anything can happen in regards to Pakistan making it to the semis.</p>

<p>"You never know," Arthur said of their lingering knock-out hopes.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"What I do know is that we need to go and assess combinations again, we need to have a look at the holes we have within our team. We need to we need to start improving in a lot of areas, and we've got to go home and finish this tournament with three victories. That's what I do know. Every day we'll be trying, and we'll be striving to do that."</p>

<p>Pakistan’s next match is against Bangladesh at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata on Tuesday (Oct 31).</p>

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Pakistan Cricket Team unlocked its worst record at the World Cups by losing their fourth straight game in this edition, this time to South Africa by just one wicket in Chennai the other night.

Pakistan Cricket Team unlocked its worst record at the World Cups by losing their fourth straight game in this edition, this time to South Africa by just one wicket in Chennai the other night. Although unlike how they played in the matches before this, Pakistan were competitive and took the game to the wire, thanks to their seamers, but eventually fell shy of winning over the Proteas. Head coach Mickey Arthur shared his thoughts on an almost ‘perfect game’ for Pakistan, but first, he had a request for the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB). After Pakistan’s shocking defeat at the hands of Afghanistan at the same venue on Monday, PCB, in its efforts to curb the pressure on the team and the management, sent out a message for everyone, asking fans to support the team in this dark hour instead of criticising them. Replying to the same, Arthur noted that despite the best efforts from everyone present inside the dressing room, the blame game, the ‘witch-hunt’ would begin. He urged the PCB to stop with it as Pakistan, mathematically, still has a chance of reaching the semis despite four losses in six matches. ALSO READ: ODI World Cup 2023: WATCH | Pakistan's Mohammad Wasim hits Dhoni-like HELICOPTER SHOT for six vs SA "They're going to be blaming everybody, don't worry. It's just the way of the world,” Arthur said during the post-match presentation after South Africa’s game. "It's really unfair to start a witch-hunt, certainly on Babar Azam, on Inzi [chief selector, Inzamam-ul-Haq], on our coaches, on the management team." "What I do know is the boys have tried, and the effort of the coaching staff, the effort of the players has been first-class. If they would see the amount of effort that the players and staff put in, they would be amazed," the head coach added. You never know – Arthur on team’s semis chances Realistically, Pakistan looks unlikely to reach the semis, but with numbers involved, they can. Outside of winning their remaining matches with better NRRs, the Pakistan Team will rely on several permutations and combinations that could help them reach the last four. With their bowling clicking this late in their campaign, Pakistan would give themselves another chance to stay alive in the tournament. Speaking on the same lines, Arthur sounded optimistic and said, still anything can happen in regards to Pakistan making it to the semis. "You never know," Arthur said of their lingering knock-out hopes. "What I do know is that we need to go and assess combinations again, we need to have a look at the holes we have within our team. We need to we need to start improving in a lot of areas, and we've got to go home and finish this tournament with three victories. That's what I do know. Every day we'll be trying, and we'll be striving to do that." Pakistan’s next match is against Bangladesh at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata on Tuesday (Oct 31). 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.

Arthur urges PCB to stop ‘witch-hunt’ in wake of Pakistan’s poor run, backs team for strong comeback in CWC

<p>The Pakistan cricket team is in shambles at the moment. In the ongoing ODI World Cup, Babar Azam-led Men in Green have lost three games in a row after winning their first two. Thus, the 1992 winners find themselves at the fifth position and have a herculean task to revamp their campaign. Ahead of their upcoming clash versus South Africa in the south Indian city of Chennai on Friday (Oct 27), former Pakistani spinner Danish Kaneria has made a big claim. Kaneria slammed the team's performance and alleged that Hasan Ali, who was drafted in the side after Naseem Shah's injury, is playing only due to friendships.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>'The selections were based on friendships and personal relationships'</strong></h2>

<p>Speaking to Aaj Tak, Kaneria pointed out that Pakistan team’s World Cup selections were based on friendships and personal relationships.</p>

<p>He opined, "When the squad was announced, I was sure that this wasn't a well-balanced team. The selections were based on friendships and personal relationships. I knew that this team would struggle in the World Cup. They talk about everything but strategy. They needed to understand that the conditions in India will favor batting and spin. The selection was totally wrong."</p>

<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cwc-23-maxwell-makes-match-one-sided-when-his-bat-fires-ex-india-batter-on-aussie-stars-record-ton-651539">CWC '23: 'Maxwell makes match one-sided when his bat fires': Ex-India batter on Aussie star's record ton</a></strong></p>

<p>He said, "In Naseem Shah's absence, Pakistan are giving the new ball to Hasan Ali. Hasan Ali is only in the team because of friendships. Usama Mir plays for Multan Sultans, and Mushtaq Ahmed has good relations with Inzamam-ul-Haq. When a team is made for people's individual benefits and not for the country, you will only get such results."</p>

<p>Kaneria added, "When have two leg-spinners played together for Pakistan? When they played at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, where the boundary is very short, Shadab Khan was dropped and Usama Mir was brought in. Also, why they didn't pick Imad Wasim."</p>

<p>A lot of questions have been raised on Pakistan's team combination, fitness and fielding standards, slow batting and ordinary bowling overall.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Amid so much criticism, it will be interesting to see how Babar &amp; Co. respond on the field versus the Proteas, who have been on a roll in this World Cup.<br />
<br />
Temba Bavuma-led South Africa have played five games, winning four -- with a convincing margin -- and lost a solitary game to the Netherlands.&nbsp;</p>


The Pakistan cricket team is in shambles at the moment. In the ongoing ODI World Cup, Babar Azam-led Men in Green have lost three games in a row after winning their first two.

The Pakistan cricket team is in shambles at the moment. In the ongoing ODI World Cup, Babar Azam-led Men in Green have lost three games in a row after winning their first two. Thus, the 1992 winners find themselves at the fifth position and have a herculean task to revamp their campaign. Ahead of their upcoming clash versus South Africa in the south Indian city of Chennai on Friday (Oct 27), former Pakistani spinner Danish Kaneria has made a big claim. Kaneria slammed the team's performance and alleged that Hasan Ali, who was drafted in the side after Naseem Shah's injury, is playing only due to friendships. 'The selections were based on friendships and personal relationships' Speaking to Aaj Tak, Kaneria pointed out that Pakistan team’s World Cup selections were based on friendships and personal relationships. He opined, "When the squad was announced, I was sure that this wasn't a well-balanced team. The selections were based on friendships and personal relationships. I knew that this team would struggle in the World Cup. They talk about everything but strategy. They needed to understand that the conditions in India will favor batting and spin. The selection was totally wrong." Also read: CWC '23: 'Maxwell makes match one-sided when his bat fires': Ex-India batter on Aussie star's record ton He said, "In Naseem Shah's absence, Pakistan are giving the new ball to Hasan Ali. Hasan Ali is only in the team because of friendships. Usama Mir plays for Multan Sultans, and Mushtaq Ahmed has good relations with Inzamam-ul-Haq. When a team is made for people's individual benefits and not for the country, you will only get such results." Kaneria added, "When have two leg-spinners played together for Pakistan? When they played at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, where the boundary is very short, Shadab Khan was dropped and Usama Mir was brought in. Also, why they didn't pick Imad Wasim." A lot of questions have been raised on Pakistan's team combination, fitness and fielding standards, slow batting and ordinary bowling overall. Amid so much criticism, it will be interesting to see how Babar & Co. respond on the field versus the Proteas, who have been on a roll in this World Cup. Temba Bavuma-led South Africa have played five games, winning four -- with a convincing margin -- and lost a solitary game to the Netherlands.

Former spinner Danish Kaneria claims THIS player is in Pakistan team because of FRIENDSHIPS

Legendary Pakistani bowler Wasim Akram has lambasted Pakistan cricket team's poor fitness levels. Akram slammed the team's defeat against Afghanistan & questioned their eating habits. Priyanka Sharma brings you a report.

Gravitas: Wasim Akram lambasts Pakistan cricket team's poor fitness levels

<p>Pakistan's World Cup campaign hangs by a thread after a humiliating defeat against arch-rivals Afghanistan on Monday (Oct 23) at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. The Babar Azam-led team was played out of the park by a resolute Afghan side which did not put a foot wrong throughout the match.</p>

<p>After the defeat, which was their third consecutive loss of the campaign, Pakistan now find themselves nestled in a mid-table jam with Australia and Afghanistan - hoping to secure a top 4 spot for the knockouts. All three teams have four points but Australia have a game in hand.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While teams beneath viz. Bangladesh, Netherlands, Sri Lanka, England also have a realistic chance of leapfrogging Pakistan as they all have won one match and played a game less.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-2023-afghanistan-batter-thanks-former-indian-cricketer-for-win-against-england-647888"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;World Cup 2023: Afghanistan batter thanks former Indian cricketer Ajay Jadeja for win against England</strong></a></p>

<p>Realistically, for most teams, knocking India and New Zealand off the top of the points table seems like a foregone conclusion. The men-in-green have four points in the kitty, which is six and four points less than what India and New Zealand have conjured, respectively.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, South Africa occupy the third spot with six points and barring a tremendous dip in form, look highly unlikely to leave the position, which effectively means, seven teams are in contention to secure the last remaining spot.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Pakistan has to go all out</strong></h2>

<p>With the permutations and combinations in mind, Pakistan need to win all their remaining four matches to stand a good chance of qualifying for the knockouts. Pakistan missed out on a place in the semifinals during the 2019 World Cup despite securing 11 points and having five wins.&nbsp;</p>

<p>With rain expected to not have a major say going ahead in the tournament, Pakistan need six wins to qualify or hope that other results fall in their favour. Apart from the wins, Pakistan will have to recharge their Net Run Rate which is in the negative territory right now. The team lost out on the semifinals in the previous edition, solely due to a poor NRR.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-2023-formidable-afghanistan-stun-pakistan-by-8-wickets-secure-second-win-of-campaign-650409"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;World Cup 2023: Formidable Afghanistan stun Pakistan by 8 wickets, secure second win of campaign</strong></a></p>

<p>However, to go on a run of four consecutive wins would require a tremendous turnaround from the subcontinent team. They have a tough run of fixtures coming up with South Africa arriving in Chennai, followed by Bangladesh in Kolkata, New Zealand in Bengaluru and England in Kolkata yet again. A single slip-up and Pakistan will have to pack their bags and catch a return flight home.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
<br />
&nbsp;</p>

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Pakistan's World Cup campaign hangs by a thread after a humiliating defeat against arch-rivals Afghanistan on Monday (Oct 23) at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai.

Pakistan's World Cup campaign hangs by a thread after a humiliating defeat against arch-rivals Afghanistan on Monday (Oct 23) at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. The Babar Azam-led team was played out of the park by a resolute Afghan side which did not put a foot wrong throughout the match. After the defeat, which was their third consecutive loss of the campaign, Pakistan now find themselves nestled in a mid-table jam with Australia and Afghanistan - hoping to secure a top 4 spot for the knockouts. All three teams have four points but Australia have a game in hand. While teams beneath viz. Bangladesh, Netherlands, Sri Lanka, England also have a realistic chance of leapfrogging Pakistan as they all have won one match and played a game less. Also read | World Cup 2023: Afghanistan batter thanks former Indian cricketer Ajay Jadeja for win against England Realistically, for most teams, knocking India and New Zealand off the top of the points table seems like a foregone conclusion. The men-in-green have four points in the kitty, which is six and four points less than what India and New Zealand have conjured, respectively. Meanwhile, South Africa occupy the third spot with six points and barring a tremendous dip in form, look highly unlikely to leave the position, which effectively means, seven teams are in contention to secure the last remaining spot. Pakistan has to go all out With the permutations and combinations in mind, Pakistan need to win all their remaining four matches to stand a good chance of qualifying for the knockouts. Pakistan missed out on a place in the semifinals during the 2019 World Cup despite securing 11 points and having five wins. With rain expected to not have a major say going ahead in the tournament, Pakistan need six wins to qualify or hope that other results fall in their favour. Apart from the wins, Pakistan will have to recharge their Net Run Rate which is in the negative territory right now. The team lost out on the semifinals in the previous edition, solely due to a poor NRR. Also read | World Cup 2023: Formidable Afghanistan stun Pakistan by 8 wickets, secure second win of campaign However, to go on a run of four consecutive wins would require a tremendous turnaround from the subcontinent team. They have a tough run of fixtures coming up with South Africa arriving in Chennai, followed by Bangladesh in Kolkata, New Zealand in Bengaluru and England in Kolkata yet again. A single slip-up and Pakistan will have to pack their bags and catch a return flight home. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

World Cup 2023: How can Pakistan still qualify for semifinal after defeat vs Afghanistan?

<p>Afghanistan continued their giant-killing spree in the World Cup&nbsp;by carving apart Pakistan in their league encounter at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai on Monday (Oct 23). Chasing a demanding target of 283, Afghanistan batters put in a shift for the ages and emerged victorious by eight&nbsp;wickets, riding on enterprising knocks from Rahmanullah Gurbaz (65) and Ibrahim Zadran (87), with Rahmat Shah (77*) and Hashmatullah Shahidi (48*) providing the finishing touches.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Pakistan bowlers once again failed to prove themselves on the big stage as the side succumbed to its third consecutive defeat in the marquee event. Barring Shaheen Afridi, none of the bowlers could even test the Afghan batters who managed to play them with ease.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Gurbaz, playing his own version of 'Bazball' cricket, dominated the first powerplay and took the game to the 1992 World Cup champions. He took apart Haris Rauf for 17 runs in his first over and never really allowed the pacer to get into any sort of rhythm. Notably, Rauf had conceded 23 runs in his first over in the last match against Australia as well.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-2023-afghanistan-batter-thanks-former-indian-cricketer-for-win-against-england-647888"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;World Cup 2023: Afghanistan batter thanks former Indian cricketer Ajay Jadeja for win against England</strong></a></p>

<p>It didn't help Pakistan's cause that the fielders were sloppy in gliding across the turf and gifted 15-20 runs easily. There was a brief window in the middle when Shaheen turned up for his second spell and sent Gurbaz packing before Hasan Ali snaffled up the wicket of Zadran. However, the Pakistan outfit never really went for the kill during this period.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It was only last week that Afghanistan stumped&nbsp;England by playing out of their skins. The&nbsp;defending champions were forced to surrender tamely as the resolute Afghan team gelled together and utilised the subcontinent conditions to their full effect.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Many had predicted that Afghanistan would be too hot to handle on the turning pitch against an underfiring Pakistan and that is exactly what transpired. Akin to the England match, the victory against Pakistan did not have the usual ingredients of an upset win as the Afghan side steamrolled the opposition - thereby making the victory, even more sweeter.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-2023-afghanistan-stun-defending-champions-england-win-by-69-runs-647253"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;World Cup 2023: Afghanistan stun defending champions England, win by 69 runs</strong></a></p>

<h2><strong>Pakistan fumble and tumble their way to 282</strong></h2>

<p>Opting to bat first, Pakistan were off to a solid start, courtesy of Abdullah Shafique and Imam-ul-Haq as the duo managed 56 runs in the first 10 overs, on what appeared to be a sluggish track. However, soon after the powerplay, Imam fell to a short ball for the third time in the competition, allowing Afghanistan to bring its spinners into the contest.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Surprising many, Afghanistan went with four spinners into the match and for large parts of the inning, the decision seemingly paid off as well.&nbsp;The scoring rate dipped with the spinners operating&nbsp;but Shafique and Babar Azam forged a fifty runs' stand for the second wicket. Noor Ahmad, on World Cup debut, struck twice in two overs - as he nipped out two in-form batters, Shafique and Rizwan.</p>

<p>Babar fell while attempting to up the ante. But Shadab and Iftikhar Ahmed provided the much-needed impetus in the final powerplay. The latter survived Rashid and showed his hitting prowess against the pacers. A valuable 27-ball 40 from Iftikhar and a handy 38-ball 40 from Shadab Khan powered Pakistan to 282/7.&nbsp;</p>

<p>With the win Afghanistan keep alive their hopes of making an improbable place in the top 4 while Pakistan stare at an uphill task from hereon.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
<br />
<br />
<strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><br />
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Afghanistan continued their giant-killing spree in the World Cup by carving apart Pakistan in their league encounter at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai on Monday (Oct 23).

Afghanistan continued their giant-killing spree in the World Cup by carving apart Pakistan in their league encounter at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai on Monday (Oct 23). Chasing a demanding target of 283, Afghanistan batters put in a shift for the ages and emerged victorious by eight wickets, riding on enterprising knocks from Rahmanullah Gurbaz (65) and Ibrahim Zadran (87), with Rahmat Shah (77*) and Hashmatullah Shahidi (48*) providing the finishing touches. Pakistan bowlers once again failed to prove themselves on the big stage as the side succumbed to its third consecutive defeat in the marquee event. Barring Shaheen Afridi, none of the bowlers could even test the Afghan batters who managed to play them with ease. Gurbaz, playing his own version of 'Bazball' cricket, dominated the first powerplay and took the game to the 1992 World Cup champions. He took apart Haris Rauf for 17 runs in his first over and never really allowed the pacer to get into any sort of rhythm. Notably, Rauf had conceded 23 runs in his first over in the last match against Australia as well. Also read | World Cup 2023: Afghanistan batter thanks former Indian cricketer Ajay Jadeja for win against England It didn't help Pakistan's cause that the fielders were sloppy in gliding across the turf and gifted 15-20 runs easily. There was a brief window in the middle when Shaheen turned up for his second spell and sent Gurbaz packing before Hasan Ali snaffled up the wicket of Zadran. However, the Pakistan outfit never really went for the kill during this period. It was only last week that Afghanistan stumped England by playing out of their skins. The defending champions were forced to surrender tamely as the resolute Afghan team gelled together and utilised the subcontinent conditions to their full effect. Many had predicted that Afghanistan would be too hot to handle on the turning pitch against an underfiring Pakistan and that is exactly what transpired. Akin to the England match, the victory against Pakistan did not have the usual ingredients of an upset win as the Afghan side steamrolled the opposition - thereby making the victory, even more sweeter. Also read | World Cup 2023: Afghanistan stun defending champions England, win by 69 runs Pakistan fumble and tumble their way to 282 Opting to bat first, Pakistan were off to a solid start, courtesy of Abdullah Shafique and Imam-ul-Haq as the duo managed 56 runs in the first 10 overs, on what appeared to be a sluggish track. However, soon after the powerplay, Imam fell to a short ball for the third time in the competition, allowing Afghanistan to bring its spinners into the contest. Surprising many, Afghanistan went with four spinners into the match and for large parts of the inning, the decision seemingly paid off as well. The scoring rate dipped with the spinners operating but Shafique and Babar Azam forged a fifty runs' stand for the second wicket. Noor Ahmad, on World Cup debut, struck twice in two overs - as he nipped out two in-form batters, Shafique and Rizwan. Babar fell while attempting to up the ante. But Shadab and Iftikhar Ahmed provided the much-needed impetus in the final powerplay. The latter survived Rashid and showed his hitting prowess against the pacers. A valuable 27-ball 40 from Iftikhar and a handy 38-ball 40 from Shadab Khan powered Pakistan to 282/7. With the win Afghanistan keep alive their hopes of making an improbable place in the top 4 while Pakistan stare at an uphill task from hereon. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

World Cup 2023: Formidable Afghanistan stun Pakistan by 8 wickets, secure second win of campaign

<p>Amid media reports of a rift inside the Pakistan dressing room after a sluggish start to the World Cup campaign, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) on Monday (Oct 23) released a statement, denying such speculations.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The statement was released at the same time when Pakistan started batting against Afghanistan in their crucial league phase encounter at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The Pakistan Cricket Board strongly denies recent speculations about any internal discord in the national cricket team currently participating in the ICC World Cup 2023," read the statement.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Contrary to rumours circulated by a certain section of the media, the PCB unequivocally assures that the team is cohesive and there is no evidence to support these unsubstantiated claims."</p>

<p>Some reports claimed that Pakistan captain Babar Azam and vice-captain Shadab Khan had a falling out after the latter was left out of the game against Australia. According to some Pakistani journalists, there had been alleged physical altercations between other teammates and that verbal blows were also exchanged, damping the team camaraderie.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The PCB is disappointed by the dissemination of this false news and emphasises the importance of upholding journalistic ethics before spreading such allegations."</p>

<p>Pakistan started the World Cup in fine form, winning their opening two encounters. However, after losing the match against arch-rivals India in a rather crushing way, the team appeared jaded. The men-in-green did put up a fight against Australia but the challenging target of 368 proved too difficult for the Pakistani batters as the team suffered second&nbsp;consecutive defeat and slipped out of knockouts contention.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pak-vs-afg-head-to-head-world-cup-2023-pakistan-vs-afghanistan-date-venue-probable-playing-xi-649897"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;PAK vs AFG Head-to-head: World Cup 2023- Pakistan vs Afghanistan date, venue</strong></a></p>

<h2><strong>Pakistan off to a steady start</strong></h2>

<p>While off-field controversies threatened to derail the Pakistan World Cup campaign, the team shrugged them off and got to a steady start, batting first against Afghanistan.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Openers Abdullah Shafique and Imam-ul-Haq played with a positive intent and passed the first powerplay unscathed. However, Imam departed in the 11th over with the scoreboard reading 56. Since then, Pakistan captain Babar Azam had joined Shafique and the duo had stitched a 50+ partnership already.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Playing XIs:&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><strong>Pakistan: </strong>Abdullah Shafique, Imam-ul-Haq, Babar Azam (c), Mohammad Rizwan (wk), Saud Shakeel, Iftikhar Ahmed, Shadab Khan, Usama Mir, Shaheen Afridi, Hasan Ali, Haris Rauf</p>

<p><strong>Afghanistan:</strong> Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Ibrahim Zadran, Rahmat Shah, Hashmatullah Shahidi (c), Azmatullah Omarzai, Ikram Alikhil (wk), Mohammad Nabi, Rashid Khan, Mujeeb Ur Rahman, Naveen-ul-Haq, Noor Ahmad</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Amid media reports of a rift inside the Pakistan dressing room after a sluggish start to the World Cup campaign, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) on Monday (Oct 23) released a statement, denying such speculations.

Amid media reports of a rift inside the Pakistan dressing room after a sluggish start to the World Cup campaign, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) on Monday (Oct 23) released a statement, denying such speculations. The statement was released at the same time when Pakistan started batting against Afghanistan in their crucial league phase encounter at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. "The Pakistan Cricket Board strongly denies recent speculations about any internal discord in the national cricket team currently participating in the ICC World Cup 2023," read the statement. "Contrary to rumours circulated by a certain section of the media, the PCB unequivocally assures that the team is cohesive and there is no evidence to support these unsubstantiated claims." Some reports claimed that Pakistan captain Babar Azam and vice-captain Shadab Khan had a falling out after the latter was left out of the game against Australia. According to some Pakistani journalists, there had been alleged physical altercations between other teammates and that verbal blows were also exchanged, damping the team camaraderie. "The PCB is disappointed by the dissemination of this false news and emphasises the importance of upholding journalistic ethics before spreading such allegations." Pakistan started the World Cup in fine form, winning their opening two encounters. However, after losing the match against arch-rivals India in a rather crushing way, the team appeared jaded. The men-in-green did put up a fight against Australia but the challenging target of 368 proved too difficult for the Pakistani batters as the team suffered second consecutive defeat and slipped out of knockouts contention. Also read | PAK vs AFG Head-to-head: World Cup 2023- Pakistan vs Afghanistan date, venue Pakistan off to a steady start While off-field controversies threatened to derail the Pakistan World Cup campaign, the team shrugged them off and got to a steady start, batting first against Afghanistan. Openers Abdullah Shafique and Imam-ul-Haq played with a positive intent and passed the first powerplay unscathed. However, Imam departed in the 11th over with the scoreboard reading 56. Since then, Pakistan captain Babar Azam had joined Shafique and the duo had stitched a 50+ partnership already. Playing XIs: Pakistan: Abdullah Shafique, Imam-ul-Haq, Babar Azam (c), Mohammad Rizwan (wk), Saud Shakeel, Iftikhar Ahmed, Shadab Khan, Usama Mir, Shaheen Afridi, Hasan Ali, Haris Rauf Afghanistan: Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Ibrahim Zadran, Rahmat Shah, Hashmatullah Shahidi (c), Azmatullah Omarzai, Ikram Alikhil (wk), Mohammad Nabi, Rashid Khan, Mujeeb Ur Rahman, Naveen-ul-Haq, Noor Ahmad (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

World Cup 2023: Rift brewing in Pakistan dressing room? PCB releases a statement

<p>Several players and coaches have explained why hitting sixes is a big deal and not as easy as it appears on the TV screen. But a reasoning given by Imam-ul-Haq when asked why Pakistan batters are not hitting as many sixes as other teams will leave everyone in splits. During the pre-match presser, the Pakistan Team opener said because the players are taking a more carb-heavy diet instead of consuming proteins, they haven't managed to hit many sixes in this World Cup 2023.</p>

<p>Following suffering two back-to-back losses at the hands of India and Australia, owing to mediocre performances with both bat and ball, Pakistan will look to show more zeal as they gear up for another tight clash against Afghanistan in Chennai.</p>

<p>The lack of intent by Pakistani batters has been a cause of concern, and media personnel, like everyone, wanted to know more about what’s stopping them from applying themselves.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-2023-pakistan-vs-afghanistan-match-preview-and-result-prediction-650132">World Cup 2023, Pakistan vs Afghanistan: Match preview and result prediction</a></strong></p>

<p>Providing a first-of-its-kind answer to this, the Pakistan opener said, “Maybe we want to eat more proteins and not that much carbs, but it is just that there is nothing we want to talk about. It is just we really do not feel it if we are not hitting six or not four, it is just that what are we doing for the team."</p>

<h2>Down but ready to battle</h2>

<p>Imam-ul-Haq admitted with Pakistan down in the past two games, the chances of improving now through extra training or practice are bleak, and the only way they can get better at producing desired results is if the players apply their skills and play as per the conditions.</p>

<p>"It's just that I don't believe that now we have a chance to do any kind of more practice. It's just we are in the tournament, and it's just about the top-up.</p>

<p>“We don't have that much time…but the thing is it's just that - yes, this is a spin venue ground, and we know that, and the guys individually really depend on how they practice, and it's just that every individual has their own preparations and we really back them, we really back their ability, and it's just that's how it is,” Imam added.</p>

<p>With the game scheduled in Chennai, spinners will come into play, and Pakistan is aware of Afghanistan's strength - the spin department. But Imam feels with past results favouring them, Pakistan can beat Afghanistan at the Chepauk.</p>

<p>"Of course, there are good spinners in Afghanistan who can bowl well in the middle overs. But we had beaten them in Hambantota 3-0. Even there, the conditions were very spin-friendly. So, we will back that and our ability. In the end, you have to play the ball. You don't have to play the bowler. So, it's just that you have to back your ability,” Imam added.</p>

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Several players and coaches have explained why hitting sixes is a big deal and not as easy as it appears on the TV screen. But a reasoning given by Imam-ul-Haq when asked why Pakistan batters are not hitting as many sixes as other teams will leave everyone in splits.

Several players and coaches have explained why hitting sixes is a big deal and not as easy as it appears on the TV screen. But a reasoning given by Imam-ul-Haq when asked why Pakistan batters are not hitting as many sixes as other teams will leave everyone in splits. During the pre-match presser, the Pakistan Team opener said because the players are taking a more carb-heavy diet instead of consuming proteins, they haven't managed to hit many sixes in this World Cup 2023. Following suffering two back-to-back losses at the hands of India and Australia, owing to mediocre performances with both bat and ball, Pakistan will look to show more zeal as they gear up for another tight clash against Afghanistan in Chennai. The lack of intent by Pakistani batters has been a cause of concern, and media personnel, like everyone, wanted to know more about what’s stopping them from applying themselves. ALSO READ: World Cup 2023, Pakistan vs Afghanistan: Match preview and result prediction Providing a first-of-its-kind answer to this, the Pakistan opener said, “Maybe we want to eat more proteins and not that much carbs, but it is just that there is nothing we want to talk about. It is just we really do not feel it if we are not hitting six or not four, it is just that what are we doing for the team." Down but ready to battle Imam-ul-Haq admitted with Pakistan down in the past two games, the chances of improving now through extra training or practice are bleak, and the only way they can get better at producing desired results is if the players apply their skills and play as per the conditions. "It's just that I don't believe that now we have a chance to do any kind of more practice. It's just we are in the tournament, and it's just about the top-up. “We don't have that much time…but the thing is it's just that - yes, this is a spin venue ground, and we know that, and the guys individually really depend on how they practice, and it's just that every individual has their own preparations and we really back them, we really back their ability, and it's just that's how it is,” Imam added. With the game scheduled in Chennai, spinners will come into play, and Pakistan is aware of Afghanistan's strength - the spin department. But Imam feels with past results favouring them, Pakistan can beat Afghanistan at the Chepauk. "Of course, there are good spinners in Afghanistan who can bowl well in the middle overs. But we had beaten them in Hambantota 3-0. Even there, the conditions were very spin-friendly. So, we will back that and our ability. In the end, you have to play the ball. You don't have to play the bowler. So, it's just that you have to back your ability,” Imam added. 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.

CWC - We need to eat more protein than carbs…: Imam's bizarre reasoning behind PAK batters not hitting sixes

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<p>Pakistan captain Babar Azam was critical of his side's fielding effort after the team succumbed against Australia in their World Cup encounter at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium. Babar said the men-in-green were 'not up to the mark' with the ball and that translated in the fielding as well.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Chasing a challenging total of 368, Pakistan lost the contest by 62 runs, despite staying in contention, up until the 40th over.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"To be honest, we were not up to the mark with the ball. And if you drop the catch of someone like Warner, he won't spare you," said Babar.&nbsp;</p>

<p>David Warner (163) and Mitchell Marsh (121) set up the game beautifully for Australia as they marauded the Pakistani bowlers to all parts of the park. Warner was dropped early on in the innings as debutant Mir put down a dolly. The reprieve, in hindsight, proved to be the turning point of the match as the left-hander punished the Pakistan bowlers for erring in length, even by a fraction.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Pakistan did fight back though, towards the end, as Shaheen Afridi shrugged off the disappointment of the powerplay overs and emerged with a five-fer. Babar termed the comeback by the bowlers in the end as one of the positives to take away from the match.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"All credit to fast bowlers and spinners, we came back well in the last 10 overs and we hit the right lengths and targeted the stumps."</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-2023-australia-thwart-pakistan-challenge-win-by-62-runs-649379" target="_blank"><strong>Also read | World Cup 2023: Australia thwart Pakistan challenge, win by 62 runs after daddy hundreds from Warner, Marsh</strong></a></p>

<h2><strong>Proper cricket from those two: Cummins&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Meanwhile, a beaming Australian captain Pat Cummins, lauded his teammates for putting in an excellent shift, to earn a second win on the road.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"That was great. Great win. Always pretty tough playing here in Chinnaswamy but good to get a win. That was proper from those two (Warner and Marsh). Kind of really set the tone, that's how we want to play our cricket - take the game on," said Cummins.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We hit great areas and used the bounce well. Zampa's been awesome. He's been on the bed for the last week. That was fantastic - he showed his class. The wickets of Babar Azam and Iftikhar were important," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Warner was adjudged Player of the Match for his useful performance and said one needed to take those chances when it came their way.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Committing and backing my skills, I had a good hit yesterday, it was ticking along, I was just one bit of luck away and it helps when you're hitting the ball out of the middle. Playing on a ground like this as well, you got to take those chances," said Warne, adding that he had cramps which forced him to sit out the second innings.&nbsp;</p>

<p>After the win, Australia have catapulted to the fourth spot in the points table and look certain to fight for a sixth World champion title.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Pakistan captain Babar Azam was critical of his side's fielding effort after the team succumbed against Australia in their World Cup encounter at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium.

Pakistan captain Babar Azam was critical of his side's fielding effort after the team succumbed against Australia in their World Cup encounter at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium. Babar said the men-in-green were 'not up to the mark' with the ball and that translated in the fielding as well. Chasing a challenging total of 368, Pakistan lost the contest by 62 runs, despite staying in contention, up until the 40th over. "To be honest, we were not up to the mark with the ball. And if you drop the catch of someone like Warner, he won't spare you," said Babar. David Warner (163) and Mitchell Marsh (121) set up the game beautifully for Australia as they marauded the Pakistani bowlers to all parts of the park. Warner was dropped early on in the innings as debutant Mir put down a dolly. The reprieve, in hindsight, proved to be the turning point of the match as the left-hander punished the Pakistan bowlers for erring in length, even by a fraction. Pakistan did fight back though, towards the end, as Shaheen Afridi shrugged off the disappointment of the powerplay overs and emerged with a five-fer. Babar termed the comeback by the bowlers in the end as one of the positives to take away from the match. "All credit to fast bowlers and spinners, we came back well in the last 10 overs and we hit the right lengths and targeted the stumps." Also read | World Cup 2023: Australia thwart Pakistan challenge, win by 62 runs after daddy hundreds from Warner, Marsh Proper cricket from those two: Cummins Meanwhile, a beaming Australian captain Pat Cummins, lauded his teammates for putting in an excellent shift, to earn a second win on the road. "That was great. Great win. Always pretty tough playing here in Chinnaswamy but good to get a win. That was proper from those two (Warner and Marsh). Kind of really set the tone, that's how we want to play our cricket - take the game on," said Cummins. "We hit great areas and used the bounce well. Zampa's been awesome. He's been on the bed for the last week. That was fantastic - he showed his class. The wickets of Babar Azam and Iftikhar were important," he added. Warner was adjudged Player of the Match for his useful performance and said one needed to take those chances when it came their way. "Committing and backing my skills, I had a good hit yesterday, it was ticking along, I was just one bit of luck away and it helps when you're hitting the ball out of the middle. Playing on a ground like this as well, you got to take those chances," said Warne, adding that he had cramps which forced him to sit out the second innings. After the win, Australia have catapulted to the fourth spot in the points table and look certain to fight for a sixth World champion title. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

World Cup 2023: 'He won't spare you', Babar Azam names Australian batter who cost Pakistan the match

<p>Riding on brilliant hundreds from David Warner (163) and Mitchell Marsh (121), Australia romped to a 62-run victory against Pakistan in World Cup Cricket 2023 at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in the south Indian city of Bengaluru on a breezy Friday (Oct 20) night. Chasing a challenging target&nbsp;of 368, Pakistan remained in the contest till the 39th over, before the wheels started coming off, courtesy of a stunning effort from Adam Zampa and Josh Hazlewood.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Abdullah Shafique (64) and Imam-ul-Haq (70) started off brilliantly for the subcontinent side as Australia looked short of ideas, despite posting a mammoth total. The short boundaries allowed for proper stroke-making and the two batters had fun.&nbsp;</p>

<p>When it looked like Pakistan openers might replicate their Australian counterparts, Marcus Stoinis stepped up and delivered to break a 134-run partnership. Imam soon followed his partner as Stoinis dug in a short one, forcing the&nbsp;southpaw to hook one straight to Mitchell Starc at deep fine leg.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Skipper Babar Azam once again failed to capitalise on a start and fell to the guile of Zampa by smashing the ball to a diving Pat Cummins at short mid-on.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the end, Pakistan lost their last six wickets for just 36, suggesting that the lower middle order completely crumbled under pressure. Zampa was the pick of the bowlers as he got the ball to skid on the surface and deployed the deadly googlies at regular intervals. Iftikhar and Rizwan found it the hard way when the leg-spinner pinned them in front of the sticks.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-2023-netherlands-take-on-sri-lanka-in-lucknow-preview-and-result-prediction-649363"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;World Cup 2023, Netherlands take on Sri Lanka in Lucknow - Preview and result prediction</strong></a></p>

<h2><strong>Australia's batting masterclass</strong></h2>

<p>Put into bat first, Warner and Marsh, silencing the critics, put on a sensational opening stand of 259 with both of them scoring hundreds on a pitch where the new ball seemed to be coming on beautifully.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Warner was dropped early on in the innings as debutant Mir put down a dolly. The reprieve, in hindsight, proved to be the turning point of the match as the left-hander punished the Pakistan bowlers for erring in length, even by a fraction.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Pakistan did fight back though towards the end as Shaheen Afridi shrugged off the disappointment of the powerplay overs and emerged with a five-fer.&nbsp;Even Haris Rauf, who was smashed for 56 runs in his first four overs, made a good comeback at the end as Australia lost 6 wickets for just 70 runs in the final 10 overs.&nbsp;</p>

<p>With the win, Australia have coasted to two consecutive victories after starting off the campaign dismally and finding themselves at the bottom of the pile. The five-time champions have now catapulted themselves to the fourth spot on the points table and find themselves right back for a spot in the knockouts.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Riding on brilliant hundreds from David Warner (163) and Mitchell Marsh (121), Australia romped to a 62-run victory against Pakistan in World Cup Cricket 2023 at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in the south Indian city of Bengaluru on a breezy Friday (Oct 20) night.

Riding on brilliant hundreds from David Warner (163) and Mitchell Marsh (121), Australia romped to a 62-run victory against Pakistan in World Cup Cricket 2023 at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in the south Indian city of Bengaluru on a breezy Friday (Oct 20) night. Chasing a challenging target of 368, Pakistan remained in the contest till the 39th over, before the wheels started coming off, courtesy of a stunning effort from Adam Zampa and Josh Hazlewood. Abdullah Shafique (64) and Imam-ul-Haq (70) started off brilliantly for the subcontinent side as Australia looked short of ideas, despite posting a mammoth total. The short boundaries allowed for proper stroke-making and the two batters had fun. When it looked like Pakistan openers might replicate their Australian counterparts, Marcus Stoinis stepped up and delivered to break a 134-run partnership. Imam soon followed his partner as Stoinis dug in a short one, forcing the southpaw to hook one straight to Mitchell Starc at deep fine leg. Skipper Babar Azam once again failed to capitalise on a start and fell to the guile of Zampa by smashing the ball to a diving Pat Cummins at short mid-on. In the end, Pakistan lost their last six wickets for just 36, suggesting that the lower middle order completely crumbled under pressure. Zampa was the pick of the bowlers as he got the ball to skid on the surface and deployed the deadly googlies at regular intervals. Iftikhar and Rizwan found it the hard way when the leg-spinner pinned them in front of the sticks. Also read | World Cup 2023, Netherlands take on Sri Lanka in Lucknow - Preview and result prediction Australia's batting masterclass Put into bat first, Warner and Marsh, silencing the critics, put on a sensational opening stand of 259 with both of them scoring hundreds on a pitch where the new ball seemed to be coming on beautifully. Warner was dropped early on in the innings as debutant Mir put down a dolly. The reprieve, in hindsight, proved to be the turning point of the match as the left-hander punished the Pakistan bowlers for erring in length, even by a fraction. Pakistan did fight back though towards the end as Shaheen Afridi shrugged off the disappointment of the powerplay overs and emerged with a five-fer. Even Haris Rauf, who was smashed for 56 runs in his first four overs, made a good comeback at the end as Australia lost 6 wickets for just 70 runs in the final 10 overs. With the win, Australia have coasted to two consecutive victories after starting off the campaign dismally and finding themselves at the bottom of the pile. The five-time champions have now catapulted themselves to the fourth spot on the points table and find themselves right back for a spot in the knockouts. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

World Cup 2023: Australia thwart Pakistan challenge, win by 62 runs after daddy hundreds from Warner, Marsh

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<p>Pakistan bowler Haris Rauf was shredded apart by Australian openers during the World Cup match in Bengaluru on Friday (Oct 20) afternoon. Put into bat first, the Australian batters came out swinging and smashed Rauf, one of the fastest bowlers going around in the cricketing circuit right now, for the third-most expensive over in World Cup history by a Pakistan bowler.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Called in to bowl as second-change, Rauf bowled the first ball wide outside off, allowing David Warner to slash it over point for a boundary to start off the proceedings. On the very next ball, Rauf attempted to overcompensate and darted the ball on pads which was promptly dispatched over the fine leg fence for a maximum, followed by a single.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Afterwards, Marsh took over the action and carted Rauf for three consecutive boundaries, deflating the Pakistan fielding unit as their premier bowler was toyed with in the first over.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Prior to Rauf, Abdul Razzaq and Shoaib Akhtar had conceded 30 and 28 runs respectively in the 2011 edition of the World Cup in the same game against New Zealand.&nbsp;</p>

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<p>Historically, the M Chinnaswamy Stadium has been a high-scoring ground and Australian batters did not let go of the opportunity when asked to bat first. As of the last update, the five-time World champions had raced to 170&nbsp;without losing any wickets in 24 overs.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Haris Rauf's first over:<br />
<br />
4,6,1,WD,4,4,4 - 24 runs.<br />
<br />
Rauf taken to the cleaners! <a href="https://t.co/ldYpqlVALn">pic.twitter.com/ldYpqlVALn</a></p>
— Mufaddal Vohra (@mufaddal_vohra) <a href="https://twitter.com/mufaddal_vohra/status/1715295493709005145?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 20, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/icc-world-cup-2023-live-streaming-for-free-how-to-watch-world-cup-live-streaming-in-your-country-india-639749"><strong>Also read | ICC World Cup 2023 Live Streaming for free: How to watch World Cup 2023 FREE live in India, other countries</strong></a></p>

<p>During the toss, Pakistan skipper Babar Azam emphasised that the 'good nature' of the pitch was the reason to bowl first.</p>

<p>"We will bowl first. The pitch looks really good. We have had a couple of good sessions. We are hoping to do well. We need to do well in batting. We will try our best. Shadab is not playing. Usama comes in," said Babar.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Australian captain Pat Cummins also conceded that his team would have liked to bowl first as well.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We would have had a bowl as well. The energy was awesome even though they had a big partnership. The intent from our guys was excellent. The way we played against Lanka, we should do the same."</p>

<p><strong>Playing XIs:</strong>&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Australia</strong>: David Warner, Mitchell Marsh, Steven Smith, Marnus Labuschagne, Josh Inglis (wk), Glenn Maxwell, Marcus Stoinis, Pat Cummins (c), Mitchell Starc, Adam Zampa, Josh Hazlewood</p>

<p><strong>Pakistan:&nbsp;</strong>Abdullah Shafique, Imam-ul-Haq, Babar Azam (c), Mohammad Rizwan (wk), Saud Shakeel, Iftikhar Ahmed, Mohammad Nawaz, Usama Mir, Hasan Ali, Shaheen Afridi, Haris Rauf</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Pakistan bowler Haris Rauf was shredded apart by Australian openers during the World Cup match in Bengaluru on Friday (Oct 20) afternoon. Put into bat first, the Australian batters came out swinging and smashed Rauf, one of the fastest bowlers going around in the cricketing circuit right now, for the third-most expensive over in World Cup history by a Pakistan bowler.

Pakistan bowler Haris Rauf was shredded apart by Australian openers during the World Cup match in Bengaluru on Friday (Oct 20) afternoon. Put into bat first, the Australian batters came out swinging and smashed Rauf, one of the fastest bowlers going around in the cricketing circuit right now, for the third-most expensive over in World Cup history by a Pakistan bowler. Called in to bowl as second-change, Rauf bowled the first ball wide outside off, allowing David Warner to slash it over point for a boundary to start off the proceedings. On the very next ball, Rauf attempted to overcompensate and darted the ball on pads which was promptly dispatched over the fine leg fence for a maximum, followed by a single. Afterwards, Marsh took over the action and carted Rauf for three consecutive boundaries, deflating the Pakistan fielding unit as their premier bowler was toyed with in the first over. Prior to Rauf, Abdul Razzaq and Shoaib Akhtar had conceded 30 and 28 runs respectively in the 2011 edition of the World Cup in the same game against New Zealand. View this post on Instagram A post shared by ICC (@icc) × Historically, the M Chinnaswamy Stadium has been a high-scoring ground and Australian batters did not let go of the opportunity when asked to bat first. As of the last update, the five-time World champions had raced to 170 without losing any wickets in 24 overs. Haris Rauf's first over: 4,6,1,WD,4,4,4 - 24 runs. Rauf taken to the cleaners! pic.twitter.com/ldYpqlVALn — Mufaddal Vohra (@mufaddal_vohra) October 20, 2023 × Also read | ICC World Cup 2023 Live Streaming for free: How to watch World Cup 2023 FREE live in India, other countries During the toss, Pakistan skipper Babar Azam emphasised that the 'good nature' of the pitch was the reason to bowl first. "We will bowl first. The pitch looks really good. We have had a couple of good sessions. We are hoping to do well. We need to do well in batting. We will try our best. Shadab is not playing. Usama comes in," said Babar. Australian captain Pat Cummins also conceded that his team would have liked to bowl first as well. "We would have had a bowl as well. The energy was awesome even though they had a big partnership. The intent from our guys was excellent. The way we played against Lanka, we should do the same." Playing XIs: Australia: David Warner, Mitchell Marsh, Steven Smith, Marnus Labuschagne, Josh Inglis (wk), Glenn Maxwell, Marcus Stoinis, Pat Cummins (c), Mitchell Starc, Adam Zampa, Josh Hazlewood Pakistan: Abdullah Shafique, Imam-ul-Haq, Babar Azam (c), Mohammad Rizwan (wk), Saud Shakeel, Iftikhar Ahmed, Mohammad Nawaz, Usama Mir, Hasan Ali, Shaheen Afridi, Haris Rauf (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

World Cup 2023: Rauf concedes 24 runs in an over, becomes 3rd-most expensive Pak bowler in WC history

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<p>Former Indian pacer S Sreesanth has hit back at Mickey Arthur after the latter made some audacious claims, despite being humbled by the men-in-blue in the World Cup encounter.&nbsp;</p>

<p>After the loss, Arthur, Pakistan&nbsp;men's cricket team's technical director admitted that he is still looking forward to taking on the tournament hosts in the summit clash.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Mickey Arthur said we’ll meet in the final. I don’t think Pakistan can ever beat India in an ICC trophy or in any other event considering the team they have. Even our C team can beat Pakistan’s main XI. Make an IPL XI of players who are not playing, even they can defeat the Pakistan team,” said Sreesanth.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Pakistan cannot even dream of playing in such a big stadium. We gave them a chance, but if you play like that, you won’t get such chances again,” Sreesanth added.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-2023-icc-responds-to-mickey-arthurs-controversial-bcci-event-remarks-647944" target="_blank"><strong>Also read | World Cup 2023: ICC responds to Mickey Arthur's controversial 'BCCI event' remarks</strong></a></p>

<p><strong>Arthur's controversial remarks&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Ever since suffering the loss against India, Arthur has issued a slew of excuses to hide the dismal performance of the Pakistan team. He said the World Cup in India felt more like a BCCI event than an ICC event.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"It didn't seem like an ICC event to be brutally honest. It seemed like a bilateral series; it seemed like a BCCI (Board of Control for Cricket in India) event," said Arthur.</p>

<p>Arthur also accused the Narendra Modi Stadium's public address system organisers of favouring India by refusing to play "Dil Dil Pakistan", the nation's unofficial anthem.</p>

<p>"I didn't hear 'Dil Dil Pakistan' ('My heart is Pakistan') coming through too often tonight. So yes, that does play a role, but I'm not going to use that as an excuse."</p>

<p>India belted Pakistan by seven wickets in the match after the bowlers, led by Jasprit Bumrah and Kuldeep Yadav, outfoxed the opposition batters. In the end, India maintained their perfect World Cup record against the arch-rivals, extending it to eight wins in as many games.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Former Indian pacer S Sreesanth has hit back at Mickey Arthur after the latter made some audacious claims, despite being humbled by the men-in-blue in the World Cup encounter.

Former Indian pacer S Sreesanth has hit back at Mickey Arthur after the latter made some audacious claims, despite being humbled by the men-in-blue in the World Cup encounter. After the loss, Arthur, Pakistan men's cricket team's technical director admitted that he is still looking forward to taking on the tournament hosts in the summit clash. “Mickey Arthur said we’ll meet in the final. I don’t think Pakistan can ever beat India in an ICC trophy or in any other event considering the team they have. Even our C team can beat Pakistan’s main XI. Make an IPL XI of players who are not playing, even they can defeat the Pakistan team,” said Sreesanth. “Pakistan cannot even dream of playing in such a big stadium. We gave them a chance, but if you play like that, you won’t get such chances again,” Sreesanth added. Also read | World Cup 2023: ICC responds to Mickey Arthur's controversial 'BCCI event' remarks Arthur's controversial remarks Ever since suffering the loss against India, Arthur has issued a slew of excuses to hide the dismal performance of the Pakistan team. He said the World Cup in India felt more like a BCCI event than an ICC event. "It didn't seem like an ICC event to be brutally honest. It seemed like a bilateral series; it seemed like a BCCI (Board of Control for Cricket in India) event," said Arthur. Arthur also accused the Narendra Modi Stadium's public address system organisers of favouring India by refusing to play "Dil Dil Pakistan", the nation's unofficial anthem. "I didn't hear 'Dil Dil Pakistan' ('My heart is Pakistan') coming through too often tonight. So yes, that does play a role, but I'm not going to use that as an excuse." India belted Pakistan by seven wickets in the match after the bowlers, led by Jasprit Bumrah and Kuldeep Yadav, outfoxed the opposition batters. In the end, India maintained their perfect World Cup record against the arch-rivals, extending it to eight wins in as many games. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

World Cup 2023: 'Even India's C team can beat them', Former Indian cricketer claps back at Pakistan

<p>Rohit Sharma-led Team India have been in top form in the home ODI World Cup. After three games, India have equal number of wins and will lock horns with Bangladesh on Thursday (Oct 19) in Pune. On Saturday (Oct 14), India met Pakistan at the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium in Ahmedabad and demolished their arch-rivals by seven wickets, and 117 balls to spare.</p>

<p>With this win, India are atop in the points table and marching ahead with high chances of entering the semi-finals in the top-two. Rashid Latif, former Pakistan captain, lauded India's ace spinner Kuldeep Yadav after the Men in Blue's easy win over his national side and predicted the 29-year-old Kuldeep to end as the highest wicket-taker of the ongoing edition.</p>

<p>Latif feels Babar Azam-led Pakistani batters weren't aggressive against Kuldeep and only tried to play out his overs in Ahmedabad.&nbsp;Writing in his column for The Indian Express, he said, "Against Kuldeep, we looked timid, we were trying to just play out his ten overs. Not a single Pakistan batsman was able to pick Kuldeep (Yadav), and I think if he is not rested in a few matches, Kuldeep will end up being the leading wicket-taker of the tournament."</p>

<p>At the moment, Kuldeep has five wickets (third-most by an Indian) and occupies the sixth spot in the leading wicket-taker list. Jasprit Bumrah leads the overall chart with eight wickets, who was also the Player-of-the-Match versus Pakistan for his 2 for 19, whereas Ravindra Jadeja also features in the top five (fifth) with equal number of scalps as Kuldeep.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/just-one-in-8-attempts-sehwag-gives-epic-reply-to-vaughans-england-in-world-cup-semis-remark-647543">'Just one in 8 attempts': Sehwag gives EPIC reply to Vaughan's 'England in World Cup semis' remark</a></strong></p>

<p>Latif, however, feels India should play R Ashwin in every game. Ashwin, who was selected in the World Cup squad at the last minute after Axar Patel's injury, played versus Australia but has warmed the bench in the next two games. "I was surprised that India didn’t pick Ashwin. I feel he should play all the matches for India. If Ashwin had played I don’t think we could have even got 190 on the board,” Latif added.</p>

<p>India will look to maintain their winning run when they lock horns with the Bangla Tigers on Thursday.&nbsp;</p>

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Rohit Sharma-led Team India have been in top form in the home ODI World Cup. After three games, India have equal number of wins and will lock horns with Bangladesh on Thursday (Oct 19) in Pune.

Rohit Sharma-led Team India have been in top form in the home ODI World Cup. After three games, India have equal number of wins and will lock horns with Bangladesh on Thursday (Oct 19) in Pune. On Saturday (Oct 14), India met Pakistan at the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium in Ahmedabad and demolished their arch-rivals by seven wickets, and 117 balls to spare. With this win, India are atop in the points table and marching ahead with high chances of entering the semi-finals in the top-two. Rashid Latif, former Pakistan captain, lauded India's ace spinner Kuldeep Yadav after the Men in Blue's easy win over his national side and predicted the 29-year-old Kuldeep to end as the highest wicket-taker of the ongoing edition. Latif feels Babar Azam-led Pakistani batters weren't aggressive against Kuldeep and only tried to play out his overs in Ahmedabad. Writing in his column for The Indian Express, he said, "Against Kuldeep, we looked timid, we were trying to just play out his ten overs. Not a single Pakistan batsman was able to pick Kuldeep (Yadav), and I think if he is not rested in a few matches, Kuldeep will end up being the leading wicket-taker of the tournament." At the moment, Kuldeep has five wickets (third-most by an Indian) and occupies the sixth spot in the leading wicket-taker list. Jasprit Bumrah leads the overall chart with eight wickets, who was also the Player-of-the-Match versus Pakistan for his 2 for 19, whereas Ravindra Jadeja also features in the top five (fifth) with equal number of scalps as Kuldeep. Also read: 'Just one in 8 attempts': Sehwag gives EPIC reply to Vaughan's 'England in World Cup semis' remark Latif, however, feels India should play R Ashwin in every game. Ashwin, who was selected in the World Cup squad at the last minute after Axar Patel's injury, played versus Australia but has warmed the bench in the next two games. "I was surprised that India didn’t pick Ashwin. I feel he should play all the matches for India. If Ashwin had played I don’t think we could have even got 190 on the board,” Latif added. India will look to maintain their winning run when they lock horns with the Bangla Tigers on Thursday. 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.

Kuldeep Yadav will end as ODI World Cup 2023's highest wicket-taker, predicts former Pakistan captain

<p>Pakistan losing to India didn’t sit well with anyone from that part of the world. While several experts came down hard on the batters, exposing the deficiencies in their technique, others questioned the overall functioning of the PCB. Former captain and legend Wasim Akram is one of them, who, during a chat show in Pakistan, made shocking revelations that seem to turn quite a few heads around.</p>

<p>Speaking on A-Sports following Pakistan’s record eighth loss to India in World Cup history in Ahmedabad the past week, Akram sounded concerned about Pakistan players' fitness, claiming that there is no fitness test or the famous Yo-Yo test for these players.</p>

<p>Drawing comparisons with how fit and polished their counterparts are on the field, Akram said, "I am concerned about the fitness of these players.”</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rashid-latif-tears-into-pakistan-cricket-setup-blames-political-vendetta-aggressive-changes-for-poor-show-647447">Rashid Latif tears into Pakistan cricket setup, blames political vendetta, aggressive changes for poor show</a></strong></p>

<p>“Now, there is no fitness test. When Misbah was the coach and selector, he used to get the Yo-Yo Test and other tests done. A professional cricketer should undergo a fitness test at least once in a month. If you won't do this, you will face this (defeat vs India)," Akram said on a Pakistan TV show.</p>

<p>He even went on to say that because of ongoing tensions behind the scenes in PCB, there was a lot of unrest in the dressing room, resulting in them failing to deliver on the big day.</p>

<p>Asked to bat first after losing the toss, Pakistan got off to a good start. Though both openers got out inside the first 12 overs, Captain Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan steadied the ship with an 82-run stand. However, the Indian bowlers inflicted crucial blows, triggering a collapse&nbsp;and reducing them from 155 for two to 191 all out.</p>

<p>Rohit Sharma scored a stunning 86 as he guided India to a seven-wicket win in Ahmedabad.</p>

<p>"PCB has seen three chairmen in the last three years. It created a scare among the team members and management about whether they would be part of the next series or not. From 154 for two and then 191 all out was really, really disappointing," the former Pakistan captain added.</p>

<h2>Rashid Latif bashes Pakistan Cricket</h2>

<p>Another former captain, Rashid Latif, bashed the Pakistan Cricket on the same grounds, saying the political vendetta and aggressive changes over the past year led to this situation.</p>

<p>“The continuous political interference is ruining Pakistan cricket,” Rashid Latif said, as quoted in The Indian Express.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“In the past twelve months, we have seen three different persons heading the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB). We have seen Ramiz Raja, then Najam Sethi, and now Zaka Ashraf is at the helm. And not to forget, in the same timeline, we have had five selectors as well. Mohammad Wasim, Micky Arthur, Shahid Afridi, Haroon Rasheed, and now Inzamam-ul-Haq,” Latif added while talking about the reason behind the fall of Pakistan Cricket.</p>

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Pakistan losing to India didn’t sit well with anyone from that part of the world. While several experts came down hard on the batters, exposing the deficiencies in their technique, others questioned the overall functioning of the PCB.

Pakistan losing to India didn’t sit well with anyone from that part of the world. While several experts came down hard on the batters, exposing the deficiencies in their technique, others questioned the overall functioning of the PCB. Former captain and legend Wasim Akram is one of them, who, during a chat show in Pakistan, made shocking revelations that seem to turn quite a few heads around. Speaking on A-Sports following Pakistan’s record eighth loss to India in World Cup history in Ahmedabad the past week, Akram sounded concerned about Pakistan players' fitness, claiming that there is no fitness test or the famous Yo-Yo test for these players. Drawing comparisons with how fit and polished their counterparts are on the field, Akram said, "I am concerned about the fitness of these players.” ALSO READ: Rashid Latif tears into Pakistan cricket setup, blames political vendetta, aggressive changes for poor show “Now, there is no fitness test. When Misbah was the coach and selector, he used to get the Yo-Yo Test and other tests done. A professional cricketer should undergo a fitness test at least once in a month. If you won't do this, you will face this (defeat vs India)," Akram said on a Pakistan TV show. He even went on to say that because of ongoing tensions behind the scenes in PCB, there was a lot of unrest in the dressing room, resulting in them failing to deliver on the big day. Asked to bat first after losing the toss, Pakistan got off to a good start. Though both openers got out inside the first 12 overs, Captain Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan steadied the ship with an 82-run stand. However, the Indian bowlers inflicted crucial blows, triggering a collapse and reducing them from 155 for two to 191 all out. Rohit Sharma scored a stunning 86 as he guided India to a seven-wicket win in Ahmedabad. "PCB has seen three chairmen in the last three years. It created a scare among the team members and management about whether they would be part of the next series or not. From 154 for two and then 191 all out was really, really disappointing," the former Pakistan captain added. Rashid Latif bashes Pakistan Cricket Another former captain, Rashid Latif, bashed the Pakistan Cricket on the same grounds, saying the political vendetta and aggressive changes over the past year led to this situation. “The continuous political interference is ruining Pakistan cricket,” Rashid Latif said, as quoted in The Indian Express. “In the past twelve months, we have seen three different persons heading the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB). We have seen Ramiz Raja, then Najam Sethi, and now Zaka Ashraf is at the helm. And not to forget, in the same timeline, we have had five selectors as well. Mohammad Wasim, Micky Arthur, Shahid Afridi, Haroon Rasheed, and now Inzamam-ul-Haq,” Latif added while talking about the reason behind the fall of Pakistan Cricket. 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.

World Cup: No fitness, Yo-Yo tests for Pakistan players: Wasim Akram's shocking revelation turns heads

<p>A complaint has been filed against star Pakistan keeper-batter Mohammad Rizwan for offering prayers (namaz) on the cricket field during the game against the Netherlands in World Cup 2023. Vineet Jindal, an advocate in the Supreme Court of India, wrote to the ICC, saying Rizwan offering prayers during the match ‘raises questions about the spirit of the game.’</p>

<p>“This is a complaint about Pakistan Cricket Player, Mohammad Rizwan, who was seen offering namaz on the cricket field during his team’s opening match of the ongoing ICC Men’s ODI World Cup 2023 on Friday (Oct 6) against the Netherlands in Hyderabad,” reads the complaint filed by Jindal with the ICC chairman Greg Barclay.</p>

<p>“The act of Mohammad Rizwan when he read namaz on the cricket field amid many Indians is symbolic of the intentional depiction of his religion, which stands against the spirit of the sports,” it added.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rashid-latif-tears-into-pakistan-cricket-setup-blames-political-vendetta-aggressive-changes-for-poor-show-647447">Rashid Latif tears into Pakistan cricket setup, blames political vendetta, aggressive changes for poor show</a></strong></p>

<p>In the complaint he filed, the lawyer said Rizwan offering the prayers defeated the whole purpose of the spirit of cricket, further questioning his ideology behind it. He added that by doing so, Rizwan was purposely depicting his religion.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Vineet posted the photo of his complaint on his social media handle, receiving attention from everywhere.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="hi">खेल की भावना को जीवित रखने के लिए, अधिवक्ता विनीत जिंदल ने 6 अक्टूबर 2023 को क्रिकेट मैच के दौरान "नमाज़" की पेशकश करने के लिए पाकिस्तान क्रिकेट टीम के विकेटकीपर और बल्लेबाज मोहम्मद रिज़वान के खिलाफ अंतर्राष्ट्रीय क्रिकेट परिषद में शिकायत दर्ज की।<br />
शिकायत की कॉपी आईसीसी एथिक्स… <a href="https://t.co/w2Ezm6KaTy">pic.twitter.com/w2Ezm6KaTy</a></p>
— Adv.Vineet Jindal (@vineetJindal19) <a href="https://twitter.com/vineetJindal19/status/1713086170102710678?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 14, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>“This very act of the player raises questions about the spirit of the match and raises a question of the ideology, the player follows while playing the match. The act of displaying his religion by Mohammed Rizwan purposefully depicts his intent to message that he is a Muslim, defeating the spirit of sports. Rizwan was seen offering prayers amid the field while his teammates were waiting for the drinks during the break,” the complaint read.</p>

<p>Following his match-winning hundred against Sri Lanka the other day, Rizwan dedicated his knock (on X – previously known as Twitter) to the people of Gaza, putting himself in a controversial sphere, given the dos and don’ts laid by the cricket’s governing body.</p>

<p>“The act of representation of his religion by Mohammed Rizwan in the field and further followed by his statement in his press conference regarding the dedication of his victory to the people of Gaza further attests to his religious and political ideology,” the statement read.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Pakistan have won two and lost one in three matches played in this World Cup so far. They will next face Australia in Bengaluru on Friday (Oct 20).&nbsp;</p>

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A complaint has been filed against star Pakistan keeper-batter Mohammad Rizwan for offering prayers (namaz) on the cricket field during the game against the Netherlands in World Cup 2023.

A complaint has been filed against star Pakistan keeper-batter Mohammad Rizwan for offering prayers (namaz) on the cricket field during the game against the Netherlands in World Cup 2023. Vineet Jindal, an advocate in the Supreme Court of India, wrote to the ICC, saying Rizwan offering prayers during the match ‘raises questions about the spirit of the game.’ “This is a complaint about Pakistan Cricket Player, Mohammad Rizwan, who was seen offering namaz on the cricket field during his team’s opening match of the ongoing ICC Men’s ODI World Cup 2023 on Friday (Oct 6) against the Netherlands in Hyderabad,” reads the complaint filed by Jindal with the ICC chairman Greg Barclay. “The act of Mohammad Rizwan when he read namaz on the cricket field amid many Indians is symbolic of the intentional depiction of his religion, which stands against the spirit of the sports,” it added. ALSO READ: Rashid Latif tears into Pakistan cricket setup, blames political vendetta, aggressive changes for poor show In the complaint he filed, the lawyer said Rizwan offering the prayers defeated the whole purpose of the spirit of cricket, further questioning his ideology behind it. He added that by doing so, Rizwan was purposely depicting his religion. Vineet posted the photo of his complaint on his social media handle, receiving attention from everywhere. खेल की भावना को जीवित रखने के लिए, अधिवक्ता विनीत जिंदल ने 6 अक्टूबर 2023 को क्रिकेट मैच के दौरान "नमाज़" की पेशकश करने के लिए पाकिस्तान क्रिकेट टीम के विकेटकीपर और बल्लेबाज मोहम्मद रिज़वान के खिलाफ अंतर्राष्ट्रीय क्रिकेट परिषद में शिकायत दर्ज की। शिकायत की कॉपी आईसीसी एथिक्स… pic.twitter.com/w2Ezm6KaTy — Adv.Vineet Jindal (@vineetJindal19) October 14, 2023 × “This very act of the player raises questions about the spirit of the match and raises a question of the ideology, the player follows while playing the match. The act of displaying his religion by Mohammed Rizwan purposefully depicts his intent to message that he is a Muslim, defeating the spirit of sports. Rizwan was seen offering prayers amid the field while his teammates were waiting for the drinks during the break,” the complaint read. Following his match-winning hundred against Sri Lanka the other day, Rizwan dedicated his knock (on X – previously known as Twitter) to the people of Gaza, putting himself in a controversial sphere, given the dos and don’ts laid by the cricket’s governing body. “The act of representation of his religion by Mohammed Rizwan in the field and further followed by his statement in his press conference regarding the dedication of his victory to the people of Gaza further attests to his religious and political ideology,” the statement read. Meanwhile, Pakistan have won two and lost one in three matches played in this World Cup so far. They will next face Australia in Bengaluru on Friday (Oct 20). 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.

World Cup: Complaint filed against Mohammad Rizwan for offering prayers on field during Netherlands game

<p>Former Pakistan captain and veteran keeper-batter Rashid Latif bashed the current situation of Pakistan cricket and its board in the country. Following their loss to India for the record eighth time in World Cup history in Ahmedabad by seven wickets, Latif pointed fingers towards political vendetta and aggressive changes in the top brass as reasons behind the team’s yet another failure on the big stage.</p>

<p>“The continuous political interference is ruining Pakistan cricket,” Rashid Latif said, as quoted in The Indian Express.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“In the past twelve months, we have seen three different persons heading the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB). We have seen Ramiz Raja, then Najam Sethi, and now Zaka Ashraf is at the helm. And not to forget, in the same timeline, we have had five selectors as well. Mohammad Wasim, Micky Arthur, Shahid Afridi, Haroon Rasheed, and now Inzamam-ul-Haq,” Latif added while talking about the reason behind the fall of Pakistan Cricket.&nbsp;</p>

<p>From being 155 for two at one stage to getting all out on 191 on a batting paradise at the Narendra Modi Stadium, Pakistan lost momentum and thus the match later on. For India, skipper Rohit Sharma led from the front, hitting a magnificent 86, including six sixes, helping India cross the line with relative ease.</p>

<p>Although Pakistan Captain Babar Azam completed his fifty and Muhammad Rizwan contributed with 49 in the middle overs, none of the batters could put pressure back on the Indian bowlers.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cwc-we-got-to-move-on-quickly-but-players-must-enjoy-the-win-first-trott-on-afgs-famous-win-over-england-647374">CWC: We got to move on quickly but players must enjoy the win first: Trott on AFG’s famous win over England</a></strong></p>

<p>“The selectors should also be blamed because there was no vision. Saud Shakeel, Abdullah Shafique and Hasan Ali were not in contention a year ago, and suddenly, they are in the ODI World Cup.</p>

<p>“Saud and Abdullah had never played a high-intensity game, and you cannot blame them. Fakhar Zaman was our main player for the past three years and all of a sudden, he was dropped. I agree that he was not in good form, but in my opinion, he should have batted at No 4 to face Ravindra Jadeja and Kuldeep Yadav,” Latif bashed the selection criteria.</p>

<h2>Shaheen looked fatigued; Pakistan lacked mental toughness</h2>

<p>The bowlers looked fatigued, starting with Shaheen, who is said to be carrying an injury. Besides him, Haris Rauf failed to terrorize batters with his steamy pace the way he does in the shortest format. And as per Rashid, with Indians being so good against the spin, they could have hit Shadab Khan with their eyes closed.</p>

<p>“I don’t know if Shaheen Afridi is injured, but he looked fatigued. Haris Rauf will have to learn how to hit the good lengths consistently. In the T20Is, the four-over spell can make you a superstar by firing all the cylinders in 24 balls. But in the ODIs and Test cricket, you need that mental toughness that was lacking in Ahmedabad,” the Pakistan veteran added.</p>

<p>“Shadab Khan’s spells against the minor teams are exceptional but when it comes to the top five side, he struggles. Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, Jos Buttler, Glenn Maxwell, and David Miller face the likes of Kuldeep Yadav, Rashid Khan and Tabraiz Shamsi in the nets; they will pick Shadab with their eyes shut,” Rashid slammed Pakistan team’s vice-captain.&nbsp;</p>

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Former Pakistan captain and veteran keeper-batter Rashid Latif bashed the current situation of Pakistan cricket and its board in the country. Following their loss to India for the record eighth time in World Cup history in Ahmedabad by seven wickets, Latif pointed fingers towards political vendetta and aggressive changes in the top brass as reasons behind the team’s yet another failure on the big stage.

Former Pakistan captain and veteran keeper-batter Rashid Latif bashed the current situation of Pakistan cricket and its board in the country. Following their loss to India for the record eighth time in World Cup history in Ahmedabad by seven wickets, Latif pointed fingers towards political vendetta and aggressive changes in the top brass as reasons behind the team’s yet another failure on the big stage. “The continuous political interference is ruining Pakistan cricket,” Rashid Latif said, as quoted in The Indian Express. “In the past twelve months, we have seen three different persons heading the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB). We have seen Ramiz Raja, then Najam Sethi, and now Zaka Ashraf is at the helm. And not to forget, in the same timeline, we have had five selectors as well. Mohammad Wasim, Micky Arthur, Shahid Afridi, Haroon Rasheed, and now Inzamam-ul-Haq,” Latif added while talking about the reason behind the fall of Pakistan Cricket. From being 155 for two at one stage to getting all out on 191 on a batting paradise at the Narendra Modi Stadium, Pakistan lost momentum and thus the match later on. For India, skipper Rohit Sharma led from the front, hitting a magnificent 86, including six sixes, helping India cross the line with relative ease. Although Pakistan Captain Babar Azam completed his fifty and Muhammad Rizwan contributed with 49 in the middle overs, none of the batters could put pressure back on the Indian bowlers. ALSO READ: CWC: We got to move on quickly but players must enjoy the win first: Trott on AFG’s famous win over England “The selectors should also be blamed because there was no vision. Saud Shakeel, Abdullah Shafique and Hasan Ali were not in contention a year ago, and suddenly, they are in the ODI World Cup. “Saud and Abdullah had never played a high-intensity game, and you cannot blame them. Fakhar Zaman was our main player for the past three years and all of a sudden, he was dropped. I agree that he was not in good form, but in my opinion, he should have batted at No 4 to face Ravindra Jadeja and Kuldeep Yadav,” Latif bashed the selection criteria. Shaheen looked fatigued; Pakistan lacked mental toughness The bowlers looked fatigued, starting with Shaheen, who is said to be carrying an injury. Besides him, Haris Rauf failed to terrorize batters with his steamy pace the way he does in the shortest format. And as per Rashid, with Indians being so good against the spin, they could have hit Shadab Khan with their eyes closed. “I don’t know if Shaheen Afridi is injured, but he looked fatigued. Haris Rauf will have to learn how to hit the good lengths consistently. In the T20Is, the four-over spell can make you a superstar by firing all the cylinders in 24 balls. But in the ODIs and Test cricket, you need that mental toughness that was lacking in Ahmedabad,” the Pakistan veteran added. “Shadab Khan’s spells against the minor teams are exceptional but when it comes to the top five side, he struggles. Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, Jos Buttler, Glenn Maxwell, and David Miller face the likes of Kuldeep Yadav, Rashid Khan and Tabraiz Shamsi in the nets; they will pick Shadab with their eyes shut,” Rashid slammed Pakistan team’s vice-captain. 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.

Rashid Latif tears into Pakistan cricket setup, blames political vendetta, aggressive changes for poor show

<p>Former Pakistan cricketers have slammed Mickey Arthur, the director of cricket, for his rather bizarre excuses after humiliating defeat against India at the World Cup. Arthur's comments in the aftermath of the defeat left everyone surprised with a section of former players suggesting the team director to address the real issues, instead of focusing on superficial ones.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Wasim Akram, one of the greatest players to have ever played the sport for Pakistan said he did not want to hear 'random stuff' from Arthur.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“What did you plan against Kuldeep Yadav? That's what we want to hear, not this random stuff. You can't get away from this,” Akram told Arthur during a show on Pakistan's national channel&nbsp;<i>A Sports.</i></p>

<p>Moin Khan, the former Pakistan wicketkeeper stated that Arthur should be talking about the areas for which he was hired.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“He's diverting attention. People are disheartened, and you are saying such emotional things. They should discuss things that they are appointed for, rather than such things. I understand it's an ICC event. But as a coach, you shouldn't really be saying such things,” said Moin.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Shoaib Malik said Pakistan should instead focus on what India did right and praise them for outplaying Pakistan.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“I think we should rather praise them. If there's an event in our country, we should also utilise our home conditions like this,” Malik said.</p>

<h2><strong>What did Arthur say?</strong></h2>

<p>Fresh after the loss, Arthur said the blur of blue at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad felt like playing at a BCCI event, instead of an ICC event.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"It didn't seem like an ICC event to be brutally honest. It seemed like a bilateral series; it seemed like a BCCI (Board of Control for Cricket in India) event," said Arthur.</p>

<p>Arthur accused the stadium's public address system organisers of favouring India by refusing to play "Dil Dil Pakistan", the nation's unofficial anthem.</p>

<p>"I didn't hear 'Dil Dil Pakistan' ('My heart is Pakistan') coming through too often tonight. So yes, that does play a role, but I'm not going to use that as an excuse."</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-2023-didnt-hear-dil-dil-pakistan-pakistans-mickey-arthur-slams-bcci-in-bizarre-manner-646939"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;World Cup 2023: 'Didn't hear Dil Dil Pakistan...', Pakistan's Mickey Arthur slams BCCI in bizarre manner</strong></a></p>

<p>Arthur, however, signed off by admitting that&nbsp;Pakistan's 'timid' playing style was perhaps the reason for the side's downfall.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I thought we were a little bit timid. I did think we could probably have taken on the Indian spinners just a little bit more," said Arthur.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I think we've got to realise that there are two ways to always skin a cat. And we've had success by taking it deep and then cashing in at the back end but we couldn't do that," added the former Pakistan coach.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Former Pakistan cricketers have slammed Mickey Arthur, the director of cricket, for his rather bizarre excuses after humiliating defeat against India at the World Cup.

Former Pakistan cricketers have slammed Mickey Arthur, the director of cricket, for his rather bizarre excuses after humiliating defeat against India at the World Cup. Arthur's comments in the aftermath of the defeat left everyone surprised with a section of former players suggesting the team director to address the real issues, instead of focusing on superficial ones. Wasim Akram, one of the greatest players to have ever played the sport for Pakistan said he did not want to hear 'random stuff' from Arthur. “What did you plan against Kuldeep Yadav? That's what we want to hear, not this random stuff. You can't get away from this,” Akram told Arthur during a show on Pakistan's national channel A Sports. Moin Khan, the former Pakistan wicketkeeper stated that Arthur should be talking about the areas for which he was hired. “He's diverting attention. People are disheartened, and you are saying such emotional things. They should discuss things that they are appointed for, rather than such things. I understand it's an ICC event. But as a coach, you shouldn't really be saying such things,” said Moin. Meanwhile, Shoaib Malik said Pakistan should instead focus on what India did right and praise them for outplaying Pakistan. “I think we should rather praise them. If there's an event in our country, we should also utilise our home conditions like this,” Malik said. What did Arthur say? Fresh after the loss, Arthur said the blur of blue at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad felt like playing at a BCCI event, instead of an ICC event. "It didn't seem like an ICC event to be brutally honest. It seemed like a bilateral series; it seemed like a BCCI (Board of Control for Cricket in India) event," said Arthur. Arthur accused the stadium's public address system organisers of favouring India by refusing to play "Dil Dil Pakistan", the nation's unofficial anthem. "I didn't hear 'Dil Dil Pakistan' ('My heart is Pakistan') coming through too often tonight. So yes, that does play a role, but I'm not going to use that as an excuse." Also read | World Cup 2023: 'Didn't hear Dil Dil Pakistan...', Pakistan's Mickey Arthur slams BCCI in bizarre manner Arthur, however, signed off by admitting that Pakistan's 'timid' playing style was perhaps the reason for the side's downfall. "I thought we were a little bit timid. I did think we could probably have taken on the Indian spinners just a little bit more," said Arthur. "I think we've got to realise that there are two ways to always skin a cat. And we've had success by taking it deep and then cashing in at the back end but we couldn't do that," added the former Pakistan coach. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

'He's diverting attention...': Former Pakistan players slam Mickey Arthur for 'BCCI event' remark

<p>Pakistan men's cricket team director Mickey Arthur was not a happy man after his team's abject surrender against arch rivals India at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad during the World Cup encounter. Arthur took a dig at the BCCI - the governing body for cricket in India, saying the absence of support for Pakistan in the 132,000-capacity stadium made the&nbsp;occasion look more like "a BCCI event" rather than an international marquee match-up.</p>

<p>After Pakistanis failed to secure visas from Indian consulates to cross the border, the majority of the Ahmedabad stadium was awash with blue-jersey-wearing Indian supporters, which seemingly didn't go down well with Arthur.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"It didn't seem like an ICC event to be brutally honest. It seemed like a bilateral series; it seemed like a BCCI (Board of Control for Cricket in India) event," said Arthur.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Arthur accused the stadium's public address system organisers of favouring India by refusing to play "Dil Dil Pakistan", the nation's unofficial anthem.</p>

<p>"I didn't hear 'Dil Dil Pakistan' ('My heart is Pakistan') coming through too often tonight. So yes, that does play a role, but I'm not going to use that as an excuse."</p>

<p>Despite the bizarre excuses, Arthur admitted that Pakistan's 'timid' playing style was perhaps the reason for the side's downfall.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I thought we were a little bit timid. I did think we could probably have taken on the Indian spinners just a little bit more," said Arthur.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I think we've got to realise that there are two ways to always skin a cat. And we've had success by taking it deep and then cashing in at the back end but we couldn't do that," added the former Pakistan coach.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/odi-world-cup-rohit-sharmas-fifty-paints-ahmedabad-blue-as-india-maintain-perfect-winning-record-vs-pakistan-646866"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;ODI World Cup: Rohit Sharma's knock paints Ahmedabad blue as India extend winning record vs Pakistan to 8-0</strong></a></p>

<h2><strong>Aakash Chopra slams Arthur</strong></h2>

<p>After Arthur's comments went viral, former Indian cricketer Aakash Chopra slammed Arthur&nbsp;for making excuses.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"DJ wale babu mera gana baja do (DJ guy, please play my song)…I mean seriously???? Did we hear Sri Lanka complain about the fact that the Hyderabad crowd was chanting ‘Pakistan Jeetega’?? I’ll be genuinely surprised if the DJ at Narendra Modi Stadium played ‘Dil Dil Pakistan’ even once today," said Chopra on X, formerly known as Twitter.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">DJ wale babu mera gana baja do…I mean seriously????<br />
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Did we hear Sri Lanka complain about the fact that the Hyderabad crowd was chanting ‘Pakistan Jeetega’??<br />
<br />
I’ll be genuinely surprised if the DJ at Narendra Modi Stadium played ‘Dil Dil Pakistan’ even once today. <a href="https://t.co/Nt6yM8Otme">https://t.co/Nt6yM8Otme</a></p>
— Aakash Chopra (@cricketaakash) <a href="https://twitter.com/cricketaakash/status/1713237366314504267?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 14, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>With the win, India now find themselves on top of the points table and well on their way to securing a top 4 finish. The Men-in-Blue will now face Bangladesh next week on Thursday (Oct 19) at the&nbsp;Maharashtra Cricket Association Stadium in Pune.&nbsp;Meanwhile, Pakistan will square up against Australia on Friday (Oct&nbsp;20) at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Pakistan men's cricket team director Mickey Arthur was not a happy man after his team's abject surrender against arch rivals India at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad during the World Cup encounter.

Pakistan men's cricket team director Mickey Arthur was not a happy man after his team's abject surrender against arch rivals India at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad during the World Cup encounter. Arthur took a dig at the BCCI - the governing body for cricket in India, saying the absence of support for Pakistan in the 132,000-capacity stadium made the occasion look more like "a BCCI event" rather than an international marquee match-up. After Pakistanis failed to secure visas from Indian consulates to cross the border, the majority of the Ahmedabad stadium was awash with blue-jersey-wearing Indian supporters, which seemingly didn't go down well with Arthur. "It didn't seem like an ICC event to be brutally honest. It seemed like a bilateral series; it seemed like a BCCI (Board of Control for Cricket in India) event," said Arthur. Arthur accused the stadium's public address system organisers of favouring India by refusing to play "Dil Dil Pakistan", the nation's unofficial anthem. "I didn't hear 'Dil Dil Pakistan' ('My heart is Pakistan') coming through too often tonight. So yes, that does play a role, but I'm not going to use that as an excuse." Despite the bizarre excuses, Arthur admitted that Pakistan's 'timid' playing style was perhaps the reason for the side's downfall. "I thought we were a little bit timid. I did think we could probably have taken on the Indian spinners just a little bit more," said Arthur. "I think we've got to realise that there are two ways to always skin a cat. And we've had success by taking it deep and then cashing in at the back end but we couldn't do that," added the former Pakistan coach. Also read | ODI World Cup: Rohit Sharma's knock paints Ahmedabad blue as India extend winning record vs Pakistan to 8-0 Aakash Chopra slams Arthur After Arthur's comments went viral, former Indian cricketer Aakash Chopra slammed Arthur for making excuses. "DJ wale babu mera gana baja do (DJ guy, please play my song)…I mean seriously???? Did we hear Sri Lanka complain about the fact that the Hyderabad crowd was chanting ‘Pakistan Jeetega’?? I’ll be genuinely surprised if the DJ at Narendra Modi Stadium played ‘Dil Dil Pakistan’ even once today," said Chopra on X, formerly known as Twitter. DJ wale babu mera gana baja do…I mean seriously???? Did we hear Sri Lanka complain about the fact that the Hyderabad crowd was chanting ‘Pakistan Jeetega’?? I’ll be genuinely surprised if the DJ at Narendra Modi Stadium played ‘Dil Dil Pakistan’ even once today. https://t.co/Nt6yM8Otme — Aakash Chopra (@cricketaakash) October 14, 2023 × With the win, India now find themselves on top of the points table and well on their way to securing a top 4 finish. The Men-in-Blue will now face Bangladesh next week on Thursday (Oct 19) at the Maharashtra Cricket Association Stadium in Pune. Meanwhile, Pakistan will square up against Australia on Friday (Oct 20) at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

World Cup 2023: 'Didn't hear Dil Dil Pakistan...', Pakistan's Mickey Arthur slams BCCI in bizarre manner

<p>Pakistan captain Babar Azam was scathing in his assessment after his side succumbed in a rather timid manner to arch rivals India in the ongoing World Cup. Speaking at the post-match ceremony at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, Babar said the Pakistani team was not up to the task on the day.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Put in to bat first, the Pakistani side crumbled after getting a decent start as Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan failed to capitalise on starts.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We started well. We got a good partnership going. We just planned to play normal cricket and build partnerships, but suddenly we had a collapse in the middle order and did not finish well. Not good for us. The way we started, we wanted to target 280-290, but the collapse cost us. And the total was not good. With the new ball, probably we are not up to the mark. Different game, different situation," said Babar after the match.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Pakistani skipper also praised his Indian counterpart, adding: "Rohit&nbsp;(Sharma) was outstanding today. We tried to take wickets and win the match, but didn't happen."</p>

<h2><strong>Rohit Sharma praises bowlers&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Indian captain Rohit Sharma was all praise for his bowlers and said restricting the Pakistani batting lineup to 190 was a 'great effort'.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The bowlers were the ones who set the game for us today as well. Restricting them to around 190 was a great effort. I don't think it was a 190-pitch. At one stage, we were looking at 280 or 270,"&nbsp;said Sharma.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We've got six individuals who can do the job for us with the ball. It cannot be everyone's day every day. The guy who is having a good day needs to make sure he gets the job done for the team. And obviously, my job as the captain is important there as well - to read the conditions, assess who is the guy who can trouble the batters."</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-2023-too-easy-for-us-fans-react-as-india-thump-pakistan-yet-again-646875"><strong>Also read | World Cup 2023: 'Too easy for us', Fans react as India thump Pakistan yet again</strong></a></p>

<p>"All in all it's looking good. We don't want to get too excited or too low as well. We want to stay balanced and that's the key playing a tournament like the World Cup. We've got to keep calm, keep it balanced and keep moving forward."</p>

<p>With the win, India now find themselves on top of the points table and well on their way to securing a top 4 finish. The Men-in-Blue will now face Bangladesh next week on Thursday (Oct 19) at the&nbsp;Maharashtra Cricket Association Stadium in Pune.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>


Pakistan captain Babar Azam was scathing in his assessment after his side succumbed in a rather timid manner to arch rivals India in the ongoing World Cup. Speaking at the post-match ceremony at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, Babar said the Pakistani team was not up to the task on the day.

Pakistan captain Babar Azam was scathing in his assessment after his side succumbed in a rather timid manner to arch rivals India in the ongoing World Cup. Speaking at the post-match ceremony at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, Babar said the Pakistani team was not up to the task on the day. Put in to bat first, the Pakistani side crumbled after getting a decent start as Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan failed to capitalise on starts. "We started well. We got a good partnership going. We just planned to play normal cricket and build partnerships, but suddenly we had a collapse in the middle order and did not finish well. Not good for us. The way we started, we wanted to target 280-290, but the collapse cost us. And the total was not good. With the new ball, probably we are not up to the mark. Different game, different situation," said Babar after the match. The Pakistani skipper also praised his Indian counterpart, adding: "Rohit (Sharma) was outstanding today. We tried to take wickets and win the match, but didn't happen." Rohit Sharma praises bowlers Indian captain Rohit Sharma was all praise for his bowlers and said restricting the Pakistani batting lineup to 190 was a 'great effort'. "The bowlers were the ones who set the game for us today as well. Restricting them to around 190 was a great effort. I don't think it was a 190-pitch. At one stage, we were looking at 280 or 270," said Sharma. "We've got six individuals who can do the job for us with the ball. It cannot be everyone's day every day. The guy who is having a good day needs to make sure he gets the job done for the team. And obviously, my job as the captain is important there as well - to read the conditions, assess who is the guy who can trouble the batters." Also read | World Cup 2023: 'Too easy for us', Fans react as India thump Pakistan yet again "All in all it's looking good. We don't want to get too excited or too low as well. We want to stay balanced and that's the key playing a tournament like the World Cup. We've got to keep calm, keep it balanced and keep moving forward." With the win, India now find themselves on top of the points table and well on their way to securing a top 4 finish. The Men-in-Blue will now face Bangladesh next week on Thursday (Oct 19) at the Maharashtra Cricket Association Stadium in Pune. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

World Cup 2023: 'We were not up to the mark...', Babar Azam's scathing criticism after Pak slump vs India

<p>In what turned out to be a one-sided contest in the end, India thumped Pakistan in fine fashion in front of a capacity crowd at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on Saturday (Oct 14) evening. The much-hyped India-Pakistan contest could not live up to its full billing once again as India brought their superior A-game that left the Pakistani side flabbergasted as to what hit them.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Indian bowlers beautifully set up the game after restricting Pakistan to a below-par total of 190 on a pitch that was excessively flat. Put into bat first by Indian captain Rohit Sharma, Pakistan batters had the upper hand in the first 30 overs as they only lost two wickets and had both Babar Azam and Muhammad Rizwan at the crease.&nbsp;</p>

<p>After the match, Indian fans went ballistic on social media, even though it was the third encounter of their eight-match league stage campaign.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Rohit Sharma vs Pak bowlers tonight 😁 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvPAK?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvPAK</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CWC2023?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CWC2023</a> <a href="https://t.co/z5Z5D6qLbY">pic.twitter.com/z5Z5D6qLbY</a></p>
— Wasim Jaffer (@WasimJaffer14) <a href="https://twitter.com/WasimJaffer14/status/1713192462964203624?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 14, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>Indian fans were highly appreciative of&nbsp;Jasprit Bumrah whose excellent spell completely titled the game in India's favour.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Every Indian right now be like 🇮🇳🙌<br />
<br />
💥 Bumrah in today's match: 2/19 &amp; a catch.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/JaspritBumrah?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#JaspritBumrah</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvPAK?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvPAK</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvsPAK?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvsPAK</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CricketComesHome?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CricketComesHome</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CWC23?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CWC23</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BharatArmy?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BharatArmy</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/COTI?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#COTI</a>🇮🇳 <a href="https://t.co/tHEIbHwsCt">pic.twitter.com/tHEIbHwsCt</a></p>
— The Bharat Army (@thebharatarmy) <a href="https://twitter.com/thebharatarmy/status/1713164177022566445?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 14, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>Seasoned cricket commentator said the defeat for Pakistan was inevitable, especially after their recent performances.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Pakistan got out of jail against Sri Lanka and have now been outplayed by India. Lots of thinking to do, especially with their traditional strength, their bowling.</p>
— Harsha Bhogle (@bhogleharsha) <a href="https://twitter.com/bhogleharsha/status/1713201515610153244?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 14, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Team India all the way!<br />
<br />
A great win today in Ahmedabad, powered by all round excellence.<br />
<br />
Congratulations to the team and best wishes for the matches ahead.</p>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1713202787633475646?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 14, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Since 2013, Pakistan has batted in 12 ODI innings against India and they have been bowled out 8 times.<br />
<br />
Biggest rivalry only on paper. 💆 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndvPak?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndvPak</a></p>
— Silly Point (@FarziCricketer) <a href="https://twitter.com/FarziCricketer/status/1713199537618297294?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 14, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">As usual Pakistan not realising where the boundaries are.</p>
— Gabbar (@GabbbarSingh) <a href="https://twitter.com/GabbbarSingh/status/1713200236775276813?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 14, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Can't wait to watch India vs Sri Lanka at the Wankhede later on in the tournament ❤️</p>
— Manas Singh (@menacesingh) <a href="https://twitter.com/menacesingh/status/1713203098494378168?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 14, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">With our frontline bowlers clicking, and top order knocking off the runs, Shardul Thakur is just not getting a chance to prove that he should be dropped.</p>
— Ramesh Srivats (@rameshsrivats) <a href="https://twitter.com/rameshsrivats/status/1713202388570382770?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 14, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>Even former Pakistani cricketers say the light side of things after their batting unit capitulated.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Every Pakistani cricket fan right now 💔 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PAKvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PAKvIND</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CWC23?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CWC23</a> <a href="https://t.co/ewTOjDZR1R">pic.twitter.com/ewTOjDZR1R</a></p>
— Mohammad Hafeez (@MHafeez22) <a href="https://twitter.com/MHafeez22/status/1713170197350363272?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 14, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>With the win, India now find themselves on top of the points table and well on their way to securing a top 4 finish. The Men-in-Blue will now face Bangladesh next week on Thursday (Oct 19) at the&nbsp;Maharashtra Cricket Association Stadium in Pune.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;</strong></p>

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In what turned out to be a one-sided contest in the end, India thumped Pakistan in fine fashion in front of a capacity crowd at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on Saturday (Oct 14) evening.

In what turned out to be a one-sided contest in the end, India thumped Pakistan in fine fashion in front of a capacity crowd at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on Saturday (Oct 14) evening. The much-hyped India-Pakistan contest could not live up to its full billing once again as India brought their superior A-game that left the Pakistani side flabbergasted as to what hit them. Indian bowlers beautifully set up the game after restricting Pakistan to a below-par total of 190 on a pitch that was excessively flat. Put into bat first by Indian captain Rohit Sharma, Pakistan batters had the upper hand in the first 30 overs as they only lost two wickets and had both Babar Azam and Muhammad Rizwan at the crease. After the match, Indian fans went ballistic on social media, even though it was the third encounter of their eight-match league stage campaign. Rohit Sharma vs Pak bowlers tonight 😁 #INDvPAK #CWC2023 pic.twitter.com/z5Z5D6qLbY — Wasim Jaffer (@WasimJaffer14) October 14, 2023 × Indian fans were highly appreciative of Jasprit Bumrah whose excellent spell completely titled the game in India's favour. Every Indian right now be like 🇮🇳🙌 💥 Bumrah in today's match: 2/19 & a catch.#JaspritBumrah #INDvPAK #INDvsPAK #CricketComesHome #CWC23 #TeamIndia #BharatArmy #COTI🇮🇳 pic.twitter.com/tHEIbHwsCt — The Bharat Army (@thebharatarmy) October 14, 2023 × Seasoned cricket commentator said the defeat for Pakistan was inevitable, especially after their recent performances. Pakistan got out of jail against Sri Lanka and have now been outplayed by India. Lots of thinking to do, especially with their traditional strength, their bowling. — Harsha Bhogle (@bhogleharsha) October 14, 2023 × Team India all the way! A great win today in Ahmedabad, powered by all round excellence. Congratulations to the team and best wishes for the matches ahead. — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) October 14, 2023 × Since 2013, Pakistan has batted in 12 ODI innings against India and they have been bowled out 8 times. Biggest rivalry only on paper. 💆 #IndvPak — Silly Point (@FarziCricketer) October 14, 2023 × As usual Pakistan not realising where the boundaries are. — Gabbar (@GabbbarSingh) October 14, 2023 × Can't wait to watch India vs Sri Lanka at the Wankhede later on in the tournament ❤️ — Manas Singh (@menacesingh) October 14, 2023 × With our frontline bowlers clicking, and top order knocking off the runs, Shardul Thakur is just not getting a chance to prove that he should be dropped. — Ramesh Srivats (@rameshsrivats) October 14, 2023 × Even former Pakistani cricketers say the light side of things after their batting unit capitulated. Every Pakistani cricket fan right now 💔 #PAKvIND #CWC23 pic.twitter.com/ewTOjDZR1R — Mohammad Hafeez (@MHafeez22) October 14, 2023 × With the win, India now find themselves on top of the points table and well on their way to securing a top 4 finish. The Men-in-Blue will now face Bangladesh next week on Thursday (Oct 19) at the Maharashtra Cricket Association Stadium in Pune. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

World Cup 2023: 'Too easy for us', Fans react as India thump Pakistan yet again