Ramiz Raja, the former Pakistani cricketer, explained that why he did not translate the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/pakistan-cricket-captain-sarfraz-ahmed-in-racial-abuse-row-under-icc-lens-192295">racist remarks made by Pakistan's team captain Sarfraz Ahmed</a> against South African pacer Andile Phehlukwayo during the second one-day match in Durban that the hosts eventually won by five wickets.&nbsp;

The incident happened in the 37th over of South Africa's run chase when Pakistan's wicket-keeper Sarfraz made inappropriate comments while keeping the stumps.&nbsp;

Sarfraz passed comments in Urdu, he said, "Abey kaale, teri ammi aaj kahaan baitheen hain? Kya parwa ke aaye hai aaj (Hey black guy, where's your mother sitting today? What have you got her to say for you today)?"

The right-handed batsman Raja, who was the commentator of the match, released a video on his YouTube channel "Ramiz Speaks" and spoke about the incident.&nbsp;

He said, "Racial slurs are completely unacceptable. It's good that Sarfraz has apologised."&nbsp;

He suggested that Sarfraz should not play the next match because it will create unwanted pressure on the entire team.&nbsp;

When the incident happened, Ramiz refrained from translating the comments to Urdu saying that it is an uncouth way of commentary.&nbsp;

He explained, "Translating every abuse, comment or racial slur in an unintelligent commentary."&nbsp;

"I stretched myself and translated the funny parts from Urdu to English but can be doing this every time."&nbsp;

He also mentioned, "Now, I have decided that I m not going to translate anything from Urdu to English, will stick to English commentary only."&nbsp;

Watch the show:&nbsp;

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Pakistan and South Africa will play the next one-day of a five-match series at Centurion on January 25.&nbsp;

Pakistan Cricket Board has <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/pcb-neither-endorses-nor-supports-sarfraz-ahmeds-racist-remarks-192559">expressed regret over the comments</a> that were caught on the stump microphone, stating that PCB neither endorses nor supports any comments that have the potential to cause offence.&nbsp;

The PCB also said that such incidents underline the role of educational training and it will work towards providing it.&nbsp;

Ramiz Raja, the former Pakistani cricketer, explained that why he did not translate the racist remarks made by Pakistan's team captain Sarfraz Ahmed against South African pacer Andile Phehlukwayo during the second one-day match in Durban that the hosts eventually won by five wickets.

Ramiz Raja, the former Pakistani cricketer, explained that why he did not translate the racist remarks made by Pakistan's team captain Sarfraz Ahmed against South African pacer Andile Phehlukwayo during the second one-day match in Durban that the hosts eventually won by five wickets. The incident happened in the 37th over of South Africa's run chase when Pakistan's wicket-keeper Sarfraz made inappropriate comments while keeping the stumps. Sarfraz passed comments in Urdu, he said, "Abey kaale, teri ammi aaj kahaan baitheen hain? Kya parwa ke aaye hai aaj (Hey black guy, where's your mother sitting today? What have you got her to say for you today)?" The right-handed batsman Raja, who was the commentator of the match, released a video on his YouTube channel "Ramiz Speaks" and spoke about the incident. He said, "Racial slurs are completely unacceptable. It's good that Sarfraz has apologised." He suggested that Sarfraz should not play the next match because it will create unwanted pressure on the entire team. When the incident happened, Ramiz refrained from translating the comments to Urdu saying that it is an uncouth way of commentary. He explained, "Translating every abuse, comment or racial slur in an unintelligent commentary." "I stretched myself and translated the funny parts from Urdu to English but can be doing this every time." He also mentioned, "Now, I have decided that I m not going to translate anything from Urdu to English, will stick to English commentary only." Watch the show: × Pakistan and South Africa will play the next one-day of a five-match series at Centurion on January 25. Pakistan Cricket Board has expressed regret over the comments that were caught on the stump microphone, stating that PCB neither endorses nor supports any comments that have the potential to cause offence. The PCB also said that such incidents underline the role of educational training and it will work towards providing it.

Ramiz Raja explains why he didn't translate Sarfraz Ahmed's racist remarks during commentary

New Zealand pacer Neil Wagner on Sunday became the eighth Kiwis bowler to take 150 or more wickets.

&nbsp;The 32-year-old dismissed&nbsp;Yasir&nbsp;Shah&nbsp;for nine to achieve the feat in his 37th Test as Pakistan took the lead on the second day of the first Test in Abu Dhabi on Saturday.

Richard Hadlee tops the chart for New Zealand with 431 wickets in 86 Tests.

Pakistan were well-placed at 144-4 at lunch, seeking a big lead to get a 1-0 advantage in the three-match series but Trent Boult (3-52) dismissed Asad Shafiq for 43 to restrain 'Men in Green.'

Debutant left-arm spinner Ajaz Patel, who has figures of 2-64, struck twice to reduce Pakistan's chances of a big lead.

Earlier, Pakistan resumed at 59-2 but lost overnight batsmen Sohail for 38 and Azhar for 22 in the space of just six balls at the same score of 91.

At the end of the third day of first test match, Pakistan were 37 for no loss and need 139 runs to win.&nbsp;

New Zealand pacer Neil Wagner on Sunday became the eighth Kiwis bowler to take 150 or more wickets. The 32-year-old dismissed Yasir Shah for nine to achieve the feat in his 37th Test as Pakistan took the lead on the second day of the first Test in Abu Dhabi on Saturday.

New Zealand pacer Neil Wagner on Sunday became the eighth Kiwis bowler to take 150 or more wickets. The 32-year-old dismissed Yasir Shah for nine to achieve the feat in his 37th Test as Pakistan took the lead on the second day of the first Test in Abu Dhabi on Saturday. Richard Hadlee tops the chart for New Zealand with 431 wickets in 86 Tests. Pakistan were well-placed at 144-4 at lunch, seeking a big lead to get a 1-0 advantage in the three-match series but Trent Boult (3-52) dismissed Asad Shafiq for 43 to restrain 'Men in Green.' Debutant left-arm spinner Ajaz Patel, who has figures of 2-64, struck twice to reduce Pakistan's chances of a big lead. Earlier, Pakistan resumed at 59-2 but lost overnight batsmen Sohail for 38 and Azhar for 22 in the space of just six balls at the same score of 91. At the end of the third day of first test match, Pakistan were 37 for no loss and need 139 runs to win.

Neil Wagner becomes eighth New Zealander to 150 Test wickets

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/search?q=babar+azam">Babar Azam</a>, who recently broke <a href="http://www.wionews.com/search?q=virat+kohli">Virat Kohli</a>'s international record to became the fastest Indian to score 1000 runs in T20I, clung on to the top spot among batsmen in T20I rankings released on Monday.

Pakistan opener Babar Azam scored 7, 40 and 79 against New Zealand in the recently concluded three-match series.

For Pakistan, Mohammad Hafeez and Shaheen Afridi made massive gains of 20 spots and 41 spots respectively. Hafeez rose to No.59, while Afridi rose to No.78.

In bowling rankings, India's mystery spinner Kuldeep Yadav, who played a key role in India's series win over West Indies, leapfrogged 14 places to a career-high 23rd in the latest ICC T20 rankings.

Yadav picked up five wickets in two matches at an economy-rate of 5.6 in India's home series 3-0 win over the current T20 champions.

For India, Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Jasprit Bumrah also made gains. Kumar climbed nine places to No.19, Bumrah rose five spots to No.21 while Yuzvendra Chahal retained his place at No.4.&nbsp;

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Kuldeep Yadav and Mohammad Hafeez make big gains in latest <a href="https://twitter.com/MRFWorldwide?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MRFWorldwide</a> ICC T20I Rankings! 
 
Yadav jumps 14 places to a career-high No.23 in the bowlers' rankings. Hafeez vaults 16 places to No.53 among batsmen. 
 
Details ⬇️<a href="https://t.co/Bkf8sDlQuU">https://t.co/Bkf8sDlQuU</a> <a href="https://t.co/w7hBdc4BmW">pic.twitter.com/w7hBdc4BmW</a>
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Pakistan and India retained their first and second place in the team rankings, collecting two and three points respectively. Pakistan moved to 138 points while India have 127 points.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Australia will be involved in all four remaining T20Is later this month. They will play South Africa in a one-off match in Carrara on November 17, before taking on India in a three-match series from November 21-25.&nbsp;

If Australia win all four matches, then they will rise to second position on 126 points. However, if they lose all four matches, then they will end up in sixth position on 112 points.

Similarly, South Africa will gain three points if they win on 17 November, while India will move to 129 points if they win all three matches against Australia.&nbsp;

Babar Azam, who recently broke Virat Kohli's international record to became the fastest Indian to score 1000 runs in T20I, clung on to the top spot among batsmen in T20I rankings released on Monday.

Babar Azam, who recently broke Virat Kohli's international record to became the fastest Indian to score 1000 runs in T20I, clung on to the top spot among batsmen in T20I rankings released on Monday. Pakistan opener Babar Azam scored 7, 40 and 79 against New Zealand in the recently concluded three-match series. For Pakistan, Mohammad Hafeez and Shaheen Afridi made massive gains of 20 spots and 41 spots respectively. Hafeez rose to No.59, while Afridi rose to No.78. In bowling rankings, India's mystery spinner Kuldeep Yadav, who played a key role in India's series win over West Indies, leapfrogged 14 places to a career-high 23rd in the latest ICC T20 rankings. Yadav picked up five wickets in two matches at an economy-rate of 5.6 in India's home series 3-0 win over the current T20 champions. For India, Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Jasprit Bumrah also made gains. Kumar climbed nine places to No.19, Bumrah rose five spots to No.21 while Yuzvendra Chahal retained his place at No.4. Kuldeep Yadav and Mohammad Hafeez make big gains in latest @MRFWorldwide ICC T20I Rankings! Yadav jumps 14 places to a career-high No.23 in the bowlers' rankings. Hafeez vaults 16 places to No.53 among batsmen. Details ⬇️https://t.co/Bkf8sDlQuU pic.twitter.com/w7hBdc4BmW — ICC (@ICC) November 12, 2018 × Pakistan and India retained their first and second place in the team rankings, collecting two and three points respectively. Pakistan moved to 138 points while India have 127 points. Meanwhile, Australia will be involved in all four remaining T20Is later this month. They will play South Africa in a one-off match in Carrara on November 17, before taking on India in a three-match series from November 21-25. If Australia win all four matches, then they will rise to second position on 126 points. However, if they lose all four matches, then they will end up in sixth position on 112 points. Similarly, South Africa will gain three points if they win on 17 November, while India will move to 129 points if they win all three matches against Australia.

ICC T20 Rankings: Bowler Kuldeep Yadav reaches career-best, batsman Babar Azam holds on to No.1 spot

Former Pakistan skipper Azhar Ali announced his retirement from one-day international cricket on Thursday, saying he wanted to focus on his test career.

The 33-year-old averaged 36.90 with the bat in his 53 one-day appearances for Pakistan, the last of which was against New Zealand in Dunedin in January.

He became captain of Pakistan's ODI side after the 2015 World Cup but was replaced by Sarfraz Ahmed at the start of 2017 after a string of poor results.

"I haven't taken this decision suddenly. I have been thinking about it," Azhar told reporters in Lahore. "It's the right time to focus on Tests. There have been terrific players in one-dayers in the Pakistan set-up.

"I want to concentrate on Tests with the same fitness and energy that I have been. I didn't decide to retire after any hard feelings. It's my personal decision."

Former Pakistan skipper Azhar Ali announced his retirement from one-day international cricket on Thursday, saying he wanted to focus on his test career. The 33-year-old averaged 36.

Former Pakistan skipper Azhar Ali announced his retirement from one-day international cricket on Thursday, saying he wanted to focus on his test career. The 33-year-old averaged 36.90 with the bat in his 53 one-day appearances for Pakistan, the last of which was against New Zealand in Dunedin in January. He became captain of Pakistan's ODI side after the 2015 World Cup but was replaced by Sarfraz Ahmed at the start of 2017 after a string of poor results. "I haven't taken this decision suddenly. I have been thinking about it," Azhar told reporters in Lahore. "It's the right time to focus on Tests. There have been terrific players in one-dayers in the Pakistan set-up. "I want to concentrate on Tests with the same fitness and energy that I have been. I didn't decide to retire after any hard feelings. It's my personal decision."

Pakistan's Azhar Ali retires from one-day internationals

Pakistan's selectors on Monday kept the same winning combination against New Zealand for the three-match Twenty20 series which whitewashed Australia in United Arab Emirates.

Pakistan beat Australia by 33 runs in the third Twenty20 international on Sunday to clinch the series 3-0 -- their first whitewash against Australia in a limited over series -- prompting selectors not to make any changes.

Pakistan face New Zealand in the three-match series with the first in Abu Dhabi on Wednesday, followed by the last two in Dubai on Friday and Sunday.

No change means experienced pace spearheads Mohammad Amir and Wahab Riaz continued to be left out, while fast bowler Rumman Raees is still not fit after suffering a knee injury.

Meanwhile, New Zealand have added second specialist spinner to their Twenty20 squad, with left-armer Ajaz Patel drafted in from New Zealand A side.

New Zealand's new coach Gary Stead said Patel was on form and would offer the necessary balance to the side considering the conditions in the UAE.

"It's no secret that spin is crucial in this part of the world and with the wickets on the slower side, we've taken the option of a second spinner to bring our squad up to 14-players," said Stead.

Pakistan: Sarfraz Ahmed (captain), Fakhar Zaman, Mohammad Hafeez, Sahibzada Farhan, Babar Azam, Shoaib Malik, Asif Ali, Hussain Talat, Shadab Khan, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Usman Khan Shanwari, Hasan Ali, Imad Wasim, Waqas Maqsood, Faheem Ashraf New Zealand squad (updated): Kane Williamson (captain), Corey Anderson, Mark Chapman, Lockie Ferguson, Colin de Grandhomme, Adam Milne, Colin Munro, Ajaz Patel, Glenn Phillips, Seth Rance, Tim Seifert, Ish Sodhi, Tim Southee, Ross Taylor

Pakistan's selectors on Monday kept the same winning combination against New Zealand for the three-match Twenty20 series which whitewashed Australia in United Arab Emirates.

Pakistan's selectors on Monday kept the same winning combination against New Zealand for the three-match Twenty20 series which whitewashed Australia in United Arab Emirates. Pakistan beat Australia by 33 runs in the third Twenty20 international on Sunday to clinch the series 3-0 -- their first whitewash against Australia in a limited over series -- prompting selectors not to make any changes. Pakistan face New Zealand in the three-match series with the first in Abu Dhabi on Wednesday, followed by the last two in Dubai on Friday and Sunday. No change means experienced pace spearheads Mohammad Amir and Wahab Riaz continued to be left out, while fast bowler Rumman Raees is still not fit after suffering a knee injury. Meanwhile, New Zealand have added second specialist spinner to their Twenty20 squad, with left-armer Ajaz Patel drafted in from New Zealand A side. New Zealand's new coach Gary Stead said Patel was on form and would offer the necessary balance to the side considering the conditions in the UAE. "It's no secret that spin is crucial in this part of the world and with the wickets on the slower side, we've taken the option of a second spinner to bring our squad up to 14-players," said Stead. Pakistan: Sarfraz Ahmed (captain), Fakhar Zaman, Mohammad Hafeez, Sahibzada Farhan, Babar Azam, Shoaib Malik, Asif Ali, Hussain Talat, Shadab Khan, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Usman Khan Shanwari, Hasan Ali, Imad Wasim, Waqas Maqsood, Faheem Ashraf New Zealand squad (updated): Kane Williamson (captain), Corey Anderson, Mark Chapman, Lockie Ferguson, Colin de Grandhomme, Adam Milne, Colin Munro, Ajaz Patel, Glenn Phillips, Seth Rance, Tim Seifert, Ish Sodhi, Tim Southee, Ross Taylor

After defeating Australia, Pakistan keep winning combination for NZ T20 series

The International Cricket Council (ICC) on Tuesday trolled the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) on Twitter after the unveiling of the TUC Cup 2018 T20I series trophy.

Australia and Pakistan will face each other in the T20I series, the trophy of which was unveiled by captains Aaron Finch and Sarfaraz Ahmed.&nbsp;

But, the design of the trophy became a hot topic of discussion among fans as it consists of a pair of stumps, a ball and a biscuit at the crown.

The International cricket board had two witty responses to the design of the trophy.&nbsp;

The first post read, "Giving taking the biscuit a whole new meaning!"&nbsp;

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Giving taking the biscuit a whole new meaning! <a href="https://t.co/YA1B7O3lUk">https://t.co/YA1B7O3lUk</a>
— ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/1054732954222673920?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 23, 2018</a></blockquote>
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In the second post, the cricketing body compared the trophy of TUC Cup with ICC Champions Trophy, tweeting, "You vs the trophy she told you not to worry about."

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You vs the trophy she told you not to worry about. <a href="https://t.co/DUGWKWFTbE">pic.twitter.com/DUGWKWFTbE</a>
— ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/1054737720973639680?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 23, 2018</a></blockquote>
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The two sides will face each other in 3 T20 International matches during the course of the series with the 1st clash all set to take place at Abu Dhabi, later in the day.&nbsp;

The International Cricket Council (ICC) on Tuesday trolled the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) on Twitter after the unveiling of the TUC Cup 2018 T20I series trophy.

The International Cricket Council (ICC) on Tuesday trolled the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) on Twitter after the unveiling of the TUC Cup 2018 T20I series trophy. Australia and Pakistan will face each other in the T20I series, the trophy of which was unveiled by captains Aaron Finch and Sarfaraz Ahmed. But, the design of the trophy became a hot topic of discussion among fans as it consists of a pair of stumps, a ball and a biscuit at the crown. The International cricket board had two witty responses to the design of the trophy. The first post read, "Giving taking the biscuit a whole new meaning!" Giving taking the biscuit a whole new meaning! https://t.co/YA1B7O3lUk — ICC (@ICC) October 23, 2018 × In the second post, the cricketing body compared the trophy of TUC Cup with ICC Champions Trophy, tweeting, "You vs the trophy she told you not to worry about." You vs the trophy she told you not to worry about. pic.twitter.com/DUGWKWFTbE — ICC (@ICC) October 23, 2018 × The two sides will face each other in 3 T20 International matches during the course of the series with the 1st clash all set to take place at Abu Dhabi, later in the day.

ICC trolls Pakistan Cricket Board over trophy resembling a biscuit

Pakistan's cricketer Azhar Ali reacted after the bizarre run out in the second Test against Australia on Thursday. He said his 10-year-old son&nbsp;Ibtisam will definitely speak about it for a long time in a "funny way".

"My son is going to speak about it (the run out) for a long time and in a funny way," said Azhar of his son, who luckily for him arrived at the ground after his father's dismissal.&nbsp;

"Whenever I will say something about cricket he will surely come back to this incident."

Azhar,&nbsp;who lost his wicket after scoring 64 runs in the funniest way possible, anticipated some teasing for his&nbsp;brain-fade.

Pakistan took control of the Test setting a massive 538-run target for Australia with two days left but the highlight was the brain-fade run out.

The incident happened in Pakistan's innings when Azhar edged a Peter Siddle delivery towards the third man boundary.

Azhar thought the ball had crossed the rope and halted in the middle of the pitch to talk to fellow batsman Asad Shafiq.

But Mitchell Starc picked up the ball less than a yard from the boundary and threw it back to wicketkeeper Tim Paine, who ran Azhar out.

Azhar revealed he was discussing the swing of the ball with Shafiq as they chatted in the middle of the wicket.

"We were just discussing that the ball was swinging a bit late. We both didn't actually realise something like this could happen.

He further said, "The way the shot was hit to a fast bowler and the edge flew I thought it reached the boundary. But there is no excuse. Everyone was pulling our legs in the dressing room but at that moment it was a shock."

"We were not watching the ball and that was the reason I missed the whole sight of it. I wasn't happy with it and thankfully other batsmen did the job and we laughed about it afterwards. It is kind of disappointing and a shock but also funny."

Azhar denied there was any unsporting behaviour from Australian players in his dismissal.

"I don't think it was bad sportsmanship and I take full responsibility as I feel I was a bit ignorant. It was nothing at all as no one got in my way or distracted me.&nbsp;

"It was my own doing. I think the Aussies did the right thing."

Pakistan's cricketer Azhar Ali reacted after the bizarre run out in the second Test against Australia on Thursday. He said his 10-year-old son Ibtisam will definitely speak about it for a long time in a "funny way".

Pakistan's cricketer Azhar Ali reacted after the bizarre run out in the second Test against Australia on Thursday. He said his 10-year-old son Ibtisam will definitely speak about it for a long time in a "funny way". "My son is going to speak about it (the run out) for a long time and in a funny way," said Azhar of his son, who luckily for him arrived at the ground after his father's dismissal. "Whenever I will say something about cricket he will surely come back to this incident." Azhar, who lost his wicket after scoring 64 runs in the funniest way possible, anticipated some teasing for his brain-fade. Pakistan took control of the Test setting a massive 538-run target for Australia with two days left but the highlight was the brain-fade run out. The incident happened in Pakistan's innings when Azhar edged a Peter Siddle delivery towards the third man boundary. Azhar thought the ball had crossed the rope and halted in the middle of the pitch to talk to fellow batsman Asad Shafiq. But Mitchell Starc picked up the ball less than a yard from the boundary and threw it back to wicketkeeper Tim Paine, who ran Azhar out. Azhar revealed he was discussing the swing of the ball with Shafiq as they chatted in the middle of the wicket. "We were just discussing that the ball was swinging a bit late. We both didn't actually realise something like this could happen. He further said, "The way the shot was hit to a fast bowler and the edge flew I thought it reached the boundary. But there is no excuse. Everyone was pulling our legs in the dressing room but at that moment it was a shock." "We were not watching the ball and that was the reason I missed the whole sight of it. I wasn't happy with it and thankfully other batsmen did the job and we laughed about it afterwards. It is kind of disappointing and a shock but also funny." Azhar denied there was any unsporting behaviour from Australian players in his dismissal. "I don't think it was bad sportsmanship and I take full responsibility as I feel I was a bit ignorant. It was nothing at all as no one got in my way or distracted me. "It was my own doing. I think the Aussies did the right thing."

My son will laugh on the funny run out against Australia, says Pak cricketer Azhar Ali

Australia pace spearhead Mitchell Starc is battling a hamstring strain and may not bowl again in the second test against Pakistan or in the upcoming Twenty20 series.

The left-armer did not bowl in the final session of day two at Abu Dhabi on Wednesday and spent time off the ground as Pakistan built a commanding 281-run lead in their second innings after skittling Australia for 145.

Australia will be keen to preserve their main strike weapon for the test series against India at home and may not risk him for the three Twenty20 matches against Pakistan starting next week.

"It's just a bit of management of Mitch," Australia opener Aaron Finch said. "Obviously the conditions are pretty hot, so trying to look after the fast bowler.

"As far as I know he is (okay). He bowled with enough pace today."

Paceman Peter Siddle has been added to the squad for the T20 series,&nbsp;Cricket&nbsp;Australia said.

With the first test drawn and Pakistan holding the whip-hand at 144 for two at stumps on day two, Australia head into day three needing quick wickets to keep their slim hopes of winning their first series in Asia since 2011 alive.

Australia pace spearhead Mitchell Starc is battling a hamstring strain and may not bowl again in the second test against Pakistan or in the upcoming Twenty20 series.

Australia pace spearhead Mitchell Starc is battling a hamstring strain and may not bowl again in the second test against Pakistan or in the upcoming Twenty20 series. The left-armer did not bowl in the final session of day two at Abu Dhabi on Wednesday and spent time off the ground as Pakistan built a commanding 281-run lead in their second innings after skittling Australia for 145. Australia will be keen to preserve their main strike weapon for the test series against India at home and may not risk him for the three Twenty20 matches against Pakistan starting next week. "It's just a bit of management of Mitch," Australia opener Aaron Finch said. "Obviously the conditions are pretty hot, so trying to look after the fast bowler. "As far as I know he is (okay). He bowled with enough pace today." Paceman Peter Siddle has been added to the squad for the T20 series, Cricket Australia said. With the first test drawn and Pakistan holding the whip-hand at 144 for two at stumps on day two, Australia head into day three needing quick wickets to keep their slim hopes of winning their first series in Asia since 2011 alive.

Australia pace spearhead Mitchell Starc under injury cloud

Former Australian opener Mark Waugh had a difficult time pronouncing Pakistan batsman Fakhar Zaman's name correctly.&nbsp;

Waugh, who mistakenly pronounced it as F****r, &nbsp;lead to a laugh riot in the studio.&nbsp;

The embarrassing incident happened when Waugh fumbled with Fakhar's name when on air but got a helping hand from former Australia pacer Brett Lee.

Lee, who was present with a woman commentator, couldn't stop giggling at his compatriot's blooper

"I was close, come on," Waugh said in his defence to Brett Lee.

The video was also shared by a fan on Twitter. He wrote, "Hahaha Fakhar Zaman ???? &nbsp;Thanks for the laugh, @juniorwaugh349!"&nbsp;

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Hahaha Fakhar Zaman 😂 
 
Thanks for the laugh, <a href="https://twitter.com/juniorwaugh349?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@juniorwaugh349</a>!<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PAKvAUS?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PAKvAUS</a> <a href="https://t.co/v03aoYabFQ">pic.twitter.com/v03aoYabFQ</a>
— Giulio Di Giorgio (@gdigiorgio) <a href="https://twitter.com/gdigiorgio/status/1052115408080134145?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 16, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Mr.zaman must be cursing his parents fr naming him like this...next time wen they visit Australia,better he changes his name else u know WT u will hear
— bhabu (@BhabhuBh) <a href="https://twitter.com/BhabhuBh/status/1052425877072617473?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 17, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Is that what hardick had to face when he was in Australia? 😂
— Fahahahahad (@Fahahahahahad) <a href="https://twitter.com/Fahahahahahad/status/1052665510750502916?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 17, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Lady is blushing at his first name. 😂😂
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Pakistan batsman Fakhar Zaman scored a fighting 94 runs innings against Australia in the second Test when his team was in desperate need of help. Zaman and skipper Sarfraz Ahmed took their team from 57/5 to 204/6 together.&nbsp;

Former Australian opener Mark Waugh had a difficult time pronouncing Pakistan batsman Fakhar Zaman's name correctly. Waugh, who mistakenly pronounced it as F****r, lead to a laugh riot in the studio.

Former Australian opener Mark Waugh had a difficult time pronouncing Pakistan batsman Fakhar Zaman's name correctly. Waugh, who mistakenly pronounced it as F****r, lead to a laugh riot in the studio. The embarrassing incident happened when Waugh fumbled with Fakhar's name when on air but got a helping hand from former Australia pacer Brett Lee. Lee, who was present with a woman commentator, couldn't stop giggling at his compatriot's blooper "I was close, come on," Waugh said in his defence to Brett Lee. The video was also shared by a fan on Twitter. He wrote, "Hahaha Fakhar Zaman ???? Thanks for the laugh, @juniorwaugh349!" Hahaha Fakhar Zaman 😂 Thanks for the laugh, @juniorwaugh349!#PAKvAUS pic.twitter.com/v03aoYabFQ — Giulio Di Giorgio (@gdigiorgio) October 16, 2018 × Mr.zaman must be cursing his parents fr naming him like this...next time wen they visit Australia,better he changes his name else u know WT u will hear — bhabu (@BhabhuBh) October 17, 2018 × Is that what hardick had to face when he was in Australia? 😂 — Fahahahahad (@Fahahahahahad) October 17, 2018 × Lady is blushing at his first name. 😂😂 — Pseudo liberal (@canuj99) October 17, 2018 × The laugh was about he was close to call him f**ker zamzn — قربانی والا ڈنگر (@dungerdabacha) October 17, 2018 × Look at the anchor pic.twitter.com/KeEzxzIGte — Kapil (@kapilmsd4) October 16, 2018 × Pakistan batsman Fakhar Zaman scored a fighting 94 runs innings against Australia in the second Test when his team was in desperate need of help. Zaman and skipper Sarfraz Ahmed took their team from 57/5 to 204/6 together.

Watch: Mark Waugh mispronounces 'Fakhar' Zaman's name, Twitter in splits

Debutant opener Fakhar Zaman and skipper Sarfraz Ahmed missed hundreds by six runs each but still revived Pakistan on the first day of the second and final Test in Abu Dhabi on Tuesday.

Fakhar and Sarfraz scored 94 each and helped Pakistan recover from 57-5 to a total of 282 after winning the toss and electing to bat on a slow turning pitch at Sheikh Zayed Stadium.

Before the close Pakistan grabbed two wickets, including that of Usman Khawaja for three, as Australia finished on 20-2, with Aaron Finch on 13 and nightwatchman Peter Siddle dismissed off the last ball of the day for four.

Australia trail Pakistan by 262 runs with eight wickets intact.

Fast bowler Mohammad Abbas had Khawaja -- who scored a fighting 141 to lead Australia's fightback for a draw in the first Test in Dubai last week -- caught behind for his 50th Test wicket in 10 Tests.

Abbas became joint second-fastest Pakistani to the milestone of 50 wickets with Waqar Younis, Mohammad Asif and Shabbir Ahmed. The record is held by team-mate Yasir Shah who completed 50 wickets in nine matches.

Abbas then trapped Siddle to finish on 9-2.

Sarfraz was frustrated to miss his fourth Test hundred but happy with the fightback.

"Yes, its disappointing to miss a hundred but I am happy the way we revived the innings and then got two wickets, including that of Khawaja, so for me it is an even position," said Sarfraz who was hit on the left forearm by a rising delivery from Mitchell Starc.

"At the moment I am feeling discomfort and if there is swelling tommorrow then we can summon reserve wicketkeeper as per the new rules," said Sarfraz.

Earlier Zaman and Sarfraz found form with fighting and innings-reviving knocks, taking the attack to the Australian bowlers after spinner Nathan Lyon had rocked Pakistan in the morning, reaching lunch with figures of 4-12.

Zaman hit eight boundaries and a six in his enterprising knock as he and Sarfraz added 147 runs. Zaman was trapped leg-before by leg-spinner Marnus Labuschagne for 94, becoming the fourth Pakistan batsmen to be dismissed in the 90s on his debut.

Sarfraz then holed out to Labuschagne, who finished with 3-45. Sarfraz hit seven boundaries in his 94.

In the first session, pace bowler Starc provided Australia with an early breakthrough in the third over when Mohammad Hafeez fell to a freakish catch at short leg by Labuschagne for four.

Lyon then took four wickets in six balls at the total of 57.

He dismissed Azhar Ali, caught and bowled for 15 in his fourth over, and next ball had Haris Sohail caught close to the wicket for nought.&nbsp;

In his next over, Lyon had Asad Shafiq caught at short leg and two balls later bowled Babar Azam, who had come dancing down the wicket.

Australia kept the same eleven from the drawn first Test in Dubai while Pakistan replaced injured Imam-ul-Haq and Wahab Riaz with Zaman and Mir Hamza.

Debutant opener Fakhar Zaman and skipper Sarfraz Ahmed missed hundreds by six runs each but still revived Pakistan on the first day of the second and final Test in Abu Dhabi on Tuesday.

Debutant opener Fakhar Zaman and skipper Sarfraz Ahmed missed hundreds by six runs each but still revived Pakistan on the first day of the second and final Test in Abu Dhabi on Tuesday. Fakhar and Sarfraz scored 94 each and helped Pakistan recover from 57-5 to a total of 282 after winning the toss and electing to bat on a slow turning pitch at Sheikh Zayed Stadium. Before the close Pakistan grabbed two wickets, including that of Usman Khawaja for three, as Australia finished on 20-2, with Aaron Finch on 13 and nightwatchman Peter Siddle dismissed off the last ball of the day for four. Australia trail Pakistan by 262 runs with eight wickets intact. Fast bowler Mohammad Abbas had Khawaja -- who scored a fighting 141 to lead Australia's fightback for a draw in the first Test in Dubai last week -- caught behind for his 50th Test wicket in 10 Tests. Abbas became joint second-fastest Pakistani to the milestone of 50 wickets with Waqar Younis, Mohammad Asif and Shabbir Ahmed. The record is held by team-mate Yasir Shah who completed 50 wickets in nine matches. Abbas then trapped Siddle to finish on 9-2. Sarfraz was frustrated to miss his fourth Test hundred but happy with the fightback. "Yes, its disappointing to miss a hundred but I am happy the way we revived the innings and then got two wickets, including that of Khawaja, so for me it is an even position," said Sarfraz who was hit on the left forearm by a rising delivery from Mitchell Starc. "At the moment I am feeling discomfort and if there is swelling tommorrow then we can summon reserve wicketkeeper as per the new rules," said Sarfraz. Earlier Zaman and Sarfraz found form with fighting and innings-reviving knocks, taking the attack to the Australian bowlers after spinner Nathan Lyon had rocked Pakistan in the morning, reaching lunch with figures of 4-12. Zaman hit eight boundaries and a six in his enterprising knock as he and Sarfraz added 147 runs. Zaman was trapped leg-before by leg-spinner Marnus Labuschagne for 94, becoming the fourth Pakistan batsmen to be dismissed in the 90s on his debut. Sarfraz then holed out to Labuschagne, who finished with 3-45. Sarfraz hit seven boundaries in his 94. In the first session, pace bowler Starc provided Australia with an early breakthrough in the third over when Mohammad Hafeez fell to a freakish catch at short leg by Labuschagne for four. Lyon then took four wickets in six balls at the total of 57. He dismissed Azhar Ali, caught and bowled for 15 in his fourth over, and next ball had Haris Sohail caught close to the wicket for nought. In his next over, Lyon had Asad Shafiq caught at short leg and two balls later bowled Babar Azam, who had come dancing down the wicket. Australia kept the same eleven from the drawn first Test in Dubai while Pakistan replaced injured Imam-ul-Haq and Wahab Riaz with Zaman and Mir Hamza.

Pak vs Aus, 2nd Test, Day 1: Fakhar and Sarfraz lead Pakistan fightback after Lyon strikes

Senior batsman Azhar Ali admitted Pakistan will be under pressure of expectations in the second Test against Australia starting in Abu Dhabi from Tuesday.&nbsp;

Pakistan dominated much of the first Test in Dubai but failed to get the last two wickets as Australia finished at 362-8.

Set a daunting 462 runs Australia's fightback was led by opener Usman Khawaja's 141, ably assisted by Travis Head (72) and skipper Tim Paine (61 not out).

"I can't say if the pressure will be more on Pakistan or Australia but we are the home side and obviously people expect us to win and so there is pressure," said Azhar on Sunday.

"However, having said that these are favourable conditions for us and we have to make the most of it.

"Pressure is always different in every match and obviously this is a decider. Being the home team we have to win it and we will enter the field thinking that. We will look to play positive cricket and hopefully the result will go our way."&nbsp;

Pakistan will be forced to make a change after regular opener Imam-ul-Haq fractured his finger in the first Test and was ruled out, opening an option to bring Azhar as opener.

The 33-year-old held the opening spot since the Oval Test in England in August 2016 and struck a triple century against the West Indies in Dubai and a double hundred against Australia in Melbourne -- both in 2016.

He went to his customary number three position for the two Tests against Sri Lanka last year and in last week's first Test against Australia.

Pakistan can also bring in limited over specialist Fakhar Zaman to play his first Test, despite a poor form in the Asia Cup scoring only 56 runs in five matches with two ducks.

Azhar said he will do it against for his team.

"When playing for Pakistan one has to be ready for everything," said Azhar.&nbsp;

"I have always believed in that and whatever the team management decides or the captain decides, I will be ready to do that." Azhar admitted Pakistan players were disappointed at not winning the first Test.

"We are not disheartened but, yes, disappointed, obviously after dominating the Test match throughout and then not winning it," said Azhar, a veteran of 66 Tests.

"Unfortunately we couldn't win but I think we also have to give credit to the Australians as well as they showed resilience and kept fighting till the end." Azhar said he remains focused despite not in the best of form, managing only 95 runs in the last four Tests.

"A batman always wants to score runs and it doesn't feel nice when he doesn't score runs," said Azhar. "But the important thing is to stay focused and believe that once you get a good knock things will start rolling again."

Senior batsman Azhar Ali admitted Pakistan will be under pressure of expectations in the second Test against Australia starting in Abu Dhabi from Tuesday. Pakistan dominated much of the first Test in Dubai but failed to get the last two wickets as Australia finished at 362-8.

Senior batsman Azhar Ali admitted Pakistan will be under pressure of expectations in the second Test against Australia starting in Abu Dhabi from Tuesday. Pakistan dominated much of the first Test in Dubai but failed to get the last two wickets as Australia finished at 362-8. Set a daunting 462 runs Australia's fightback was led by opener Usman Khawaja's 141, ably assisted by Travis Head (72) and skipper Tim Paine (61 not out). "I can't say if the pressure will be more on Pakistan or Australia but we are the home side and obviously people expect us to win and so there is pressure," said Azhar on Sunday. "However, having said that these are favourable conditions for us and we have to make the most of it. "Pressure is always different in every match and obviously this is a decider. Being the home team we have to win it and we will enter the field thinking that. We will look to play positive cricket and hopefully the result will go our way." Pakistan will be forced to make a change after regular opener Imam-ul-Haq fractured his finger in the first Test and was ruled out, opening an option to bring Azhar as opener. The 33-year-old held the opening spot since the Oval Test in England in August 2016 and struck a triple century against the West Indies in Dubai and a double hundred against Australia in Melbourne -- both in 2016. He went to his customary number three position for the two Tests against Sri Lanka last year and in last week's first Test against Australia. Pakistan can also bring in limited over specialist Fakhar Zaman to play his first Test, despite a poor form in the Asia Cup scoring only 56 runs in five matches with two ducks. Azhar said he will do it against for his team. "When playing for Pakistan one has to be ready for everything," said Azhar. "I have always believed in that and whatever the team management decides or the captain decides, I will be ready to do that." Azhar admitted Pakistan players were disappointed at not winning the first Test. "We are not disheartened but, yes, disappointed, obviously after dominating the Test match throughout and then not winning it," said Azhar, a veteran of 66 Tests. "Unfortunately we couldn't win but I think we also have to give credit to the Australians as well as they showed resilience and kept fighting till the end." Azhar said he remains focused despite not in the best of form, managing only 95 runs in the last four Tests. "A batman always wants to score runs and it doesn't feel nice when he doesn't score runs," said Azhar. "But the important thing is to stay focused and believe that once you get a good knock things will start rolling again."

Azhar Ali admits pressure will be on Pakistan to beat Australia

Pakistan captain Sarfraz Ahmed faces some searching questions to answer for the second test against Australia over his bowling attack and batting lineup after Tim Paine's side produced a battling draw in the first test in Dubai.

Usman Khawaja defied pre-match predictions and a poor return on turning pitches in Asia to score a battling 141 and anchor his side's defiance as they survived 139.5 overs in stifling conditions to ensure a draw.

Sarfraz's bowlers were unable to put concerted pressure on the visitors with Khawaja reverse sweeping leg-spinner Yasir Shah seemingly at will on a pitch that was deteriorating and offering assistance to Pakistan's four slow bowlers.

Left-arm quick Wahab Riaz also failed to effectively exploit any reverse swing he was achieving with the older ball, forcing Sarfraz to continually change his tactics and fielding positions in an effort to manufacture a wicket.

The second test starts in Abu Dhabi on Tuesday and Sarfraz's side will be forced to make at least one change with opening batsman Imam-ul-Haq having surgery on a broken finger and ruled out of the match.

Imam scored an impressive 76 in a 205-run opening stand with Mohammed Hafeez that set up Pakistan's first innings of 482.

He added 48 in Pakistan's second innings of 181 for six declared but broke the little finger on his left hand while fielding on the fifth and final day and was forced from the ground.

The left-handed opener had surgery in Dubai on Saturday and would return home on Tuesday, the Pakistan Cricket Board said.

His absence will necessitate changes to the batting order with Fakhar Zaman the only other specialist opening batsman in the squad, although he is yet to make his test debut at the age of 28 and not played a first-class match in more than a year.

Azhar Ali, who scored just a total of 22 runs in the first test, could also be promoted up the order to open with Hafeez with leg-spinning all-rounder Shadab Khan possibly coming into the squad to bolster the team's bowling stocks.

The 20-year-old Shadab, however, is battling a groin injury that ruled him out of the first test and which thwarted coach Mickey Arthur's plans of combining him with Yasir to attack Australia's inexperienced batting lineup.

Pakistan captain Sarfraz Ahmed faces some searching questions to answer for the second test against Australia over his bowling attack and batting lineup after Tim Paine's side produced a battling draw in the first test in Dubai.

Pakistan captain Sarfraz Ahmed faces some searching questions to answer for the second test against Australia over his bowling attack and batting lineup after Tim Paine's side produced a battling draw in the first test in Dubai. Usman Khawaja defied pre-match predictions and a poor return on turning pitches in Asia to score a battling 141 and anchor his side's defiance as they survived 139.5 overs in stifling conditions to ensure a draw. Sarfraz's bowlers were unable to put concerted pressure on the visitors with Khawaja reverse sweeping leg-spinner Yasir Shah seemingly at will on a pitch that was deteriorating and offering assistance to Pakistan's four slow bowlers. Left-arm quick Wahab Riaz also failed to effectively exploit any reverse swing he was achieving with the older ball, forcing Sarfraz to continually change his tactics and fielding positions in an effort to manufacture a wicket. The second test starts in Abu Dhabi on Tuesday and Sarfraz's side will be forced to make at least one change with opening batsman Imam-ul-Haq having surgery on a broken finger and ruled out of the match. Imam scored an impressive 76 in a 205-run opening stand with Mohammed Hafeez that set up Pakistan's first innings of 482. He added 48 in Pakistan's second innings of 181 for six declared but broke the little finger on his left hand while fielding on the fifth and final day and was forced from the ground. The left-handed opener had surgery in Dubai on Saturday and would return home on Tuesday, the Pakistan Cricket Board said. His absence will necessitate changes to the batting order with Fakhar Zaman the only other specialist opening batsman in the squad, although he is yet to make his test debut at the age of 28 and not played a first-class match in more than a year. Azhar Ali, who scored just a total of 22 runs in the first test, could also be promoted up the order to open with Hafeez with leg-spinning all-rounder Shadab Khan possibly coming into the squad to bolster the team's bowling stocks. The 20-year-old Shadab, however, is battling a groin injury that ruled him out of the first test and which thwarted coach Mickey Arthur's plans of combining him with Yasir to attack Australia's inexperienced batting lineup.

Sarfraz faces questions over second test tactics, team composition

Pakistan's veteran cricketer Mohammad Hafeez slammed a ton against Australia in the first day of opening Test in Dubai to mark a stunning return to the Test format after a gap of two years.

Hafeez played a 126-run knock, which included 15 fours, before losing his wicket to Australia's medium pacer Peter Siddle. He put on a solid 205-run opening stand with Imam-ul-Haq who made a career-best 76.

The 37-year-old took to Twitter to celebrate his century, he wrote, "ALLAH is the best PLANNER."

While addressing the media he revealed his wife had persuaded him not to quit the sport.

He also mentioned that legendary Shoaib Akhtar too stepped in to persuade him he still had a role to play.

"I could have taken a drastic step but I was stopped by my wife and then Shoaib Akhtar phoned me as well."

"I was mentally disturbed after being dropped from the Asia Cup team," said Hafeez of last month's axing from the one-day side.

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Alham du Lillah 🤲🏼 , ALLAH is the best PLANNER <a href="https://t.co/HwcPnsp8sc">pic.twitter.com/HwcPnsp8sc</a>
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Hafeez was dropped from the Test side after faring poorly in the first three matches of Pakistan's series in England two years ago.

Hafeez, who also did not play in any of the five one-day internationals in Zimbabwe in July despite being in the squad, hailed his teammates.&nbsp;

"I could have been doing something else (had I retired)," said Hafeez.

"But probably this was the place where I had to stage a comeback. When I came back in the team all the players welcomed me and gave me confidence and that increased my inner energy."

"I am very happy after this hundred. I tried my level best in the last couple of years to get back into this format and I am so happy to get a chance after a long time.&nbsp;

"I had no fear at all. I really backed myself and I knew that whenever it is the right time I will perform."

Pakistan's veteran cricketer Mohammad Hafeez slammed a ton against Australia in the first day of opening Test in Dubai to mark a stunning return to the Test format after a gap of two years.

Pakistan's veteran cricketer Mohammad Hafeez slammed a ton against Australia in the first day of opening Test in Dubai to mark a stunning return to the Test format after a gap of two years. Hafeez played a 126-run knock, which included 15 fours, before losing his wicket to Australia's medium pacer Peter Siddle. He put on a solid 205-run opening stand with Imam-ul-Haq who made a career-best 76. The 37-year-old took to Twitter to celebrate his century, he wrote, "ALLAH is the best PLANNER." While addressing the media he revealed his wife had persuaded him not to quit the sport. He also mentioned that legendary Shoaib Akhtar too stepped in to persuade him he still had a role to play. "I could have taken a drastic step but I was stopped by my wife and then Shoaib Akhtar phoned me as well." "I was mentally disturbed after being dropped from the Asia Cup team," said Hafeez of last month's axing from the one-day side. Alham du Lillah 🤲🏼 , ALLAH is the best PLANNER pic.twitter.com/HwcPnsp8sc — Mohammad Hafeez (@MHafeez22) October 7, 2018 × Hafeez was dropped from the Test side after faring poorly in the first three matches of Pakistan's series in England two years ago. Hafeez, who also did not play in any of the five one-day internationals in Zimbabwe in July despite being in the squad, hailed his teammates. "I could have been doing something else (had I retired)," said Hafeez. "But probably this was the place where I had to stage a comeback. When I came back in the team all the players welcomed me and gave me confidence and that increased my inner energy." "I am very happy after this hundred. I tried my level best in the last couple of years to get back into this format and I am so happy to get a chance after a long time. "I had no fear at all. I really backed myself and I knew that whenever it is the right time I will perform."

After stunning return, Pak's Mohammad Hafeez says wife persuaded him not to quit cricket

Haris Sohail and Asad Shafiq inched close to individual fifties to keep Pakistan on course for a big first innings total on day two of the series-opening test match against Australia on Monday.

Their 69-run partnership for the flourishing fifth wicket powered Pakistan to 329 for four at lunch for the loss of nightwatchman Mohammad Abbas for one.

Sohail was batting on 46 with Shafiq on 43 at the other end with Pakistan looking set for a 500-plus total on a placid track at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium.

Australia had delayed taking the new ball in their quest to generate some reverse swing and help their spinners but it did not really pay off.

Their quicks bowled tight overs in the first hour to stifle the Pakistan batsmen who had little difficulty in negotiating the spin of Nathan Lyon or Jon Holland.

Pace workhorse Peter Siddle gave Australia an early breakthrough when he bowled Abbas for one with a hint of reverse swing but it was otherwise a session of toil without success for Tim Paine`s men.

Shafiq and Sohail nicely rotated the strike and dominated the spinners, best illustrated when Shafiq stepped out to hit off-spinner Lyon straight over the sight screen for a six.

Haris Sohail and Asad Shafiq inched close to individual fifties to keep Pakistan on course for a big first innings total on day two of the series-opening test match against Australia on Monday.

Haris Sohail and Asad Shafiq inched close to individual fifties to keep Pakistan on course for a big first innings total on day two of the series-opening test match against Australia on Monday. Their 69-run partnership for the flourishing fifth wicket powered Pakistan to 329 for four at lunch for the loss of nightwatchman Mohammad Abbas for one. Sohail was batting on 46 with Shafiq on 43 at the other end with Pakistan looking set for a 500-plus total on a placid track at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium. Australia had delayed taking the new ball in their quest to generate some reverse swing and help their spinners but it did not really pay off. Their quicks bowled tight overs in the first hour to stifle the Pakistan batsmen who had little difficulty in negotiating the spin of Nathan Lyon or Jon Holland. Pace workhorse Peter Siddle gave Australia an early breakthrough when he bowled Abbas for one with a hint of reverse swing but it was otherwise a session of toil without success for Tim Paine`s men. Shafiq and Sohail nicely rotated the strike and dominated the spinners, best illustrated when Shafiq stepped out to hit off-spinner Lyon straight over the sight screen for a six.

Pakistan cruise to 329-4, Australia toil in Dubai test

Pakistan captain Sarfraz Ahmed won the toss and opted to bat in the first Test against Australia at Dubai stadium on Sunday.

Pakistan included off-spinner Bilal Asif for his first Test at the age of 33, backing up leg-spinner Yasir Shah.

Young&nbsp;legs-pinner Shadab Khan missing the match because of injury.

Tim Paine's Australia feature three debutants,&nbsp;Aaron Finch, Travis Head and Marnus Labuschagne, in a side containing two spinners in Nathan Lyon and Jon Holland.

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Pakistan are off to a steady start in the first Test against Australia in Dubai. 
 
Follow <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PAKvAUS?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PAKvAUS</a> live ⬇️ 
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Debutant <a href="https://twitter.com/bilalasif2411?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@bilalasif2411</a> receives his Test cap from <a href="https://twitter.com/MHafeez22?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MHafeez22</a>.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PAKvAUS?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PAKvAUS</a> <a href="https://t.co/KKHdiJBBcF">pic.twitter.com/KKHdiJBBcF</a>
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Playing XI:

Pakistan: Sarfraz Ahmed (captain), Mohammad Hafeez, Azhar Ali, Imam-ul-Haq, Babar Azam, Asad Shafiq, Haris Sohail, Yasir Shah, Bilal Asif, Mohammad Abbas, Wahab Riaz

Australia: Tim Paine (captain), Aaron Finch, Travis Head, Jon Holland, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Nathan Lyon, Mitchell Marsh, Shaun Marsh, Peter Siddle, Mitchell Starc

Pakistan captain Sarfraz Ahmed won the toss and opted to bat in the first Test against Australia at Dubai stadium on Sunday. Pakistan included off-spinner Bilal Asif for his first Test at the age of 33, backing up leg-spinner Yasir Shah.

Pakistan captain Sarfraz Ahmed won the toss and opted to bat in the first Test against Australia at Dubai stadium on Sunday. Pakistan included off-spinner Bilal Asif for his first Test at the age of 33, backing up leg-spinner Yasir Shah. Young legs-pinner Shadab Khan missing the match because of injury. Tim Paine's Australia feature three debutants, Aaron Finch, Travis Head and Marnus Labuschagne, in a side containing two spinners in Nathan Lyon and Jon Holland. Pakistan are off to a steady start in the first Test against Australia in Dubai. Follow #PAKvAUS live ⬇️ https://t.co/sRNIJtdJBs pic.twitter.com/9i3v642a7J — ICC (@ICC) October 7, 2018 × Debutant @bilalasif2411 receives his Test cap from @MHafeez22.#PAKvAUS pic.twitter.com/KKHdiJBBcF — PCB Official (@TheRealPCB) October 7, 2018 × Playing XI: Pakistan: Sarfraz Ahmed (captain), Mohammad Hafeez, Azhar Ali, Imam-ul-Haq, Babar Azam, Asad Shafiq, Haris Sohail, Yasir Shah, Bilal Asif, Mohammad Abbas, Wahab Riaz Australia: Tim Paine (captain), Aaron Finch, Travis Head, Jon Holland, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Nathan Lyon, Mitchell Marsh, Shaun Marsh, Peter Siddle, Mitchell Starc

PAK vs AUS, 1st Test, Day 1: Pakistan opt to bat against Australia

Australian opener Matt Renshaw is a doubt for the series-opening Test against Pakistan after suffering a head injury in a tour match in Dubai.

Renshaw, who has a history of concussions, exited the match against a Pakistan 'A' side after being hit by a pull shot from batsman Abid Ali when fielding at short leg on Sunday.

Renshaw was wearing a helmet when he was struck in the side of the head. He pulled it off immediately and sat with his head in his hands before being examined by medical staff.

He came off the ground for further checks and was replaced in the lineup by Marnus Labuschagne.

Opening batsman Aaron Finch said Renshaw was in good spirits, but the selectors are likely to be cautious about playing the Yorkshire-born 22-year-old in the first Test starting on Sunday.

Renshaw suffered a&nbsp;concussion in a warm-up mishap before a Sheffield Shield match for Queensland in March and was subbed out of the game.

He was also withdrawn from a 2017 Test against Pakistan in Sydney having been hit while fielding just days after being struck by a bouncer when batting.

"He's okay," Finch told reporters. "It was a pretty heavy knock to the head there.

"He's been with the medical staff all afternoon but he seems in really good spirits. He's confident that his headaches are subsiding pretty quickly."

The Renshaw blow soured an otherwise positive day for Australia's batsmen with Finch, Shaun Marsh and younger brother Mitchell all spending valuable time in the middle as the tourists moved to 207 for two at the close of the second day's play, in reply to 278.

One-day specialist Finch, hoping to make his Test debut after his surprise selection in Tim Paine's squad, scored 54 in an 82-run opening stand with Usman Khawaja, while number three Shaun Marsh and Mitchell were unbeaten on 54 and 53 respectively.

"It was nice to get out in the middle after training away for the best part of a week and doing the hard yards," said 31-year-old Finch.

"It's still about playing my natural game which is quite aggressive generally."

Australian opener Matt Renshaw is a doubt for the series-opening Test against Pakistan after suffering a head injury in a tour match in Dubai. Renshaw, who has a history of concussions, exited the match against a Pakistan 'A' side after being hit by a pull shot from batsman Abid Ali when fielding at short leg on Sunday.

Australian opener Matt Renshaw is a doubt for the series-opening Test against Pakistan after suffering a head injury in a tour match in Dubai. Renshaw, who has a history of concussions, exited the match against a Pakistan 'A' side after being hit by a pull shot from batsman Abid Ali when fielding at short leg on Sunday. Renshaw was wearing a helmet when he was struck in the side of the head. He pulled it off immediately and sat with his head in his hands before being examined by medical staff. He came off the ground for further checks and was replaced in the lineup by Marnus Labuschagne. Opening batsman Aaron Finch said Renshaw was in good spirits, but the selectors are likely to be cautious about playing the Yorkshire-born 22-year-old in the first Test starting on Sunday. Renshaw suffered a concussion in a warm-up mishap before a Sheffield Shield match for Queensland in March and was subbed out of the game. He was also withdrawn from a 2017 Test against Pakistan in Sydney having been hit while fielding just days after being struck by a bouncer when batting. "He's okay," Finch told reporters. "It was a pretty heavy knock to the head there. "He's been with the medical staff all afternoon but he seems in really good spirits. He's confident that his headaches are subsiding pretty quickly." The Renshaw blow soured an otherwise positive day for Australia's batsmen with Finch, Shaun Marsh and younger brother Mitchell all spending valuable time in the middle as the tourists moved to 207 for two at the close of the second day's play, in reply to 278. One-day specialist Finch, hoping to make his Test debut after his surprise selection in Tim Paine's squad, scored 54 in an 82-run opening stand with Usman Khawaja, while number three Shaun Marsh and Mitchell were unbeaten on 54 and 53 respectively. "It was nice to get out in the middle after training away for the best part of a week and doing the hard yards," said 31-year-old Finch. "It's still about playing my natural game which is quite aggressive generally."

Australian opener Matt Renshaw a doubt for first Pakistan Test

Pakistan have dropped out-of-sorts pace bowler Mohammad Amir from their 17-man squad for next month's two-Test series against Australia in the United Arab Emirates, with left-arm seamer Wahab Riaz earning a recall.

Amir, who was handed a five-year ban for spot-fixing in 2011, returned to international cricket two years ago and has established himself as a spearhead for their attack, playing in all but one of Pakistan's 20 Tests in that period.

The 26-year-old, however, failed to take a wicket in three Asia Cup matches this month and was dropped in Pakistan's two other contests at the six-team, one-day international tournament in the UAE.

Amir's poor form and his inability to swing the ball on the slow and spin-friendly pitches in the UAE would have likely convinced selectors to seek pace alternatives, where similar conditions during the Test series are expected.

Riaz, meanwhile, who has not played Test cricket since October and was overlooked for Pakistan's series in England and Ireland earlier this year, is more likely to be able to put pressure on Australia with his reverse swing.

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Pakistan squad for Test series against Australia <a href="https://twitter.com/AzharAli_?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@AzharAli_</a><a href="https://twitter.com/FakharZamanLive?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@FakharZamanLive</a><a href="https://twitter.com/ImamUlHaq12?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ImamUlHaq12</a><a href="https://twitter.com/babarazam258?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@babarazam258</a><a href="https://twitter.com/asadshafiq1986?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@asadshafiq1986</a> 
Haris Sohail<a href="https://twitter.com/UsmanSalahuddi6?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@UsmanSalahuddi6</a><a href="https://twitter.com/SarfarazA_54?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SarfarazA_54</a> (C)<a href="https://twitter.com/Shah64Y?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Shah64Y</a><a href="https://twitter.com/76Shadabkhan?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@76Shadabkhan</a><a href="https://twitter.com/bilalasif2411?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@bilalasif2411</a> 
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Skipper Sarfraz Ahmed will be backed up as wicketkeeper by Mohammad Rizwan, who played his sole Test against New Zealand in Hamilton almost two years ago.

"The team has been selected keeping in mind the conditions in the UAE, where Mohammad Amir has been dropped from the side and Wahab Riaz and Mir Hamza come in," Pakistan chief selector Inzamam-ul-Haq said in a statement.

"Three spinners: Shadab Khan, Yasir Shah and Bilal Asif have been kept in the squad, keeping in view the UAE wickets."

Australia, who have not won a series in Asia since 2011, play the first Test against Pakistan from Oct. 7 in Dubai, followed by the second Test at Abu Dhabi from Oct. 16.

Pakistan has hosted a majority of their international matches in Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Sharjah since 2009 due to security concerns.

Squad: Azhar Ali, Fakhar Zaman, Imam-ul-Haq, Babar Azam, Asad Shafiq, Haris Sohail, Usman Salahuddin, Sarfraz Ahmed (captain), Yasir Shah, Shadab Khan, Bilal Asif, Mohammad Abbas, Hasan Ali, Wahab Riaz, Faheem Ashraf, Mir Hamza, Mohammad Rizwan.

Pakistan have dropped out-of-sorts pace bowler Mohammad Amir from their 17-man squad for next month's two-Test series against Australia in the United Arab Emirates, with left-arm seamer Wahab Riaz earning a recall.

Pakistan have dropped out-of-sorts pace bowler Mohammad Amir from their 17-man squad for next month's two-Test series against Australia in the United Arab Emirates, with left-arm seamer Wahab Riaz earning a recall. Amir, who was handed a five-year ban for spot-fixing in 2011, returned to international cricket two years ago and has established himself as a spearhead for their attack, playing in all but one of Pakistan's 20 Tests in that period. The 26-year-old, however, failed to take a wicket in three Asia Cup matches this month and was dropped in Pakistan's two other contests at the six-team, one-day international tournament in the UAE. Amir's poor form and his inability to swing the ball on the slow and spin-friendly pitches in the UAE would have likely convinced selectors to seek pace alternatives, where similar conditions during the Test series are expected. Riaz, meanwhile, who has not played Test cricket since October and was overlooked for Pakistan's series in England and Ireland earlier this year, is more likely to be able to put pressure on Australia with his reverse swing. Pakistan squad for Test series against Australia @AzharAli_@FakharZamanLive@ImamUlHaq12@babarazam258@asadshafiq1986 Haris Sohail@UsmanSalahuddi6@SarfarazA_54 (C)@Shah64Y@76Shadabkhan@bilalasif2411 M Abbas@RealHa55an@WahabViki@iFaheemAshraf@mirhamza_k@iMRizwanPak — PCB Official (@TheRealPCB) September 27, 2018 × Skipper Sarfraz Ahmed will be backed up as wicketkeeper by Mohammad Rizwan, who played his sole Test against New Zealand in Hamilton almost two years ago. "The team has been selected keeping in mind the conditions in the UAE, where Mohammad Amir has been dropped from the side and Wahab Riaz and Mir Hamza come in," Pakistan chief selector Inzamam-ul-Haq said in a statement. "Three spinners: Shadab Khan, Yasir Shah and Bilal Asif have been kept in the squad, keeping in view the UAE wickets." Australia, who have not won a series in Asia since 2011, play the first Test against Pakistan from Oct. 7 in Dubai, followed by the second Test at Abu Dhabi from Oct. 16. Pakistan has hosted a majority of their international matches in Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Sharjah since 2009 due to security concerns. Squad: Azhar Ali, Fakhar Zaman, Imam-ul-Haq, Babar Azam, Asad Shafiq, Haris Sohail, Usman Salahuddin, Sarfraz Ahmed (captain), Yasir Shah, Shadab Khan, Bilal Asif, Mohammad Abbas, Hasan Ali, Wahab Riaz, Faheem Ashraf, Mir Hamza, Mohammad Rizwan.

Amir dropped from Pakistan squad for Australia Tests

Indian openers Rohit Sharma and Shikhar Dhawan hit centuries to inspire the team towards victory against their arch-rivals Pakistan in Super Four, match 3 of the ongoing Asia Cup tournament&nbsp;on Sunday.

Rohit Sharma&nbsp;scored an unbeaten 111 runs in an attractive innings which included seven fours and four sixes.

Pakistan could have got Sharma out in the sixth over but Imam-ul-Haq dropped an easy catch off a luckless Shaheen Shah.

While the highlight of Indian innings was Shikhar Dhawan, who scored 114 runs and his magnificent knock included 16 fours and two sixes.

He played several marvelous shots to pump-up the crowd at Dubai International Cricket Stadium but&nbsp;got out in the 34th over with 38 needed it was through a run out.

The win is India's highest against Pakistan in terms of wickets, improving on the eight wicket win over Pakistan in Melbourne in 1985.

In the first innings, the fielding unit of India produced a clinical performance and the bowlers&nbsp;kept taking wickets to build pressure on the batsmen and restrict the Men in Green at an achievable score.

However, Shoaib Malik struck an attractive half-century to salvage Pakistan's innings. His 90-ball 78 included four boundaries and two sixes.

Opener Fakhar Zaman looked dangerous at a moment but lost his wicket to India's spin sensation Kuldeep Yadav after scoring 31 runs.&nbsp;

After opting to bat, Pakistan lost Imam-ul-Haq (ten), Fakhar Zaman and Babar Azam (run out for nine) in an unimpressive start to their innings before Malik and skipper Sarfraz Ahmed added 107 for the fourth wicket.

Jasprit Bumrah finished with 2-29 in his ten overs.

The top two teams from the Super four will play the final on September 28 in Dubai.

Indian openers Rohit Sharma and Shikhar Dhawan hit centuries to inspire the team towards victory against their arch-rivals Pakistan in Super Four, match 3 of the ongoing Asia Cup tournament on Sunday.

Indian openers Rohit Sharma and Shikhar Dhawan hit centuries to inspire the team towards victory against their arch-rivals Pakistan in Super Four, match 3 of the ongoing Asia Cup tournament on Sunday. Rohit Sharma scored an unbeaten 111 runs in an attractive innings which included seven fours and four sixes. Pakistan could have got Sharma out in the sixth over but Imam-ul-Haq dropped an easy catch off a luckless Shaheen Shah. While the highlight of Indian innings was Shikhar Dhawan, who scored 114 runs and his magnificent knock included 16 fours and two sixes. He played several marvelous shots to pump-up the crowd at Dubai International Cricket Stadium but got out in the 34th over with 38 needed it was through a run out. The win is India's highest against Pakistan in terms of wickets, improving on the eight wicket win over Pakistan in Melbourne in 1985. In the first innings, the fielding unit of India produced a clinical performance and the bowlers kept taking wickets to build pressure on the batsmen and restrict the Men in Green at an achievable score. However, Shoaib Malik struck an attractive half-century to salvage Pakistan's innings. His 90-ball 78 included four boundaries and two sixes. Opener Fakhar Zaman looked dangerous at a moment but lost his wicket to India's spin sensation Kuldeep Yadav after scoring 31 runs. After opting to bat, Pakistan lost Imam-ul-Haq (ten), Fakhar Zaman and Babar Azam (run out for nine) in an unimpressive start to their innings before Malik and skipper Sarfraz Ahmed added 107 for the fourth wicket. Jasprit Bumrah finished with 2-29 in his ten overs. The top two teams from the Super four will play the final on September 28 in Dubai.

Asia Cup: Rohit, Shikhar hit 100s as India beat Pakistan with 10 overs to spare

Pakistan coach&nbsp;Mickey&nbsp;Arthur&nbsp;on Sunday (September 23) said there was a 'confidence crisis' in his team's dressing room after they were beaten comprehensively by their arch-rivals India in an Asia Cup encounter in Dubai.

Arthur&nbsp;admitted his men were outplayed by a dominant Indian side and added that there was a fear of failure after losing a group stage match to their neighbours in the tournament.

In the group game, India beat Pakistan by eight wickets with 21 overs to spare after restricting their opponents to an easy total of 162.

On Sunday, India again got the better of Pakistan to register a massive nine-wicket victory thanks to a partnership of 210 runs partnership by openers Rohit Sharma and Shikhar Dhawan. The win is India's biggest against Pakistan in terms of wickets in one-day internationals.

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Indian slow bowler Yuzvendra Chahal said two successive wins over Pakistan will boost the team confidence for the final of the Asia Cup.

Pakistan will now face Bangladesh in Abu Dhabhi on Wednesday (September 26) and the winner will face India in the finals of the tournament. India take on Afghanistan in Dubai on Tuesday (September 25).

Pakistan coach Mickey Arthur on Sunday (September 23) said there was a 'confidence crisis' in his team's dressing room after they were beaten comprehensively by their arch-rivals India in an Asia Cup encounter in Dubai.

Pakistan coach Mickey Arthur on Sunday (September 23) said there was a 'confidence crisis' in his team's dressing room after they were beaten comprehensively by their arch-rivals India in an Asia Cup encounter in Dubai. Arthur admitted his men were outplayed by a dominant Indian side and added that there was a fear of failure after losing a group stage match to their neighbours in the tournament. In the group game, India beat Pakistan by eight wickets with 21 overs to spare after restricting their opponents to an easy total of 162. On Sunday, India again got the better of Pakistan to register a massive nine-wicket victory thanks to a partnership of 210 runs partnership by openers Rohit Sharma and Shikhar Dhawan. The win is India's biggest against Pakistan in terms of wickets in one-day internationals. × Indian slow bowler Yuzvendra Chahal said two successive wins over Pakistan will boost the team confidence for the final of the Asia Cup. Pakistan will now face Bangladesh in Abu Dhabhi on Wednesday (September 26) and the winner will face India in the finals of the tournament. India take on Afghanistan in Dubai on Tuesday (September 25).

Team India 'didn't allow us to play', says Pakistan's cricket coach Mickey Arthur

Pakistani cricket fan Adil Taj revealed the reason behind singing Indian national anthem during the group stage match between India and Pakistan in the ongoing Asia Cup tournament.

The video went viral, in which Adil was singing the Indian national anthem during the pre-match ceremony.

While speaking to ANI, Adil revealed that&nbsp;he had got goosebumps when he listened to the Indian national anthem for the first time in a Bollywood movie.

"I got goosebumps when I first heard the anthem in a Bollywood movie," he added.

"The moment Indian national anthem was played, I got a reminder of Pakistan Prime Minister&nbsp;Imran Khan&nbsp;stating that If India would move one step ahead then we would move two steps further. It was a small gesture from my side towards peace, towards respect," said Adil.

He also said that he will&nbsp;stitch the India-Pakistan flag together and wear it during the Super Four clash between the two countries on Sunday.

Watch the video:

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The best thing on Internet today!! 
-------------------------------------- 
A Pakistani cricket fan singing the Indian National Anthem on the eve of India-Pakistani ODI, during the ongoing Asia Cup in UAE.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvsPAK?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvsPAK</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AsiaCup2018?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AsiaCup2018</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Cricket?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Cricket</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AsiaCup?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AsiaCup</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UAE?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UAE</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/nationalanthem?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#nationalanthem</a> <a href="https://t.co/9qfHcvBUdy">pic.twitter.com/9qfHcvBUdy</a>
— Syed Ahmad Afzāl (अफ़्ज़ाल) (@afzalistan) <a href="https://twitter.com/afzalistan/status/1043178394102444035?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 21, 2018</a></blockquote>
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"I am very excited ahead of the match. I am planning to stitch India-Pakistan flag together and wear it for tomorrow's match. That would be another positive message from my side," he said.

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I sang Pak anthem&amp;tried my best when Indian anthem was played. Pak fans listened to it respectfully. It was small gesture towards peace...Plan on carrying both flags tomorrow: Adil Taj, Pak cricket fan who was seen singing Indian national anthem before India-Pak match in Asia Cup <a href="https://t.co/SkCe0qDUVb">pic.twitter.com/SkCe0qDUVb</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1043545577018003457?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 22, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Some Indian fans were sitting with us in our enclosure. When our national anthem was played, I saw how they stood in respect &amp; also clapped for it: Adil Taj, Pakistani cricket fan who was seen singing Indian national anthem before India-Pakistan match in Asia Cup on 19 Sept <a href="https://t.co/Tey55NzRlR">pic.twitter.com/Tey55NzRlR</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1043545573457039360?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 22, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Taj also expressed the desire to have more bilateral series between India and Pakistan so they don't have to wait for major tournaments like&nbsp;Asia Cup&nbsp;and World Cup to see if the two teams are competing or not.

"Sports unite countries. We would again like to have regular series between the two countries. It will play a positive role towards peace, according to me," he concluded.

Pakistani cricket fan Adil Taj revealed the reason behind singing Indian national anthem during the group stage match between India and Pakistan in the ongoing Asia Cup tournament.

Pakistani cricket fan Adil Taj revealed the reason behind singing Indian national anthem during the group stage match between India and Pakistan in the ongoing Asia Cup tournament. The video went viral, in which Adil was singing the Indian national anthem during the pre-match ceremony. While speaking to ANI, Adil revealed that he had got goosebumps when he listened to the Indian national anthem for the first time in a Bollywood movie. "I got goosebumps when I first heard the anthem in a Bollywood movie," he added. "The moment Indian national anthem was played, I got a reminder of Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan stating that If India would move one step ahead then we would move two steps further. It was a small gesture from my side towards peace, towards respect," said Adil. He also said that he will stitch the India-Pakistan flag together and wear it during the Super Four clash between the two countries on Sunday. Watch the video: The best thing on Internet today!! -------------------------------------- A Pakistani cricket fan singing the Indian National Anthem on the eve of India-Pakistani ODI, during the ongoing Asia Cup in UAE.#INDvsPAK #AsiaCup2018 #Cricket #AsiaCup #UAE #nationalanthem pic.twitter.com/9qfHcvBUdy — Syed Ahmad Afzāl (अफ़्ज़ाल) (@afzalistan) September 21, 2018 × "I am very excited ahead of the match. I am planning to stitch India-Pakistan flag together and wear it for tomorrow's match. That would be another positive message from my side," he said. I sang Pak anthem&tried my best when Indian anthem was played. Pak fans listened to it respectfully. It was small gesture towards peace...Plan on carrying both flags tomorrow: Adil Taj, Pak cricket fan who was seen singing Indian national anthem before India-Pak match in Asia Cup pic.twitter.com/SkCe0qDUVb — ANI (@ANI) September 22, 2018 × Some Indian fans were sitting with us in our enclosure. When our national anthem was played, I saw how they stood in respect & also clapped for it: Adil Taj, Pakistani cricket fan who was seen singing Indian national anthem before India-Pakistan match in Asia Cup on 19 Sept pic.twitter.com/Tey55NzRlR — ANI (@ANI) September 22, 2018 × Taj also expressed the desire to have more bilateral series between India and Pakistan so they don't have to wait for major tournaments like Asia Cup and World Cup to see if the two teams are competing or not. "Sports unite countries. We would again like to have regular series between the two countries. It will play a positive role towards peace, according to me," he concluded.

Asia Cup 2018: Pakistani cricket fan reveals reason to sing Indian national anthem

Rohit Sharma-led team India is set to give a tough fight to their arch-rivals Pakistan in the&nbsp;Super Fours clash at the Dubai International Stadium on Sunday.

Previously, India produced a stunning show&nbsp;to defeat Pakistan by eight wickets in the Group match of the same tournament.

After the India-Pak clash, India produced another clinical performance against Bangladesh and marked an easy victory in the opening Super Four match.

India will look to maintain the same momentum while Pakistan will be looking to improve their game after a massive scare against Afghanistan in their previous match which they won in the a last over finish.

The batting line-up of Pakistan especially the opening batsmen have been struggling so far in the series, however, the veteran Shoaib Malik has proved his mettle by playing responsible innings in previous crucial matches. He scored 43 against India and an unbeaten 51 against Afghanistan.

For India, both bowling and batting departments have chipped&nbsp;in to guide the team towards the victory. Special mention to all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja, who made a comeback to the team, also dished out a splendid performance to rip through Bangladesh's batting line-up with a four-wicket haul.

Pakistan will be looking to put aside their disappointing performance against India in the last match and giving the Men in Blue a tough competition.

Here is the playing XI (TBC):&nbsp;

India:&nbsp;Rohit Sharma (c), Shikhar Dhawan, Ambati Rayudu, Dinesh Karthik, MS Dhoni (wk), Kedar Jadhav, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Kuldeep Yadav, Hardik Pandya, Yuzvendra Chahal, Jasprit Bumrah.

Pakistan:&nbsp;Imam-ul-Haq, Fakhar Zaman, Sarfraz Ahmed (c and wk), Babar Azam, Shoaib Malik, Asif Ali, Shadab Khan, Faheem Ashraf, Mohammad Amir, Hasan Ali, Usman Khan.

Rohit Sharma-led team India is set to give a tough fight to their arch-rivals Pakistan in the Super Fours clash at the Dubai International Stadium on Sunday. Previously, India produced a stunning show to defeat Pakistan by eight wickets in the Group match of the same tournament.

Rohit Sharma-led team India is set to give a tough fight to their arch-rivals Pakistan in the Super Fours clash at the Dubai International Stadium on Sunday. Previously, India produced a stunning show to defeat Pakistan by eight wickets in the Group match of the same tournament. After the India-Pak clash, India produced another clinical performance against Bangladesh and marked an easy victory in the opening Super Four match. India will look to maintain the same momentum while Pakistan will be looking to improve their game after a massive scare against Afghanistan in their previous match which they won in the a last over finish. The batting line-up of Pakistan especially the opening batsmen have been struggling so far in the series, however, the veteran Shoaib Malik has proved his mettle by playing responsible innings in previous crucial matches. He scored 43 against India and an unbeaten 51 against Afghanistan. For India, both bowling and batting departments have chipped in to guide the team towards the victory. Special mention to all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja, who made a comeback to the team, also dished out a splendid performance to rip through Bangladesh's batting line-up with a four-wicket haul. Pakistan will be looking to put aside their disappointing performance against India in the last match and giving the Men in Blue a tough competition. Here is the playing XI (TBC): India: Rohit Sharma (c), Shikhar Dhawan, Ambati Rayudu, Dinesh Karthik, MS Dhoni (wk), Kedar Jadhav, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Kuldeep Yadav, Hardik Pandya, Yuzvendra Chahal, Jasprit Bumrah. Pakistan: Imam-ul-Haq, Fakhar Zaman, Sarfraz Ahmed (c and wk), Babar Azam, Shoaib Malik, Asif Ali, Shadab Khan, Faheem Ashraf, Mohammad Amir, Hasan Ali, Usman Khan.

Who will win? It's India vs Pakistan once again at Asia Cup 2018

Pakistan's paceman Hasan Ali and Afghanistan's Asghar Afghan and Rashid Khan have all been fined on Saturday for violating the players' code of conduct, the International Cricket Council said Saturday.

Pakistan narrowly beat Afghanistan by three wickets in a highly charged Asia Cup Super Four match in Abu Dhabi on Friday, with Shoaib Malik hitting a six and four in the last over.

"Hasan, and Afghanistan's duo of Asghar and Rashid have all been fined 15 per cent of their match fees. They have also received one demerit point in separate incidents during the match on Friday," the ICC said.

"After the match, all the three players pleaded guilty to the offences and accepted the sanctions proposed by Andy Pycroft of the Elite Panel of ICC Match Referees and, as such, there was no need for a formal hearing."

The ICC said: "Rashid was charged and fined for giving a sendoff to Asif Ali in the 47th over of Pakistan's innings by holding up a finger and staring at the batsman, an action that could have provoked an aggressive reaction from the departing batsman."

"Hasan and Asghar were found guilty of 'conduct that is contrary to the spirit of the game and using language, actions or gestures which disparage or which could provoke an aggressive reaction from a batsman upon his/her dismissal during an International Match.'

"While Hasan and Rashid have received demerit points for the first time, it is the second occasion that Asghar has been handed a demerit point within a 24-month period.&nbsp;

"The incident involving Hasan happened in the 33rd over of Afghanistan's innings when he threatened to throw the ball towards striker Hashmatullah Shahidi after fielding off his own bowling.

"As regards the incident involving Asghar, the Afghanistan captain brushed his shoulder with the bowler Hasan in the 37th over as he passed him while taking a run." &nbsp;

Pakistan's paceman Hasan Ali and Afghanistan's Asghar Afghan and Rashid Khan have all been fined on Saturday for violating the players' code of conduct, the International Cricket Council said Saturday.

Pakistan's paceman Hasan Ali and Afghanistan's Asghar Afghan and Rashid Khan have all been fined on Saturday for violating the players' code of conduct, the International Cricket Council said Saturday. Pakistan narrowly beat Afghanistan by three wickets in a highly charged Asia Cup Super Four match in Abu Dhabi on Friday, with Shoaib Malik hitting a six and four in the last over. "Hasan, and Afghanistan's duo of Asghar and Rashid have all been fined 15 per cent of their match fees. They have also received one demerit point in separate incidents during the match on Friday," the ICC said. "After the match, all the three players pleaded guilty to the offences and accepted the sanctions proposed by Andy Pycroft of the Elite Panel of ICC Match Referees and, as such, there was no need for a formal hearing." The ICC said: "Rashid was charged and fined for giving a sendoff to Asif Ali in the 47th over of Pakistan's innings by holding up a finger and staring at the batsman, an action that could have provoked an aggressive reaction from the departing batsman." "Hasan and Asghar were found guilty of 'conduct that is contrary to the spirit of the game and using language, actions or gestures which disparage or which could provoke an aggressive reaction from a batsman upon his/her dismissal during an International Match.' "While Hasan and Rashid have received demerit points for the first time, it is the second occasion that Asghar has been handed a demerit point within a 24-month period. "The incident involving Hasan happened in the 33rd over of Afghanistan's innings when he threatened to throw the ball towards striker Hashmatullah Shahidi after fielding off his own bowling. "As regards the incident involving Asghar, the Afghanistan captain brushed his shoulder with the bowler Hasan in the 37th over as he passed him while taking a run."

Pakistan and Afghanistan players fined in Asia Cup: ICC

While India and Pakistan's fierce cricket rivalry has been on display at the Asian Cup in the United Arab Emirates, some families in the country have divided loyalties.&nbsp;

The UAE is home to many cricket-loving cross-border couples from India and Pakistan who find it an easier option than living on the subcontinent, where Pakistanis have trouble getting visas for India, and vice versa.&nbsp;

Cross-border ties have been strained ever since the violence and upheaval that accompanied the creation of modern India and Pakistan at the end of British rule in August 1947.&nbsp;

The two have fought three wars since becoming independent, deepening mistrust and suspicion of each other, while thousands of families remain divided by the border.

Relations further soured after the 2008 Mumbai attacks, and cross-border unions are now few and far between.&nbsp;

One rare high-profile example is Indian tennis player Sania Mirza and her husband, Pakistani cricketer Shoaib Malik, who have a home in Dubai.&nbsp;

Indian national Kasim Vakkil and his wife Ghazala, from Pakistan, are also part of the UAE's large South Asian community.&nbsp;

"My marriage would not have been possible if we were not living in UAE," Kasim told AFP.

"Ghazala is from Lahore and I am from Mumbai but living at this neutral venue made our marriage possible."

They came together through cricket when Kasim met his future father-in-law at a game between Pakistan and South Africa in the UAE, where Pakistan hosts games owing to the risk of terror attacks on home soil.

"I went to watch a match between Pakistan and South Africa in 2014 where I met Ghazala's father which became the first step towards our proposal," said Kasim, a former college-level fast bowler in Mumbai.

"I would not have imagined watching Pakistani cricketers like Shahid Afridi, Abdul Razzaq and Mohammad Amir before my own eyes but it became possible since UAE became a neutral venue for the Pakistan team."&nbsp;

'Double joy'&nbsp;

Ghazala, who works in human resources, said watching India and Pakistan play made her think of home.

India thrashed Pakistan by eight wickets in the group stage and they are set to meet again in the Super Fours on Sunday.

"Now with India and Pakistan playing in UAE for the Asian title it has given us double joy as we get to see players from both the countries which gives us a nostalgic feeling," said Ghazala.

India is playing in the Emirates for the first time since 2006, sparking huge interest among the country's large number of Indian expats.

Club-level cricketer Naveed Siraj hails from Srinagar in Indian-administered Kashmir, while his wife, Nida, is from the Pakistani capital Islamabad.

"My uncle and aunty lived in Kuwait and Nida's family were their neighbours so they initiated the talk for our marriage," said Naveed.

"UAE is a neutral venue for all the expats from Pakistan and India so everyone lives here in comfort and enjoys everything including cricket."

Dubai taxi driver Sunil Manohar, from India's Karnataka state, married Nunda from Pakistan's Sindh province after their families met in the UAE.

"UAE is a nice place for cross-border families," he said. "In the past, a few couples were stuck in Pakistan because they were not getting an Indian visa."

While India and Pakistan's fierce cricket rivalry has been on display at the Asian Cup in the United Arab Emirates, some families in the country have divided loyalties.

While India and Pakistan's fierce cricket rivalry has been on display at the Asian Cup in the United Arab Emirates, some families in the country have divided loyalties. The UAE is home to many cricket-loving cross-border couples from India and Pakistan who find it an easier option than living on the subcontinent, where Pakistanis have trouble getting visas for India, and vice versa. Cross-border ties have been strained ever since the violence and upheaval that accompanied the creation of modern India and Pakistan at the end of British rule in August 1947. The two have fought three wars since becoming independent, deepening mistrust and suspicion of each other, while thousands of families remain divided by the border. Relations further soured after the 2008 Mumbai attacks, and cross-border unions are now few and far between. One rare high-profile example is Indian tennis player Sania Mirza and her husband, Pakistani cricketer Shoaib Malik, who have a home in Dubai. Indian national Kasim Vakkil and his wife Ghazala, from Pakistan, are also part of the UAE's large South Asian community. "My marriage would not have been possible if we were not living in UAE," Kasim told AFP. "Ghazala is from Lahore and I am from Mumbai but living at this neutral venue made our marriage possible." They came together through cricket when Kasim met his future father-in-law at a game between Pakistan and South Africa in the UAE, where Pakistan hosts games owing to the risk of terror attacks on home soil. "I went to watch a match between Pakistan and South Africa in 2014 where I met Ghazala's father which became the first step towards our proposal," said Kasim, a former college-level fast bowler in Mumbai. "I would not have imagined watching Pakistani cricketers like Shahid Afridi, Abdul Razzaq and Mohammad Amir before my own eyes but it became possible since UAE became a neutral venue for the Pakistan team." 'Double joy' Ghazala, who works in human resources, said watching India and Pakistan play made her think of home. India thrashed Pakistan by eight wickets in the group stage and they are set to meet again in the Super Fours on Sunday. "Now with India and Pakistan playing in UAE for the Asian title it has given us double joy as we get to see players from both the countries which gives us a nostalgic feeling," said Ghazala. India is playing in the Emirates for the first time since 2006, sparking huge interest among the country's large number of Indian expats. Club-level cricketer Naveed Siraj hails from Srinagar in Indian-administered Kashmir, while his wife, Nida, is from the Pakistani capital Islamabad. "My uncle and aunty lived in Kuwait and Nida's family were their neighbours so they initiated the talk for our marriage," said Naveed. "UAE is a neutral venue for all the expats from Pakistan and India so everyone lives here in comfort and enjoys everything including cricket." Dubai taxi driver Sunil Manohar, from India's Karnataka state, married Nunda from Pakistan's Sindh province after their families met in the UAE. "UAE is a nice place for cross-border families," he said. "In the past, a few couples were stuck in Pakistan because they were not getting an Indian visa."

The cricket-loving India, Pakistan couples prove love has no boundaries

Pakistan&nbsp;beat Afghanistan by three wickets in a nerve-racking last over finish in the Super Four match of the Asia Cup in Abu Dhabi on Friday.

Afghanistan scored 257-6 in their 50 overs which&nbsp;Pakistan&nbsp;chased down in 49.3 overs for the loss of seven wickets at Abu Dhabi stadium.

Chasing a competitive 258 to win, Pakistan overhauled the target with just three balls to spare with former captain Malik playing the match-winning knock from 43 balls.

Pakistan required 10 runs from the last over and Malik dispatched pacer Aftab Alam for a six and four after playing a dot ball.&nbsp;

Wickets kept falling for Pakistan with star Afghan spinner Rashid Khan yet again proving his utility with a three wicket haul but Malik held his nerves to keep one end tight.

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Pakistan win a thriller in Abu Dhabi! 
 
Afghanistan are denied a maiden victory against their neighbours as Shoaib Malik takes Pakistan home with 3 balls remaining to win by 3 wickets! What a game! 🇵🇰 🇦🇫 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PAKvAFG?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PAKvAFG</a> scorecard ➡️ <a href="https://t.co/Sa2zeTsbZ4">https://t.co/Sa2zeTsbZ4</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AsiaCup2018?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AsiaCup2018</a> <a href="https://t.co/DOP6NjEjq4">pic.twitter.com/DOP6NjEjq4</a>
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Before Malik, Imam-ul-Haq (80) and Babar Azam (60) hit patient half-centuries in a 154-run stand but the slow run rate made it difficult for Pakistan.

Electing to bat, Hashmatullah Shahidi (97) missed out on his maiden ODI hundred by just three runs after skipper Asghar Afghan hit a combative 67 off 56 balls as Afghanistan scored a fighting 257 for six.

Their 94-run partnership and some terrific batting towards the end by the Afghans made it an interesting contest as they scored 87 runs in the last 10 overs.

Pakistan made a shaky start, losing opener Fakhar Zaman in the sixth ball of the innings, bowled by Mujeeb ur Rahman, but after that Azam and Imam taking control of the proceedings, though the run-rate was always shooting up.

At the half-way mark, Pakistan had put on board just 103 for one with required touching going beyond six but they the cushion of nine wickets.

The two batsmen out on 154 runs for the second wicket before the bespectacled Imam was run out in the 34th over. It was Najibullah Zadran's direct hit which found Imam short. His 80-run knock came off 104 balls with four shots to the fence and one over the ropes.&nbsp;

Nine balls later, Rashid Khan had Azam stumped. It was when Pakistan needed exact 100 runs from 15 overs.&nbsp;

Pakistan lost Haris Sohail (13), Sarfraz Ahmad (8), Asif Ali (7) and Mohammad Nawaz (10) with Afghan bowlers fighting hard.

In the end, former captain Malik's experience saw them cross the finish the&nbsp; 
line. &nbsp; &nbsp;

Earlier, Shahidi needed a boundary off the last ball to complete his century but Hasan Ali denied him the milestone with a incoming yorker which the left-hander could not put away.

With his skipper Asghar, Shahidi shared a match-changing 94-run stand for the fourth wicket.&nbsp;

Shahidi shifted gears with ease after largely remaining patient in his unbeaten and career-best knock which came off 118 balls. He was bowled off a no ball when he was on 76 in the penultimate over.

Five of his seven boundaries came during the last 14 balls of the Afghan innings.&nbsp;

Asghar had joined left-handed Shahidi at the crease after left-arm spinner Mohammad Nawaz (3/57) removed the top three Afghan batsmen,&nbsp;Mohammad Shahzad (20), Ihsanullah (10) and Rahmat Shah (36).

In his 67-run knock, Asghar showed both aggression and patience and Shahidi was determined, holding one end tight.&nbsp;

Asghar chose right deliveries to go for big shots, hitting five sixes and two fours.

Shahidi and Asghar were tested by the Pakistan pace duo of Hasan Ali and Usman Khan but they refused to be intimidated by the raw pace.

They were sensible in defending and leaving the balls which moved after pitching outside off stump. They kept the scoreboard ticking with pushing and nudging the ball around.

Breakthrough not coming, Pakistan captain Sarfraz handed the ball back to Nawaz but Asghar creamed off 11 runs from his over, hitting a four and six, to end the long boundary drought.

Both the batsmen completed their half-centuries in the 40th over, bowled by young left-arm pacer Shaheen Afridi.

With few overs left, Asghar started hitting each everything thrown at him and was bowled by Afridi after being dropped by Haris Sohail in the 42nd over.

Pakistan beat Afghanistan by three wickets in a nerve-racking last over finish in the Super Four match of the Asia Cup in Abu Dhabi on Friday. Afghanistan scored 257-6 in their 50 overs which Pakistan chased down in 49.

Pakistan beat Afghanistan by three wickets in a nerve-racking last over finish in the Super Four match of the Asia Cup in Abu Dhabi on Friday. Afghanistan scored 257-6 in their 50 overs which Pakistan chased down in 49.3 overs for the loss of seven wickets at Abu Dhabi stadium. Chasing a competitive 258 to win, Pakistan overhauled the target with just three balls to spare with former captain Malik playing the match-winning knock from 43 balls. Pakistan required 10 runs from the last over and Malik dispatched pacer Aftab Alam for a six and four after playing a dot ball. Wickets kept falling for Pakistan with star Afghan spinner Rashid Khan yet again proving his utility with a three wicket haul but Malik held his nerves to keep one end tight. Pakistan win a thriller in Abu Dhabi! Afghanistan are denied a maiden victory against their neighbours as Shoaib Malik takes Pakistan home with 3 balls remaining to win by 3 wickets! What a game! 🇵🇰 🇦🇫 #PAKvAFG scorecard ➡️ https://t.co/Sa2zeTsbZ4#AsiaCup2018 pic.twitter.com/DOP6NjEjq4 — ICC (@ICC) September 21, 2018 × Before Malik, Imam-ul-Haq (80) and Babar Azam (60) hit patient half-centuries in a 154-run stand but the slow run rate made it difficult for Pakistan. Electing to bat, Hashmatullah Shahidi (97) missed out on his maiden ODI hundred by just three runs after skipper Asghar Afghan hit a combative 67 off 56 balls as Afghanistan scored a fighting 257 for six. Their 94-run partnership and some terrific batting towards the end by the Afghans made it an interesting contest as they scored 87 runs in the last 10 overs. Pakistan made a shaky start, losing opener Fakhar Zaman in the sixth ball of the innings, bowled by Mujeeb ur Rahman, but after that Azam and Imam taking control of the proceedings, though the run-rate was always shooting up. At the half-way mark, Pakistan had put on board just 103 for one with required touching going beyond six but they the cushion of nine wickets. The two batsmen out on 154 runs for the second wicket before the bespectacled Imam was run out in the 34th over. It was Najibullah Zadran's direct hit which found Imam short. His 80-run knock came off 104 balls with four shots to the fence and one over the ropes. Nine balls later, Rashid Khan had Azam stumped. It was when Pakistan needed exact 100 runs from 15 overs. Pakistan lost Haris Sohail (13), Sarfraz Ahmad (8), Asif Ali (7) and Mohammad Nawaz (10) with Afghan bowlers fighting hard. In the end, former captain Malik's experience saw them cross the finish the line. Earlier, Shahidi needed a boundary off the last ball to complete his century but Hasan Ali denied him the milestone with a incoming yorker which the left-hander could not put away. With his skipper Asghar, Shahidi shared a match-changing 94-run stand for the fourth wicket. Shahidi shifted gears with ease after largely remaining patient in his unbeaten and career-best knock which came off 118 balls. He was bowled off a no ball when he was on 76 in the penultimate over. Five of his seven boundaries came during the last 14 balls of the Afghan innings. Asghar had joined left-handed Shahidi at the crease after left-arm spinner Mohammad Nawaz (3/57) removed the top three Afghan batsmen, Mohammad Shahzad (20), Ihsanullah (10) and Rahmat Shah (36). In his 67-run knock, Asghar showed both aggression and patience and Shahidi was determined, holding one end tight. Asghar chose right deliveries to go for big shots, hitting five sixes and two fours. Shahidi and Asghar were tested by the Pakistan pace duo of Hasan Ali and Usman Khan but they refused to be intimidated by the raw pace. They were sensible in defending and leaving the balls which moved after pitching outside off stump. They kept the scoreboard ticking with pushing and nudging the ball around. Breakthrough not coming, Pakistan captain Sarfraz handed the ball back to Nawaz but Asghar creamed off 11 runs from his over, hitting a four and six, to end the long boundary drought. Both the batsmen completed their half-centuries in the 40th over, bowled by young left-arm pacer Shaheen Afridi. With few overs left, Asghar started hitting each everything thrown at him and was bowled by Afridi after being dropped by Haris Sohail in the 42nd over.

Asia Cup 2018: Pakistan beat Afghanistan in last over finish

Hashmatullah Shahidi missed out on a maiden hundred by a mere three runs but still steered Afghanistan to a challenging 257-6 against Pakistan in the Asia Cup at Abu Dhabi on Friday.

Shahidi hit three consecutive boundaries in the final over off Usman Shinwari, but failed to get to three figures off the last delivery after Afghanistan won the toss and batted in the Super Four clash.

Shahidi finished with a brilliantly-paced 118-ball 97 not out, and added 94 for the fourth wicket with his skipper Asghar Afghan, who smashed five sixes and two fours in his 56-ball 67.

But it was Shahidi who held one end against Pakistan's bowling in an innings which featured seven boundaries after left-arm spinner Mohammad Nawaz (3-57) had put the brakes on Afghanistan's early progress.

Shahidi had added 63 for the third wicket with Rahmat Shah who scored a measured 36.

The total is an improvement by Afghanistan after scoring 249 and 255 in their previous two wins against Sri Lanka and Bangladesh.

Pakistani fielders dropped four catches, three off debutant paceman Shaheen Shah Afridi who finished with 2-38.

Hashmatullah Shahidi missed out on a maiden hundred by a mere three runs but still steered Afghanistan to a challenging 257-6 against Pakistan in the Asia Cup at Abu Dhabi on Friday.

Hashmatullah Shahidi missed out on a maiden hundred by a mere three runs but still steered Afghanistan to a challenging 257-6 against Pakistan in the Asia Cup at Abu Dhabi on Friday. Shahidi hit three consecutive boundaries in the final over off Usman Shinwari, but failed to get to three figures off the last delivery after Afghanistan won the toss and batted in the Super Four clash. Shahidi finished with a brilliantly-paced 118-ball 97 not out, and added 94 for the fourth wicket with his skipper Asghar Afghan, who smashed five sixes and two fours in his 56-ball 67. But it was Shahidi who held one end against Pakistan's bowling in an innings which featured seven boundaries after left-arm spinner Mohammad Nawaz (3-57) had put the brakes on Afghanistan's early progress. Shahidi had added 63 for the third wicket with Rahmat Shah who scored a measured 36. The total is an improvement by Afghanistan after scoring 249 and 255 in their previous two wins against Sri Lanka and Bangladesh. Pakistani fielders dropped four catches, three off debutant paceman Shaheen Shah Afridi who finished with 2-38.

Asia Cup 2018: Shahidi, Asghar lift Afghanistan to 257-6 against Pakistan

Asghar Afghan, skipper of Afghanistan cricket team won the toss against&nbsp;Pakistan at&nbsp;Sheikh Zayed Stadium in&nbsp;Super Four, Match 2 on Friday.&nbsp;

Afghanistan have brought in big-hitting batsman Najibullah Zadran for Samiullah Shenwari.

Pakistan brought in Haris Sohail, Shaheen Afridi and Mohammad Nawaz after losing to India by eight wickets on Wednesday, leaving out Mohammad Amir, Shadab Khan and Faheem Ashraf.

For Pakistan, 18-year-old Shaheen is making his one-day international debut.

Playing XI:

Pakistan: Sarfraz Ahmed (captain), Fakhar Zaman, Imam-ul-Haq, Babar Azam, Shoaib Malik, Asif Ali, Haris Sohail, Mohammad Nawaz, Hasan Ali, Usman Khan Shinwari, Shaheen Shah Afridi.

Afghanistan: Asghar Afghan (captain), Mohammad Shahzad, Rahmat Shah, Hashmatullah Shahidi, Najibullah Zadran, Mohammad Nabi, Gulbadin Naib, Rashid Khan, Mujeeb Ur Rahman, Aftab Alam, Ihsanullah Janat.

Asghar Afghan, skipper of Afghanistan cricket team won the toss against Pakistan at Sheikh Zayed Stadium in Super Four, Match 2 on Friday. Afghanistan have brought in big-hitting batsman Najibullah Zadran for Samiullah Shenwari.

Asghar Afghan, skipper of Afghanistan cricket team won the toss against Pakistan at Sheikh Zayed Stadium in Super Four, Match 2 on Friday. Afghanistan have brought in big-hitting batsman Najibullah Zadran for Samiullah Shenwari. Pakistan brought in Haris Sohail, Shaheen Afridi and Mohammad Nawaz after losing to India by eight wickets on Wednesday, leaving out Mohammad Amir, Shadab Khan and Faheem Ashraf. For Pakistan, 18-year-old Shaheen is making his one-day international debut. Playing XI: Pakistan: Sarfraz Ahmed (captain), Fakhar Zaman, Imam-ul-Haq, Babar Azam, Shoaib Malik, Asif Ali, Haris Sohail, Mohammad Nawaz, Hasan Ali, Usman Khan Shinwari, Shaheen Shah Afridi. Afghanistan: Asghar Afghan (captain), Mohammad Shahzad, Rahmat Shah, Hashmatullah Shahidi, Najibullah Zadran, Mohammad Nabi, Gulbadin Naib, Rashid Khan, Mujeeb Ur Rahman, Aftab Alam, Ihsanullah Janat.

Asia Cup 2018: Afghanistan opt to bat against Pakistan

Asghar Afghan, skipper of Afghanistan cricket team won the toss against&nbsp;Pakistan at&nbsp;Sheikh Zayed Stadium in&nbsp;Super Four, Match 2 on Friday.&nbsp;

Afghanistan have&nbsp;brought in big-hitting batsman Najibullah Zadran for Samiullah Shenwari.

Pakistan brought in Haris Sohail, Shaheen Afridi and Mohammad Nawaz after losing to India by eight wickets on Wednesday, leaving out Mohammad Amir, Shadab Khan and Faheem Ashraf.

For Pakistan, 18-year-old Shaheen is making his one-day international debut.

Playing XI:

Pakistan: Sarfraz Ahmed (captain), Fakhar Zaman, Imam-ul-Haq, Babar Azam, Shoaib Malik, Asif Ali, Haris Sohail, Mohammad Nawaz, Hasan Ali, Usman Khan Shinwari, Shaheen Shah Afridi.

Afghanistan: Asghar Afghan (captain), Mohammad Shahzad, Rahmat Shah, Hashmatullah Shahidi, Najibullah Zadran, Mohammad Nabi, Gulbadin Naib, Rashid Khan, Mujeeb Ur Rahman, Aftab Alam, Ihsanullah Janat.

A video of kid bowling with pace and accuracy on a terrace has captured the imagination of cricket lovers in Pakistan.

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I just recieved this video and don&rsquo;t know about this brilliant kid, want to know your thoughts abt this terrific bowling. <a href="https://twitter.com/wasimakramlive?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@wasimakramlive</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/shoaib100mph?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@shoaib100mph</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/iramizraja?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@iramizraja</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/SAfridiOfficial?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SAfridiOfficial</a> <a href="https://t.co/8JPRQNHlfj">pic.twitter.com/8JPRQNHlfj</a>
&mdash; Faizan Ramzan (@faizanramzank) <a href="https://twitter.com/faizanramzank/status/968577555593822208?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 27, 2018</a></blockquote>
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The boy with left-handed bowling action is seen in the video bowling with such pace and venom that even Pakistani bowling legend Wasim Akram couldn&#39;t resist talking about him.

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Where is this boy??? We have serious talent flowing through the veins of our nation and no platform for these kids to be discovered. It&rsquo;s time we do something about it <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TheFutureOfCricketIsWithOurYouth?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TheFutureOfCricketIsWithOurYouth</a> <a href="https://t.co/ybzd5ASeTx">https://t.co/ybzd5ASeTx</a>
&mdash; Wasim Akram (@wasimakramlive) <a href="https://twitter.com/wasimakramlive/status/968733106176970754?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 28, 2018</a></blockquote>
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The boy in successive deliveries brings down the stumps in true &quot;Wasim fashion&quot; and even manages to bowl a few of inswinging yorkers.

However, there is no information where the boy is from although several cricket fans have urged authorities to look for him and induct him in cricket training programme.

A legend in the making? Who knows...

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I don&rsquo;t have any contact but sure Insha Allah he will be found
&mdash; Faizan Ramzan (@faizanramzank) <a href="https://twitter.com/faizanramzank/status/969201878851604480?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 1, 2018</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

There is no information where the boy is from although several cricket fans have urged authorities to look for him

A video of kid bowling with pace and accuracy on a terrace has captured the imagination of cricket lovers in Pakistan. I just recieved this video and don’t know about this brilliant kid, want to know your thoughts abt this terrific bowling. @wasimakramlive @shoaib100mph @iramizraja @SAfridiOfficial pic.twitter.com/8JPRQNHlfj — Faizan Ramzan (@faizanramzank) February 27, 2018 × The boy with left-handed bowling action is seen in the video bowling with such pace and venom that even Pakistani bowling legend Wasim Akram couldn't resist talking about him. Where is this boy??? We have serious talent flowing through the veins of our nation and no platform for these kids to be discovered. It’s time we do something about it #TheFutureOfCricketIsWithOurYouth https://t.co/ybzd5ASeTx — Wasim Akram (@wasimakramlive) February 28, 2018 × The boy in successive deliveries brings down the stumps in true "Wasim fashion" and even manages to bowl a few of inswinging yorkers. However, there is no information where the boy is from although several cricket fans have urged authorities to look for him and induct him in cricket training programme. A legend in the making? Who knows... I don’t have any contact but sure Insha Allah he will be found — Faizan Ramzan (@faizanramzank) March 1, 2018 ×

Watch: 'Who is this boy,' asks Wasim Akram, video goes viral

The Pakistan cricket board(PCB) wants the upcoming Under-19 Asia&nbsp;Cup to be held in India in November to be shifted to a neutral venue over security fears.

Pakistan is set to request the Asian Cricket Council to move the venue during a meeting this week, reports said.

&quot;We will discuss this matter at the ACC meeting in Colombo on Saturday and we think that the event can be held at any other secure venue outside India and Pakistan,&quot; Najam Sethi, chairman of the PCB&#39;s executive committee, told AFP.

India and Pakistan haven&#39;t played a full bilateral series since 2007 because of tensions at the border. India has &#39;&#39;unofficially&#39;&#39; barred Pakistan cricketers&nbsp;from taking part&nbsp;in the lucrative Indian Premier League which hosts a galaxy of star&nbsp;players across the world.

Several Test nations have refused to tour Pakistan over terror related issues after the bus attack in 2009 on the Lankan team in Lahore.

Pakistan is set to request the Asian Cricket Council to move the venue during a meeting this week, reports said.

The Pakistan cricket board(PCB) wants the upcoming Under-19 Asia Cup to be held in India in November to be shifted to a neutral venue over security fears. Pakistan is set to request the Asian Cricket Council to move the venue during a meeting this week, reports said. "We will discuss this matter at the ACC meeting in Colombo on Saturday and we think that the event can be held at any other secure venue outside India and Pakistan," Najam Sethi, chairman of the PCB's executive committee, told AFP. India and Pakistan haven't played a full bilateral series since 2007 because of tensions at the border. India has ''unofficially'' barred Pakistan cricketers from taking part in the lucrative Indian Premier League which hosts a galaxy of star players across the world. Several Test nations have refused to tour Pakistan over terror related issues after the bus attack in 2009 on the Lankan team in Lahore.

PCB wants U-19 Asia Cup shifted from India

Hundreds of fans gave Pakistan captain Sarfraz Ahmed a hero&#39;s welcome as he arrived home carrying the Champions Trophy early on Tuesday.

Men, women and children packed Karachi airport as Sarfraz returned from England, where Pakistan thrashed arch-rivals India to be crowned surprise winners.

Sarfraz held up the trophy to loud cheers and chants of &quot;Long live Sarfraz!&quot; as a police band played patriotic songs nearby.

&quot;(We won) thanks to Allah and the prayers of the whole nation,&quot; Ahmed said in brief comments as he jostled his way through the crowd of well-wishers.

Pakistan&#39;s victory by 180 runs on Sunday has sparked widespread celebrations in the country, where cricket is the number one sport.

Sarfraz was showered with bouquets and given a traditional skull cap and an &#39;ajrak&#39; shawl, which is usually presented as a mark of honour. Senior local officials also turned up to greet the captain before he was whisked away under escort by police commandos along with team-mate Rumman Raees.

Sarfraz&#39;s residential block in central Karachi was adorned with colourful lights and Pakistan flags, while fans climbed on rooftops and balconies to watch him return home.

Sarfraz held up the trophy to loud cheers and chants of 'Long live Sarfraz!' as a police band played patriotic songs nearby

Hundreds of fans gave Pakistan captain Sarfraz Ahmed a hero's welcome as he arrived home carrying the Champions Trophy early on Tuesday. Men, women and children packed Karachi airport as Sarfraz returned from England, where Pakistan thrashed arch-rivals India to be crowned surprise winners. Sarfraz held up the trophy to loud cheers and chants of "Long live Sarfraz!" as a police band played patriotic songs nearby. "(We won) thanks to Allah and the prayers of the whole nation," Ahmed said in brief comments as he jostled his way through the crowd of well-wishers. Pakistan's victory by 180 runs on Sunday has sparked widespread celebrations in the country, where cricket is the number one sport. Sarfraz was showered with bouquets and given a traditional skull cap and an 'ajrak' shawl, which is usually presented as a mark of honour. Senior local officials also turned up to greet the captain before he was whisked away under escort by police commandos along with team-mate Rumman Raees. Sarfraz's residential block in central Karachi was adorned with colourful lights and Pakistan flags, while fans climbed on rooftops and balconies to watch him return home.

After beating India, Pakistan captain Sarfraz Ahmed gets hero's welcome back home

The game that always &#39;stops two nations&#39; comes again to a third when title-holders India face Pakistan in the Champions Trophy final at London&#39;s Oval ground on Sunday.

And the question millions of cricket fans around the world, possibly even a billion, are all asking is &quot;which Pakistan will turn up?&quot;.

Will it be the team of their opening group match at Edgbaston on June 4, a 124-run thrashing by arch-rivals India, where their inept bowling and batting were outdone only by woeful fielding in what Pakistan coach Mickey Arthur labelled a &quot;shambolic&quot; display?

Or will it be the slick, skilled side who hammered England by eight wickets in the semi-finals, with Hasan Ali, the competition&#39;s leading wicket-taker, spearheading a brilliant bowling effort as the previously unbeaten tournament hosts were dismissed for just 211 before the likes of Azhar Ali and Fakhar Zaman helped knock off the runs in dashing style?

Arthur is confident the India &quot;aberration&quot; is now behind Pakistan, who&#39;ve also lost all three of their previous knockout matches at International Cricket Council tournaments against their fiercest foes.

&quot;What we&#39;ve produced after that doesn&#39;t come as any surprise, because that&#39;s how we trained, and that&#39;s what we worked at,&quot; Arthur told reporters at The Oval on Saturday. &quot;It was very disappointing to see that go wrong in the Indian game...That was an aberration. We&#39;re now moving forward.&quot;

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<h5>&#39;At the same time, neither are we too intimidated nor are we too arrogant about what we are doing&#39;, said Kohli</h5>
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&nbsp;

&#39;History can change&#39;&nbsp;

The South African&#39;s comments echoed those of Pakistan bowling coach Azhar Mahmood, who insisted: &quot;History can change, and I hope we can (change it).&quot;

The Oval was where, in 1882, England&#39;s defeat by Australia led to a mock obituary in a newspaper referring to the &quot;ashes&quot; of English cricket and hence the name for all future Anglo-Australian Test series.&nbsp;

But few would dispute that India-Pakistan is now the world game&#39;s premier contest -- certainly not the ICC who, by their own admission, now fix the draw at their events to ensure the Asian giants meet in the group phase.

&quot;It is massive,&quot; insisted Azhar. &quot;It is bigger than the Ashes -- and expectation is high from both nations, crazy about cricket.&quot;

Arthur confirmed Saturday that Mohammad Amir, who missed the semi-final with a back spasm, would return against India. &quot;He&#39;s fit to play, and he will play,&quot; said Arthur in answer to a question from AFP.

Amir&#39;s replacement left-arm quick Rumman Raees, who marked his ODI debut with two wickets against England, may now miss out. But &nbsp;Pakistan could also find a place for Amir by leaving out a spinner in either Shadab Khan or Imad Wasim.

India, whose skipper Virat Kohli heads the tournament batting averages with a stratospheric 253, are a formidable outfit. As well as Kohli, their top order boasts the likes of dynamic opening pair of Rohit Sharma, fresh from a hundred in a nine-wicket semi-final rout of Bangladesh, and Shikhar Dhawan.

But their middle-order has rarely been tested and Pakistan captain Sarfraz Ahmed believed his bowlers could pose problems for India, even late in the innings.

&quot;After the India game we have bowled with an attacking mindset and that is why we have taken wickets,&quot; he said. &quot;The final overs usually involve a lot of pressure and especially if you are playing against India.&quot;

But Sarfraz, who has had a fine tournament in his triple role of captain, wicket-keeper and batsman added: &quot;You saw how well we bowled in the &#39;death overs&#39; against South Africa and also Sri Lanka&quot;.

India too have a well-balanced attack, with the new-ball duo of Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Jasprit Bumrah supported by contrasting spinners in Ravichandran Ashwin and left-armer Ravindra Jadeja.

Ashwin is expected to be fit despite suffering a blow to his right knee from a wayward throw in during fielding practice at The Oval on Saturday.

Meanwhile Kohli too insisted the group clash was no longer of any relevance.&nbsp;

&quot;On their day they can beat any side in the world,&quot; the India captain said of Pakistan. &quot;That&#39;s the kind of players they have, we&#39;re quite aware of that.&quot;

Kohli, however, added: &quot;At the same time, neither are we too intimidated nor are we too arrogant about what we are doing.&quot;

Pakistan are thought of as 'unpredictable', there are days when they are spectacular and other days when they are shambolic

The game that always 'stops two nations' comes again to a third when title-holders India face Pakistan in the Champions Trophy final at London's Oval ground on Sunday. And the question millions of cricket fans around the world, possibly even a billion, are all asking is "which Pakistan will turn up?". Will it be the team of their opening group match at Edgbaston on June 4, a 124-run thrashing by arch-rivals India, where their inept bowling and batting were outdone only by woeful fielding in what Pakistan coach Mickey Arthur labelled a "shambolic" display? Or will it be the slick, skilled side who hammered England by eight wickets in the semi-finals, with Hasan Ali, the competition's leading wicket-taker, spearheading a brilliant bowling effort as the previously unbeaten tournament hosts were dismissed for just 211 before the likes of Azhar Ali and Fakhar Zaman helped knock off the runs in dashing style? Arthur is confident the India "aberration" is now behind Pakistan, who've also lost all three of their previous knockout matches at International Cricket Council tournaments against their fiercest foes. "What we've produced after that doesn't come as any surprise, because that's how we trained, and that's what we worked at," Arthur told reporters at The Oval on Saturday. "It was very disappointing to see that go wrong in the Indian game...That was an aberration. We're now moving forward." 'At the same time, neither are we too intimidated nor are we too arrogant about what we are doing', said Kohli × 'History can change' The South African's comments echoed those of Pakistan bowling coach Azhar Mahmood, who insisted: "History can change, and I hope we can (change it)." The Oval was where, in 1882, England's defeat by Australia led to a mock obituary in a newspaper referring to the "ashes" of English cricket and hence the name for all future Anglo-Australian Test series. But few would dispute that India-Pakistan is now the world game's premier contest -- certainly not the ICC who, by their own admission, now fix the draw at their events to ensure the Asian giants meet in the group phase. "It is massive," insisted Azhar. "It is bigger than the Ashes -- and expectation is high from both nations, crazy about cricket." Arthur confirmed Saturday that Mohammad Amir, who missed the semi-final with a back spasm, would return against India. "He's fit to play, and he will play," said Arthur in answer to a question from AFP. Amir's replacement left-arm quick Rumman Raees, who marked his ODI debut with two wickets against England, may now miss out. But Pakistan could also find a place for Amir by leaving out a spinner in either Shadab Khan or Imad Wasim. India, whose skipper Virat Kohli heads the tournament batting averages with a stratospheric 253, are a formidable outfit. As well as Kohli, their top order boasts the likes of dynamic opening pair of Rohit Sharma, fresh from a hundred in a nine-wicket semi-final rout of Bangladesh, and Shikhar Dhawan. But their middle-order has rarely been tested and Pakistan captain Sarfraz Ahmed believed his bowlers could pose problems for India, even late in the innings. "After the India game we have bowled with an attacking mindset and that is why we have taken wickets," he said. "The final overs usually involve a lot of pressure and especially if you are playing against India." But Sarfraz, who has had a fine tournament in his triple role of captain, wicket-keeper and batsman added: "You saw how well we bowled in the 'death overs' against South Africa and also Sri Lanka". India too have a well-balanced attack, with the new-ball duo of Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Jasprit Bumrah supported by contrasting spinners in Ravichandran Ashwin and left-armer Ravindra Jadeja. Ashwin is expected to be fit despite suffering a blow to his right knee from a wayward throw in during fielding practice at The Oval on Saturday. Meanwhile Kohli too insisted the group clash was no longer of any relevance. "On their day they can beat any side in the world," the India captain said of Pakistan. "That's the kind of players they have, we're quite aware of that." Kohli, however, added: "At the same time, neither are we too intimidated nor are we too arrogant about what we are doing."

Champions Trophy final: Which Pakistan will turn up against India?