Star Pakistan all-rounder Imad Wasim has done a U-turn on his T20I retirement, announcing his availability for the 2024 T20 World Cup in the USA and the Caribbean in June this year. In a social media post on Saturday (March 23), Imad said that he reconsidered his retirement to play in the 20-team tournament, clearing his intentions of not remaining available for selection beyond that.

Imad said upon sitting with PCB officials, he decided to take a call on his retirement and declare his availability for the T20 World Cup. The left-arm all-rounder thanked the board for trusting him, vying to deliver it for the team on the grand stage.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/former-pcb-chairman-and-diplomat-shaharyar-khan-passes-away-at-89-703470">Former PCB chairman and diplomat Shaharyar Khan passes away at 89</a>

“I am happy to announce that pursuant to meeting PCB officials, I have reconsidered my retirement, and am delighted to declare my availability for Pakistan cricket in the T20I format leading up to ICC T20I World Cup 2024.”&nbsp;

“I would like to thank the PCB for reposing trust in me, and I would give my very best to bring laurels to my country. Pakistan comes first!,” Imad wrote on micro-blogging website X (previously known as Twitter).

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I am happy to announce that pursuant to meeting PCB officials, I have reconsidered my retirement and am delighted to declare my availability for Pakistan cricket in T20i format leading up to ICC T20i World Cup 2024. 
 
I would like to thank the PCB for reposing trust in me and I…
— Imad Wasim (@simadwasim) <a href="https://twitter.com/simadwasim/status/1771500446462685354?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 23, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Although Imad last represented Pakistan a year ago, speculations of his much-anticipated return to international cricket grew following his exploits in PSL 2024, wherein he won three back-to-back Player of the Match awards in the playoffs and the final, respectively, helping his team (Islamabad United) lift the trophy for the third time.

<h2>No central contract for Wasim</h2>

However, as per the latest reports, Wasim is not expected to sign a central contract and wishes to remain available for selection for the T20 World Cup alone. &nbsp;

PCB is yet to make an official announcement on considering Wasim for the T20 World Cup in June.

Meanwhile, Wasim’s figures in the West Indies while playing in the Caribbean Premier League (CPL) are superb, making him the go-to-man for the newly-appointed T20I captain, Shaheen Shah Afridi. Over the years, Wasim has picked 60 wickets in the CPL at an average of 18.88 and an economy of 6.20.&nbsp;

The lanky spinner has featured in 66 T20Is for Pakistan, scoring 486 runs at a strike rate of 131.70 and picking 65 wickets with an economy of 6.26.

Star Pakistan all-rounder Imad Wasim has done a U-turn on his T20I retirement, announcing his availability for the 2024 T20 World Cup in the USA and the Caribbean in June this year.

Star Pakistan all-rounder Imad Wasim has done a U-turn on his T20I retirement, announcing his availability for the 2024 T20 World Cup in the USA and the Caribbean in June this year. In a social media post on Saturday (March 23), Imad said that he reconsidered his retirement to play in the 20-team tournament, clearing his intentions of not remaining available for selection beyond that. Imad said upon sitting with PCB officials, he decided to take a call on his retirement and declare his availability for the T20 World Cup. The left-arm all-rounder thanked the board for trusting him, vying to deliver it for the team on the grand stage. ALSO READ: Former PCB chairman and diplomat Shaharyar Khan passes away at 89 “I am happy to announce that pursuant to meeting PCB officials, I have reconsidered my retirement, and am delighted to declare my availability for Pakistan cricket in the T20I format leading up to ICC T20I World Cup 2024.” “I would like to thank the PCB for reposing trust in me, and I would give my very best to bring laurels to my country. Pakistan comes first!,” Imad wrote on micro-blogging website X (previously known as Twitter). I am happy to announce that pursuant to meeting PCB officials, I have reconsidered my retirement and am delighted to declare my availability for Pakistan cricket in T20i format leading up to ICC T20i World Cup 2024. I would like to thank the PCB for reposing trust in me and I… — Imad Wasim (@simadwasim) March 23, 2024 × Although Imad last represented Pakistan a year ago, speculations of his much-anticipated return to international cricket grew following his exploits in PSL 2024, wherein he won three back-to-back Player of the Match awards in the playoffs and the final, respectively, helping his team (Islamabad United) lift the trophy for the third time. No central contract for Wasim However, as per the latest reports, Wasim is not expected to sign a central contract and wishes to remain available for selection for the T20 World Cup alone. PCB is yet to make an official announcement on considering Wasim for the T20 World Cup in June. Meanwhile, Wasim’s figures in the West Indies while playing in the Caribbean Premier League (CPL) are superb, making him the go-to-man for the newly-appointed T20I captain, Shaheen Shah Afridi. Over the years, Wasim has picked 60 wickets in the CPL at an average of 18.88 and an economy of 6.20. The lanky spinner has featured in 66 T20Is for Pakistan, scoring 486 runs at a strike rate of 131.70 and picking 65 wickets with an economy of 6.26.

Pakistan star all-rounder Imad Wasim comes out of retirement to play 2024 T20 World Cup

Pakistan all-rounder Imad Wasim has been urged to reconsider his retirement in the wake of the upcoming T20 World Cup. The request comes after Wasim helped Islamabad United win their third Pakistan Super League (PSL) title. Wasim played a crucial role in the final and two eliminators, which prompted his teammate Shadab Khan to ask him to come out of retirement.

"I want to (him to be back), in fact, when Imad made the decision (to retire), I had also talked to him that I didn't want him to leave," Shadab said after winning the PSL final against Multan Sultans on Monday (Mar 18).

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ipl-2024-mumbai-indians-sign-england-pacer-luke-wood-for-upcoming-season-to-replace-injured-jason-behrendorff-701678">IPL 2024: Mumbai Indians sign England pacer Luke Wood for upcoming season to replace injured Jason Behrendorff</a>

"Because Pakistan needs players like him. God willing, if there is a discussion with him, hopefully he will come back because the World Cup is approaching and the way he is performing and his experience in CPL (Caribbean Premier League), Pakistan definitely needs him," Khan added.

The T20 World Cup is scheduled to be played from June 1 in the West Indies and the USA.

Notably, Imad took 3/12 in his four overs in the first eliminator against Quetta Gladiators before scoring 59 not out against Peshawar Zalmi in the second one. In the final, he picked up 5/23 and scored 19 not out as United won by two wickets on the last ball of the match.

The left-arm all-rounder had retired in November last year after being overlooked since he played last for Pakistan in April against New Zealand.&nbsp;

Wasim, however, left the door open for his return and said: “I made a name for myself while playing for Pakistan and if my country needs me, I will be available. If not, I have no issues with that.”&nbsp;

"Shaheen (Afridi) called me after I retired but I told him that we will talk after PSL."

Wasim finished with 126 runs and 12 wickets to his name in 12 games this PSL season.&nbsp;

Pakistan all-rounder Imad Wasim has been urged to reconsider his retirement in the wake of the upcoming T20 World Cup. The request comes after Wasim helped Islamabad United win their third Pakistan Super League (PSL) title.

Pakistan all-rounder Imad Wasim has been urged to reconsider his retirement in the wake of the upcoming T20 World Cup. The request comes after Wasim helped Islamabad United win their third Pakistan Super League (PSL) title. Wasim played a crucial role in the final and two eliminators, which prompted his teammate Shadab Khan to ask him to come out of retirement. "I want to (him to be back), in fact, when Imad made the decision (to retire), I had also talked to him that I didn't want him to leave," Shadab said after winning the PSL final against Multan Sultans on Monday (Mar 18). Also Read: IPL 2024: Mumbai Indians sign England pacer Luke Wood for upcoming season to replace injured Jason Behrendorff "Because Pakistan needs players like him. God willing, if there is a discussion with him, hopefully he will come back because the World Cup is approaching and the way he is performing and his experience in CPL (Caribbean Premier League), Pakistan definitely needs him," Khan added. The T20 World Cup is scheduled to be played from June 1 in the West Indies and the USA. Notably, Imad took 3/12 in his four overs in the first eliminator against Quetta Gladiators before scoring 59 not out against Peshawar Zalmi in the second one. In the final, he picked up 5/23 and scored 19 not out as United won by two wickets on the last ball of the match. The left-arm all-rounder had retired in November last year after being overlooked since he played last for Pakistan in April against New Zealand. Wasim, however, left the door open for his return and said: “I made a name for myself while playing for Pakistan and if my country needs me, I will be available. If not, I have no issues with that.” "Shaheen (Afridi) called me after I retired but I told him that we will talk after PSL." Wasim finished with 126 runs and 12 wickets to his name in 12 games this PSL season.

Pakistan all-rounder Imad Wasim asked to reconsider retirement ahead of T20 World Cup

Pakistan all-rounder Shadab Khan is miffed with rumours suggesting that Shaheen Afridi is likely to be sacked as the T20I captain ahead of the T20 World Cup&nbsp;in June, in West Indies and USA. Shaheen replaced Babar Azam as the T20I captain after the ODI World Cup 2023, however, his start was awful as Pakistan lost the five T20Is to hosts New Zealand 4-1.

After&nbsp;Islamabad United entered the Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2024 final, to be held on Monday (March 18), the franchise's skipper Shadab reacted to reports suggesting Shaheen's removal. In a presser, he said that any captain needs time to settle in and constant changes in leadership group isn't ideal for any side.&nbsp;

Shadab said, "Even now, look, we've given Shaheen a series, and we're contemplating changing his captaincy. It shouldn't be like this because in the long term, one should be given a chance to captain properly according to his process, his method. Because we want to experiment, win series as well, which could lead to issues."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/wpl-2024-final-rcbs-sophie-molineux-bowls-sensational-triple-wicket-over-vs-dc-watch-701361">WPL 2024, Final: RCB's Sophie Molineux bowls sensational triple-wicket over vs DC - WATCH</a>

<h2>'We want many things to change immediately, but that's not how it works'</h2>

He further opined, "Whenever you bring someone in, things can't change immediately. It takes time. We want many things to change immediately, but that's not how it works; it's a process. In this process, there are mostly failures in the beginning, and it's important to see how we accept those failures."

Shadab added, "A captain has his own thought process, and right now, it's unclear because of discussions about changing the captain after just one series. With the World Cup, I think we need to identify players for the long run so that by the time we reach the World Cup, our issues are resolved."

Shadab-led Islamabad United face Multan Sultans in the ongoing PSL edition's finale on Monday evening. Soon after, the Pakistan national team will shift their focus to the upcoming T20 WC where they are placed in Group A, alongside arch-rivals India. They lock horns with India on June 9 in New York.&nbsp;

Pakistan all-rounder Shadab Khan is miffed with rumours suggesting that Shaheen Afridi is likely to be sacked as the T20I captain ahead of the T20 World Cup in June, in West Indies and USA.

Pakistan all-rounder Shadab Khan is miffed with rumours suggesting that Shaheen Afridi is likely to be sacked as the T20I captain ahead of the T20 World Cup in June, in West Indies and USA. Shaheen replaced Babar Azam as the T20I captain after the ODI World Cup 2023, however, his start was awful as Pakistan lost the five T20Is to hosts New Zealand 4-1. After Islamabad United entered the Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2024 final, to be held on Monday (March 18), the franchise's skipper Shadab reacted to reports suggesting Shaheen's removal. In a presser, he said that any captain needs time to settle in and constant changes in leadership group isn't ideal for any side. Shadab said, "Even now, look, we've given Shaheen a series, and we're contemplating changing his captaincy. It shouldn't be like this because in the long term, one should be given a chance to captain properly according to his process, his method. Because we want to experiment, win series as well, which could lead to issues." Also read: WPL 2024, Final: RCB's Sophie Molineux bowls sensational triple-wicket over vs DC - WATCH 'We want many things to change immediately, but that's not how it works' He further opined, "Whenever you bring someone in, things can't change immediately. It takes time. We want many things to change immediately, but that's not how it works; it's a process. In this process, there are mostly failures in the beginning, and it's important to see how we accept those failures." Shadab added, "A captain has his own thought process, and right now, it's unclear because of discussions about changing the captain after just one series. With the World Cup, I think we need to identify players for the long run so that by the time we reach the World Cup, our issues are resolved." Shadab-led Islamabad United face Multan Sultans in the ongoing PSL edition's finale on Monday evening. Soon after, the Pakistan national team will shift their focus to the upcoming T20 WC where they are placed in Group A, alongside arch-rivals India. They lock horns with India on June 9 in New York.

Shaheen Afridi to be sacked as captain before T20 WC? Shadab Khan miffed by rumours ahead of PSL final

Pakistan fast bowler Naseem Shah didn’t mince his words while opening up about the dressing room environment in the Pakistan Cricket Team. The right-arm seamer, who returned to competitive cricket following a lengthy layoff due to injury, revealed that a sense of insecurity of being replaced by someone new prevails among players in case they miss out on playing regular games or take rest.

Shah missed the 2023 World Cup in India due to a shoulder injury and remained on the sidelines for the remainder of the year, including missing the two tours Down Under (Tests against Australia and T20Is versus New Zealand).

Admitting to fear the same as new faces emerged on the scene across formats, Shah said in a chat with Cricwick,&nbsp;"Honestly, the main players are afraid of giving their bodies rest even when they know they need a break because the Pakistan cricket culture is such that if a new player comes in and performs in a match or two, you don't know if he will replace you permanently in the team." &nbsp;

"This fear does not allow players to rest because you are scared your careers could end there," the young bowler said.

Citing examples of different cultures in different teams, Shah pointed out that in some countries, the players are assured of their places in the side despite missing action for whatever reason, unlike in Pakistan.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rohit-refused-to-drop-kohli-for-t20-world-cup-sends-clear-message-to-jay-shah-reports-701106">Rohit refuses to drop Kohli for T20 World Cup, sends clear message to Jay Shah – Reports</a>

"In other countries, if a main player is given a break, he is assured he will not be dropped in case his replacement comes in and performs in a match or two," he said.

<h2>Shah’s scary history of injuries</h2>

Regarded as perhaps the most sort-after emerging pacer in world cricket, Shah has a scary history of getting injured.&nbsp;

From staying away from cricket for nearly 14 months due to a back injury at 17, Shah has suffered shoulder injury twice in his career, most recently last year during the Asia Cup, after which he got sidelined for an indefinite period.

Shah last bowled in international cricket against India in the 2023 Asia Cup tie in Colombo, and upon feeling discomfort in his bowling arm, he never returned to playing for Pakistan for the rest of the year.

Explaining what happened that day, Shah said, "I had stiffness in my shoulder, but after warm-ups, it would get better, and I played through it. But during the Asia Cup, I had a tear and felt something tearing inside me."&nbsp;

The right-arm pacer underwent shoulder surgery in the UK, where the doctors informed him that the tear was 4-5 centimetres long.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Shah played for Islamabad United in the Pakistan Super League and could return to playing for Pakistan in the home series against New Zealand in April.

Pakistan fast bowler Naseem Shah didn’t mince his words while opening up about the dressing room environment in the Pakistan Cricket Team. The right-arm seamer, who returned to competitive cricket following a lengthy layoff due to injury, revealed that a sense of insecurity of being replaced by someone new prevails among players in case they miss out on playing regular games or take rest.

Pakistan fast bowler Naseem Shah didn’t mince his words while opening up about the dressing room environment in the Pakistan Cricket Team. The right-arm seamer, who returned to competitive cricket following a lengthy layoff due to injury, revealed that a sense of insecurity of being replaced by someone new prevails among players in case they miss out on playing regular games or take rest. Shah missed the 2023 World Cup in India due to a shoulder injury and remained on the sidelines for the remainder of the year, including missing the two tours Down Under (Tests against Australia and T20Is versus New Zealand). Admitting to fear the same as new faces emerged on the scene across formats, Shah said in a chat with Cricwick, "Honestly, the main players are afraid of giving their bodies rest even when they know they need a break because the Pakistan cricket culture is such that if a new player comes in and performs in a match or two, you don't know if he will replace you permanently in the team." "This fear does not allow players to rest because you are scared your careers could end there," the young bowler said. Citing examples of different cultures in different teams, Shah pointed out that in some countries, the players are assured of their places in the side despite missing action for whatever reason, unlike in Pakistan. ALSO READ: Rohit refuses to drop Kohli for T20 World Cup, sends clear message to Jay Shah – Reports "In other countries, if a main player is given a break, he is assured he will not be dropped in case his replacement comes in and performs in a match or two," he said. Shah’s scary history of injuries Regarded as perhaps the most sort-after emerging pacer in world cricket, Shah has a scary history of getting injured. From staying away from cricket for nearly 14 months due to a back injury at 17, Shah has suffered shoulder injury twice in his career, most recently last year during the Asia Cup, after which he got sidelined for an indefinite period. Shah last bowled in international cricket against India in the 2023 Asia Cup tie in Colombo, and upon feeling discomfort in his bowling arm, he never returned to playing for Pakistan for the rest of the year. Explaining what happened that day, Shah said, "I had stiffness in my shoulder, but after warm-ups, it would get better, and I played through it. But during the Asia Cup, I had a tear and felt something tearing inside me." The right-arm pacer underwent shoulder surgery in the UK, where the doctors informed him that the tear was 4-5 centimetres long. Meanwhile, Shah played for Islamabad United in the Pakistan Super League and could return to playing for Pakistan in the home series against New Zealand in April.

‘Fear, anxiety and insecurity’` – Naseem Shah describes Pakistan’s dressing room environment

You know the moment is massive when the original Master Blaster, Viv Richards, who turned 72 on March 7, runs towards the players on the ground to celebrate his team’s victory.&nbsp;Quetta’s mentor in PSL 2024, took no time in getting up from his chair and running towards Saul Shakeel and Mohammad Wasim to celebrate their playoff-sealing win against Lahore Qalandars at the National Stadium in Karachi on Sunday (March 10).

Known for power-hitting and upsetting the best of pacers during his&nbsp;era, Richards had tears in his eyes as he hugged his team players after the must-win game for Quetta.&nbsp;

You can watch the video here –

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What did we just witness⁉️ 
 
Gladiator Wasim Jnr taking Quetta to the playoffs in style 😱👊<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HBLPSL9?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HBLPSL9</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KhulKeKhel?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KhulKeKhel</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/QGvLQ?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#QGvLQ</a> <a href="https://t.co/X7Yi2DtQeZ">pic.twitter.com/X7Yi2DtQeZ</a>
— PakistanSuperLeague (@thePSLt20) <a href="https://twitter.com/thePSLt20/status/1766884658745344471?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 10, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<h2>Quetta in playoffs after four seasons</h2>

Having struggled to get going in the previous four seasons, Quetta finally broke the ice and reached the top four in PSL. Alongside Multan Sultans, Islamabad United, and Peshawar Zalmi, Quetta became the last team to enter the final four. Lahore and Karachi Kings are out of the race for the playoff berth.

Lahore won the toss and elected to bat first. After losing both openers inside the Powerplay to Abrar Ahmed, Abdullah Shafique got his team back on track. Shaheen Afridi promoted&nbsp;himself up the order, and added crucial runs to his tally, smashing a stunning half-century (55 off 34 balls), including four sixes and two fours.&nbsp;

Lahore scored 166 for four in 20 overs.

Jason Roy fell early in the chase on 18 before Jahandad Khan got Quetta captain Rilee Rossouw out trapped in front. Khawaja Nafay and Shakeel kept Quetta in the chase, with the left-handed batter completing his fifty.&nbsp;

Though Shaheen Afridi picked two wickets at the fag end of the innings, Wasim and Shakeel had different plans on&nbsp;how to win this match.&nbsp;

With 14 needed off the last over, Shakeel smashed a couple of fours off Afridi before Wasim, requiring&nbsp;four&nbsp;off the last delivery, hit a good length ball to deep square leg for a six and won the game for his team.&nbsp;

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I will take a lot of memories from <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HBLPSL9?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HBLPSL9</a> with me. But this image of my guy Sir Vivian Richards charging on to the field to celebrate has to be right up there. That man, he has achieved more than most ever will in this game. &amp; for this to mean so much to him is moving. <a href="https://t.co/44QWvvVmDG">https://t.co/44QWvvVmDG</a>
— Ian Raphael Bishop (@irbishi) <a href="https://twitter.com/irbishi/status/1766918643739132248?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 10, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Quetta will play Multan Sultans in their last league match in PSL 2024 on March 12.

You know the moment is massive when the original Master Blaster, Viv Richards, who turned 72 on March 7, runs towards the players on the ground to celebrate his team’s victory.

You know the moment is massive when the original Master Blaster, Viv Richards, who turned 72 on March 7, runs towards the players on the ground to celebrate his team’s victory. Quetta’s mentor in PSL 2024, took no time in getting up from his chair and running towards Saul Shakeel and Mohammad Wasim to celebrate their playoff-sealing win against Lahore Qalandars at the National Stadium in Karachi on Sunday (March 10). Known for power-hitting and upsetting the best of pacers during his era, Richards had tears in his eyes as he hugged his team players after the must-win game for Quetta. You can watch the video here – What did we just witness⁉️ Gladiator Wasim Jnr taking Quetta to the playoffs in style 😱👊#HBLPSL9 | #KhulKeKhel | #QGvLQ pic.twitter.com/X7Yi2DtQeZ — PakistanSuperLeague (@thePSLt20) March 10, 2024 × Quetta in playoffs after four seasons Having struggled to get going in the previous four seasons, Quetta finally broke the ice and reached the top four in PSL. Alongside Multan Sultans, Islamabad United, and Peshawar Zalmi, Quetta became the last team to enter the final four. Lahore and Karachi Kings are out of the race for the playoff berth. Lahore won the toss and elected to bat first. After losing both openers inside the Powerplay to Abrar Ahmed, Abdullah Shafique got his team back on track. Shaheen Afridi promoted himself up the order, and added crucial runs to his tally, smashing a stunning half-century (55 off 34 balls), including four sixes and two fours. Lahore scored 166 for four in 20 overs. Jason Roy fell early in the chase on 18 before Jahandad Khan got Quetta captain Rilee Rossouw out trapped in front. Khawaja Nafay and Shakeel kept Quetta in the chase, with the left-handed batter completing his fifty. Though Shaheen Afridi picked two wickets at the fag end of the innings, Wasim and Shakeel had different plans on how to win this match. With 14 needed off the last over, Shakeel smashed a couple of fours off Afridi before Wasim, requiring four off the last delivery, hit a good length ball to deep square leg for a six and won the game for his team. I will take a lot of memories from #HBLPSL9 with me. But this image of my guy Sir Vivian Richards charging on to the field to celebrate has to be right up there. That man, he has achieved more than most ever will in this game. & for this to mean so much to him is moving. https://t.co/44QWvvVmDG — Ian Raphael Bishop (@irbishi) March 10, 2024 × Quetta will play Multan Sultans in their last league match in PSL 2024 on March 12.

Viv Richards runs to ground to celebrate Quetta Gladiators’ playoff-sealing win in PSL 2024 – WATCH

Former Pakistan speedster Wasim Akram has slammed Shaheen Afridi for being predictable with the ball following his flop show in match 28 of the ongoing Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2024 edition. On Sunday (March 10), Shaheen-led Lahore Qalandars locked horns with Quetta Gladiators and lost the clash while defending a moderate 166. While Shaheen impressed with a blistering 34-ball 55, promoting himself at No. 5, but failed in his primary job. The Lahore captain returned with figures of 4-0-41-2; failing to defend 14 off the final over as his side bowed out of the playoffs race.&nbsp;

Akram feels Shaheen has become very predictable for the batters, with the new as well as the old ball. Talking on A Sports, the legend said, "Even with the new ball, we all were watching it together, he was bowling half volleys. He needs to understand that batsmen now have understood that the first two balls from Shaheen will be yorkers. In the death he will either bowl slower cutter or will on the stumps around the wicket. Batsmen are prepared for it now."

“Even with the new ball, we all were watching it together, he was bowling half volleys. He needs to understand that batsmen now have understood that the first two balls from Shaheen will be yorkers. In the death he will either bowl slower cutter or will on the stumps around the wicket. Batsmen are prepare for it now,” he further opined.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2024-ambati-rayudu-wants-rohit-sharma-to-join-ms-dhonis-csk-in-2025-season-heres-why-698910">IPL 2024: Ambati Rayudu wants Rohit Sharma to join MS Dhoni's CSK in 2025 season! Here's why</a>

Akram spoke on Pakistan T20I captain's knock and said, "Shaheen got runs. But their big two hitters Sikandar Raza (got five balls) and David Wiese didn’t get a chance." With Shaheen promoting himself up the order, he did a fine job but struggled in the last few deliveries. He reached his fifty in 28 balls but only managed five off the last six deliveries before falling for 55 (34). With him coming up, Raza hardly got a chance with the bat whereas power-hitter David Weise didn't even get a hit with the bat.

With only one win and eight losses from 10 games, Lahore are out of PSL 2024 and Shaheen-led squad will be eager to get past this season and comeback strongly next year. For Shaheen, he will now shift his focus on his bowling completely and work hard on it with the T20 World Cup 2024 edition to be held early this June.&nbsp;

Former Pakistan speedster Wasim Akram has slammed Shaheen Afridi for being predictable with the ball following his flop show in match 28 of the ongoing Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2024 edition.

Former Pakistan speedster Wasim Akram has slammed Shaheen Afridi for being predictable with the ball following his flop show in match 28 of the ongoing Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2024 edition. On Sunday (March 10), Shaheen-led Lahore Qalandars locked horns with Quetta Gladiators and lost the clash while defending a moderate 166. While Shaheen impressed with a blistering 34-ball 55, promoting himself at No. 5, but failed in his primary job. The Lahore captain returned with figures of 4-0-41-2; failing to defend 14 off the final over as his side bowed out of the playoffs race. Akram feels Shaheen has become very predictable for the batters, with the new as well as the old ball. Talking on A Sports, the legend said, "Even with the new ball, we all were watching it together, he was bowling half volleys. He needs to understand that batsmen now have understood that the first two balls from Shaheen will be yorkers. In the death he will either bowl slower cutter or will on the stumps around the wicket. Batsmen are prepared for it now." “Even with the new ball, we all were watching it together, he was bowling half volleys. He needs to understand that batsmen now have understood that the first two balls from Shaheen will be yorkers. In the death he will either bowl slower cutter or will on the stumps around the wicket. Batsmen are prepare for it now,” he further opined. Also read: IPL 2024: Ambati Rayudu wants Rohit Sharma to join MS Dhoni's CSK in 2025 season! Here's why Akram spoke on Pakistan T20I captain's knock and said, "Shaheen got runs. But their big two hitters Sikandar Raza (got five balls) and David Wiese didn’t get a chance." With Shaheen promoting himself up the order, he did a fine job but struggled in the last few deliveries. He reached his fifty in 28 balls but only managed five off the last six deliveries before falling for 55 (34). With him coming up, Raza hardly got a chance with the bat whereas power-hitter David Weise didn't even get a hit with the bat. With only one win and eight losses from 10 games, Lahore are out of PSL 2024 and Shaheen-led squad will be eager to get past this season and comeback strongly next year. For Shaheen, he will now shift his focus on his bowling completely and work hard on it with the T20 World Cup 2024 edition to be held early this June.

Wasim Akram urges Shaheen Afridi to work on his death-over bowling after flop show in PSL 2024

Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has narrowed in on a few options for the vacant head coach role for the men’s national team, with veteran cricketers – Shane Watson and Darren Sammy emerging as top contenders for the position. Pakistan is currently without a head coach, and the board aims to lock in someone permanently instead of temporarily, as was the case with Mohammad Hafeez, whom the PCB appointed for the tours Down Under in December and January.

Pakistan's next international series is the white-ball leg against New Zealand at home in April.&nbsp;

Watson, appointed as the head coach of Quetta Gladiators in the PSL, is currently in Pakistan and has overseen a turnaround for the franchise, guiding them to their first playoffs in five seasons. On the other hand, Sammy&nbsp;also shares a dear relationship with Pakistan since his role as the captain of Peshawar Zalmi in the PSL 2017, and is hence among the names discussed for the head coach role.

Though the latest reports suggest that the PCB has approached Watson for the top position in Pakistan Cricket, the Aussie legend has yet to respond to their offer due to his work-related limitations.

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Watson lives in Sydney with his young family and has a tight schedule at his disposal throughout the year. Watson serves as the coach of San Francisco Unicorns in Major League Cricket, besides committing to Star Sports for the commentator’s role for the ICC-related events and the Indian Premier League. The lanky all-rounder had earlier worked with Ricky Ponting as an assistant for Delhi Capitals in IPL.

Like how the PCB cracked a mid-way deal with Mickey Arthur as their Director of Cricket earlier by allowing him to spend limited time with the team, mainly during marquee events, the board must find a way to rope in Watson permanently. The chances of this deal going ahead will depend on the duration the board wants Watson to stay in Pakistan.

<h2>Sammy in line for head coach role</h2>

Meanwhile, Sammy, West Indies limited-overs coach, is hugely popular among Pakistani fans, which makes his case slightly more viable than Watson's.&nbsp;

As things stand, Sammy is coaching the Peshawar Zalmi side in the PSL 2024, which has also qualified for the playoffs.

The PCB's dealing with appointing a head coach has been a complicated process. After an indifferent 2023 World Cup in India, wherein Pakistan failed to seal the semis spot despite the conditions favouring them, now-ousted PCB chief Zaka Ashraf removed Arthur and Grant Bradburn (previous full-time coach) from their positions, appointing Hafeez as the lone boss on Pakistan’s tours of Australia and New Zealand.&nbsp;

Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has narrowed in on a few options for the vacant head coach role for the men’s national team, with veteran cricketers – Shane Watson and Darren Sammy emerging as top contenders for the position.

Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has narrowed in on a few options for the vacant head coach role for the men’s national team, with veteran cricketers – Shane Watson and Darren Sammy emerging as top contenders for the position. Pakistan is currently without a head coach, and the board aims to lock in someone permanently instead of temporarily, as was the case with Mohammad Hafeez, whom the PCB appointed for the tours Down Under in December and January. Pakistan's next international series is the white-ball leg against New Zealand at home in April. Watson, appointed as the head coach of Quetta Gladiators in the PSL, is currently in Pakistan and has overseen a turnaround for the franchise, guiding them to their first playoffs in five seasons. On the other hand, Sammy also shares a dear relationship with Pakistan since his role as the captain of Peshawar Zalmi in the PSL 2017, and is hence among the names discussed for the head coach role. Though the latest reports suggest that the PCB has approached Watson for the top position in Pakistan Cricket, the Aussie legend has yet to respond to their offer due to his work-related limitations. ALSO READ: Bangladesh skipper Najmul Shanto hits out at Sri Lanka for time-out celebration post T20I series win Watson lives in Sydney with his young family and has a tight schedule at his disposal throughout the year. Watson serves as the coach of San Francisco Unicorns in Major League Cricket, besides committing to Star Sports for the commentator’s role for the ICC-related events and the Indian Premier League. The lanky all-rounder had earlier worked with Ricky Ponting as an assistant for Delhi Capitals in IPL. Like how the PCB cracked a mid-way deal with Mickey Arthur as their Director of Cricket earlier by allowing him to spend limited time with the team, mainly during marquee events, the board must find a way to rope in Watson permanently. The chances of this deal going ahead will depend on the duration the board wants Watson to stay in Pakistan. Sammy in line for head coach role Meanwhile, Sammy, West Indies limited-overs coach, is hugely popular among Pakistani fans, which makes his case slightly more viable than Watson's. As things stand, Sammy is coaching the Peshawar Zalmi side in the PSL 2024, which has also qualified for the playoffs. The PCB's dealing with appointing a head coach has been a complicated process. After an indifferent 2023 World Cup in India, wherein Pakistan failed to seal the semis spot despite the conditions favouring them, now-ousted PCB chief Zaka Ashraf removed Arthur and Grant Bradburn (previous full-time coach) from their positions, appointing Hafeez as the lone boss on Pakistan’s tours of Australia and New Zealand.

PCB lists Shane Watson and Darren Sammy as options for head coach role

Pakistan pacer Haris Rauf has been ruled out of ongoing Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2024 after injuring his shoulder on Saturday, February 24. Rauf, who plays for Lahore Qalandars, dislocated his shoulder on the second last ball of the match against Karachi Kings. He winced in pain immediately after taking the catch which didn't prove enough to make his team win.

The franchise issued a statement on his injury and said: "The medical panel, after consultation, concluded that he needs four to six weeks to recover, forcing him to miss the PSL season."

Rauf has been dealing with some tough times ever since the Asia Cup 2023 where he left the group-stage match against India with an injury. He then took part in the ODI World Cup 2023, taking 16 wickets in nine league games before his team's exit ahead of the knockout stage.

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The pacer then decided to make himself unavailable for the Australia Test tour and drew criticism from all corners. As a ramification, Rauf was recently released from his central contract with the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB).

Rauf left PCB in a spot of bother in November 2023 when he opted out of the three-match Test series versus Australia despite assurance from the team management of managing his workload. As a result, Pakistan went ahead with an inexperienced pace attack, already without Naseem Shah, and lost the series 0-3.

A PCB release on his contract termination stated: "The PCB management provided a chance for a personal hearing to Haris in compliance with the principles of natural justice on 30 January 2024 and his response was found unsatisfactory."

Despite all the drama, Rauf was granted the NOC to take part in Big Bash League (BBL) 2023-24 edition. The speedster was last seen in action during Pakistan's five T20Is versus the Kiwis in New Zealand in January.

Pakistan pacer Haris Rauf has been ruled out of ongoing Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2024 after injuring his shoulder on Saturday, February 24. Rauf, who plays for Lahore Qalandars, dislocated his shoulder on the second last ball of the match against Karachi Kings.

Pakistan pacer Haris Rauf has been ruled out of ongoing Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2024 after injuring his shoulder on Saturday, February 24. Rauf, who plays for Lahore Qalandars, dislocated his shoulder on the second last ball of the match against Karachi Kings. He winced in pain immediately after taking the catch which didn't prove enough to make his team win. The franchise issued a statement on his injury and said: "The medical panel, after consultation, concluded that he needs four to six weeks to recover, forcing him to miss the PSL season." Rauf has been dealing with some tough times ever since the Asia Cup 2023 where he left the group-stage match against India with an injury. He then took part in the ODI World Cup 2023, taking 16 wickets in nine league games before his team's exit ahead of the knockout stage. Also Read: IND vs ENG, 4th Test: Ravi Ashwin reveals key to his five-wicket haul on day 3 in Ranchi The pacer then decided to make himself unavailable for the Australia Test tour and drew criticism from all corners. As a ramification, Rauf was recently released from his central contract with the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB). Rauf left PCB in a spot of bother in November 2023 when he opted out of the three-match Test series versus Australia despite assurance from the team management of managing his workload. As a result, Pakistan went ahead with an inexperienced pace attack, already without Naseem Shah, and lost the series 0-3. A PCB release on his contract termination stated: "The PCB management provided a chance for a personal hearing to Haris in compliance with the principles of natural justice on 30 January 2024 and his response was found unsatisfactory." Despite all the drama, Rauf was granted the NOC to take part in Big Bash League (BBL) 2023-24 edition. The speedster was last seen in action during Pakistan's five T20Is versus the Kiwis in New Zealand in January.

PSL 2024: Haris Rauf ruled out of remainder of tournament with shoulder injury

Babar Azam became the fastest to reach 10,000 T20 runs, by innings, during the ongoing PSL 2024 edition on Wednesday (Feb 21). Here is a list of batters – including Virat Kohli and Chris Gayle -- who are the quickest to reach the 10k-run club in T20s, in terms of innings.

Batters Quickest to 10k T20 runs (by innings)

Pakistan seamer Naseem Shah has opened up on his first-ever battle with India great Virat Kohli during the 2022 Asia Cup in the UAE. Shah, who recovered from a shoulder injury suffered ahead of the 2023 World Cup, will feature for his new team in the Pakistan Super League (PSL) – Islamabad United. As PSL 2024 gets underway on Sunday (Feb 17), Islamabad will face defending champions Lahore Qalandars in the opener in Lahore.

Speaking on the Islamabad United podcast, Naseem recalled his T20I debut against India in Dubai, wherein he impressed with his new-ball exploits. Detailing about dealing with the pressure of a crowd favourite India-Pakistan game, Naseem said having played Tests and ODIs earlier helped calm his nerves.

“I have good memories of my T20I debut against India. India versus Pakistan is the most important match when it comes to the crowds and intensity on the field, and that was my debut match. I was naturally a bit nervous since it was my debut. But the good thing for me was that I had played a lot of cricket before; I had played Tests and ODIs, which helped me,” Naseem said.&nbsp;

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In that game, Naseem picked two wickets, removing KL Rahul (in his first over) and getting rid of Suryakumar Yadav later. On taking on Virat Kohli in that contest, Naseem revealed he thought Kohli would go boom-boom from the ball one and, therefore, bowled two swinging cutters to the batting great.

“When Virat Kohli came into bat, I thought he would go hard. So, I bowled an in-swinger hoping that it might catch his pad, but he let it go. The next delivery, I bowled an out-swinger that caught the edge, but yeah, the catch got dropped. But it was a good experience because when you make your debut against a big team and under so much pressure, then you get a margin in other matches,” the 21-year-old seamer added.

<h2>Naseem back in action</h2>

After missing out on a major chunk of matches late last year, including the latter half of the 2023 Asia Cup and then the World Cup in India, Shah is raring to go for his new team in the PSL.

Shah was earlier part of the Quetta Gladiators setup and switched teams ahead of the upcoming season.&nbsp;

Pakistan seamer Naseem Shah has opened up on his first-ever battle with India great Virat Kohli during the 2022 Asia Cup in the UAE. Shah, who recovered from a shoulder injury suffered ahead of the 2023 World Cup, will feature for his new team in the Pakistan Super League (PSL) – Islamabad United.

Pakistan seamer Naseem Shah has opened up on his first-ever battle with India great Virat Kohli during the 2022 Asia Cup in the UAE. Shah, who recovered from a shoulder injury suffered ahead of the 2023 World Cup, will feature for his new team in the Pakistan Super League (PSL) – Islamabad United. As PSL 2024 gets underway on Sunday (Feb 17), Islamabad will face defending champions Lahore Qalandars in the opener in Lahore. Speaking on the Islamabad United podcast, Naseem recalled his T20I debut against India in Dubai, wherein he impressed with his new-ball exploits. Detailing about dealing with the pressure of a crowd favourite India-Pakistan game, Naseem said having played Tests and ODIs earlier helped calm his nerves. “I have good memories of my T20I debut against India. India versus Pakistan is the most important match when it comes to the crowds and intensity on the field, and that was my debut match. I was naturally a bit nervous since it was my debut. But the good thing for me was that I had played a lot of cricket before; I had played Tests and ODIs, which helped me,” Naseem said. ALSO READ: Blow to New Zealand as Kyle Jamieson ruled for one year due to persisting stress fracture in back In that game, Naseem picked two wickets, removing KL Rahul (in his first over) and getting rid of Suryakumar Yadav later. On taking on Virat Kohli in that contest, Naseem revealed he thought Kohli would go boom-boom from the ball one and, therefore, bowled two swinging cutters to the batting great. “When Virat Kohli came into bat, I thought he would go hard. So, I bowled an in-swinger hoping that it might catch his pad, but he let it go. The next delivery, I bowled an out-swinger that caught the edge, but yeah, the catch got dropped. But it was a good experience because when you make your debut against a big team and under so much pressure, then you get a margin in other matches,” the 21-year-old seamer added. Naseem back in action After missing out on a major chunk of matches late last year, including the latter half of the 2023 Asia Cup and then the World Cup in India, Shah is raring to go for his new team in the PSL. Shah was earlier part of the Quetta Gladiators setup and switched teams ahead of the upcoming season.

Naseem Shah opens up on facing Virat Kohli for first time; gears up for PSL opener

England seamer and shorter-format specialist Reece Topley is ruled out of the upcoming edition of the Pakistan Super League (PSL), further casting doubts over his participation for the Royal Challengers Bangalore in the Indian Premier League season 17, starting mid-March.&nbsp;

The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) decided against allotting a No Objection Certificate (NOC) to Topley, who is suffering from a niggle. Alongside him, Pakistan lanky seamer Ihsanullah will also miss PSL 2024 due to a long-standing elbow injury.&nbsp;

As per the latest reports, Topley’s injury is not that serious, but ECB’s call to deny him an NOC is on the line to protect him for the T20 World Cup later this year (in June) in the West Indies and the USA. While Topley hasn't played in the PSL, he featured in the recently-concluded SA20 season for Durban Super Giants, picking nine wickets from as many matches, with 4/39 as his best figures.

Following receiving news of Topley remaining unavailable this season, Multan Sultans wanted to replace him with South Africa quick Nandre Burger; however, Cricket South Africa informed them that the emerging seamer would not get the NOC.&nbsp;

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The PSL franchise then thought of picking either England fast bowler Ollie Stone or Sri Lanka’s pace spearhead Dushmantha Chameera as his replacement. Chameera injured his left quadriceps during the second ODI against Afghanistan and ruled out of the series.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, the latest edition of the PSL gets underway on Sunday (Feb 17). Multan Sultans reached the summit clash on the last two occasions, going down to eventual winners Lahore Qalandars both times.&nbsp;

<h2>ECB saving pacers for World Cup</h2>

The defending T20 champions, England, are taking every measure possible to ensure their best bowlers remain fit in time for the marquee event later this year.&nbsp;

Besides Topley, ECB also pulled out Mark Wood from IPL 2024, with his franchise Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) bringing in Gabba hero Shamar Joseph as his replacement.

Jofra Archer - also out with an injury for a long time, pulled his name out of the IPL 2024 auction for similar reasons.

England seamer and shorter-format specialist Reece Topley is ruled out of the upcoming edition of the Pakistan Super League (PSL), further casting doubts over his participation for the Royal Challengers Bangalore in the Indian Premier League season 17, starting mid-March.

England seamer and shorter-format specialist Reece Topley is ruled out of the upcoming edition of the Pakistan Super League (PSL), further casting doubts over his participation for the Royal Challengers Bangalore in the Indian Premier League season 17, starting mid-March. The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) decided against allotting a No Objection Certificate (NOC) to Topley, who is suffering from a niggle. Alongside him, Pakistan lanky seamer Ihsanullah will also miss PSL 2024 due to a long-standing elbow injury. As per the latest reports, Topley’s injury is not that serious, but ECB’s call to deny him an NOC is on the line to protect him for the T20 World Cup later this year (in June) in the West Indies and the USA. While Topley hasn't played in the PSL, he featured in the recently-concluded SA20 season for Durban Super Giants, picking nine wickets from as many matches, with 4/39 as his best figures. Following receiving news of Topley remaining unavailable this season, Multan Sultans wanted to replace him with South Africa quick Nandre Burger; however, Cricket South Africa informed them that the emerging seamer would not get the NOC. ALSO READ: Najmul Shanto to captain Bangladesh across all formats: BCB President Nazmul Hassan The PSL franchise then thought of picking either England fast bowler Ollie Stone or Sri Lanka’s pace spearhead Dushmantha Chameera as his replacement. Chameera injured his left quadriceps during the second ODI against Afghanistan and ruled out of the series. Meanwhile, the latest edition of the PSL gets underway on Sunday (Feb 17). Multan Sultans reached the summit clash on the last two occasions, going down to eventual winners Lahore Qalandars both times. ECB saving pacers for World Cup The defending T20 champions, England, are taking every measure possible to ensure their best bowlers remain fit in time for the marquee event later this year. Besides Topley, ECB also pulled out Mark Wood from IPL 2024, with his franchise Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) bringing in Gabba hero Shamar Joseph as his replacement. Jofra Archer - also out with an injury for a long time, pulled his name out of the IPL 2024 auction for similar reasons.

Blow to Multan Sultans as Reece Topley ruled out of PSL 2024; IPL participation under dark cloud

Former Australia pacer Shaun Tait was appointed as the new bowling coach of Quetta Gladiators in the Pakistan Super League ahead of the upcoming season. Days after the franchise named Tait’s ex-teammate Shane Watson as the head coach, the World Cup winner with Australia joined him on the board.

Having associated himself as the bowling coach of the Pakistan men's team until earlier this year, Tait will work with most bowlers he had worked in the setup before, including Mohammad Hasnain, Mohammad Wasim Jnr, and Mohammad Amir. In a statement, Tait thanked the Gladiators' management for trusting him as he looks forward to the new challenge in the PSL 2024.

"I'd like to thank Nadeem Omar (Quetta Gladiators owner) who trusted me with the bowling group," Tait said in an official statement, "including Mohammad Hasnain, Mohammad Wasim Jnr, and Mohammad Amir. Some great talent there to work with alongside the great Shane Watson."

Meanwhile, during his stay with the Pakistan Team, the seamer expressed concerns about bowlers shouldering the burden of playing and delivering consistently across all formats in this fast-paced cricket. Tait was firm in his opinion of the PCB management handpicking bowlers for particular formats to increase longevity.

"No way - no way - express pace bowlers can currently play all three formats consistently,” Tait told ESPNcricinfo in a chat earlier.

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Having coached several teams worldwide during his brief period, Tait has an eye for a special talent, and in Pakistan and PSL’s case, it’s the emerging seamer Hasnain – who is currently recuperating from an ankle injury. Speaking to the same publication about how can Hasnain stamp in authority across formats in times to come, Tait said,

"Hasnain has got the ability to bowl proper rapid, but there's no doubt [there's an air of vulnerability to him]," Tait said earlier. "My input with Hasnain is purely about just using his athleticism. Getting that grunt as a fast bowler and being angry. Just running in fast and feeling good."

<h2>Gladiators eye turnaround in PSL 2024&nbsp;</h2>

Having suffered the other side of the fate in the past four seasons (failing to qualify for the playoffs in each edition), Quetta Gladiators eye a turnaround this time with the new coaching staff at the helm.&nbsp;

Quetta reached the PSL finals in the first four editions, winning the 2019 one.

PSL 2024 will begin on February 8 and will run till March 24.&nbsp;

Former Australia pacer Shaun Tait was appointed as the new bowling coach of Quetta Gladiators in the Pakistan Super League ahead of the upcoming season. Days after the franchise named Tait’s ex-teammate Shane Watson as the head coach, the World Cup winner with Australia joined him on the board.

Former Australia pacer Shaun Tait was appointed as the new bowling coach of Quetta Gladiators in the Pakistan Super League ahead of the upcoming season. Days after the franchise named Tait’s ex-teammate Shane Watson as the head coach, the World Cup winner with Australia joined him on the board. Having associated himself as the bowling coach of the Pakistan men's team until earlier this year, Tait will work with most bowlers he had worked in the setup before, including Mohammad Hasnain, Mohammad Wasim Jnr, and Mohammad Amir. In a statement, Tait thanked the Gladiators' management for trusting him as he looks forward to the new challenge in the PSL 2024. "I'd like to thank Nadeem Omar (Quetta Gladiators owner) who trusted me with the bowling group," Tait said in an official statement, "including Mohammad Hasnain, Mohammad Wasim Jnr, and Mohammad Amir. Some great talent there to work with alongside the great Shane Watson." Meanwhile, during his stay with the Pakistan Team, the seamer expressed concerns about bowlers shouldering the burden of playing and delivering consistently across all formats in this fast-paced cricket. Tait was firm in his opinion of the PCB management handpicking bowlers for particular formats to increase longevity. "No way - no way - express pace bowlers can currently play all three formats consistently,” Tait told ESPNcricinfo in a chat earlier. ALSO READ: WI vs ENG: Phil Salt’s maiden ton powers England to their highest run- chase in 3rd T20I to keep series alive Having coached several teams worldwide during his brief period, Tait has an eye for a special talent, and in Pakistan and PSL’s case, it’s the emerging seamer Hasnain – who is currently recuperating from an ankle injury. Speaking to the same publication about how can Hasnain stamp in authority across formats in times to come, Tait said, "Hasnain has got the ability to bowl proper rapid, but there's no doubt [there's an air of vulnerability to him]," Tait said earlier. "My input with Hasnain is purely about just using his athleticism. Getting that grunt as a fast bowler and being angry. Just running in fast and feeling good." Gladiators eye turnaround in PSL 2024 Having suffered the other side of the fate in the past four seasons (failing to qualify for the playoffs in each edition), Quetta Gladiators eye a turnaround this time with the new coaching staff at the helm. Quetta reached the PSL finals in the first four editions, winning the 2019 one. PSL 2024 will begin on February 8 and will run till March 24.

PSL 2024: Australia great Shaun Tait joins Quetta Gladiators as bowling coach

Former Pakistan batter Ahmed Shehzad has lashed out at the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) for deliberately denying him the opportunity to represent the nation and play franchise cricket. Shehzad took a dig at all the six franchises in the Pakistan Super League (PSL) claiming all of them denied him entry into the competition. He detailed - without elucidating - that he knew "exactly the reasons why I'm not made part of the PSL.” The batter has now decided to retire from the format claiming he is keeping his self-respect intact.&nbsp;

<h2>Shehzad makes big claim</h2>

"I have tried really hard in domestic cricket consistently in the last few years, and did reasonably well in the National T20 Cup just before the PSL draft. There seems a deliberate effort to keep me out, even when franchises have opted for other performers with inferior numbers than me," he said.

"But when everything is pre-planned it doesn't really matter. I don't know whose responsibility it is to get top domestic performers in the PSL then," he added.

Shehzad was the epicenter in Quetta Gladiators’ success in the 2019 PSL season when they won the title. He played a superb match-winning knock in the final as Gladiators beat Peshawar Zalmi in a one-sided contest. The title remains the only success story for Quetta Gladiators, who got&nbsp;knocked out in the group stage in each of the last four seasons.

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The 32-year-old Shehzad, however, had a poor campaign in the 2020 season as he scored just 61 runs in seven matches. The poor campaign proved to be the final straw for the player and has since not appeared in the PSL. Despite being a free agent, no franchise has intended to get the services of the former national team batter. He scored 1077 runs in 45 PSL matches at a strike rate of 120.06 and was the first Pakistani to score a hundred in T20I cricket.

At the international level, Shehzad has represented Pakistan in 81 matches scoring 2605 runs with a best of 124. He averages 32.56 and has six hundreds and 14 fifties for the national side while also playing 59 T20I and 13 Test matches.

Former Pakistan batter Ahmed Shehzad has lashed out at the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) for deliberately denying him the opportunity to represent the nation and play franchise cricket.

Former Pakistan batter Ahmed Shehzad has lashed out at the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) for deliberately denying him the opportunity to represent the nation and play franchise cricket. Shehzad took a dig at all the six franchises in the Pakistan Super League (PSL) claiming all of them denied him entry into the competition. He detailed - without elucidating - that he knew "exactly the reasons why I'm not made part of the PSL.” The batter has now decided to retire from the format claiming he is keeping his self-respect intact. Shehzad makes big claim "I have tried really hard in domestic cricket consistently in the last few years, and did reasonably well in the National T20 Cup just before the PSL draft. There seems a deliberate effort to keep me out, even when franchises have opted for other performers with inferior numbers than me," he said. "But when everything is pre-planned it doesn't really matter. I don't know whose responsibility it is to get top domestic performers in the PSL then," he added. Shehzad was the epicenter in Quetta Gladiators’ success in the 2019 PSL season when they won the title. He played a superb match-winning knock in the final as Gladiators beat Peshawar Zalmi in a one-sided contest. The title remains the only success story for Quetta Gladiators, who got knocked out in the group stage in each of the last four seasons. ALSO READ | ‘Tier 2’ tournament similar to IPL set for launch in 2024, BCCI outlines window for proposed T10 league The 32-year-old Shehzad, however, had a poor campaign in the 2020 season as he scored just 61 runs in seven matches. The poor campaign proved to be the final straw for the player and has since not appeared in the PSL. Despite being a free agent, no franchise has intended to get the services of the former national team batter. He scored 1077 runs in 45 PSL matches at a strike rate of 120.06 and was the first Pakistani to score a hundred in T20I cricket. At the international level, Shehzad has represented Pakistan in 81 matches scoring 2605 runs with a best of 124. He averages 32.56 and has six hundreds and 14 fifties for the national side while also playing 59 T20I and 13 Test matches.

Ahmed Shehzad lashes out at PCB, claims 'there was deliberate effort to keep him out of PSL'

Most-talked-about Pakistan seamer Naseem Shah has switched bases from Quetta Gladiators to Islamabad United ahead of PSL 2024, putting a full stop to week-long speculations about his next destination.&nbsp;

Not one or two, but three teams were fighting to bag his services ahead of the next season, with Islamabad United winning the race. Meanwhile, Abrar Ahmed and Mohammad Wasim Jr will join Quetta Gladiators before the trade window ends.

Naseem Shah confirmed this news with a post on his social media handle, which read,&nbsp;

The next destination is Islamabad! &nbsp;

#UnitedWeWin #HBLPSLDraft #HBLPSL9&nbsp; 
@IsbUnited

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The next destination is Islamabad! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UnitedWeWin?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UnitedWeWin</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HBLPSLDraft?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HBLPSLDraft</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HBLPSL9?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HBLPSL9</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/IsbUnited?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IsbUnited</a> <a href="https://t.co/u65a8uCYZs">pic.twitter.com/u65a8uCYZs</a>
— Naseem Shah (@iNaseemShah) <a href="https://twitter.com/iNaseemShah/status/1730894447263556078?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 2, 2023</a></blockquote>
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Earlier, reports suggested Multan Sultans had signed Naseem Shah from the Gladiators, but United’s last-minute interest hijacked their deal, with Shah deciding against joining the former champions. The reports also add that Naseem’s move from Gladiators to United was a push coming from the player himself, as he was said to be frustrated with the team’s dip in performance in recent years.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-will-make-my-son-follow-kohlis-footsteps-brian-lara-heaps-praise-on-india-batting-great-665450">I will make my son follow Kohli's footsteps: Brian Lara heaps praise on India batting great</a>

While the Quetta Gladiators were one of the most consistent teams during the initial four years, reaching the finals twice&nbsp;before eventually winning it in 2019, their fate suffered a dramatic turnaround in years to come. Such was their plight that the Gladiators failed to reach the playoffs on the last four occasions, finishing fifth twice.

This dismal run in Pakistan’s premier domestic T20 tournament meant Naseem, who debuted for them in 2020, never reached the playoffs thus far.

Considering how big a talent prospect he is in the international circuit, Naseem’s numbers in the PSL have been far from decent. In 29 contested matches, the right-arm seamer has picked just 26 wickets, with his economy, strike rate, and average being poorer in this competition than in T20Is.

<h2>Will Naseem be fit in time for PSL 2024?</h2>

Out with a shoulder injury since the Asia Cup game against India in Colombo in early September, Naseem missed the 2023 World Cup, where Pakistan stood fifth, failing to qualify for the last four.&nbsp;

The right-hand pacer will also miss the upcoming tour of Australia, where Pakistan will play three Tests, starting in Perth on December 14.

Though no official word on his rehab and comeback has been released yet, Naseem is said to be on track for a comeback during PSL 2024.

Most-talked-about Pakistan seamer Naseem Shah has switched bases from Quetta Gladiators to Islamabad United ahead of PSL 2024, putting a full stop to week-long speculations about his next destination.

Most-talked-about Pakistan seamer Naseem Shah has switched bases from Quetta Gladiators to Islamabad United ahead of PSL 2024, putting a full stop to week-long speculations about his next destination. Not one or two, but three teams were fighting to bag his services ahead of the next season, with Islamabad United winning the race. Meanwhile, Abrar Ahmed and Mohammad Wasim Jr will join Quetta Gladiators before the trade window ends. Naseem Shah confirmed this news with a post on his social media handle, which read, The next destination is Islamabad! #UnitedWeWin #HBLPSLDraft #HBLPSL9 @IsbUnited The next destination is Islamabad! #UnitedWeWin #HBLPSLDraft #HBLPSL9 @IsbUnited pic.twitter.com/u65a8uCYZs — Naseem Shah (@iNaseemShah) December 2, 2023 × Earlier, reports suggested Multan Sultans had signed Naseem Shah from the Gladiators, but United’s last-minute interest hijacked their deal, with Shah deciding against joining the former champions. The reports also add that Naseem’s move from Gladiators to United was a push coming from the player himself, as he was said to be frustrated with the team’s dip in performance in recent years. ALSO READ: I will make my son follow Kohli's footsteps: Brian Lara heaps praise on India batting great While the Quetta Gladiators were one of the most consistent teams during the initial four years, reaching the finals twice before eventually winning it in 2019, their fate suffered a dramatic turnaround in years to come. Such was their plight that the Gladiators failed to reach the playoffs on the last four occasions, finishing fifth twice. This dismal run in Pakistan’s premier domestic T20 tournament meant Naseem, who debuted for them in 2020, never reached the playoffs thus far. Considering how big a talent prospect he is in the international circuit, Naseem’s numbers in the PSL have been far from decent. In 29 contested matches, the right-arm seamer has picked just 26 wickets, with his economy, strike rate, and average being poorer in this competition than in T20Is. Will Naseem be fit in time for PSL 2024? Out with a shoulder injury since the Asia Cup game against India in Colombo in early September, Naseem missed the 2023 World Cup, where Pakistan stood fifth, failing to qualify for the last four. The right-hand pacer will also miss the upcoming tour of Australia, where Pakistan will play three Tests, starting in Perth on December 14. Though no official word on his rehab and comeback has been released yet, Naseem is said to be on track for a comeback during PSL 2024.

Pakistan's Naseem Shah switches bases in sensational PSL 2024 trade

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