Pakistan ODI captain Shaheen Shah Afridi has become the quickest fast bowler from the country to complete 150 ODI wickets, surpassing the legendary duo of Waqar Younis and Shoaib Akhtar. While the left-arm seamer took 80 games to achieve this milestone, Waqar and Shoaib both took 91 matches each to reach their 150th ODI wicket. Afridi ticked off this feat during the ongoing ODI tri-series against England at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore. He is also the fourth-quickest overall, second among Pakistanis after Saqlain Mushtaq (78 matches), and tied with Mohammed Shami and Rashid Khan on the fourth spot.<h3>Bowlers Fastest to 150 ODI Wickets (Innings-wise) –</h3><ul><li>Sandip Lamichhane (Nepal) – 73 Matches</li><li>Mitchell Starc (Australia) – 77 Matches</li><li>Saqlain Mushtaq (Pakistan) – 78 Matches</li><li>Rashid Khan (Afghanistan) – 80 Matches</li><li>Mohammed Shami (India) – 80 Matches</li><li>Shaheen Shah Afridi (Pakistan) – 80 Matches&nbsp;</li></ul>Shaheen won the toss and elected to bowl first against a spirited England side. After conceding a four in his first over, Shaheen dismissed English opener Tom Banton (4) on the fifth ball and, with that, reached the landmark. Afridi bowled a fuller-length delivery that Banton drove straight into the hands of Arafat Minhas at the covers. That dismissal also ended Banton’s streak of four successive ODI fifties in his last four games, giving Pakistan a blistering start.&nbsp;Also read| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pakistan-test-squad-sri-lanka-salman-agha-recalled-masood-dropped-1792905129191">Salman Agha recalled for Sri Lanka Tests; spin duo Noman Ali and Sajid Khan dropped</a> &nbsp;Afridi didn’t stop there. On the fifth ball of his second over, he dismissed veteran English batter Joe Root, caught on five off seven balls. Two wickets in his back-to-back overs put pressure on England, who then lost their captain and in-form batter Harry Brook, run out on just one. To make things worse, Haris Rauf accounted for Jordan Cox on six, with England’s scorecard reading 52 for four inside the first 10 overs. &nbsp;The captain struck gold in the first over of his second spell by removing the dangerous-looking Sam Curran on 42, breaking the 93-stand for the fifth wicket with opener Ben Duckett. &nbsp;Meanwhile, Pakistan won their series opener against Sri Lanka and the second game against England, both in Rawalpindi. A win against England in Lahore would seal their place in the final of the tri-series.

Shaheen Shah Afridi becomes the fastest Pakistani pacer to 150 ODI wickets, surpassing Waqar Younis and Shoaib Akhtar during the tri-series against England.

Pakistan ODI captain Shaheen Shah Afridi has become the quickest fast bowler from the country to complete 150 ODI wickets, surpassing the legendary duo of Waqar Younis and Shoaib Akhtar. While the left-arm seamer took 80 games to achieve this milestone, Waqar and Shoaib both took 91 matches each to reach their 150th ODI wicket. Afridi ticked off this feat during the ongoing ODI tri-series against England at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore. He is also the fourth-quickest overall, second among Pakistanis after Saqlain Mushtaq (78 matches), and tied with Mohammed Shami and Rashid Khan on the fourth spot. Bowlers Fastest to 150 ODI Wickets (Innings-wise) – Sandip Lamichhane (Nepal) – 73 Matches Mitchell Starc (Australia) – 77 Matches Saqlain Mushtaq (Pakistan) – 78 Matches Rashid Khan (Afghanistan) – 80 Matches Mohammed Shami (India) – 80 Matches Shaheen Shah Afridi (Pakistan) – 80 Matches Shaheen won the toss and elected to bowl first against a spirited England side. After conceding a four in his first over, Shaheen dismissed English opener Tom Banton (4) on the fifth ball and, with that, reached the landmark. Afridi bowled a fuller-length delivery that Banton drove straight into the hands of Arafat Minhas at the covers. That dismissal also ended Banton’s streak of four successive ODI fifties in his last four games, giving Pakistan a blistering start. Also read| Salman Agha recalled for Sri Lanka Tests; spin duo Noman Ali and Sajid Khan dropped Afridi didn’t stop there. On the fifth ball of his second over, he dismissed veteran English batter Joe Root, caught on five off seven balls. Two wickets in his back-to-back overs put pressure on England, who then lost their captain and in-form batter Harry Brook, run out on just one. To make things worse, Haris Rauf accounted for Jordan Cox on six, with England’s scorecard reading 52 for four inside the first 10 overs. The captain struck gold in the first over of his second spell by removing the dangerous-looking Sam Curran on 42, breaking the 93-stand for the fifth wicket with opener Ben Duckett. Meanwhile, Pakistan won their series opener against Sri Lanka and the second game against England, both in Rawalpindi. A win against England in Lahore would seal their place in the final of the tri-series.

Shaheen Shah Afridi becomes the fastest Pakistani pacer to 150 ODI wickets, surpassing Waqar Younis and Shoaib Akhtar during the tri-series against England.

PAK vs ENG 2026: Shaheen Afridi becomes quickest Pakistani pacer to 150 ODI wickets, surpasses Waqar, Akhtar

Salman Agha marked his return to international cricket with a century as Pakistan beat Sri Lanka by 37 runs in the one-day tri-series opener in Rawalpindi on Sunday (Oct 18). The 32-year-old scored a 90-ball 107 with a six and 10 fours to anchor Pakistan's 305 in 49.5 overs, before skipper Shaheen Shah Afridi grabbed 3-55 to keep Sri Lanka down to 268 in 48.1 overs. The hosts now play England in the second match on Tuesday -- also in Rawalpindi -- in the series seen as a build-up for next year's 50-over World Cup in southern Africa.&nbsp;Pavan Rathnayake (79) and Janith Liyanage's 60 kept the visitors in the chase during a fighting 119-run fifth wicket stand. Opener Kamindu Mendis also contributed with a fluent 44. Rathnayake cracked two sixes and six boundaries while Liyanage's knock had five boundaries, but once both fell only Dasun Shanaka (28) really troubled the scorers as Sri Lanka lost their last five wickets for just 15 runs.&nbsp;Naseem Shah, Haris Rauf and Faheem Ashraf chipped in with two wickets apiece for Pakistan.&nbsp;Earlier, Agha, coming out of a miserable last three months, propelled Pakistan to victory.&nbsp;Also read| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/salman-agha-responds-t20i-axe-century-sri-lanka-odi-tri-series-1792330139321">Pakistan's Salman Agha responds to T20I axe with 107 vs Sri Lanka in ODI tri-series opener</a>&nbsp;He was sent home ahead of the third Test in England in August after captaining the team in the first match.&nbsp;"These times come on you and I thought that I will go back in domestic cricket and make things right with my performances," said Agha, who was also sacked as Pakistan's T20I captain. "I was looking to hit the ball in the pockets to rotate the strike so that we can take our team beyond 300 so we batted aggressively in the end."&nbsp;Agha hit two consecutive boundaries off pacer Asitha Fernando to complete his fourth one-day international hundred, finally falling to the same bowler in the 47th over. He added 97 runs for the fifth wicket with Hasan Nawaz (37) and another 64 for the sixth with Arafat Minhas, who made 18.&nbsp;Left-arm pacer Dilshan Madushanka had jolted Pakistan with the wickets of openers Saim Ayub (seven) and Fakhar Zaman (16).&nbsp;Debutant Saad Baig scored a brisk 40-ball 39 with two sixes and three fours. Along with Babar Azam (45), the pair lifted the score during their 74-run stand.&nbsp;Fast bowler Eshan Malinga dismissed both in successive overs to halt Pakistan's progress before Agha came into his own. Malinga was the pick of the Sri Lanka bowlers with a career-best 4-46, while Fernando took 3-59.

Salman Agha’s brilliant 107 and a late bowling blitz led Pakistan to a 37-run victory over Sri Lanka in the ODI tri-series opener in Rawalpindi.

Salman Agha marked his return to international cricket with a century as Pakistan beat Sri Lanka by 37 runs in the one-day tri-series opener in Rawalpindi on Sunday (Oct 18). The 32-year-old scored a 90-ball 107 with a six and 10 fours to anchor Pakistan's 305 in 49.5 overs, before skipper Shaheen Shah Afridi grabbed 3-55 to keep Sri Lanka down to 268 in 48.1 overs. The hosts now play England in the second match on Tuesday -- also in Rawalpindi -- in the series seen as a build-up for next year's 50-over World Cup in southern Africa. Pavan Rathnayake (79) and Janith Liyanage's 60 kept the visitors in the chase during a fighting 119-run fifth wicket stand. Opener Kamindu Mendis also contributed with a fluent 44. Rathnayake cracked two sixes and six boundaries while Liyanage's knock had five boundaries, but once both fell only Dasun Shanaka (28) really troubled the scorers as Sri Lanka lost their last five wickets for just 15 runs. Naseem Shah, Haris Rauf and Faheem Ashraf chipped in with two wickets apiece for Pakistan. Earlier, Agha, coming out of a miserable last three months, propelled Pakistan to victory. Also read| Pakistan's Salman Agha responds to T20I axe with 107 vs Sri Lanka in ODI tri-series opener He was sent home ahead of the third Test in England in August after captaining the team in the first match. "These times come on you and I thought that I will go back in domestic cricket and make things right with my performances," said Agha, who was also sacked as Pakistan's T20I captain. "I was looking to hit the ball in the pockets to rotate the strike so that we can take our team beyond 300 so we batted aggressively in the end." Agha hit two consecutive boundaries off pacer Asitha Fernando to complete his fourth one-day international hundred, finally falling to the same bowler in the 47th over. He added 97 runs for the fifth wicket with Hasan Nawaz (37) and another 64 for the sixth with Arafat Minhas, who made 18. Left-arm pacer Dilshan Madushanka had jolted Pakistan with the wickets of openers Saim Ayub (seven) and Fakhar Zaman (16). Debutant Saad Baig scored a brisk 40-ball 39 with two sixes and three fours. Along with Babar Azam (45), the pair lifted the score during their 74-run stand. Fast bowler Eshan Malinga dismissed both in successive overs to halt Pakistan's progress before Agha came into his own. Malinga was the pick of the Sri Lanka bowlers with a career-best 4-46, while Fernando took 3-59.

Salman Agha’s brilliant 107 and a late bowling blitz led Pakistan to a 37-run victory over Sri Lanka in the ODI tri-series opener in Rawalpindi.

PAK vs SL 2026: Salman Agha and pacers power Pakistan to 37-run win in tri-series opener

Ever since the IPL investement made its way to the England's Hundred, there's been speculation about participation of Pakistan players in the tournament. The doubts originated on the basis of ban on Pakistan players in IPL and a shadow boycott by IPL franachise-owned teams in other leagues around the world. Well, the moment of reckoning is here with Hundred men's auction set to take place on Thursday (Mar 12) and head coach of Sunrisers Leeds women, completely owned by IPL franchise SunRisers Hyderabad group, has said that they have not been told to shy away from siging any player. The women's auction took place on Wednesday (Mar 11), but no one bid bid for two Pakistan players who had registered.<h2>Will Pak players be picked at Hundred men's auction?</h2>Adi Birrell, head coach of Sunrisers Leeds women and Sunrisers Eastern Cape men in SA20, told BBC Sport that he has not been instructed"No, I haven't," he said while adding: "I'm sure there will be some interest in some players tomorrow (men's auction.)"Upon being asked about interest in Pakistan players from IPL-linked teams, Birrell said: "I think so, but I don't know. I presume so. I haven't heard that they won't bid for them."Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/-obviously-discriminating-ex-england-csk-player-on-pak-players-facing-shadow-ban-by-ipl-linked-team-at-hundred-1771918268434">'Obviously discriminating': Ex-England &amp; CSK player Moeen Ali on Pak players facing shadow ban by IPL-linked teams in Hundred</a>Southern Brave, bought by part-owners of Delhi Capitals, also reiterate the same instance: "The only thing I've been told is 'sign the best players to make this the best squad you possibly can'. We've had no other instructions than that and we've had total autonomy on who we sign. That's how it's been with the women's team," said women's team head coach Jonathan Bettt.<h2>How many Pakistan players are in Hundred men's draft?</h2>There are as many as 17 Pakistan players reigstered for the inaugural men's Hundred auction including Pak ODI skipper Shaheen Shah Afridi and express pacer Haris Rauf. Other notable players are: Shadab Khan, Usman Tariq, Saim Ayub, Abrar Ahmed, Mohammad Nawaz, Naseem Shah, Mohammad Amir, Zaman Khan, Usama Mir, Imad Wasim, Akif Javed and Salman Mirza.<h2>Why franchise might not go for Pakistan players in Hundred auction?</h2>While Pakistan players have played in the Hundred tournament in the past, they have a history of pulling out from tournaments along with NOC issues from the PCB's side. During the tournament's playing window, Pakistan also have a Test series planned against Wes Indies which might affect the player availablity and franchise's interest as well.

The doubts originated on the basis of ban on Pakistan players in IPL and a shadow boycott by IPL franachise-owned teams in other leagues around the world. Well, the moment of reckoning is here with Hundred men's auction set to take place on Thursday (Mar 12).

Ever since the IPL investement made its way to the England's Hundred, there's been speculation about participation of Pakistan players in the tournament. The doubts originated on the basis of ban on Pakistan players in IPL and a shadow boycott by IPL franachise-owned teams in other leagues around the world. Well, the moment of reckoning is here with Hundred men's auction set to take place on Thursday (Mar 12) and head coach of Sunrisers Leeds women, completely owned by IPL franchise SunRisers Hyderabad group, has said that they have not been told to shy away from siging any player. The women's auction took place on Wednesday (Mar 11), but no one bid bid for two Pakistan players who had registered. Will Pak players be picked at Hundred men's auction? Adi Birrell, head coach of Sunrisers Leeds women and Sunrisers Eastern Cape men in SA20, told BBC Sport that he has not been instructed "No, I haven't," he said while adding: "I'm sure there will be some interest in some players tomorrow (men's auction.)" Upon being asked about interest in Pakistan players from IPL-linked teams, Birrell said: "I think so, but I don't know. I presume so. I haven't heard that they won't bid for them." Also Read - 'Obviously discriminating': Ex-England & CSK player Moeen Ali on Pak players facing shadow ban by IPL-linked teams in Hundred Southern Brave, bought by part-owners of Delhi Capitals, also reiterate the same instance: "The only thing I've been told is 'sign the best players to make this the best squad you possibly can'. We've had no other instructions than that and we've had total autonomy on who we sign. That's how it's been with the women's team," said women's team head coach Jonathan Bettt. How many Pakistan players are in Hundred men's draft? There are as many as 17 Pakistan players reigstered for the inaugural men's Hundred auction including Pak ODI skipper Shaheen Shah Afridi and express pacer Haris Rauf. Other notable players are: Shadab Khan, Usman Tariq, Saim Ayub, Abrar Ahmed, Mohammad Nawaz, Naseem Shah, Mohammad Amir, Zaman Khan, Usama Mir, Imad Wasim, Akif Javed and Salman Mirza. Why franchise might not go for Pakistan players in Hundred auction? While Pakistan players have played in the Hundred tournament in the past, they have a history of pulling out from tournaments along with NOC issues from the PCB's side. During the tournament's playing window, Pakistan also have a Test series planned against Wes Indies which might affect the player availablity and franchise's interest as well.

The doubts originated on the basis of ban on Pakistan players in IPL and a shadow boycott by IPL franachise-owned teams in other leagues around the world. Well, the moment of reckoning is here with Hundred men's auction set to take place on Thursday (Mar 12).

'I haven't heard...': Hundred coaches on IPL-linked franchises buying Pak players in men's auction

Rashid Khan, Adil Rashid, Haris Rauf, Tim Southee and Shaheen Afridi feature among the bowlers with the most wickets against a single opponent in T20Is, highlighting their dominance in specific rivalries.

Rashid Khan, Adil Rashid, Haris Rauf, Tim Southee and Shaheen Afridi feature among the bowlers with the most wickets against a single opponent in T20Is, highlighting their dominance in specific rivalries.

From Adil Rashid to Tim Southee, 5 players with most wickets vs an opponent in T20Is

Mohammad Nawaz and Shaheen Shah Afridi starred with the ball as Pakistan won the T20I tri-series with a thumping six-wicket victory over Sri Lanka in the final on Saturday.&nbsp;Nawaz took 3-17 and Shaheen 3-18 as Sri Lanka were dismissed for a paltry 114 in 19.1 overs, before Pakistan romped home with eight balls to spare at Rawalpindi Stadium.&nbsp;Zimbabwe were the third team in the tri-series but lost three of their four matches to finish bottom.&nbsp;Sri Lanka were never in the hunt in the decider after posting a below-par total as Saim Ayub (36) and Sahibzada Farhan (23) gave Pakistan a solid 46-run opening partnership inside the first eight overs.&nbsp;Babar Azam hit 37 not out to ensure Pakistan did not derail despite losing skipper Salman Agha (14) and Fakhar Zaman (three) in quick succession.&nbsp;"It was a great performance from us," said Agha.&nbsp;"This has been a very good two months for us, we won against South Africa and now against Sri Lanka."&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-steve-smith-to-joe-root-5-active-batters-with-most-runs-in-ashes-ben-stokes-jonny-bairstow-usman-khawaja-1762275784636">From Steve Smith to Joe Root, 5 active batters with most runs in Ashes</a>&nbsp;Earlier, Sri Lanka, sent in to bat, lost nine wickets for a mere 30 runs after being well set on 84-1 in the 11th over.&nbsp;Opener Kamil Mishara hit a robust 47-ball 59, with the help of four sixes and two boundaries, to set a platform for a good total for the visitors.&nbsp;Mishara added 64 runs for the second wicket with Kusal Mendis, who scored 14, but once both departed in the space of three overs the innings fell apart.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-leonard-hutton-to-don-bradman-5-batters-with-highest-individual-score-in-ashes-bob-simpson-bob-cowper-ashes-2025-26-1762276944046">From Leonard Hutton to Don Bradman, 5 batters with highest individual score in Ashes</a>&nbsp;Nawaz dismissed Mendis, while Mishara holed out off Ayub, as the Pakistan bowlers relentlessly cranked up the pressure.&nbsp;None of the later Sri Lankan batters could reach double figures as Nawaz and Shaheen tore through the middle and lower order.&nbsp;"We couldn't build on a good platform because Pakistan bowled very well," said Sri Lankan skipper Dasun Shanaka.&nbsp;"We need to fine-tune our game ahead of the next series and the World Cup."India and Sri Lanka co-host the Twenty20 World Cup in February-March next year.&nbsp;Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Mohammad Nawaz took 3-17 and Shaheen Shah Afridi 3-18 as Sri Lanka were dismissed for a paltry 114 in 19.1 overs, before Pakistan romped home with eight balls to spare at Rawalpindi Stadium.

Mohammad Nawaz and Shaheen Shah Afridi starred with the ball as Pakistan won the T20I tri-series with a thumping six-wicket victory over Sri Lanka in the final on Saturday. Nawaz took 3-17 and Shaheen 3-18 as Sri Lanka were dismissed for a paltry 114 in 19.1 overs, before Pakistan romped home with eight balls to spare at Rawalpindi Stadium. Zimbabwe were the third team in the tri-series but lost three of their four matches to finish bottom. Sri Lanka were never in the hunt in the decider after posting a below-par total as Saim Ayub (36) and Sahibzada Farhan (23) gave Pakistan a solid 46-run opening partnership inside the first eight overs. Babar Azam hit 37 not out to ensure Pakistan did not derail despite losing skipper Salman Agha (14) and Fakhar Zaman (three) in quick succession. "It was a great performance from us," said Agha. "This has been a very good two months for us, we won against South Africa and now against Sri Lanka." ALSO READ | From Steve Smith to Joe Root, 5 active batters with most runs in Ashes Earlier, Sri Lanka, sent in to bat, lost nine wickets for a mere 30 runs after being well set on 84-1 in the 11th over. Opener Kamil Mishara hit a robust 47-ball 59, with the help of four sixes and two boundaries, to set a platform for a good total for the visitors. Mishara added 64 runs for the second wicket with Kusal Mendis, who scored 14, but once both departed in the space of three overs the innings fell apart. ALSO READ | From Leonard Hutton to Don Bradman, 5 batters with highest individual score in Ashes Nawaz dismissed Mendis, while Mishara holed out off Ayub, as the Pakistan bowlers relentlessly cranked up the pressure. None of the later Sri Lankan batters could reach double figures as Nawaz and Shaheen tore through the middle and lower order. "We couldn't build on a good platform because Pakistan bowled very well," said Sri Lankan skipper Dasun Shanaka. "We need to fine-tune our game ahead of the next series and the World Cup." India and Sri Lanka co-host the Twenty20 World Cup in February-March next year. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Mohammad Nawaz took 3-17 and Shaheen Shah Afridi 3-18 as Sri Lanka were dismissed for a paltry 114 in 19.1 overs, before Pakistan romped home with eight balls to spare at Rawalpindi Stadium.

Mohammad Nawaz, Shaheen Afridi help Pakistan rout Sri Lanka to win T20I tri-series

 Reaching 100 ODI wickets quicker than most is a tough job for any left-arm pacer. Only a handful have done it at top speed, and interestingly, no Indian bowler features in this elite list.

&nbsp;Reaching 100 ODI wickets quicker than most is a tough job for any left-arm pacer. Only a handful have done it at top speed, and interestingly, no Indian bowler features in this elite list.

Meet 5 left-arm pacers to reach fastest 100 ODI wickets: No Indian features

Cricket makes a long-awaited return to Faisalabad on Tuesday (November 4), with Pakistan set to face South Africa in a three-match ODI series at the Iqbal Stadium. This marks the first international ODI in the city since 2008, a year before the terrorist attack on Sri Lanka's team bus, which caused a shift of Pakistan’s home fixtures to neutral venues for over six years. While cities like Karachi, Lahore, and Multan have hosted international cricket since 2015, Faisalabad has not had the necessary infrastructure to stage such events until recently. Shaheen Shah Afridi, the newly appointed ODI captain, expressed his excitement ahead of the match. “It’s a thrilling moment for us and the fans here in Faisalabad,” Afridi was qutoed as saying on Monday (November 3). “We hope to carry the positive momentum from our T20 series win into this ODI series.” Pakistan's recent record in ODIs has been underwhelming, leading to Afridi’s appointment in place of Mohammad Rizwan. Despite a strong showing in the T20 series, where Pakistan triumphed 2-1 against South Africa, their ODI performances have been disappointing. The team lost the triangular series final to New Zealand, failed to make the Champions Trophy semifinals, and suffered a series loss in the West Indies earlier this year.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/-india-s-win-and-amanjot-s-performance-gave-my-mother-a-new-life-says-his-father-as-india-lift-maiden-world-cup-title-1762177202187">'India’s win and Amanjot’s performance gave my mother a new life', says his father as India lift maiden World Cup title</a> For the series against South Africa, Pakistan has selected its strongest squad, with Naseem Shah and Haris Rauf joining Afridi as fast bowlers. Fakhar Zaman returns after missing the T20s, and Babar Azam, who hit a match-winning 68 in the final T20, is back in form. Afridi hopes Babar’s recent knock will give him confidence ahead of the ODIs. South Africa, led by Matthew Breetzke in the absence of injured captain Temba Bavuma and several other key players, faces a difficult task. Breetzke, who scored a remarkable 150 on his ODI debut earlier this year in Lahore, will be looking to guide the team through this challenging series. “We know it’s going to be tough without our usual ODI core,” Breetzke admitted, “but this presents a chance for the younger players to step up and take responsibility.” &nbsp;The remaining two games of the series will also be played in Faisalabad on Thursday (November 6) and Saturday (November 8).

International cricket returns to Faisalabad after 17 years as Pakistan face South Africa in ODI series

Cricket makes a long-awaited return to Faisalabad on Tuesday (November 4), with Pakistan set to face South Africa in a three-match ODI series at the Iqbal Stadium. This marks the first international ODI in the city since 2008, a year before the terrorist attack on Sri Lanka's team bus, which caused a shift of Pakistan’s home fixtures to neutral venues for over six years. While cities like Karachi, Lahore, and Multan have hosted international cricket since 2015, Faisalabad has not had the necessary infrastructure to stage such events until recently. Shaheen Shah Afridi, the newly appointed ODI captain, expressed his excitement ahead of the match. “It’s a thrilling moment for us and the fans here in Faisalabad,” Afridi was qutoed as saying on Monday (November 3). “We hope to carry the positive momentum from our T20 series win into this ODI series.” Pakistan's recent record in ODIs has been underwhelming, leading to Afridi’s appointment in place of Mohammad Rizwan. Despite a strong showing in the T20 series, where Pakistan triumphed 2-1 against South Africa, their ODI performances have been disappointing. The team lost the triangular series final to New Zealand, failed to make the Champions Trophy semifinals, and suffered a series loss in the West Indies earlier this year. Also Read: 'India’s win and Amanjot’s performance gave my mother a new life', says his father as India lift maiden World Cup title For the series against South Africa, Pakistan has selected its strongest squad, with Naseem Shah and Haris Rauf joining Afridi as fast bowlers. Fakhar Zaman returns after missing the T20s, and Babar Azam, who hit a match-winning 68 in the final T20, is back in form. Afridi hopes Babar’s recent knock will give him confidence ahead of the ODIs. South Africa, led by Matthew Breetzke in the absence of injured captain Temba Bavuma and several other key players, faces a difficult task. Breetzke, who scored a remarkable 150 on his ODI debut earlier this year in Lahore, will be looking to guide the team through this challenging series. “We know it’s going to be tough without our usual ODI core,” Breetzke admitted, “but this presents a chance for the younger players to step up and take responsibility.” The remaining two games of the series will also be played in Faisalabad on Thursday (November 6) and Saturday (November 8).

Faisalabad is set to host its first ODI in 17 years as pacer Shaheen Afridi leads Pakistan against South Africa in three-match ODI series

Fast bowler Shaheen Shah Afridi grabbed three wickets and star batter Babar Azam hit a half-century to guide Pakistan to a four-wicket win over South Africa in the second Twenty20 international. Shaheen took 3-26 to restrict South Africa to 139-9 before Azam's 47-ball 68 helped Pakistan overhaul the target for the loss of six wickets in 19 overs for a 2-1 series win in Lahore.&nbsp;&nbsp;South Africa won the first match by 55 runs in Rawalpindi while Pakistan took the second by nine wickets, also in Lahore. A full house of 32,000 at Gaddafi Stadium cheered the home boy Azam when he cracked three successive boundaries off Ottniel Baartman to reach his 37th half-century -- his first after 13 T20I innings.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/new-zealand-kane-williamson-announces-t20i-retirement-ahead-of-next-year-world-cup-1762055242110">New Zealand’s Kane Williamson announces T20I retirement ahead of next year’s World Cup</a>&nbsp;Azam and Salman Agha (33) lifted Pakistan during a solid 76-run stand for the third wicket after Saim Ayub (nought) and Sahibzada Farhan (19) fell by the seventh over. Azam smashed nine boundaries but his dismissal to pacer Corbin Bosch put Pakistan in a spot of bother with Hasan Nawaz (five) and Mohammad Nawaz (nought) falling in quick succession. Usman Khan, six not out, hit the winning single.&nbsp;"I am happy at the come-from-behind series win," said the skipper Agha. "We were 1-0 down so it was a great effort by the players to win the next two."&nbsp;South African skipper Donovan Ferreira rued his side's batting.&nbsp;"We lost wickets in clusters and didn't score much, but credit to the bowlers to keep it tight," said Ferreira. "It was a great learning for us."&nbsp;South Africa, sent in to bat, slipped to two down without a run as Shaheen dismissed Quinton de Kock and Lhuan-dre Pretorius – both without scoring – off the second and third balls of the match.&nbsp;It became three down without a run, but Dewald Brevis overturned a leg-before decision off the fifth ball.&nbsp;The reprieve helped him add 38 for the third wicket with Reeza Hendricks to revive the innings, before debutant Usman Tariq broke the stand, getting Brevis caught off his second ball.&nbsp;Brevis hit two sixes in his 22-ball 21.&nbsp;Hendricks and Ferreira (29 with three sixes) added 34 for the fifth wicket.&nbsp;Hendricks, top-scorer with a 36-ball 34 with two boundaries, holed out in the 15th over off Tariq, who finished with 2-26.&nbsp;It was left to Bosch to help South Africa reach a fighting total with 30 not out.&nbsp;Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

A packed house of 32,000 at Gaddafi Stadium cheered the home boy Azam when he cracked three successive boundaries off Ottniel Baartman to reach his 37th half-century -- his first after 13 T20I innings. 

Fast bowler Shaheen Shah Afridi grabbed three wickets and star batter Babar Azam hit a half-century to guide Pakistan to a four-wicket win over South Africa in the second Twenty20 international. Shaheen took 3-26 to restrict South Africa to 139-9 before Azam's 47-ball 68 helped Pakistan overhaul the target for the loss of six wickets in 19 overs for a 2-1 series win in Lahore. South Africa won the first match by 55 runs in Rawalpindi while Pakistan took the second by nine wickets, also in Lahore. A full house of 32,000 at Gaddafi Stadium cheered the home boy Azam when he cracked three successive boundaries off Ottniel Baartman to reach his 37th half-century -- his first after 13 T20I innings. Also read | New Zealand’s Kane Williamson announces T20I retirement ahead of next year’s World Cup Azam and Salman Agha (33) lifted Pakistan during a solid 76-run stand for the third wicket after Saim Ayub (nought) and Sahibzada Farhan (19) fell by the seventh over. Azam smashed nine boundaries but his dismissal to pacer Corbin Bosch put Pakistan in a spot of bother with Hasan Nawaz (five) and Mohammad Nawaz (nought) falling in quick succession. Usman Khan, six not out, hit the winning single. "I am happy at the come-from-behind series win," said the skipper Agha. "We were 1-0 down so it was a great effort by the players to win the next two." South African skipper Donovan Ferreira rued his side's batting. "We lost wickets in clusters and didn't score much, but credit to the bowlers to keep it tight," said Ferreira. "It was a great learning for us." South Africa, sent in to bat, slipped to two down without a run as Shaheen dismissed Quinton de Kock and Lhuan-dre Pretorius – both without scoring – off the second and third balls of the match. It became three down without a run, but Dewald Brevis overturned a leg-before decision off the fifth ball. The reprieve helped him add 38 for the third wicket with Reeza Hendricks to revive the innings, before debutant Usman Tariq broke the stand, getting Brevis caught off his second ball. Brevis hit two sixes in his 22-ball 21. Hendricks and Ferreira (29 with three sixes) added 34 for the fifth wicket. Hendricks, top-scorer with a 36-ball 34 with two boundaries, holed out in the 15th over off Tariq, who finished with 2-26. It was left to Bosch to help South Africa reach a fighting total with 30 not out. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

A packed house of 32,000 at Gaddafi Stadium cheered the home boy Azam when he cracked three successive boundaries off Ottniel Baartman to reach his 37th half-century -- his first after 13 T20I innings.&nbsp;

PAK vs SA 3rd T20I: Babar Azam, Shaheen star in Pakistan’s series clinching win in Lahore

Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has removed Mohammad Rizwan as the ODI captain unceremoniously after less than two years on the job. Rizwan, who now has been replaced by Shaheen Shah Afridi, was appointed the ODI captain by replacing Babar Azam. The move had come after Babar was stripped of captaincy following Pakistan's failure to make it to the ODI WC's semi-finals. Afridi, who is now the new captain, was named T20I captain back then but was removed after one series. The reason for Rizwan's removal, as per a former Pakistan cricketer, is not performance related but a religious one.<h2>Rashid Latif cites religious practice brought in by Rizwan as reason for loss of captaincy</h2>Rizwan had been very vocal in his support of Palestine in the war Hamas-Israel war during his stint as the captain. He even dedicated their one of the wins in ODI WC against Sri Lanka to 'brother and sisters in Gaza.' According to Latif, "This mindset has come that a non-Islamic captain should come in an Islamic country."Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/welcome-back-rishabh-pant-ace-keeper-returns-to-captain-india-a-against-south-africa-a-1761034019440">Welcome back Pant! Ace keeper returns to captain India-A against South Africa A</a>"Mike Hesson is the one behind this decision, right? He isn't someone who likes this culture in the dressing room. Why aren't they understanding?" Latif added.Another reasons, as per a Times of India report, is Rizwan's refusal to promote betting apps which has not gone down well with the PCB.<h2>Rizwan's record as captain</h2>Rizwan captained Pakistan in 20 matches and won nine of them while enduring a loss in 11 matches. As a captain, Rizwan scored 625 runs in 20 matches at an average of 41.66 with one hundred, three fifties and a best of 122 not out. His stint brought some sort of stability in the ODI set up amid PCB's constant chopping and changing of the captains. Currently, Pakistan have three different skippers in all three formats: Shan Masood in Tests, Shaheen Afridi in ODIs, and Salman Agha in T20Is.

The reason for Rizwan's removal, as per a former Pakistan cricketer, is not performance related but a religious one. Rizwan captained Pakistan in 20 matches and won nine of them while enduring a loss in 11 matches. As a captain, Rizwan scored 625 runs in 20 matches at an average of 41.66.

Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has removed Mohammad Rizwan as the ODI captain unceremoniously after less than two years on the job. Rizwan, who now has been replaced by Shaheen Shah Afridi, was appointed the ODI captain by replacing Babar Azam. The move had come after Babar was stripped of captaincy following Pakistan's failure to make it to the ODI WC's semi-finals. Afridi, who is now the new captain, was named T20I captain back then but was removed after one series. The reason for Rizwan's removal, as per a former Pakistan cricketer, is not performance related but a religious one. Rashid Latif cites religious practice brought in by Rizwan as reason for loss of captaincy Rizwan had been very vocal in his support of Palestine in the war Hamas-Israel war during his stint as the captain. He even dedicated their one of the wins in ODI WC against Sri Lanka to 'brother and sisters in Gaza.' According to Latif, "This mindset has come that a non-Islamic captain should come in an Islamic country." Also Read - Welcome back Pant! Ace keeper returns to captain India-A against South Africa A "Mike Hesson is the one behind this decision, right? He isn't someone who likes this culture in the dressing room. Why aren't they understanding?" Latif added. Another reasons, as per a Times of India report, is Rizwan's refusal to promote betting apps which has not gone down well with the PCB. Rizwan's record as captain Rizwan captained Pakistan in 20 matches and won nine of them while enduring a loss in 11 matches. As a captain, Rizwan scored 625 runs in 20 matches at an average of 41.66 with one hundred, three fifties and a best of 122 not out. His stint brought some sort of stability in the ODI set up amid PCB's constant chopping and changing of the captains. Currently, Pakistan have three different skippers in all three formats: Shan Masood in Tests, Shaheen Afridi in ODIs, and Salman Agha in T20Is.

The reason for Rizwan's removal, as per a former Pakistan cricketer, is not performance related but a religious one. Rizwan captained Pakistan in 20 matches and won nine of them while enduring a loss in 11 matches. As a captain, Rizwan scored 625 runs in 20 matches at an average of 41.66.

Why PCB sacked Rizwan as ODI skipper? Ex-Pak cricketer claims reason is religious

The captaincy conundrum continues to hit Pakistan Cricket. Shortly after day one of the ongoing Rawalpindi Test against South Africa concluded, the PCB dropped a shocking announcement by sacking keeper-batter Mohammad Rizwan as their ODI captain, replacing him with frontline seamer Shaheen Shah Afridi. Rizwan, 33 and Afridi, 25, are both part of the second Test against the Proteas. Per the latest report, this decision, according to the PCB, was taken following a meeting in Islamabad between the selection committee and white-ball head coach Mike Hesson. Let along providing any reason for his sacking, the PCB’s official statement did not even mention Rizwan’s name.&nbsp;Rizwan’s removal as the ODI captain was always on the cards, mainly since the PCB released a statement over the weekend, declining to confirm him as the One-Day skipper ahead of the home white-ball series against South Africa. The statement, however, read that Hesson had asked PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi to convene a meeting with the selection committee and the advisory committee to appoint a new skipper. &nbsp;It also suggests that it was not only Hesson who wanted him removed as the ODI captain but also the PCB’s top staff.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/women-s-world-cup-2025-captain-chamari-athapaththu-shines-with-a-four-wicket-haul-as-sri-lanka-beat-bangladesh-by-7-runs-updated-points-table-1760974869470">Women’s World Cup 2025: Captain Chamari Athapaththu shines with a four-wicket haul as Sri Lanka beat Bangladesh by 7 runs</a> &nbsp;Meanwhile, Shaheen, who endured a disappointing first run as Pakistan’s white-ball captain earlier, returns to lead the 50-over side. Shortly after the PCB announced him the ODI and T20I captain for the away New Zealand T20Is in January last year, which Pakistan lost 1-4, the board sacked Afridi under similar circumstances, with former captain Babar Azam replacing him a week later.<h3>Rizwan’s rise and fall as PAK captain &nbsp;</h3>Rizwan was tipped to be the most secured Pakistan captain across formats, having won as a captain in Australia and South Africa last year. While bilateral series results favoured him, Pakistan’s first round exit in home Champions Trophy earlier this year was the beginning of the end of his captaincy tenure. &nbsp;On the other hand, the newly-appointed ODI captain, Afridi, was Pakistan’s highest wicket-taker in the One-Dayers last year, and key to the side’s success Down Under and in South Africa. Since the last ODI World Cup two years ago, no pacer from a Full Member side has picked the more wickets than him (45) in the ODIs. &nbsp;Afridi’s first assignment as the ODI skipper begins with a three-match One-Day series against South Africa starting in Faisalabad next month. &nbsp;

Under Rizwan's white-ball captaincy, Pakistan won an ODI series in Australia and South Africa last year. 

The captaincy conundrum continues to hit Pakistan Cricket. Shortly after day one of the ongoing Rawalpindi Test against South Africa concluded, the PCB dropped a shocking announcement by sacking keeper-batter Mohammad Rizwan as their ODI captain, replacing him with frontline seamer Shaheen Shah Afridi. Rizwan, 33 and Afridi, 25, are both part of the second Test against the Proteas. Per the latest report, this decision, according to the PCB, was taken following a meeting in Islamabad between the selection committee and white-ball head coach Mike Hesson. Let along providing any reason for his sacking, the PCB’s official statement did not even mention Rizwan’s name. Rizwan’s removal as the ODI captain was always on the cards, mainly since the PCB released a statement over the weekend, declining to confirm him as the One-Day skipper ahead of the home white-ball series against South Africa. The statement, however, read that Hesson had asked PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi to convene a meeting with the selection committee and the advisory committee to appoint a new skipper. It also suggests that it was not only Hesson who wanted him removed as the ODI captain but also the PCB’s top staff. Also read | Women’s World Cup 2025: Captain Chamari Athapaththu shines with a four-wicket haul as Sri Lanka beat Bangladesh by 7 runs Meanwhile, Shaheen, who endured a disappointing first run as Pakistan’s white-ball captain earlier, returns to lead the 50-over side. Shortly after the PCB announced him the ODI and T20I captain for the away New Zealand T20Is in January last year, which Pakistan lost 1-4, the board sacked Afridi under similar circumstances, with former captain Babar Azam replacing him a week later. Rizwan’s rise and fall as PAK captain Rizwan was tipped to be the most secured Pakistan captain across formats, having won as a captain in Australia and South Africa last year. While bilateral series results favoured him, Pakistan’s first round exit in home Champions Trophy earlier this year was the beginning of the end of his captaincy tenure. On the other hand, the newly-appointed ODI captain, Afridi, was Pakistan’s highest wicket-taker in the One-Dayers last year, and key to the side’s success Down Under and in South Africa. Since the last ODI World Cup two years ago, no pacer from a Full Member side has picked the more wickets than him (45) in the ODIs. Afridi’s first assignment as the ODI skipper begins with a three-match One-Day series against South Africa starting in Faisalabad next month.

Under Rizwan's white-ball captaincy, Pakistan won an ODI series in Australia and South Africa last year.&nbsp;

Mohammad Rizwan sacked as Pakistan's ODI captain: new skipper named ahead of SA One-Dayers

The India vs Pakistan Super Four Asia Cup 2025 match saw Pak pacer Haris Rauf gesturing 6-0 in reference to his country's unproven claim regarding downing Indian fighter jets during the three-day conflict in May earlier this year. Another gesture by batter Sahibzada Farhan, who decided to use the bat as an AK-47 and mockingly fired bullets after reaching 50, was also the one that was ciriticised by the cricket fraternity all around the world. Pak pacer Shaheen Shah Afridi has now spoken about his teammates' actions.<h2>Shaheen Afridi speaks on Haris Rauf-Sahibzada Farhan gestures during India match</h2>Speaking ahead of Pakistan's Super Four match against Bangladesh, Afridi acknowledged that "our job is to play cricket."Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/shreyas-iyer-requests-a-break-from-red-ball-cricket-for-this-reason-1758701034870">Shreyas Iyer asks BCCI for a break from red-ball cricket for THIS reason</a>"Honestly, everyone has the right to express the way they want to. Everyone has their own respect. Everyone thinks the way they think. But our job is to play cricket. And we have come to win the tri-nation Series. We have come to win the Asia Cup. And we, God willing, as a team, are doing our best," he further said.The match saw some heated moments between the two teams with Indian openers giving the Pak bowlers a befitting reply using the bat and the words.<h2>India vs Pakistan in Asia Cup 2025 Final</h2>India and Pakistan have already faced each other twice in the ongoing Asia Cup 2025 tournament. The arch-rivals can find themselves against each other again in the final on September 28 as well. For the two teams to reach in the final, they'd have to win their remaining games in the Super Four stage.Pakistan, which have lost against India and beaten Sri Lanka, must win against Bangladesh for a place in the final. As for India, their win against in the upcoming match against Bangladesh will all but secure their place in the final as well.

Sahibzada Farhan decided to use the bat as an AK-47 and mockingly fired bullets after reaching 50 while Rauf gestured 6-0 in reference to his country's unproven claim regarding downing Indian fighter jets during the match vs India.

The India vs Pakistan Super Four Asia Cup 2025 match saw Pak pacer Haris Rauf gesturing 6-0 in reference to his country's unproven claim regarding downing Indian fighter jets during the three-day conflict in May earlier this year. Another gesture by batter Sahibzada Farhan, who decided to use the bat as an AK-47 and mockingly fired bullets after reaching 50, was also the one that was ciriticised by the cricket fraternity all around the world. Pak pacer Shaheen Shah Afridi has now spoken about his teammates' actions. Shaheen Afridi speaks on Haris Rauf-Sahibzada Farhan gestures during India match Speaking ahead of Pakistan's Super Four match against Bangladesh, Afridi acknowledged that "our job is to play cricket." Also Read - Shreyas Iyer asks BCCI for a break from red-ball cricket for THIS reason "Honestly, everyone has the right to express the way they want to. Everyone has their own respect. Everyone thinks the way they think. But our job is to play cricket. And we have come to win the tri-nation Series. We have come to win the Asia Cup. And we, God willing, as a team, are doing our best," he further said. The match saw some heated moments between the two teams with Indian openers giving the Pak bowlers a befitting reply using the bat and the words. India vs Pakistan in Asia Cup 2025 Final India and Pakistan have already faced each other twice in the ongoing Asia Cup 2025 tournament. The arch-rivals can find themselves against each other again in the final on September 28 as well. For the two teams to reach in the final, they'd have to win their remaining games in the Super Four stage. Pakistan, which have lost against India and beaten Sri Lanka, must win against Bangladesh for a place in the final. As for India, their win against in the upcoming match against Bangladesh will all but secure their place in the final as well.

Sahibzada Farhan decided to use the bat as an AK-47 and mockingly fired bullets after reaching 50 while Rauf gestured 6-0 in reference to his country's unproven claim regarding downing Indian fighter jets during the match vs India.

Asia Cup 2025: 'Our job is to play cricket,' says Pak pacer Shaheen Afridi on Haris Rauf, Sahibzada Farhan's gestures vs India

Abhishek Sharma proved to be India’s best batter on the day against Pakistan in the Super Four tie in Dubai on Sunday (Sep 21). The left-handed opener played a match-winning innings while chasing, scoring 74 off 39 balls, including five sixes and six fours. Although his wide range of shots and sixes received massive appreciation globally, his verbal altercations with Pakistan’s premier pacers, Shaheen Shah Afridi and Haris Rauf, made headlines. Against Shaheen, Abhishek smashed a first-ball six over the fine leg, while against Haris Rauf, the left-hander enjoyed finding gaps at will, who also got into an ugly altercation with him.&nbsp;During a post-match show with the broadcasters, the host drew parallels between Abhishek hitting Shaheen for a first-ball six with Sehwag’s knack of hitting bowlers for a boundary on the first delivery; the most famous example of which was during the home ODI World Cup in 2011, when Sehwag hammered a first-ball boundary on four occasions. While Sehwag praised Abhishek for his impressive outing, the rookie opener played down any comparisons with India's great, saying that, unlike the bowling attack that Sehwag faced in his time, today’s bowlers miss that zeal.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/asia-cup-pakistan-pacer-haris-rauf-mocks-indian-fans-with-ugly-war-gesture-sparks-controversy-watch-video-1758487761987">Asia Cup: Pakistan pacer Haris Rauf mocks Indian fans with ‘ugly war gesture’; sparks controversy – WATCH</a> &nbsp;“The bowlers that Viru paaji has hit, I don’t think there’s anyone like those bowlers," Abhishek said on Sony Sports after the match.<h3>Sehwag’s golden advice to Abhishek</h3>Sehwag, perhaps the most dangerous opener across formats, advised Abhishek on something that could elevate his growing career and put him in the league of the best batters around. &nbsp;"Whenever you reach 70, don't miss out on 100 because Sunil Gavaskar said to me – when you retire, you'll remember the innings where you got out on 70 or 80. If you convert those, maybe your career will have more hundreds because these opportunities don't come again and again. When you're batting well, on your day, try to go not out – it's better," Sehwag said. &nbsp;Meanwhile, Abhishek continues to run riot in the Asia Cup. Topping the run-scoring chart with 173 runs in four contested matches, he is looking unstoppable. Against Pakistan in the recently concluded Super Four tie, he and Shubman Gill stitched a 105-run stand for the first wicket, setting the base for the others to come and complete the job. &nbsp;Chasing 172, India won the match by six wickets and seven balls remaining, sitting at the top of the points table with better NRR than Bangladesh.

Abhishek continues to run riot in the Asia Cup. Topping the run-scoring chart with 173 runs in four contested matches, he is looking unstoppable.

Abhishek Sharma proved to be India’s best batter on the day against Pakistan in the Super Four tie in Dubai on Sunday (Sep 21). The left-handed opener played a match-winning innings while chasing, scoring 74 off 39 balls, including five sixes and six fours. Although his wide range of shots and sixes received massive appreciation globally, his verbal altercations with Pakistan’s premier pacers, Shaheen Shah Afridi and Haris Rauf, made headlines. Against Shaheen, Abhishek smashed a first-ball six over the fine leg, while against Haris Rauf, the left-hander enjoyed finding gaps at will, who also got into an ugly altercation with him. During a post-match show with the broadcasters, the host drew parallels between Abhishek hitting Shaheen for a first-ball six with Sehwag’s knack of hitting bowlers for a boundary on the first delivery; the most famous example of which was during the home ODI World Cup in 2011, when Sehwag hammered a first-ball boundary on four occasions. While Sehwag praised Abhishek for his impressive outing, the rookie opener played down any comparisons with India's great, saying that, unlike the bowling attack that Sehwag faced in his time, today’s bowlers miss that zeal. Also read | Asia Cup: Pakistan pacer Haris Rauf mocks Indian fans with ‘ugly war gesture’; sparks controversy – WATCH “The bowlers that Viru paaji has hit, I don’t think there’s anyone like those bowlers," Abhishek said on Sony Sports after the match. Sehwag’s golden advice to Abhishek Sehwag, perhaps the most dangerous opener across formats, advised Abhishek on something that could elevate his growing career and put him in the league of the best batters around. "Whenever you reach 70, don't miss out on 100 because Sunil Gavaskar said to me – when you retire, you'll remember the innings where you got out on 70 or 80. If you convert those, maybe your career will have more hundreds because these opportunities don't come again and again. When you're batting well, on your day, try to go not out – it's better," Sehwag said. Meanwhile, Abhishek continues to run riot in the Asia Cup. Topping the run-scoring chart with 173 runs in four contested matches, he is looking unstoppable. Against Pakistan in the recently concluded Super Four tie, he and Shubman Gill stitched a 105-run stand for the first wicket, setting the base for the others to come and complete the job. Chasing 172, India won the match by six wickets and seven balls remaining, sitting at the top of the points table with better NRR than Bangladesh.

Abhishek continues to run riot in the Asia Cup. Topping the run-scoring chart with 173 runs in four contested matches, he is looking unstoppable.

Asia Cup 2025: Abhishek takes dig at Shaheen-led PAK pace attack, dismisses parallels with Sehwag

Indian T20I opener Abhishek Sharma has turned heads in international cricket with his batting style, range, and attacking approach. Against Pakistan in India’s Super Four tie in the Asia Cup 2025, he showed why he is highly rated. Taking on Pakistan’s premier seamer, Shaheen Shah Afridi, from the word go, Abhishek set the tone for the run chase, with India eventually completing it with six wickets and seven balls remaining. However, there were moments during the second innings when Pakistani quicks got involved in verbal volleys with Abhishek, sharing tense moments with Shaheen and Haris Rauf.&nbsp;While both <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-abhishek-sharma-shaheen-afridi-tie-up-in-verbal-volley-video-goes-viral-1758476437826">exchanged words after Abhishek whacked a six off Shaheen’s first ball over the fine leg</a>, Sharma and Rauf were on record throwing verbal punches at each other during the Powerplay. Although the stump mike failed to record their conversations, lip readers could predict nothing less than swearing.&nbsp;WATCH VIDEO -

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Things got heated between Abhishek Sharma &amp; Haris Rauf 👀🤬 Watch <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvPAK?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvPAK</a> LIVE NOW, on the Sony Sports Network TV channels &amp; Sony LIV.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SonySportsNetwork?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SonySportsNetwork</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DPWorldAsiaCup2025?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DPWorldAsiaCup2025</a> <a href="https://t.co/Wt9n0hrtl7">pic.twitter.com/Wt9n0hrtl7</a>&mdash; Sony Sports Network (@SonySportsNetwk) <a href="https://twitter.com/SonySportsNetwk/status/1969830585100067051?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 21, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Abhishek, however, reverted with his runs, slamming a match-winning 74 off 39 balls, including five sixes and six fours. He and Shubman Gill stitched a 105-run stand for the first wicket inside ten overs, dominating Pakistani bowlers for fun. From Shaheen to Rauf, from Abrar to Faheem, Abhishek cleared boundaries against all. &nbsp;Speaking at the post-match presser, the emerging superstar said, “Today was pretty simple, the way they were coming out to us without any reason, I did not like it at all. That's why I went after them. I wanted to deliver for the team.” &nbsp;“(On his stand with Gill) We have been playing since school days; we enjoy each other's company, we thought we would do it, and today was the day. The way he was giving it back, I really enjoyed it.&nbsp; &nbsp;“If you see someone playing like this, it's because the team supports me and they back me. That's the intent I show, and I'm practicing really hard, and if it's my day, I'm gonna win it for my team,” he concluded. &nbsp;Meanwhile, Team India’s six-wicket win in Dubai helps them sit at the top of the points table with a better NRR than Bangladesh, while Sri Lanka and Pakistan occupy the bottom two places.&nbsp; &nbsp;The Men in Blue will next face Bangladesh on Wednesday (Sep 24) in Dubai.

Abhishek Sharma completed a match-winning fifty against Pakistan in Asia Cup's Super Four tie.

Indian T20I opener Abhishek Sharma has turned heads in international cricket with his batting style, range, and attacking approach. Against Pakistan in India’s Super Four tie in the Asia Cup 2025, he showed why he is highly rated. Taking on Pakistan’s premier seamer, Shaheen Shah Afridi, from the word go, Abhishek set the tone for the run chase, with India eventually completing it with six wickets and seven balls remaining. However, there were moments during the second innings when Pakistani quicks got involved in verbal volleys with Abhishek, sharing tense moments with Shaheen and Haris Rauf. While both exchanged words after Abhishek whacked a six off Shaheen’s first ball over the fine leg, Sharma and Rauf were on record throwing verbal punches at each other during the Powerplay. Although the stump mike failed to record their conversations, lip readers could predict nothing less than swearing. WATCH VIDEO -

Abhishek Sharma completed a match-winning fifty against Pakistan in Asia Cup's Super Four tie.

Asia Cup: Abhishek Sharma fumes over Pakistan's 'verbal volley' tactics - WATCH

From Jasprit Bumrah to Shaheen Afridi, here is a look at the top five pacers to watch out for in the upcoming Asia Cup 2025. This list also includes Fazalhaq Farooqi, Mustafizur Rahman and Matheesha Pathirana.

From Jasprit Bumrah to Shaheen Afridi, here is a look at the top five pacers to watch out for in the upcoming Asia Cup 2025. This list also includes Fazalhaq Farooqi, Mustafizur Rahman and Matheesha Pathirana.

From Jasprit Bumrah to Shaheen Afridi, 5 pacers to watch out for in upcoming Asia Cup 2025

Has India skipper Rohit Sharma become slow in reacting to the ball with age, or is it just form? The question was raised during the India vs Pakistan Champions Trophy match on Feb 23 in Dubai when Rohit was dismissed on a yorker by Shaheen Shah Afridi.
Rohit was living on the edge as India started their chase of 242. He got a yorker first up but was able to jam it out. In the next over, Rohit got a four off a top edge on Naseem Shah's bowling before hitting the bowler for a six on the very next ball.
Also WATCH: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-ind-vs-pak-match-today-watch-video-hardik-pandya-gives-fly-away-send-off-to-babar-azam-after-dismissing-him-8749591">Hardik Pandya gives 'fly away' send off to Babar Azam after dismissing him</a>
In Naseem's next over, Rohit hit another four disdainfully through the mid-wicket region. In the over he got out, Rohit had hit Afridi for an upper drive to get a four before the bowler sent back a yoker.
This time, Rohit was too slow to react as the ball went through under his bat even before he could put a bat to it. Have a look at the dismissal below:
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This was the third time Shaheen Afridi got Rohit out in five ODI innings. In these meetings, Rohit has managed just 60 runs off Afridi on 53 balls at an average of 17.66 and a strike rate of 88. He has also hit the left-hander for six fours and three sixes.
<h2>Pakistan set 242 runs target for India</h2>
Earlier, Pakistan won the toss and elected to bat first against India. They lost the first two wickets for less than 50 runs before Saud Shakeel and Muhammed Rizwan added 104 runs for the third wicket.
Pakistan kept losing wickets at regular intervals after that, with Shakeel ending up as their highest scorer with 62 runs. Rizwan also chipped in with a handy 46.
Down the order, Khushdil Shah scored an important 38 and took Pakistan to 241. For India, Kuldeep Yadav finished with 3/40, while Hardik Pandya picked up 2/31.

Champions Trophy, IND vs PAK: Rohit was too slow to react as the ball by Shaheen Afridi went through under his bat even before he could put a bat to it. Cricket Sports

Has India skipper Rohit Sharma become slow in reacting to the ball with age, or is it just form? The question was raised during the India vs Pakistan Champions Trophy match on Feb 23 in Dubai when Rohit was dismissed on a yorker by Shaheen Shah Afridi. Rohit was living on the edge as India started their chase of 242. He got a yorker first up but was able to jam it out. In the next over, Rohit got a four off a top edge on Naseem Shah's bowling before hitting the bowler for a six on the very next ball. Also WATCH: Hardik Pandya gives 'fly away' send off to Babar Azam after dismissing him In Naseem's next over, Rohit hit another four disdainfully through the mid-wicket region. In the over he got out, Rohit had hit Afridi for an upper drive to get a four before the bowler sent back a yoker. This time, Rohit was too slow to react as the ball went through under his bat even before he could put a bat to it. Have a look at the dismissal below: View this post on Instagram A post shared by ICC (@icc) This was the third time Shaheen Afridi got Rohit out in five ODI innings. In these meetings, Rohit has managed just 60 runs off Afridi on 53 balls at an average of 17.66 and a strike rate of 88. He has also hit the left-hander for six fours and three sixes. Pakistan set 242 runs target for India Earlier, Pakistan won the toss and elected to bat first against India. They lost the first two wickets for less than 50 runs before Saud Shakeel and Muhammed Rizwan added 104 runs for the third wicket. Pakistan kept losing wickets at regular intervals after that, with Shakeel ending up as their highest scorer with 62 runs. Rizwan also chipped in with a handy 46. Down the order, Khushdil Shah scored an important 38 and took Pakistan to 241. For India, Kuldeep Yadav finished with 3/40, while Hardik Pandya picked up 2/31.

Champions Trophy, IND vs PAK: Rohit becoming slow to react? Shaheen Afridi gets him third time in five innings - WATCH

Pakistan head coach Aaqib Javed has placed his trust in the pace trio of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/shaheen-afridi">Shaheen Shah Afridi</a>, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/naseem-shah">Naseem Shah</a>, and Haris Rauf, believing they will deliver &ldquo;something special&rdquo; in the must-win Champions Trophy clash against India on Sunday (Feb 23).
Pakistan faces immense pressure, not only due to their recent record against India but also because of the absence of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/fakhar-zaman">Fakhar Zaman</a>, who was instrumental in their 2017 Champions Trophy final victory but has been ruled out due to injury.
&ldquo;Fakhar is a big loss. He is a match-winner, but we have confidence in the rest of our players,&rdquo; Javed said at the pre-match press conference.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-2025-indias-vice-captain-shubman-gill-shares-winning-score-in-dubai-8747286">Champions Trophy 2025: India's vice-captain Shubman Gill shares winning score in Dubai</a>
<h2>'Our strength lies in pace bowling'</h2>
Acknowledging the high stakes of the game, he emphasised that pressure is an inherent part of such matches. &ldquo;There is always pressure; no game is without it. But this is the best opportunity for any player to make a mark. We may have fewer spin options, but our strength lies in pace bowling. This trio reminds me of our 1990s pace attack, including&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/wasim-akram">Wasim Akram</a> and Waqar Younis. I believe they will bring something special tomorrow,&rdquo; he added.
With Pakistan already having lost their tournament opener to New Zealand in Karachi, another defeat would significantly hurt their semifinal chances.
Meanwhile, India has begun their campaign on a strong note, securing a six-wicket victory over Bangladesh in their opening match on a slow surface. Their ability to adapt during the chase of a modest 229 in 47 overs gave them valuable insight into the conditions.
However, Javed dismissed talks of India holding an advantage due to their prior match experience at the venue. &ldquo;I don&rsquo;t think playing an extra match here gives India any advantage,&rdquo; he remarked confidently.
(With inputs from agencies)

Sports, Cricket: Pakistan faces immense pressure due to absence of Fakhar Zaman, who was instrumental in their 2017 Champions Trophy final but has been ruled out due to injury

Pakistan head coach Aaqib Javed has placed his trust in the pace trio of Shaheen Shah Afridi, Naseem Shah, and Haris Rauf, believing they will deliver “something special” in the must-win Champions Trophy clash against India on Sunday (Feb 23). Pakistan faces immense pressure, not only due to their recent record against India but also because of the absence of Fakhar Zaman, who was instrumental in their 2017 Champions Trophy final victory but has been ruled out due to injury. “Fakhar is a big loss. He is a match-winner, but we have confidence in the rest of our players,” Javed said at the pre-match press conference. Also Read: Champions Trophy 2025: India's vice-captain Shubman Gill shares winning score in Dubai 'Our strength lies in pace bowling' Acknowledging the high stakes of the game, he emphasised that pressure is an inherent part of such matches. “There is always pressure; no game is without it. But this is the best opportunity for any player to make a mark. We may have fewer spin options, but our strength lies in pace bowling. This trio reminds me of our 1990s pace attack, including Wasim Akram and Waqar Younis. I believe they will bring something special tomorrow,” he added. With Pakistan already having lost their tournament opener to New Zealand in Karachi, another defeat would significantly hurt their semifinal chances. Meanwhile, India has begun their campaign on a strong note, securing a six-wicket victory over Bangladesh in their opening match on a slow surface. Their ability to adapt during the chase of a modest 229 in 47 overs gave them valuable insight into the conditions. However, Javed dismissed talks of India holding an advantage due to their prior match experience at the venue. “I don’t think playing an extra match here gives India any advantage,” he remarked confidently. (With inputs from agencies)

Champions Trophy 2025: Pakistan's pace trio will bring out something special against India, says head coach Aaqib Javed

The ICC has fined Pakistan seamer <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/shaheen-afridi" rel="dofollow">Shaheen Shah Afridi</a> and batters Saud Shakeel and Kamran Ghulam for breaching the code of conduct during the recently concluded South Africa tie in Karachi on Wednesday (Feb 12). While Shaheen was fined 25 per cent of his match fees for <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/pak-vs-sa-odi-heated-moment-shaheen-afridi-matthew-breetzke-face-off-after-collisionwatch-8715461" rel="dofollow">breaching Article 2.12 of the ICC code of conduct</a>, Kamran and Saud were slapped with 10% of their match fees for breaching Article 2.5 (of the code).
All three were involved in separate instances during the high-octane game against South Africa, which Pakistan won by six wickets, completing their highest-successful ODI run chase.&nbsp;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/2025-champions-trophy-bangladesh-skipper-shanto-says-bangladesh-going-to-tournament-to-become-champions-8717076" rel="dofollow">2025 Champions Trophy: Skipper Shanto says Bangladesh 'going to tournament to become champions'</a>
While the apex body found Shaheen guilty of obstructing Matthew Breetzke as he completed a single during the 28th over of the first innings, the two remaining batters were fined for aggressively celebrating Temba Bavuma&rsquo;s wicket.
The first instance occurred during the 28th over of South Africa&rsquo;s innings when Afridi deliberately obstructed Breetzke&rsquo;s path as he completed his run; that happened right after both got involved in a verbal argument.
Watch -
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m737sc79-pv4zidx1-o3vs715x">
It's getting all heated out there! 🥵 Shaheen Afridi did not take kindly to Matthew Breetzke's reaction, leading to an altercation in the middle! 🔥<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TriNationSeriesOnFanCode?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TriNationSeriesOnFanCode</a> <a href="https://t.co/J2SutoEZQs">pic.twitter.com/J2SutoEZQs</a>
&mdash; FanCode (@FanCode) <a href="https://twitter.com/FanCode/status/1889642676502265966?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 12, 2025</a></blockquote>
The second instance unfolded in the next over, when Shakeel accounted for Bavuma&rsquo;s dismissal (run out via direct throw), and Ghulam celebrated aggressively and too close to Bavuma, breaching ICC&rsquo;s code of conduct.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m737sysz-caaw6bua-h0d1z4ot">
Fireworks all around! 🥵 Temba Bavuma is dismissed by a brilliant throw from Saud Shakeel, but its the feisty celebrations that are grabbing the limelight! 😏<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TriNationSeriesOnFanCode?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TriNationSeriesOnFanCode</a> <a href="https://t.co/glTykGVqS9">pic.twitter.com/glTykGVqS9</a>
&mdash; FanCode (@FanCode) <a href="https://twitter.com/FanCode/status/1889647235203309697?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 12, 2025</a></blockquote>
Besides facing fines for their respective actions, all three players have received one demerit point each to their disciplinary records, though none had received any in the past 24 months.&nbsp;
Meanwhile, all players have accepted the punishments, as no formal hearings regarding this instance will take place.&nbsp;
<h2>Pakistan complete historic chase to reach final</h2>
Hosting a tri-series for the first time in several years, Pakistan lost the tournament opener to New Zealand by 78 runs but returned stronger by beating South Africa in the do-or-die match in Karachi. Bowling first after losing the toss, Pakistan conceded a mammoth 352 for five in the first innings, with Bavuma (82), Breetzke (82) and Heinrich Klaasen (87) being their top scorers.
Chasing 353, Pakistan lost <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/babar-azam" rel="dofollow">Babar Azam</a> (23) inside the Powerplay before Shakeel departed inside the 10th over. Six balls later, dangerous opener Fakhar Zaman returned to the pavilion with Pakistan&rsquo;s scorecard reading 91 for three.
Skipper and gloveman Mohammad Rizwan, alongside all-rounder Salman Agha, put Pakistan back on the track and soon after put them in the driver&rsquo;s seat, completing respective hundreds. While Rizwan remained unbeaten on 122, Agha got out on 134 before Tayyab Tahir hit the winning run to seal the win for his team.&nbsp;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m737tyrp-d75q8jin-sinapa1t">
A record chase and a win for the ages!💪🏽 Powered by Rizwan and Agha's centuries, Pakistan booked a place in the finals of the Tri-Nation Series with a spectacular win over South Africa in Karachi.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TriNationSeriesOnFanCode?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TriNationSeriesOnFanCode</a> <a href="https://t.co/NH96Z7QqTn">pic.twitter.com/NH96Z7QqTn</a>
&mdash; FanCode (@FanCode) <a href="https://twitter.com/FanCode/status/1889736468513563049?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 12, 2025</a></blockquote>
Pakistan will play New Zealand in the tri-series final on Friday (Feb 14) in Karachi.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

Sports, Cricket: All were involved in separate instances during the game against South Africa, which Pakistan won by six wickets, completing their highest-successful ODI chase.

The ICC has fined Pakistan seamer Shaheen Shah Afridi and batters Saud Shakeel and Kamran Ghulam for breaching the code of conduct during the recently concluded South Africa tie in Karachi on Wednesday (Feb 12). While Shaheen was fined 25 per cent of his match fees for breaching Article 2.12 of the ICC code of conduct, Kamran and Saud were slapped with 10% of their match fees for breaching Article 2.5 (of the code). All three were involved in separate instances during the high-octane game against South Africa, which Pakistan won by six wickets, completing their highest-successful ODI run chase. Also read | 2025 Champions Trophy: Skipper Shanto says Bangladesh 'going to tournament to become champions' While the apex body found Shaheen guilty of obstructing Matthew Breetzke as he completed a single during the 28th over of the first innings, the two remaining batters were fined for aggressively celebrating Temba Bavuma’s wicket. The first instance occurred during the 28th over of South Africa’s innings when Afridi deliberately obstructed Breetzke’s path as he completed his run; that happened right after both got involved in a verbal argument. Watch - It's getting all heated out there! 🥵 Shaheen Afridi did not take kindly to Matthew Breetzke's reaction, leading to an altercation in the middle! 🔥#TriNationSeriesOnFanCode pic.twitter.com/J2SutoEZQs — FanCode (@FanCode) February 12, 2025 The second instance unfolded in the next over, when Shakeel accounted for Bavuma’s dismissal (run out via direct throw), and Ghulam celebrated aggressively and too close to Bavuma, breaching ICC’s code of conduct. Fireworks all around! 🥵 Temba Bavuma is dismissed by a brilliant throw from Saud Shakeel, but its the feisty celebrations that are grabbing the limelight! 😏#TriNationSeriesOnFanCode pic.twitter.com/glTykGVqS9 — FanCode (@FanCode) February 12, 2025 Besides facing fines for their respective actions, all three players have received one demerit point each to their disciplinary records, though none had received any in the past 24 months. Meanwhile, all players have accepted the punishments, as no formal hearings regarding this instance will take place. Pakistan complete historic chase to reach final Hosting a tri-series for the first time in several years, Pakistan lost the tournament opener to New Zealand by 78 runs but returned stronger by beating South Africa in the do-or-die match in Karachi. Bowling first after losing the toss, Pakistan conceded a mammoth 352 for five in the first innings, with Bavuma (82), Breetzke (82) and Heinrich Klaasen (87) being their top scorers. Chasing 353, Pakistan lost Babar Azam (23) inside the Powerplay before Shakeel departed inside the 10th over. Six balls later, dangerous opener Fakhar Zaman returned to the pavilion with Pakistan’s scorecard reading 91 for three. Skipper and gloveman Mohammad Rizwan, alongside all-rounder Salman Agha, put Pakistan back on the track and soon after put them in the driver’s seat, completing respective hundreds. While Rizwan remained unbeaten on 122, Agha got out on 134 before Tayyab Tahir hit the winning run to seal the win for his team. A record chase and a win for the ages!💪🏽 Powered by Rizwan and Agha's centuries, Pakistan booked a place in the finals of the Tri-Nation Series with a spectacular win over South Africa in Karachi.#TriNationSeriesOnFanCode pic.twitter.com/NH96Z7QqTn — FanCode (@FanCode) February 12, 2025 Pakistan will play New Zealand in the tri-series final on Friday (Feb 14) in Karachi. (With inputs from agencies)

ICC fine Shaheen Afridi, batters for breaching code of conduct during South Africa tie

With only days remaining to the Champions Trophy, Pakistan continues to face mounting criticism, with the ongoing Tri-series between Pakistan, South Africa, and New Zealand also under scrutiny.&nbsp;
The tournament, held in Karachi, has already seen a few controversial moments, including an incident involving New Zealand&rsquo;s <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/rachin-ravindra">Rachin Ravindra</a>, which left him injured badly. Another flashpoint occurred when Pakistan&rsquo;s&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/shaheen-afridi">Shaheen Afridi</a> and South Africa&rsquo;s Matthew Breetzke found themselves in a tense confrontation on the field.
Watch the video here:
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">
It's getting all heated out there! 🥵 Shaheen Afridi did not take kindly to Matthew Breetzke's reaction, leading to an altercation in the middle! 🔥<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TriNationSeriesOnFanCode?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TriNationSeriesOnFanCode</a> <a href="https://t.co/J2SutoEZQs">pic.twitter.com/J2SutoEZQs</a>
&mdash; FanCode (@FanCode) <a href="https://twitter.com/FanCode/status/1889642676502265966?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 12, 2025</a></blockquote>

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The altercation unfolded during the 29th over of the innings when South African batter Matthew Breetzke appeared to gesture as if to strike Afridi with his bat. The Pakistani pacer, visibly angered, confronted Breetzke, leading to a heated exchange between the two. While the situation initially seemed to calm down, tensions flared again later in the same over.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/olympics/badminton-asia-mixed-team-championships-2025-india-hammer-macau-5-0-to-start-campaign-in-style-8715313">Badminton Asia Mixed Team Championships 2025: India hammer Macau 5-0 to start campaign in style</a>
As Shaheen delivered another ball, he positioned himself in Breetzke&rsquo;s path as the batter attempted a run. The two players collided, though Breetzke managed to maintain his balance and complete the run. Frustrated by the incident, the South African batter confronted Afridi once more, prompting intervention from other players and the on-field umpire to separate them before play resumed at the National Bank Stadium.
<h2>Breetzke shines on debut</h2>
Despite the heated on-field moment, Matthew Breetzke continued to impress with the bat. After South Africa elected to bat first, they suffered an early setback when Tony de Zorzi was dismissed by Shaheen Afridi. However, Breetzke and skipper Temba Bavuma built a solid 119-run partnership, with Bavuma scoring 82 off 96 balls and Breetzke smashing 83 off 84 before falling to Khushdil Shah. South Africa finished strongly, posting a formidable total of 352/5.
Breetzke&rsquo;s performance in the Tri-series has been remarkable, especially in his ODI debut, where he notched a stunning 150 against New Zealand. However, despite his heroics, South Africa fell short in that game, allowing New Zealand to secure a place in the Tri-series final.
With tensions running high both on and off the field, the drama in Karachi adds further intrigue to the tournament as the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/champions-trophy">Champions Trophy</a> looms closer.
(With inputs from agencies)

Cricket, Sports: Shaheen Afridi and Matthew Breetzke engaged in a heated conversation after a mid-pitch collision that left the Proteas batter angered during the Tri-Nation series.

With only days remaining to the Champions Trophy, Pakistan continues to face mounting criticism, with the ongoing Tri-series between Pakistan, South Africa, and New Zealand also under scrutiny. The tournament, held in Karachi, has already seen a few controversial moments, including an incident involving New Zealand’s Rachin Ravindra, which left him injured badly. Another flashpoint occurred when Pakistan’s Shaheen Afridi and South Africa’s Matthew Breetzke found themselves in a tense confrontation on the field. Watch the video here: It's getting all heated out there! 🥵 Shaheen Afridi did not take kindly to Matthew Breetzke's reaction, leading to an altercation in the middle! 🔥#TriNationSeriesOnFanCode pic.twitter.com/J2SutoEZQs — FanCode (@FanCode) February 12, 2025 The altercation unfolded during the 29th over of the innings when South African batter Matthew Breetzke appeared to gesture as if to strike Afridi with his bat. The Pakistani pacer, visibly angered, confronted Breetzke, leading to a heated exchange between the two. While the situation initially seemed to calm down, tensions flared again later in the same over. Also Read: Badminton Asia Mixed Team Championships 2025: India hammer Macau 5-0 to start campaign in style As Shaheen delivered another ball, he positioned himself in Breetzke’s path as the batter attempted a run. The two players collided, though Breetzke managed to maintain his balance and complete the run. Frustrated by the incident, the South African batter confronted Afridi once more, prompting intervention from other players and the on-field umpire to separate them before play resumed at the National Bank Stadium. Breetzke shines on debut Despite the heated on-field moment, Matthew Breetzke continued to impress with the bat. After South Africa elected to bat first, they suffered an early setback when Tony de Zorzi was dismissed by Shaheen Afridi. However, Breetzke and skipper Temba Bavuma built a solid 119-run partnership, with Bavuma scoring 82 off 96 balls and Breetzke smashing 83 off 84 before falling to Khushdil Shah. South Africa finished strongly, posting a formidable total of 352/5. Breetzke’s performance in the Tri-series has been remarkable, especially in his ODI debut, where he notched a stunning 150 against New Zealand. However, despite his heroics, South Africa fell short in that game, allowing New Zealand to secure a place in the Tri-series final. With tensions running high both on and off the field, the drama in Karachi adds further intrigue to the tournament as the Champions Trophy looms closer. (With inputs from agencies)

PAK vs SA ODI: Heated moment! Shaheen Afridi and Matthew Breetzke face off after collision–WATCH

The Pakistan selectors overlooked ace seamer <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/shaheen-afridi" rel="dofollow">Shaheen Shah Afridi</a> for the two-match home Test series against West Indies, with head coach and former pacer Aaqib Javed explaining his omission. A force to reckon with across formats, Afridi last played a Test in October 2024 (against England in Multan), when Pakistan conceded 823 runs in an innings, missing all five-day action since.
Taking a jibe at his fitness, Javed said if Afridi can feature in franchise-based leagues worldwide, he can also play four-day matches to ensure his stamina levels do not drop. Speaking on the sidelines of the second Test in Multan, Javed said, "If you're playing all three formats, then in one series you're bowling in Tests, where you need to bowl 25-30 overs, and then for three months, you're not playing any four-day games.&nbsp;
This is why fast bowlers' energy levels drop when you need them to bowl to the tail-enders after sending down 20-25 overs in a day," he said, as quoted by the Times of India (TOI).
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ind-vs-eng-2nd-t20i-varun-chakravarthy-attributes-domestic-cricket-for-his-t20i-career-boom-says-smat-is-at-par-with-ipl-8652112" rel="dofollow">IND vs ENG 2nd T20I: Varun attributes domestic cricket for his T20I career boom</a>
Had Afridi played ahead of Mohammad Abbas in the Cape Town Test (against South Africa last month), Pakistan wouldn&rsquo;t have come that close to winning, which they didn&rsquo;t though, added Javed.&nbsp;
"If Shaheen played in Cape Town, Mohammad Abbas would not have played. Abbas was playing after three years, and because of him, the match reached an interesting end. If they can play leagues before Test matches, they also need to play four-day cricket to ensure their stamina is of that level."
<h2>Javed hits back at critics</h2>
Though Pakistan never came close to fighting for a spot in the current <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/icc-world-test-championship-final" rel="dofollow">World Test Championship (WTC) Final</a>, reeling in the bottom half of the table, they have begun putting efforts in the right direction to claim their maiden Test title.&nbsp;They did what most teams from the sub-continent have been doing for the past decade - preparing pitches to their advantage.
Following <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/shambles-pakistan-fall-to-a-new-low-loses-multan-test-against-england-by-an-inning-766544" rel="dofollow">losing the Multan Test (to England) by an innings</a>, Pakistan prepared dust bowls for the remaining two matches in that series, winning both and claiming the series.&nbsp;Fast forward to January 2025, they did the same for the home series against West Indies, having won the first Test convincingly.
"Why is it that if fast bowlers take wickets, [people say] Test cricket is moving forward, and if spinners take wickets, Test cricket's going backwards?" Aaqib said.
"I don't understand this. When you go to Australia and England, they prepare pitches how they like. So, if we prepare turning wickets and spinners take wickets, what is the problem?
"Of course, we were right to prepare a spin pitch [in the first Test] against West Indies. Their batters are not as proficient against spin when compared to fast bowling. I also want to address concerns about where our Test cricket is going. If we had taken these decisions earlier, then we would have been in the race for the WTC [final]. The rule of Test cricket is to win at home. If you win at home and you win two to three Tests away, you become a strong candidate for the final,&rdquo; he added.
Meanwhile, Noman Ali created history on day one of the second Test, becoming the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/pak-vs-wi-2nd-test-noman-ali-becomes-first-pakistan-spinner-to-pick-test-hat-trick-8652161">first Pakistani spinner to pick a Test hat-trick</a>. He picked six wickets in the first innings, wrapping the visitors on 163 inside two sessions.&nbsp;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m6bwg9v9-q4ic3rhv-cjtjx8ai">
𝐎𝐧𝐞 𝐢𝐧𝐜𝐫𝐞𝐝𝐢𝐛𝐥𝐞 𝐟𝐞𝐚𝐭! 😍 Hat-trick hero Noman Ali makes history in Multan 🙌<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PAKvWI?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PAKvWI</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RedBallRumble?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RedBallRumble</a> <a href="https://t.co/2xRLeYpVXl">pic.twitter.com/2xRLeYpVXl</a>
&mdash; Pakistan Cricket (@TheRealPCB) <a href="https://twitter.com/TheRealPCB/status/1883027906454241612?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 25, 2025</a></blockquote>
(With inputs from agencies)

Sports, Cricket: Afridi last played a Test in October 2024 (against England), when Pakistan conceded 823 runs in an innings, missing all five-day action since.

The Pakistan selectors overlooked ace seamer Shaheen Shah Afridi for the two-match home Test series against West Indies, with head coach and former pacer Aaqib Javed explaining his omission. A force to reckon with across formats, Afridi last played a Test in October 2024 (against England in Multan), when Pakistan conceded 823 runs in an innings, missing all five-day action since. Taking a jibe at his fitness, Javed said if Afridi can feature in franchise-based leagues worldwide, he can also play four-day matches to ensure his stamina levels do not drop. Speaking on the sidelines of the second Test in Multan, Javed said, "If you're playing all three formats, then in one series you're bowling in Tests, where you need to bowl 25-30 overs, and then for three months, you're not playing any four-day games. This is why fast bowlers' energy levels drop when you need them to bowl to the tail-enders after sending down 20-25 overs in a day," he said, as quoted by the Times of India (TOI). Also read | IND vs ENG 2nd T20I: Varun attributes domestic cricket for his T20I career boom Had Afridi played ahead of Mohammad Abbas in the Cape Town Test (against South Africa last month), Pakistan wouldn’t have come that close to winning, which they didn’t though, added Javed. "If Shaheen played in Cape Town, Mohammad Abbas would not have played. Abbas was playing after three years, and because of him, the match reached an interesting end. If they can play leagues before Test matches, they also need to play four-day cricket to ensure their stamina is of that level." Javed hits back at critics Though Pakistan never came close to fighting for a spot in the current World Test Championship (WTC) Final, reeling in the bottom half of the table, they have begun putting efforts in the right direction to claim their maiden Test title. They did what most teams from the sub-continent have been doing for the past decade - preparing pitches to their advantage. Following losing the Multan Test (to England) by an innings, Pakistan prepared dust bowls for the remaining two matches in that series, winning both and claiming the series. Fast forward to January 2025, they did the same for the home series against West Indies, having won the first Test convincingly. "Why is it that if fast bowlers take wickets, [people say] Test cricket is moving forward, and if spinners take wickets, Test cricket's going backwards?" Aaqib said. "I don't understand this. When you go to Australia and England, they prepare pitches how they like. So, if we prepare turning wickets and spinners take wickets, what is the problem? "Of course, we were right to prepare a spin pitch [in the first Test] against West Indies. Their batters are not as proficient against spin when compared to fast bowling. I also want to address concerns about where our Test cricket is going. If we had taken these decisions earlier, then we would have been in the race for the WTC [final]. The rule of Test cricket is to win at home. If you win at home and you win two to three Tests away, you become a strong candidate for the final,” he added. Meanwhile, Noman Ali created history on day one of the second Test, becoming the first Pakistani spinner to pick a Test hat-trick. He picked six wickets in the first innings, wrapping the visitors on 163 inside two sessions. 𝐎𝐧𝐞 𝐢𝐧𝐜𝐫𝐞𝐝𝐢𝐛𝐥𝐞 𝐟𝐞𝐚𝐭! 😍 Hat-trick hero Noman Ali makes history in Multan 🙌#PAKvWI | #RedBallRumble pic.twitter.com/2xRLeYpVXl — Pakistan Cricket (@TheRealPCB) January 25, 2025 (With inputs from agencies)

‘If they can play leagues, they can also…,’ Aaqib Javed explains Shaheen Afridi’s omission

Pakistan's star pacer Shaheen Shah Afridi created history on Tuesday (Dec 10) during the first T20I against South Africa by becoming the first bowler from his country to take at least 100 international wickets in each of the formats (Tests, ODIs and T20Is). Afridi is also only the fourth pacer in the world to achieve the landmark.

Ahead of Afridi, New Zealand's Tim Southee (389 Test wickets, 221 ODI wickets and 164 T20I wickets), Bangladesh's Tim Southee (246 Test wickets, 317 ODI wickets and 149 T20I wickets) and Sri Lanka's Lasith Malinga (101 Test wickets, 338 ODI wickets and 107 T20I wickets) had achieved the record.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/icc-test-rankings-harry-brook-replaces-joe-root-to-become-no-1-virat-and-rohit-suffer-massive-drops-783216">ICC Test Rankings: Harry Brook replaces Joe Root to become No. 1, Virat and Rohit suffer massive drops</a>

Afridi currently has 116 Test wickets and 112 ODI wickets to go with his 100 wickets in the shortest format which he reached with the figures of 3/22 in the match against the Proteas.

Overall, Afridi is the third Pakistan bowler to take 100 or more T20I wickets behind fellow pacer Harris Rauf (110 T20I wickets) and spinner Shadab Khan (107 T20I wickets).

As for the match, a power-packed innings by David Miller and a career-best all-round performance by George Linde took South Africa to an 11-run win.

Miller slammed 82 off 40 balls with four fours and eight sixes and Linde hit a rapid 48 in a South African total of 183 for nine. Left-arm spinner Linde followed up by taking four for 21. Pakistan captain Mohammad Rizwan hit 74 and his team were still in with a chance of winning until he was caught off the second ball of the final over.

Linde took two wickets in his final over and briefly had a hat-trick when Haris Rauf was given out leg before wicket before successfully reviewing the decision. Rizwan said the individual performances of Miller and Linde was the difference between the teams.&nbsp;

Pakistan's star pacer Shaheen Shah Afridi created history on Tuesday (Dec 10) during the first T20I against South Africa by becoming the first bowler from his country to take at least 100 international wickets in each of the formats (Tests, ODIs and T20Is).

Pakistan's star pacer Shaheen Shah Afridi created history on Tuesday (Dec 10) during the first T20I against South Africa by becoming the first bowler from his country to take at least 100 international wickets in each of the formats (Tests, ODIs and T20Is). Afridi is also only the fourth pacer in the world to achieve the landmark. Ahead of Afridi, New Zealand's Tim Southee (389 Test wickets, 221 ODI wickets and 164 T20I wickets), Bangladesh's Tim Southee (246 Test wickets, 317 ODI wickets and 149 T20I wickets) and Sri Lanka's Lasith Malinga (101 Test wickets, 338 ODI wickets and 107 T20I wickets) had achieved the record. Also Read: ICC Test Rankings: Harry Brook replaces Joe Root to become No. 1, Virat and Rohit suffer massive drops Afridi currently has 116 Test wickets and 112 ODI wickets to go with his 100 wickets in the shortest format which he reached with the figures of 3/22 in the match against the Proteas. Overall, Afridi is the third Pakistan bowler to take 100 or more T20I wickets behind fellow pacer Harris Rauf (110 T20I wickets) and spinner Shadab Khan (107 T20I wickets). As for the match, a power-packed innings by David Miller and a career-best all-round performance by George Linde took South Africa to an 11-run win. Miller slammed 82 off 40 balls with four fours and eight sixes and Linde hit a rapid 48 in a South African total of 183 for nine. Left-arm spinner Linde followed up by taking four for 21. Pakistan captain Mohammad Rizwan hit 74 and his team were still in with a chance of winning until he was caught off the second ball of the final over. Linde took two wickets in his final over and briefly had a hat-trick when Haris Rauf was given out leg before wicket before successfully reviewing the decision. Rizwan said the individual performances of Miller and Linde was the difference between the teams.

Pakistan's Shaheen Afridi creates history, becomes fourth bowler in world to achieve THIS feat

Pakistan has decided to rest Babar Azam, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Naseem Shah and Sarfaraz Ahmed from the remaining two Tests squad against England. This comes after Pakistan's innings and 47 runs loss in the first Test despite scoring 556 runs in the first innings.

Babar last played a significant innings in December 2022, scoring 161 against New Zealand in Karachi. Since then, the former skipper has gone half century-less in 18 Test innings with a highest score of 41 against Australia in Melbourne earlier this year.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/captain-suryakumar-yadav-lauds-selfless-sanju-samson-after-record-win-over-ban-in-3rd-t20i-767032">Captain Suryakumar Yadav lauds ‘selfless’ Sanju Samson after record win over BAN in 3rd T20I</a>

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has named Haseebullah, Mehran Mumtaz, Kamran Ghulam (all uncapped), fast bowler Mohammad Ali, and off-spinner Sajid Khan as the replacements in the 16-man squad.

The decision was taken by newly-looking selection panel of Aleem Dar, Aaqib Javed, and Azhar Ali joining Asad Shafiq, Hasan Cheema, and Test coach Jason Gillespie, along with Test captain Shan Masood.

"We've had to carefully consider current player form, the urgency to bounce back in the series and Pakistan's demanding 2024-25 international schedule. With these factors in mind and in the best interest of Pakistan cricket as well as the players, we've made the decision to rest Babar Azam, Naseem Shah, Sarfaraz Ahmed and Shaheen Shah Afridi," said selection panel member Aaqib Javed.

Pakistan's head curator, Tony Hemming, has also been given instructions to make the Multan pitch - the venue of second Test - spinner friendly, reported cricket news website Cricbuzz.

It is to be noted that Multan was also the venue of first test, and the second Test, which starts October 16, will be played on the same pitch as the first one.

Pakistan squad for 2nd and 3rd Test: Shan Masood (c), Saud Shakeel (vc), Aamer Jamal, Abdullah Shafique, Haseebullah (wk), Kamran Ghulam, Mehran Mumtaz, Mir Hamza, Mohammad Ali, Mohammad Huraira, Mohammad Rizwan (wk), Noman Ali, Saim Ayub, Sajid Khan, Salman Ali Agha and Zahid Mehmood.

Pakistan has decided to rest Babar Azam, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Naseem Shah and Sarfaraz Ahmed from the remaining two Tests squad against England. This comes after Pakistan's innings and 47 runs loss in the first Test despite scoring 556 runs in the first innings.

Pakistan has decided to rest Babar Azam, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Naseem Shah and Sarfaraz Ahmed from the remaining two Tests squad against England. This comes after Pakistan's innings and 47 runs loss in the first Test despite scoring 556 runs in the first innings. Babar last played a significant innings in December 2022, scoring 161 against New Zealand in Karachi. Since then, the former skipper has gone half century-less in 18 Test innings with a highest score of 41 against Australia in Melbourne earlier this year. Also Read: Captain Suryakumar Yadav lauds ‘selfless’ Sanju Samson after record win over BAN in 3rd T20I The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has named Haseebullah, Mehran Mumtaz, Kamran Ghulam (all uncapped), fast bowler Mohammad Ali, and off-spinner Sajid Khan as the replacements in the 16-man squad. The decision was taken by newly-looking selection panel of Aleem Dar, Aaqib Javed, and Azhar Ali joining Asad Shafiq, Hasan Cheema, and Test coach Jason Gillespie, along with Test captain Shan Masood. "We've had to carefully consider current player form, the urgency to bounce back in the series and Pakistan's demanding 2024-25 international schedule. With these factors in mind and in the best interest of Pakistan cricket as well as the players, we've made the decision to rest Babar Azam, Naseem Shah, Sarfaraz Ahmed and Shaheen Shah Afridi," said selection panel member Aaqib Javed. Pakistan's head curator, Tony Hemming, has also been given instructions to make the Multan pitch - the venue of second Test - spinner friendly, reported cricket news website Cricbuzz. It is to be noted that Multan was also the venue of first test, and the second Test, which starts October 16, will be played on the same pitch as the first one. Pakistan squad for 2nd and 3rd Test: Shan Masood (c), Saud Shakeel (vc), Aamer Jamal, Abdullah Shafique, Haseebullah (wk), Kamran Ghulam, Mehran Mumtaz, Mir Hamza, Mohammad Ali, Mohammad Huraira, Mohammad Rizwan (wk), Noman Ali, Saim Ayub, Sajid Khan, Salman Ali Agha and Zahid Mehmood.

Pakistan rest Babar Azam, Shaheen Shah Afridi and Naseem Shah for remaining England Tests

Pakistan announced their playing XI for the first Test against England in Multan starting Monday (Oct 7). Seasoned campaigner Shaheen Shah Afridi returned to the Test side, while the hosts also picked fellow seamer Aamer Jamal in the playing XI.&nbsp;

While Afridi missed the second Test against Bangladesh, which Pakistan lost, Jamal was out with a back injury.

Shan Masood will lead a strong XI against the touring England side, with the hosts sticking with Saim Ayub and Abdullah Shafique as openers. While Masood will continue to bat in his usual position at number three, star batter Babar Azam is slated to bat at four.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-v-ban-2024-1st-t20i-preview-all-eyes-on-x-factor-mayank-yadav-as-india-gear-up-for-bangladesh-t20is-764925">IND v BAN 2024 1st T20I, Preview: All eyes on ‘x-factor’ Mayank Yadav as India gear up for Bangladesh T20Is</a>

Babar, the former all-format captain, hasn’t scored a Test hundred since December 2022, with his last century across any format coming against Nepal at home during the Asia Cup last year. His lean patch led to him resigning from the white-ball captaincy recently, with him committing to focus and work on his batting with England and Australia series looming.

Pakistan’s lower middle order will consist of keeper-batter Mohammad Rizwan, Test specialist Saud Shakeel and all-rounder Salman Ali Agha.&nbsp;

Shaheen will lead the pace attack alongside Jamal and Naseem Shah, while Abrar Ahmed, who made his Pakistan debut against England two years ago, is the lone spinner in the playing XI.

<h3>Here is Pakistan’s final playing XI for the Multan Test against England –</h3>

Saim Ayub, Abdullah Shafique, Shan Masood, Babar Azam, Saud Shakeel, Mohammad Rizwan, Salman Ali Agha, Aamir Jamal, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Naseem Shah and Abrar Ahmed

<h2>No Stokes for England in first Test</h2>

England will be without their regular Test captain and star all-rounder Ben Stokes for the first Test in Multan, as he is out with a hamstring injury. Ollie Pope will lead the team in his absence.&nbsp;

While opener Zak Crawley was declared fit and named in the final XI for the series opener, England brought in experienced all-rounder Chris Woakes for the first Test.

England also handed a debut cap to seamer Brydon Carse.&nbsp;

<h3>England’s squad for the Multan Test -</h3>

Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Ollie Pope (captain), Joe Root, Harry Brook, Jamie Smith (wk), Chris Woakes, Gus Atkinson, Brydon Carse, Jack Leach and Shoaib Bashir

(With inputs from agencies)

Pakistan announced their playing XI for the first Test against England in Multan starting Monday (Oct 7). Seasoned campaigner Shaheen Shah Afridi returned to the Test side, while the hosts also picked fellow seamer Aamer Jamal in the playing XI.

Pakistan announced their playing XI for the first Test against England in Multan starting Monday (Oct 7). Seasoned campaigner Shaheen Shah Afridi returned to the Test side, while the hosts also picked fellow seamer Aamer Jamal in the playing XI. While Afridi missed the second Test against Bangladesh, which Pakistan lost, Jamal was out with a back injury. Shan Masood will lead a strong XI against the touring England side, with the hosts sticking with Saim Ayub and Abdullah Shafique as openers. While Masood will continue to bat in his usual position at number three, star batter Babar Azam is slated to bat at four. ALSO READ: IND v BAN 2024 1st T20I, Preview: All eyes on ‘x-factor’ Mayank Yadav as India gear up for Bangladesh T20Is Babar, the former all-format captain, hasn’t scored a Test hundred since December 2022, with his last century across any format coming against Nepal at home during the Asia Cup last year. His lean patch led to him resigning from the white-ball captaincy recently, with him committing to focus and work on his batting with England and Australia series looming. Pakistan’s lower middle order will consist of keeper-batter Mohammad Rizwan, Test specialist Saud Shakeel and all-rounder Salman Ali Agha. Shaheen will lead the pace attack alongside Jamal and Naseem Shah, while Abrar Ahmed, who made his Pakistan debut against England two years ago, is the lone spinner in the playing XI. Here is Pakistan’s final playing XI for the Multan Test against England – Saim Ayub, Abdullah Shafique, Shan Masood, Babar Azam, Saud Shakeel, Mohammad Rizwan, Salman Ali Agha, Aamir Jamal, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Naseem Shah and Abrar Ahmed No Stokes for England in first Test England will be without their regular Test captain and star all-rounder Ben Stokes for the first Test in Multan, as he is out with a hamstring injury. Ollie Pope will lead the team in his absence. While opener Zak Crawley was declared fit and named in the final XI for the series opener, England brought in experienced all-rounder Chris Woakes for the first Test. England also handed a debut cap to seamer Brydon Carse. England’s squad for the Multan Test - Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Ollie Pope (captain), Joe Root, Harry Brook, Jamie Smith (wk), Chris Woakes, Gus Atkinson, Brydon Carse, Jack Leach and Shoaib Bashir (With inputs from agencies)

Shaheen Afridi, Aamer Jamal return as Pakistan name playing XI for first Test against England

Cricket great Younis Khan has overlooked Mohammad Rizwan and Shaheen Shah Afridi as Babar Azam's potential replacement for Pakistan's new white-ball captaincy, naming a surprise choice in top-order batter Fakhar Zaman to take over the vacant role. Currently in Adelaide&nbsp;to promote the white-ball series against Australia starting November 4, Khan is surprised that no one is talking about Fakhar, who continues to perform every time irrespective of the format.

Shortly after getting sacked as Pakistan's all-format captain after they failed to reach the 2023 ODI World Cup semis, the PCB reinstated Babar into the leadership group, announcing him as the white-ball skipper ahead of the T20 World Cup in the Americas earlier.&nbsp;

That, however, didn’t change their fortunes, as Pakistan fumbled big time, losing to co-host and debutants USA and arch-rivals India in two straight matches before getting knocked out in the Group Stage.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/india-strongest-at-home-teams-can-only-beat-them-in-dreams-ramiz-raja-lauds-rohit-sharma-led-side-764403">India strongest at home, teams can only beat them in dreams: Ramiz Raja lauds Rohit Sharma-led side</a>

The results mounted pressure on Babar Azam, with his below-par performances since then and further losing the home Test series to Bangladesh, worsening his case.&nbsp;

Earlier this week, Babar took to social media to announce his decision to step aside from the role, citing his willingness to concentrate more on the batting front.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Dear Fans, 
 
I'm sharing some news with you today. I have decided to resign as captain of the Pakistan men's cricket team, effective as of my notification to the PCB and Team Management last month. 
 
It's been an honour to lead this team, but it's time for me to step down and focus…
— Babar Azam (@babarazam258) <a href="https://twitter.com/babarazam258/status/1841188496263856532?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 1, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Speaking on the captaincy drama back home, Younis acknowledged Rizwan and Shaheen’s credentials but backed Fakhar to press his case as the new white-ball leader.

"I think there are some senior players like Mohammad Rizwan, but the one guy nobody mentions is Fakhar Zaman," Younis said of Fakhar Zaman. "He's a fantastic cricketer, and he performs every single year.&nbsp;

"The problem is sometimes we think that the top player or maybe the star player can become a captain, but it is not like that. Leaders are born; it's not like putting extra pressure or extra burden on them. So, I think these candidates will be good for Pakistan as captain.

"Babar Azam quit, so I think that will be good for him and a benefit for the Pakistan cricket team,” he continued, as quoted by cricket.com.au.

<h2>Babar is right in stepping down</h2>

A T20 World Cup-winning captain, Younis, understands what it means to deliver with the skipper’s hat on and the pressure that comes with it, saying Babar Azam is right in stepping aside from the captaincy role to work on his batting in his quest to become the country’s best player ever.

"I was the first guy last month to suggest to him that if he wanted to play and spend his career the way he had performed in the past, I think it's better for him to play as a player and to perform for Pakistan team," Younis said.&nbsp;

"Especially if you're losing against India, you're gone. But that is how a leader is born and that is the demand of international cricket. You have to combat these kind of pressures, so I hope the next captain will do a fantastic job.

"When I was captain, for me it was team first, my players first, my country first so I think that thinking and that mindset was my success. If you play for the team, and you play for country and especially if you play for each other that is the main thing and if you do that you will be successful,” he concluded.

(With inputs from agencies)

Cricket great Younis Khan has overlooked Mohammad Rizwan and Shaheen Shah Afridi as Babar Azam's potential replacement for Pakistan's new white-ball captaincy, naming a surprise choice in top-order batter Fakhar Zaman to take over the vacant role.

Cricket great Younis Khan has overlooked Mohammad Rizwan and Shaheen Shah Afridi as Babar Azam's potential replacement for Pakistan's new white-ball captaincy, naming a surprise choice in top-order batter Fakhar Zaman to take over the vacant role. Currently in Adelaide to promote the white-ball series against Australia starting November 4, Khan is surprised that no one is talking about Fakhar, who continues to perform every time irrespective of the format. Shortly after getting sacked as Pakistan's all-format captain after they failed to reach the 2023 ODI World Cup semis, the PCB reinstated Babar into the leadership group, announcing him as the white-ball skipper ahead of the T20 World Cup in the Americas earlier. That, however, didn’t change their fortunes, as Pakistan fumbled big time, losing to co-host and debutants USA and arch-rivals India in two straight matches before getting knocked out in the Group Stage. ALSO READ: India strongest at home, teams can only beat them in dreams: Ramiz Raja lauds Rohit Sharma-led side The results mounted pressure on Babar Azam, with his below-par performances since then and further losing the home Test series to Bangladesh, worsening his case. Earlier this week, Babar took to social media to announce his decision to step aside from the role, citing his willingness to concentrate more on the batting front. Dear Fans, I'm sharing some news with you today. I have decided to resign as captain of the Pakistan men's cricket team, effective as of my notification to the PCB and Team Management last month. It's been an honour to lead this team, but it's time for me to step down and focus… — Babar Azam (@babarazam258) October 1, 2024 × Speaking on the captaincy drama back home, Younis acknowledged Rizwan and Shaheen’s credentials but backed Fakhar to press his case as the new white-ball leader. "I think there are some senior players like Mohammad Rizwan, but the one guy nobody mentions is Fakhar Zaman," Younis said of Fakhar Zaman. "He's a fantastic cricketer, and he performs every single year. "The problem is sometimes we think that the top player or maybe the star player can become a captain, but it is not like that. Leaders are born; it's not like putting extra pressure or extra burden on them. So, I think these candidates will be good for Pakistan as captain. "Babar Azam quit, so I think that will be good for him and a benefit for the Pakistan cricket team,” he continued, as quoted by cricket.com.au. Babar is right in stepping down A T20 World Cup-winning captain, Younis, understands what it means to deliver with the skipper’s hat on and the pressure that comes with it, saying Babar Azam is right in stepping aside from the captaincy role to work on his batting in his quest to become the country’s best player ever. "I was the first guy last month to suggest to him that if he wanted to play and spend his career the way he had performed in the past, I think it's better for him to play as a player and to perform for Pakistan team," Younis said. "Especially if you're losing against India, you're gone. But that is how a leader is born and that is the demand of international cricket. You have to combat these kind of pressures, so I hope the next captain will do a fantastic job. "When I was captain, for me it was team first, my players first, my country first so I think that thinking and that mindset was my success. If you play for the team, and you play for country and especially if you play for each other that is the main thing and if you do that you will be successful,” he concluded. (With inputs from agencies)

Younis Khan overlooks Shaheen, Rizwan for white-ball captaincy, picks Fakhar Zaman to lead Pakistan Down Under

After Babar Azam stepped down as the Pakistan white-ball captain, on Wednesday (Oct 2), Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is expected to name three separate captains, according to sources. The PCB was set to hand over Babar the ODI captaincy as well, ahead of the upcoming white-ball games, however, the right-hander resigned via a post on X, formerly Twitter. Thus, it has added to the PCB's headache as they need a captain, or two, for ODIs and T20Is and also a strong deputy for the skipper to be able to take breaks and manage his workload.

Insiders suggest that appointing the next captain won't be a cakewalk for white-ball coach Gary Kirsten or the selection committee. "Mohammad Rizwan is the obvious choice for the white-ball captaincy given that, along with Babar, he is the only player who is an automatic selection in all formats of the game," claimed an insider.

Notably, Babar, Rizwan and Shaheen Afridi are the only three all-format players for Pakistan. Thus, managing&nbsp;workload is going to be&nbsp;a stern task for Pakistan, who are set to play a plethora of games in the upcoming months.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ire-vs-sa-ryan-rickelton-tristan-stubbs-shine-as-south-africa-win-first-odi-by-139-runs-764013">Ire vs SA: Ryan Rickelton, Tristan Stubbs shine as South Africa win first ODI by 139 runs</a>

<h2>HECTIC SCHEDULE&nbsp;</h2>

Talking about Pakistan's schedule, they are hosting England in three Tests starting on Oct 7. Following that, they are set to play 18 ODIs and T20Is in Australia, Zimbabwe, and South Africa from Nov-Dec, followed by a two-Test series in South Africa.&nbsp;

After returning home in Jan 2025, Pakistan will host a two-Test series versus West Indies and an ODI tri-series featuring New Zealand and South Africa in the run-up to the ICC Champions Trophy, also to be held in Pakistan. Post that, the Asian giants&nbsp;will leave for New Zealand for a white-ball series before the next edition of the Pakistan Super League (PSL) kicks off.

Another source pointed out, "Babar was captain in all three formats for more than three years, but Kirsten and the selectors have reservations over whether Rizwan could handle the workload in the coming months while also leading the side in ODIs and T20Is."&nbsp;

It is possible that the PCB might have separate ODI and T20I captains or appoint a strong vice-captain to Rizwan, for him to take ample breaks and manage his workload.

For the white-ball vice-captaincy, Shadab Khan, Saim Ayub, Test captain Shan Masood, and Shaheen are the obvious choices. They can also be considered for the captaincy role if Rizwan declines the offer or is overlooked.

As per sources,&nbsp;Kirsten has informed the PCB that, following Babar's loss of confidence and form, he cannot think of any&nbsp;player who could handle&nbsp;captaincy pressures in two formats.

After Babar Azam stepped down as the Pakistan white-ball captain, on Wednesday (Oct 2), Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is expected to name three separate captains, according to sources.

After Babar Azam stepped down as the Pakistan white-ball captain, on Wednesday (Oct 2), Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is expected to name three separate captains, according to sources. The PCB was set to hand over Babar the ODI captaincy as well, ahead of the upcoming white-ball games, however, the right-hander resigned via a post on X, formerly Twitter. Thus, it has added to the PCB's headache as they need a captain, or two, for ODIs and T20Is and also a strong deputy for the skipper to be able to take breaks and manage his workload. Insiders suggest that appointing the next captain won't be a cakewalk for white-ball coach Gary Kirsten or the selection committee. "Mohammad Rizwan is the obvious choice for the white-ball captaincy given that, along with Babar, he is the only player who is an automatic selection in all formats of the game," claimed an insider. Notably, Babar, Rizwan and Shaheen Afridi are the only three all-format players for Pakistan. Thus, managing workload is going to be a stern task for Pakistan, who are set to play a plethora of games in the upcoming months. Also read: Ire vs SA: Ryan Rickelton, Tristan Stubbs shine as South Africa win first ODI by 139 runs HECTIC SCHEDULE Talking about Pakistan's schedule, they are hosting England in three Tests starting on Oct 7. Following that, they are set to play 18 ODIs and T20Is in Australia, Zimbabwe, and South Africa from Nov-Dec, followed by a two-Test series in South Africa. After returning home in Jan 2025, Pakistan will host a two-Test series versus West Indies and an ODI tri-series featuring New Zealand and South Africa in the run-up to the ICC Champions Trophy, also to be held in Pakistan. Post that, the Asian giants will leave for New Zealand for a white-ball series before the next edition of the Pakistan Super League (PSL) kicks off. Another source pointed out, "Babar was captain in all three formats for more than three years, but Kirsten and the selectors have reservations over whether Rizwan could handle the workload in the coming months while also leading the side in ODIs and T20Is." It is possible that the PCB might have separate ODI and T20I captains or appoint a strong vice-captain to Rizwan, for him to take ample breaks and manage his workload. For the white-ball vice-captaincy, Shadab Khan, Saim Ayub, Test captain Shan Masood, and Shaheen are the obvious choices. They can also be considered for the captaincy role if Rizwan declines the offer or is overlooked. As per sources, Kirsten has informed the PCB that, following Babar's loss of confidence and form, he cannot think of any player who could handle captaincy pressures in two formats.

After Babar Azam's resignation, Pakistan set to name 3 separate captains: Reports

India and Pakistan might not have played bilateral cricket for over a decade, but if the latest reports are to be believed, they might play together in the same team. Yes, you read it right.&nbsp;

For cricket fans worldwide, watching ace players like Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma and Jasprit Bumrah play in the same team alongside Pakistan’s Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan, and Shaheen Afridi would be a dream. Jay Shah, the new ICC chairman, is said to be bringing back the now-defunct Afro-Asia Cup. &nbsp;

Last played in 2007, the Afro-Asia Cup, first thought of by Jagmohan Dalmiya and Percy Sonn, could pave its way back; however, not so soon.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/when-i-ended-the-call-morne-morkel-reveals-first-reaction-on-being-appointed-india-bowling-coach-758676">'When I ended the call...,' Morne Morkel reveals first reaction on being appointed India bowling coach</a>

Considering grand changes happening within the ICC and the Asian Cricket Council (ACC), with Shah winning the race to head the apex body and PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi assumed to replace Shah as ACC head, the return of this intercontinental competition is on the cards.

Per the report in the Cricbuzz, Shah, BCCI secretary, showed interest in bringing this competition back to the international calendar a couple of years ago; however, plenty of work needs to be done to make this a reality.&nbsp;

"We have tried to revive the Afro-Asia Cup. Jay was on board, and Mahinda Vallipuram (head of Malaysia Cricket and current ICC director) actively participated in the discussions," Sumod Damodar, a veteran ICC hand, said in a chat with Cricbuzz.&nbsp;

Damodar, Botswana Cricket head, also contesting for a place in the CEC from Associate Nations, was one of those involved to stage this competition nearly two decades ago.

<h2>The beginning of Afro-Asia Cup</h2>

Starting in 2005, the first of the two contested editions took place in Centurion and Durban, while Bengaluru and Chennai in India staged the second edition two years later in 2007. As initially planned for three editions, the deal broke due to fallout with the broadcasters.

Damodar also revealed its business model, where 80 per cent of the revenue generated from this tournament would go to the African continent, with the remaining sum distributed among the cash-rich Asian board.&nbsp;

However, per the new plan discussed, the Asian and African cricket boards aim to engage at multiple levels, with matches between the continents to be played in three stages - development (primarily at the under-19 level, seen as an investment), emerging, and pinnacle levels, with the latter involving current international players.

"That is the plan. We have yet to decide on the frequency - whether it will be annual or biennial. Much will depend on the calendar, the Future Tours Programme (FTP), and the international commitments of the players," Damodar continued.

(With inputs from agencies)

India and Pakistan might not have played bilateral cricket for over a decade, but if the latest reports are to be believed, they might play together in the same team.

India and Pakistan might not have played bilateral cricket for over a decade, but if the latest reports are to be believed, they might play together in the same team. Yes, you read it right. For cricket fans worldwide, watching ace players like Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma and Jasprit Bumrah play in the same team alongside Pakistan’s Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan, and Shaheen Afridi would be a dream. Jay Shah, the new ICC chairman, is said to be bringing back the now-defunct Afro-Asia Cup. Last played in 2007, the Afro-Asia Cup, first thought of by Jagmohan Dalmiya and Percy Sonn, could pave its way back; however, not so soon. ALSO READ: 'When I ended the call...,' Morne Morkel reveals first reaction on being appointed India bowling coach Considering grand changes happening within the ICC and the Asian Cricket Council (ACC), with Shah winning the race to head the apex body and PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi assumed to replace Shah as ACC head, the return of this intercontinental competition is on the cards. Per the report in the Cricbuzz, Shah, BCCI secretary, showed interest in bringing this competition back to the international calendar a couple of years ago; however, plenty of work needs to be done to make this a reality. "We have tried to revive the Afro-Asia Cup. Jay was on board, and Mahinda Vallipuram (head of Malaysia Cricket and current ICC director) actively participated in the discussions," Sumod Damodar, a veteran ICC hand, said in a chat with Cricbuzz. Damodar, Botswana Cricket head, also contesting for a place in the CEC from Associate Nations, was one of those involved to stage this competition nearly two decades ago. The beginning of Afro-Asia Cup Starting in 2005, the first of the two contested editions took place in Centurion and Durban, while Bengaluru and Chennai in India staged the second edition two years later in 2007. As initially planned for three editions, the deal broke due to fallout with the broadcasters. Damodar also revealed its business model, where 80 per cent of the revenue generated from this tournament would go to the African continent, with the remaining sum distributed among the cash-rich Asian board. However, per the new plan discussed, the Asian and African cricket boards aim to engage at multiple levels, with matches between the continents to be played in three stages - development (primarily at the under-19 level, seen as an investment), emerging, and pinnacle levels, with the latter involving current international players. "That is the plan. We have yet to decide on the frequency - whether it will be annual or biennial. Much will depend on the calendar, the Future Tours Programme (FTP), and the international commitments of the players," Damodar continued. (With inputs from agencies)

Kohli, Bumrah to pair up with Babar, Rizwan? Reports say now-discarded Afro-Asia Cup could return soon

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has cleared its intentions of prioritising the international calendar by denying the No-Objection Certificates (NOCs) to the star trio of Captain Babar Azam, Shaheen Afridi and Mohammad Rizwan to play in the Global T20 League in Canada. Per&nbsp;latest reports, the PCB consulted with the three players and the selection committee before taking this call.

This decision came soon after the PCB denied NOC to seamer Naseem Shah to play in The Hundred in the UK. The right-arm pacer was signed&nbsp;for Birmingham Phoenix for a deal worth £125,000.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/suryakumar-yadav-reflects-on-t20i-captaincy-appointment-last-few-weeks-have-been-nothing-short-of-dream-742583">Suryakumar Yadav reflects on T20I captaincy appointment - ‘Last few weeks have been nothing short of dream’</a>

Pakistan will host multiple teams in the busiest home season in over a century, with two Tests against Bangladesh beginning on August 21. England will tour Pakistan for three Tests before the Men in Green travels abroad for white-ball series against Australia and Zimbabwe.&nbsp;

Pakistan will then tour South Africa for an all-format series during the New Year, and upon returning home, they will host West Indies for two Tests, followed by a tri-series involving South Africa and New Zealand.

Per the slated schedule, Pakistan will also host the eight-team Champions Trophy in February-March, ending their season with an away NZ Tour and &nbsp;2025 Pakistan Super League (PSL).&nbsp;

Considering eight to nine months of non-stop cricket, the board decided against allocating the NOCs to star players to keep them fresh for the lengthy home season.

“It should be remembered that between August 2024 and March 2025, the Pakistan cricket team has to play nine Tests of the ICC World Test Championship, the ICC Champions Trophy, 14 ODIs and nine T20Is. All three cricketers play all three formats, and Pakistan will need their services in the next eight months,” a PCB statement reads.

<h2>International cricket is priority</h2>

While non-centrally-contracted players like Usama Mir, Haris Rauf, Mohammad Amir, Mohammad Nawaz and Asif Ali recently received the green signal to participate in other franchise-based T20 leagues worldwide, considering the heavy workload, mainly concerning Test cricket, contracted players were denied this chance.&nbsp;

It, however, is significant in plenty of ways, as despite the mention of every contracted player allowed to participate in two franchise-based T20 leagues worldwide yearly, given it shouldn’t collide with the international calendar, the PCB denied these players by not providing the NOCs.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Bangladesh will arrive in Pakistan in mid-August to play two Tests in Rawalpindi (August 21) and Karachi (August 30), respectively.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has cleared its intentions of prioritising the international calendar by denying the No-Objection Certificates (NOCs) to the star trio of Captain Babar Azam, Shaheen Afridi and Mohammad Rizwan to play in the Global T20 League in Canada.

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has cleared its intentions of prioritising the international calendar by denying the No-Objection Certificates (NOCs) to the star trio of Captain Babar Azam, Shaheen Afridi and Mohammad Rizwan to play in the Global T20 League in Canada. Per latest reports, the PCB consulted with the three players and the selection committee before taking this call. This decision came soon after the PCB denied NOC to seamer Naseem Shah to play in The Hundred in the UK. The right-arm pacer was signed for Birmingham Phoenix for a deal worth £125,000. ALSO READ: Suryakumar Yadav reflects on T20I captaincy appointment - ‘Last few weeks have been nothing short of dream’ Pakistan will host multiple teams in the busiest home season in over a century, with two Tests against Bangladesh beginning on August 21. England will tour Pakistan for three Tests before the Men in Green travels abroad for white-ball series against Australia and Zimbabwe. Pakistan will then tour South Africa for an all-format series during the New Year, and upon returning home, they will host West Indies for two Tests, followed by a tri-series involving South Africa and New Zealand. Per the slated schedule, Pakistan will also host the eight-team Champions Trophy in February-March, ending their season with an away NZ Tour and 2025 Pakistan Super League (PSL). Considering eight to nine months of non-stop cricket, the board decided against allocating the NOCs to star players to keep them fresh for the lengthy home season. “It should be remembered that between August 2024 and March 2025, the Pakistan cricket team has to play nine Tests of the ICC World Test Championship, the ICC Champions Trophy, 14 ODIs and nine T20Is. All three cricketers play all three formats, and Pakistan will need their services in the next eight months,” a PCB statement reads. International cricket is priority While non-centrally-contracted players like Usama Mir, Haris Rauf, Mohammad Amir, Mohammad Nawaz and Asif Ali recently received the green signal to participate in other franchise-based T20 leagues worldwide, considering the heavy workload, mainly concerning Test cricket, contracted players were denied this chance. It, however, is significant in plenty of ways, as despite the mention of every contracted player allowed to participate in two franchise-based T20 leagues worldwide yearly, given it shouldn’t collide with the international calendar, the PCB denied these players by not providing the NOCs. Meanwhile, Bangladesh will arrive in Pakistan in mid-August to play two Tests in Rawalpindi (August 21) and Karachi (August 30), respectively. (With inputs from agencies)

PCB prioritises international calendar, denies NOCs to star trio to play in Global T20 Canada

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has taken a tough call to deny NOCs to top stars, including Naseem Shah, from participating in the upcoming edition of The Hundred in the UK. Per the latest reports, the PCB might also reject NOCs to white-ball captain Babar Azam, keeper-batter Mohammad Rizwan and star seamer Shaheen Afridi from playing in the Global T20 League in Canada – the one not been sanctioned by the ICC yet.

To prioritise the heavy home and away calendar this season, ensuring the top, contracted players remain fit for it, the board has denied permission to them to go and play in overseas franchise-based leagues.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/upset-icc-members-to-discuss-mismanaged-budget-hosting-of-t20-world-cup-in-americas-in-annual-meet-740669">Upset ICC members to discuss ‘mismanaged’ budget, hosting of T20 World Cup in Americas in annual meet</a>

Considering there is no mention of PCB not allowing the permitted players to play abroad outside of the international calendar in their contracts, this decision might ruffle a few features and further deteriorate relations between the players and the board.

<h2>Ramifications to follow</h2>

The immediate implications of this decision mean Naseen will not represent Birmingham Phoenix in The Hundred this season, where he was set to earn £125,000 (1,58,768.62 USD). Besides, the three top cricketers, Shaheen, Babar and Rizwan, drafted to partake in GLT20, will not travel to Canada for the league.&nbsp;

However, this call doesn’t indicate that NOCs will not be entertained in another case. Although it will impact the centrally-contracted players only, Usama Mir, who was earlier denied a NOC for the T20 Blast, will be allowed to play The Hundred, and so will the seamer Haris Rauf.&nbsp;

The latest reports also tell that this NOC saga will stretch beyond a couple of leagues this and next month, considering Pakistan’s heaviest (home) calendar in a century.&nbsp;

The Men in Green will begin the home season with a two-match Test series against Bangladesh, starting August 21 in Rawalpindi, before hosting England for three Tests. Pakistan will then travel overseas for the remainder of the year, touring Australia and Zimbabwe for the white-ball series before going to South Africa for an all-format tour.&nbsp;

Upon returning, Pakistan will host West Indies for two Tests and South Africa and New Zealand for a tri-series just ahead of the home Champions Trophy in February-March.&nbsp;

Following the eight-team tournament, the PSL will get underway, keeping all centrally contracted players busy till May next year.&nbsp;

It is understood that PCB will not accept any NOC requests during this packed window.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has taken a tough call to deny NOCs to top stars, including Naseem Shah, from participating in the upcoming edition of The Hundred in the UK.

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has taken a tough call to deny NOCs to top stars, including Naseem Shah, from participating in the upcoming edition of The Hundred in the UK. Per the latest reports, the PCB might also reject NOCs to white-ball captain Babar Azam, keeper-batter Mohammad Rizwan and star seamer Shaheen Afridi from playing in the Global T20 League in Canada – the one not been sanctioned by the ICC yet. To prioritise the heavy home and away calendar this season, ensuring the top, contracted players remain fit for it, the board has denied permission to them to go and play in overseas franchise-based leagues. ALSO READ: Upset ICC members to discuss ‘mismanaged’ budget, hosting of T20 World Cup in Americas in annual meet Considering there is no mention of PCB not allowing the permitted players to play abroad outside of the international calendar in their contracts, this decision might ruffle a few features and further deteriorate relations between the players and the board. Ramifications to follow The immediate implications of this decision mean Naseen will not represent Birmingham Phoenix in The Hundred this season, where he was set to earn £125,000 (1,58,768.62 USD). Besides, the three top cricketers, Shaheen, Babar and Rizwan, drafted to partake in GLT20, will not travel to Canada for the league. However, this call doesn’t indicate that NOCs will not be entertained in another case. Although it will impact the centrally-contracted players only, Usama Mir, who was earlier denied a NOC for the T20 Blast, will be allowed to play The Hundred, and so will the seamer Haris Rauf. The latest reports also tell that this NOC saga will stretch beyond a couple of leagues this and next month, considering Pakistan’s heaviest (home) calendar in a century. The Men in Green will begin the home season with a two-match Test series against Bangladesh, starting August 21 in Rawalpindi, before hosting England for three Tests. Pakistan will then travel overseas for the remainder of the year, touring Australia and Zimbabwe for the white-ball series before going to South Africa for an all-format tour. Upon returning, Pakistan will host West Indies for two Tests and South Africa and New Zealand for a tri-series just ahead of the home Champions Trophy in February-March. Following the eight-team tournament, the PSL will get underway, keeping all centrally contracted players busy till May next year. It is understood that PCB will not accept any NOC requests during this packed window. (With inputs from agencies)

PCB prioritises international calendar as board rejects NOC to top stars for franchise-based leagues

Row in Pakistan Cricket continues to make headlines. Per the latest reports, the senior campaigner and ace pacer Shaheen Afridi has landed in trouble for misbehaving with the batting coach Mohammad Yousuf. The incident is said to have happened during one of the training sessions during the England T20Is ahead of the marquee event in the Americas. The local media is anticipating disciplinary action against Shaheen for his behaviour.

The incident happened when Yousuf questioned Shaheen over bowling regular no-balls (during a spell in the nets), to which Shaheen rudely replied, "Let me do what I am doing, and you mind your own business."

A source close to the information also informed Geo News in Pakistan that the matter was "nothing more than&nbsp;a routine case of the heat of the moment", and thus got shut down there only, without anyone complaining to the PCB.

The report also suggested that Shaheen apologised to Yousuf for his misconduct.&nbsp;

However, in the report submitted to the PCB chairman, Mohsin Naqvi, there is an outright mention of this incident, with the source claiming the ball is in the chairman’s court, who will take any action against the world-class seamer.&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/before-dravid-captain-rohit-sharma-offered-to-take-pay-cut-from-prize-money-for-equal-allotment-reports-740440">Before Dravid, captain Rohit Sharma offered to take pay cut from prize money for equal allotment – Reports</a>

“We have to mention all that had happened during the World Cup campaign. It is up to the PCB chairman to decide on the matter,” an official said, as quoted by The Indian Express.&nbsp;

With Pakistan hosting Bangladesh for two Tests in August, the reports suggest Shaheen might miss the series. Although another unnamed official backed Afridi to make it to the playing XI, he agrees that Shaheen must face some heat for the PCB to set a precedent. Per the source, the board might take an alternative action against him.

"I would rather suggest revoking Shaheen’s NOC for foreign leagues. His demotion from A category contract is also an option available to the PCB."

"However, the chairman has the final authority to decide on the matter. He has the power to even pardon the fast bowler,” the source claimed.&nbsp;

<h2>Pakistan’s packed home schedule</h2>

Following the Bangladesh Tests that begin on August 21 in Rawalpindi, England and West Indies will also tour Pakistan for the Test series during the upcoming season.

Although Pakistan will travel to South Africa for an all-format series later this year, they will host a tri-series, including South Africa and New Zealand, just ahead of the home Champions Trophy 2025 in February and March.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Row in Pakistan Cricket continues to make headlines. Per the latest reports, the senior campaigner and ace pacer Shaheen Afridi has landed in trouble for misbehaving with the batting coach Mohammad Yousuf.

Row in Pakistan Cricket continues to make headlines. Per the latest reports, the senior campaigner and ace pacer Shaheen Afridi has landed in trouble for misbehaving with the batting coach Mohammad Yousuf. The incident is said to have happened during one of the training sessions during the England T20Is ahead of the marquee event in the Americas. The local media is anticipating disciplinary action against Shaheen for his behaviour. The incident happened when Yousuf questioned Shaheen over bowling regular no-balls (during a spell in the nets), to which Shaheen rudely replied, "Let me do what I am doing, and you mind your own business." A source close to the information also informed Geo News in Pakistan that the matter was "nothing more than a routine case of the heat of the moment", and thus got shut down there only, without anyone complaining to the PCB. The report also suggested that Shaheen apologised to Yousuf for his misconduct. However, in the report submitted to the PCB chairman, Mohsin Naqvi, there is an outright mention of this incident, with the source claiming the ball is in the chairman’s court, who will take any action against the world-class seamer. ALSO READ: Before Dravid, captain Rohit Sharma offered to take pay cut from prize money for equal allotment – Reports “We have to mention all that had happened during the World Cup campaign. It is up to the PCB chairman to decide on the matter,” an official said, as quoted by The Indian Express. With Pakistan hosting Bangladesh for two Tests in August, the reports suggest Shaheen might miss the series. Although another unnamed official backed Afridi to make it to the playing XI, he agrees that Shaheen must face some heat for the PCB to set a precedent. Per the source, the board might take an alternative action against him. "I would rather suggest revoking Shaheen’s NOC for foreign leagues. His demotion from A category contract is also an option available to the PCB." "However, the chairman has the final authority to decide on the matter. He has the power to even pardon the fast bowler,” the source claimed. Pakistan’s packed home schedule Following the Bangladesh Tests that begin on August 21 in Rawalpindi, England and West Indies will also tour Pakistan for the Test series during the upcoming season. Although Pakistan will travel to South Africa for an all-format series later this year, they will host a tri-series, including South Africa and New Zealand, just ahead of the home Champions Trophy 2025 in February and March. (With inputs from agencies)

Shaheen Afridi misbehaved with batting coach ahead of T20 WC, reports suggest this was in 'heat of the moment'

Pakistan seamer Naseem Shah was in tears after his side failed to win the match against India in the 2024 T20 World Cup in New York. Pakistan were placed comfortably in the 120-run chase till the 11th over before Team India made an incredible comeback and snatched the game from the jaws of defeat. The loss was too much to take for Naseem, as he cried on his way to the dressing room after the match.

Following Arshdeep Singh’s final delivery that went for just one run, separate sets of emotions were on display from both camps. While the Indian players, dressing room and thousands of fans in attendance erupted in joy, the Pakistan players looked utterly disappointed with their performance, with fans shell-shocked by the result.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-trophy-2025-lahore-to-host-india-pakistan-game-final-as-karachi-gets-opener-in-proposed-schedule-730392">Champions Trophy 2025: Lahore to host India-Pakistan game, final as Karachi gets opener in proposed schedule</a>

On their way back to the dressing room, Shaheen, an experienced campaigner, was seen consoling Naseem Shah.

Watch the video here –

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Even Naseem Shah, our young bowler, played better than our highly paid batsmen. The time has come, if you’re not performing well, please resign gracefully and let others join. It’s time to take strict decisions, or they’ll never understand. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PakvsInd?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PakvsInd</a><a href="https://t.co/kkV9LZntFX">pic.twitter.com/kkV9LZntFX</a>
— Saad Kaiser 🇵🇰 (@TheSaadKaiser) <a href="https://twitter.com/TheSaadKaiser/status/1799901202680877530?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 9, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Meanwhile, Naseem was one of the two Pakistani bowlers who picked three wickets against India, with Haris Rauf being the other. After asking India to bat first, Naseem broke the opening stand, removing Virat Kohli caught at point on four. The new-ball bowler kept it tight throughout the India innings, removing Axar Patel and Shivam Dube later.&nbsp;

Even during the chase, Naseem showed intent by going for boundaries despite the target looking out of his reach.&nbsp;

<h2>India on top in New York</h2>

The Men in Blue were victorious against Pakistan in this tournament for the seventh time in history, with the latest win coming at the Nassau County Cricket Stadium by six runs. India fared poorly with the bat, getting all out for a mere 119.&nbsp;

While Rishabh Pant was India’s best batter on the day, scoring a hard-fought 42, only two others (Axar Patel – 20 and Rohit Sharma – 13) could reach the double-digit mark. 
Pakistan lost Captain Babar Azam early, but Mohammad Rizwan and Usman Khan stood tall till the 11th over, keeping their side’s hopes alive in this run chase. That, however, was the last time&nbsp;they had their noses ahead.&nbsp;

India won the middle-over battle, picking three wickets for 25 runs in the next four overs. Even though Pakistan had a chance to up the ante, they failed, as Bumrah picked two wickets, including the big one of Iftikhar Ahmed caught in the deep in the penultimate over.&nbsp;

With 18 runs needed off the last six balls, Arshdeep defended the total as India won by six runs to sit on the top of the points table in Group A.&nbsp;

Pakistan seamer Naseem Shah was in tears after his side failed to win the match against India in the 2024 T20 World Cup in New York. Pakistan were placed comfortably in the 120-run chase till the 11th over before Team India made an incredible comeback and snatched the game from the jaws of defeat.

Pakistan seamer Naseem Shah was in tears after his side failed to win the match against India in the 2024 T20 World Cup in New York. Pakistan were placed comfortably in the 120-run chase till the 11th over before Team India made an incredible comeback and snatched the game from the jaws of defeat. The loss was too much to take for Naseem, as he cried on his way to the dressing room after the match. Following Arshdeep Singh’s final delivery that went for just one run, separate sets of emotions were on display from both camps. While the Indian players, dressing room and thousands of fans in attendance erupted in joy, the Pakistan players looked utterly disappointed with their performance, with fans shell-shocked by the result. ALSO READ: Champions Trophy 2025: Lahore to host India-Pakistan game, final as Karachi gets opener in proposed schedule On their way back to the dressing room, Shaheen, an experienced campaigner, was seen consoling Naseem Shah. Watch the video here – Even Naseem Shah, our young bowler, played better than our highly paid batsmen. The time has come, if you’re not performing well, please resign gracefully and let others join. It’s time to take strict decisions, or they’ll never understand. #PakvsIndpic.twitter.com/kkV9LZntFX — Saad Kaiser 🇵🇰 (@TheSaadKaiser) June 9, 2024 × Meanwhile, Naseem was one of the two Pakistani bowlers who picked three wickets against India, with Haris Rauf being the other. After asking India to bat first, Naseem broke the opening stand, removing Virat Kohli caught at point on four. The new-ball bowler kept it tight throughout the India innings, removing Axar Patel and Shivam Dube later. Even during the chase, Naseem showed intent by going for boundaries despite the target looking out of his reach. India on top in New York The Men in Blue were victorious against Pakistan in this tournament for the seventh time in history, with the latest win coming at the Nassau County Cricket Stadium by six runs. India fared poorly with the bat, getting all out for a mere 119. While Rishabh Pant was India’s best batter on the day, scoring a hard-fought 42, only two others (Axar Patel – 20 and Rohit Sharma – 13) could reach the double-digit mark. Pakistan lost Captain Babar Azam early, but Mohammad Rizwan and Usman Khan stood tall till the 11th over, keeping their side’s hopes alive in this run chase. That, however, was the last time they had their noses ahead. India won the middle-over battle, picking three wickets for 25 runs in the next four overs. Even though Pakistan had a chance to up the ante, they failed, as Bumrah picked two wickets, including the big one of Iftikhar Ahmed caught in the deep in the penultimate over. With 18 runs needed off the last six balls, Arshdeep defended the total as India won by six runs to sit on the top of the points table in Group A.

Pakistan bowler Naseem Shah in tears after India snatch win from jaws of defeat in New York – Watch

As the Nassau County Cricket Stadium in New York is ready to play host to the marquee India vs Pakistan match in the 2024 T20 World Cup, all eyes will be on the head-to-head battle between stars Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli versus Shaheen Afridi and Mohammad Amir. Those who followed this development over the years know how much of a mouth-watering clash this is. So what should India do to curb their effect early on with the new ball?

India opened with Rohit and Virat in the first game against Ireland in New York&nbsp; but the&nbsp;experiment failed&nbsp;big time as Kohli departed on a rare one inside the third over.

Though another experiment of playing Rishabh Pant at number three, which helps accommodate all-rounder Shivam Dube in the playing XI, worked wonders as he scored an unbeaten 36, India must find a solid and long-term solution to having a fixed top three.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-wc-rohit-sharma-hit-on-thumb-in-nets-dismisses-injury-scare-ahead-of-marquee-pakistan-clash-729887">T20 WC: Rohit Sharma hit on thumb in nets, dismisses injury scare ahead of marquee Pakistan clash</a>

Considering both stalwarts have had trouble facing the left-arm seamers earlier, with the inswinging delivery working as a catalyst for the bowlers, the team management must take a brave call on deciding the batting order. While India walks into this contest as a batting-heavy side, their arch-rivals will have their chin up&nbsp;knowing the four-man seam attack&nbsp;guard&nbsp;their pride every time.&nbsp;

From Shaheen and Naseem Shah - good with the new ball, to Amir and Haris Rauf - better choices for the first and second-change seamers, Pakistan have their bases covered against India. Although their latest result against the USA (where they lost in the super-over) doesn’t help the cause, looking back at their performances in the past two editions might boost their confidence.

<h2>What should India’s Plan B be?</h2>

India might actually go ahead with Rohit and Virat at the top without bothering much about Pakistan’s bowling order. Alternatively, they can make a few amends to their XI to avoid facing any hiccups earlier, just in case.&nbsp;

Now that Pakistan is sure of playing at least three seamers if not four, against India and going ahead with Shadab Khan as the lone spinner, the Indian Team can drop Dube for this tie (who is known to spin well), bringing in Yashasvi Jaiswal instead, dropping Kohli to his usual number three position, with Pant playing at five.&nbsp;

Although this calls for too many changes in the XI, the Men in Blue can at least try bringing more balance to the side to ensure they have better chances.&nbsp;

As the Nassau County Cricket Stadium in New York is ready to play host to the marquee India vs Pakistan match in the 2024 T20 World Cup, all eyes will be on the head-to-head battle between stars Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli versus Shaheen Afridi and Mohammad Amir.

As the Nassau County Cricket Stadium in New York is ready to play host to the marquee India vs Pakistan match in the 2024 T20 World Cup, all eyes will be on the head-to-head battle between stars Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli versus Shaheen Afridi and Mohammad Amir. Those who followed this development over the years know how much of a mouth-watering clash this is. So what should India do to curb their effect early on with the new ball? India opened with Rohit and Virat in the first game against Ireland in New York but the experiment failed big time as Kohli departed on a rare one inside the third over. Though another experiment of playing Rishabh Pant at number three, which helps accommodate all-rounder Shivam Dube in the playing XI, worked wonders as he scored an unbeaten 36, India must find a solid and long-term solution to having a fixed top three. ALSO READ: T20 WC: Rohit Sharma hit on thumb in nets, dismisses injury scare ahead of marquee Pakistan clash Considering both stalwarts have had trouble facing the left-arm seamers earlier, with the inswinging delivery working as a catalyst for the bowlers, the team management must take a brave call on deciding the batting order. While India walks into this contest as a batting-heavy side, their arch-rivals will have their chin up knowing the four-man seam attack guard their pride every time. From Shaheen and Naseem Shah - good with the new ball, to Amir and Haris Rauf - better choices for the first and second-change seamers, Pakistan have their bases covered against India. Although their latest result against the USA (where they lost in the super-over) doesn’t help the cause, looking back at their performances in the past two editions might boost their confidence. What should India’s Plan B be? India might actually go ahead with Rohit and Virat at the top without bothering much about Pakistan’s bowling order. Alternatively, they can make a few amends to their XI to avoid facing any hiccups earlier, just in case. Now that Pakistan is sure of playing at least three seamers if not four, against India and going ahead with Shadab Khan as the lone spinner, the Indian Team can drop Dube for this tie (who is known to spin well), bringing in Yashasvi Jaiswal instead, dropping Kohli to his usual number three position, with Pant playing at five. Although this calls for too many changes in the XI, the Men in Blue can at least try bringing more balance to the side to ensure they have better chances.

T20 World Cup: What could be India’s Plan B  against Shaheen and Amir in New York showdown?

Former Australia captain Ricky Ponting has backed Pakistan Cricket Board's (PCB) decision to reappoint Babar Azam as the T20I captain ahead of the Men in Green's T20 World Cup 2024 run, in West Indies and USA. Ponting feels the team looks more settled under Babar and have a better chance at the ongoing mega event under him. Babar replaced Shaheen Afridi, who succeeded the former, as the T20I captain just two months before the marquee ICC event. Shaheen had a short stint as the T20I captain, where he only led Pakistan in five away games in New Zealand, with the Black Caps thrashing them 4-1.

Speaking to the ICC, Ponting suggested that it is not necessary for a good player to be a good captain as well. "Captaincy just sits well with some people and it doesn't sit well with others," the ex-cricketer stated.

The Aussie reckoned, "We've seen it through the years that some of the best players that have ever played the game have not necessarily made the best captains and the thing that makes some of the very best players so good is how focused they are on what they need to do to get better and to be the best and find a way every day to get better." 
 
Ponting further opined, "And when you are captain, you can't do that. You've got to actually compartmentalise what you're doing, look after your own game, look after all the guys around you. So, some guys can manage that better than others."

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/hes-being-bodyshamed-former-pakistan-captain-comes-in-defence-of-azam-khan-729060">'He's being bodyshamed': Former Pakistan captain comes in defence of Azam Khan</a>

It is to be noted that Babar stepped down as Pakistan captain across formats after the team's shambolic performance in the 2023 ODI World Cup in India, where the one-time winners failed to even make it to the semifinals. Soon, PCB appointed Shaheen as the T20I captain but the change in captaincy couldn't bring a change in the team fortunes. In addition, it was learnt that the pacer was contemplating to step aside as captain after not being included in discussions about his future in the role.

Ponting, the two-time ODI WC-winning captain, further pointed out that Babar also suffered a dip in form when he earlier took over the captaincy, however, the right-hander learnt from it and emerged as a match-winner.

"I reckon Babar, when he first started, I had that feeling that he... because if you look at his record, his numbers went down on the back of it. So I think he might have learned a bit from that," Punter mentioned.

Ponting feels Pakistan have strengthened their chances to get their hands on the T20 WC trophy with Babar back at the helm of affairs. He added, "Shaheen didn't set the world on fire as a leader either, so I think going back into a World Cup it just looks like a more settled team when you've got someone like Babar as captain rather than Afridi."

Babar-led Pakistan kickoff their T20 WC campaign on Thursday (June 6), against USA at Dallas. They are placed in Group A along with arch-rivals India, USA, Canada and Ireland.

Former Australia captain Ricky Ponting has backed Pakistan Cricket Board's (PCB) decision to reappoint Babar Azam as the T20I captain ahead of the Men in Green's T20 World Cup 2024 run, in West Indies and USA.

Former Australia captain Ricky Ponting has backed Pakistan Cricket Board's (PCB) decision to reappoint Babar Azam as the T20I captain ahead of the Men in Green's T20 World Cup 2024 run, in West Indies and USA. Ponting feels the team looks more settled under Babar and have a better chance at the ongoing mega event under him. Babar replaced Shaheen Afridi, who succeeded the former, as the T20I captain just two months before the marquee ICC event. Shaheen had a short stint as the T20I captain, where he only led Pakistan in five away games in New Zealand, with the Black Caps thrashing them 4-1. Speaking to the ICC, Ponting suggested that it is not necessary for a good player to be a good captain as well. "Captaincy just sits well with some people and it doesn't sit well with others," the ex-cricketer stated. The Aussie reckoned, "We've seen it through the years that some of the best players that have ever played the game have not necessarily made the best captains and the thing that makes some of the very best players so good is how focused they are on what they need to do to get better and to be the best and find a way every day to get better." Ponting further opined, "And when you are captain, you can't do that. You've got to actually compartmentalise what you're doing, look after your own game, look after all the guys around you. So, some guys can manage that better than others." Also read: 'He's being bodyshamed': Former Pakistan captain comes in defence of Azam Khan It is to be noted that Babar stepped down as Pakistan captain across formats after the team's shambolic performance in the 2023 ODI World Cup in India, where the one-time winners failed to even make it to the semifinals. Soon, PCB appointed Shaheen as the T20I captain but the change in captaincy couldn't bring a change in the team fortunes. In addition, it was learnt that the pacer was contemplating to step aside as captain after not being included in discussions about his future in the role. Ponting, the two-time ODI WC-winning captain, further pointed out that Babar also suffered a dip in form when he earlier took over the captaincy, however, the right-hander learnt from it and emerged as a match-winner. "I reckon Babar, when he first started, I had that feeling that he... because if you look at his record, his numbers went down on the back of it. So I think he might have learned a bit from that," Punter mentioned. Ponting feels Pakistan have strengthened their chances to get their hands on the T20 WC trophy with Babar back at the helm of affairs. He added, "Shaheen didn't set the world on fire as a leader either, so I think going back into a World Cup it just looks like a more settled team when you've got someone like Babar as captain rather than Afridi." Babar-led Pakistan kickoff their T20 WC campaign on Thursday (June 6), against USA at Dallas. They are placed in Group A along with arch-rivals India, USA, Canada and Ireland.

‘Shaheen didn’t set the world on fire as leader’: Ponting backs PCB’s call to reappoint Babar as T20I captain 

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