Former Pakistan cricketer Shoaib Akhtar expressed his anger over the cancellation of the Pakistan vs New Zealand limited-overs series after the Blackcaps abandoned the entire tour on Friday (September 17) without playing a single match.

Taking to his official Twitter account, Akhtar wrote, "NZ just killed Pakistan cricket." It is worth mentioning that international cricket in Pakistan was suspended in the aftermath of terror attacks against the Sri Lankan side in 2009, but has slowly revived over the past two years. However, cancellation of the NZ tour is a massive blow to the South Asian country.&nbsp;

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-pakistan-security-forces-and-bomb-disposal-squad-monitor-stadium-after-new-zealand-abandon-tour-413811">Watch: Pakistan security forces and bomb disposal squad monitor stadium after New Zealand abandon tour</a>

PCB Chairman Ramiz Raja was also frustrated as he wrote on his Twitter account, "Crazy day it has been! Feel so sorry for the fans and our players. Walking out of the tour by taking a unilateral approach on a security threat is very frustrating. Especially when it’s not shared!! Which world is NZ living in??NZ will hear us at ICC."

Players like Mohammad Hafeez and Babar Azam also reacted to the news. "Extremely disappointed on the abrupt postponement of the series, which could have brought the smiles back for millions of Pakistan Cricket Fans. I've full trust in the capabilities and credibility of our security agencies. They are our pride and always will be! Pakistan Zindabad!" Babar wrote on Twitter.&nbsp;

IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/new-zealand-abandon-pakistan-tour-8-instances-when-sporting-events-got-affected-on-security-grounds-203590#2021-new-zealand-tour-of-pakistan-(cricket)-413772">New Zealand abandon Pakistan tour: 8 instances when sporting events got affected on security grounds</a>

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NZ just killed Pakistan cricket 😡😡
— Shoaib Akhtar (@shoaib100mph) <a href="https://twitter.com/shoaib100mph/status/1438820381075324932?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 17, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Crazy day it has been! Feel so sorry for the fans and our players. Walking out of the tour by taking a unilateral approach on a security threat is very frustrating. Especially when it’s not shared!! Which world is NZ living in??NZ will hear us at ICC.
— Ramiz Raja (@iramizraja) <a href="https://twitter.com/iramizraja/status/1438829120364978183?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 17, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Extremely disappointed on the abrupt postponement of the series, which could have brought the smiles back for millions of Pakistan Cricket Fans. I've full trust in the capabilities and credibility of our security agencies. They are our pride and always will be! Pakistan Zindabad!
— Babar Azam (@babarazam258) <a href="https://twitter.com/babarazam258/status/1438814618898608130?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 17, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Pakistan 🇵🇰 is Safe &amp; Proud nation. Postponing series is absolutely Sad news for whole Nation.
— Mohammad Hafeez (@MHafeez22) <a href="https://twitter.com/MHafeez22/status/1438805927663063042?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 17, 2021</a></blockquote>
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New Zealand were supposed to play Pakistan on Friday in the first of three ODIs in Rawalpindi, before moving to Lahore for a five-match T20 series.

After the cancellation, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) released a statement: "Earlier today, the New Zealand cricket board informed us that they had been alerted to some security alert and have unilaterally decided to postpone the series. PCB and Govt of Pakistan made fool proof security arrangements for all visiting teams."

"We have assured the NZ cricket board of the same. The Prime Minister spoke personally to the Prime Minister of New Zealand and informed her that we have one of the best Intelligence systems in the world and that no security threat of any kind exists for the visiting team."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pcb-releases-statement-after-new-zealand-call-off-pakistan-tour-over-security-reasons-413756">PCB releases statement after New Zealand call off Pakistan tour over security reasons</a>

New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern commented on the cancellation as she said that she supports the decision that's been made and added that player safety has to be paramount.&nbsp;

"When I spoke with the Prime Minister of Pakistan I conveyed our thanks for taking care of the New Zealand Cricket team," Ardern said in a statement sent to Reuters.

Former Pakistan cricketer Shoaib Akhtar expressed his anger over the cancellation of the Pakistan vs New Zealand limited-overs series after the Blackcaps abandoned the entire tour on Friday (September 17) without playing a single match.

Former Pakistan cricketer Shoaib Akhtar expressed his anger over the cancellation of the Pakistan vs New Zealand limited-overs series after the Blackcaps abandoned the entire tour on Friday (September 17) without playing a single match. Taking to his official Twitter account, Akhtar wrote, "NZ just killed Pakistan cricket." It is worth mentioning that international cricket in Pakistan was suspended in the aftermath of terror attacks against the Sri Lankan side in 2009, but has slowly revived over the past two years. However, cancellation of the NZ tour is a massive blow to the South Asian country. ALSO READ | Watch: Pakistan security forces and bomb disposal squad monitor stadium after New Zealand abandon tour PCB Chairman Ramiz Raja was also frustrated as he wrote on his Twitter account, "Crazy day it has been! Feel so sorry for the fans and our players. Walking out of the tour by taking a unilateral approach on a security threat is very frustrating. Especially when it’s not shared!! Which world is NZ living in??NZ will hear us at ICC." Players like Mohammad Hafeez and Babar Azam also reacted to the news. "Extremely disappointed on the abrupt postponement of the series, which could have brought the smiles back for millions of Pakistan Cricket Fans. I've full trust in the capabilities and credibility of our security agencies. They are our pride and always will be! Pakistan Zindabad!" Babar wrote on Twitter. IN PICS | New Zealand abandon Pakistan tour: 8 instances when sporting events got affected on security grounds NZ just killed Pakistan cricket 😡😡 — Shoaib Akhtar (@shoaib100mph) September 17, 2021 × Crazy day it has been! Feel so sorry for the fans and our players. Walking out of the tour by taking a unilateral approach on a security threat is very frustrating. Especially when it’s not shared!! Which world is NZ living in??NZ will hear us at ICC. — Ramiz Raja (@iramizraja) September 17, 2021 × Extremely disappointed on the abrupt postponement of the series, which could have brought the smiles back for millions of Pakistan Cricket Fans. I've full trust in the capabilities and credibility of our security agencies. They are our pride and always will be! Pakistan Zindabad! — Babar Azam (@babarazam258) September 17, 2021 × Pakistan 🇵🇰 is Safe & Proud nation. Postponing series is absolutely Sad news for whole Nation. — Mohammad Hafeez (@MHafeez22) September 17, 2021 × New Zealand were supposed to play Pakistan on Friday in the first of three ODIs in Rawalpindi, before moving to Lahore for a five-match T20 series. After the cancellation, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) released a statement: "Earlier today, the New Zealand cricket board informed us that they had been alerted to some security alert and have unilaterally decided to postpone the series. PCB and Govt of Pakistan made fool proof security arrangements for all visiting teams." "We have assured the NZ cricket board of the same. The Prime Minister spoke personally to the Prime Minister of New Zealand and informed her that we have one of the best Intelligence systems in the world and that no security threat of any kind exists for the visiting team." ALSO READ | PCB releases statement after New Zealand call off Pakistan tour over security reasons New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern commented on the cancellation as she said that she supports the decision that's been made and added that player safety has to be paramount. "When I spoke with the Prime Minister of Pakistan I conveyed our thanks for taking care of the New Zealand Cricket team," Ardern said in a statement sent to Reuters.

'NZ just killed Pakistan cricket': Pak cricketers express frustration as New Zealand abandon tour

Pakistan cricket remains the most unpredictable. On Monday (September 6), the Babar Azam-led Pakistan squad was announced for the upcoming T20 World Cup, in the UAE. Shortly after that, the head coach Misbah-ul-Haq and bowling coach Waqar Younis resigned from their respective posts.

The duo's sudden resignations surprised many in the cricketing fraternity and&nbsp;that too, just a month ahead of the T20 World Cup. Thus, former Pakistan speedster Shoaib Akhtar has strongly reacted to Misbah and Waqar's resignations. He feels with Ramiz Raja taking over as the new chairman, he might have asked the two former cricketers to resign from their posts as he will now look to form his new team.

Speaking on his official Youtube channel, Akhtar said, "I don't think they voluntarily resigned but were asked to do so. That was an order from the highest authority that they will not continue with either Misbah or Waqar. There could be bad news for PCB CEO Wasim Khan as well as I don't think he will be able to hang around his job. I feel it could be a sad end for him as a new chief or chairman brings his own team. Let's see. Ramiz Raja has all the right to bring his own team and ideas. He has the right to hire and fire anybody he wants as long as it is for the betterment of Pakistan cricket."

"If I was in Misbah's place, I would have fought for it and would have told them to ask for my resignation. It hardly makes sense to resign near to the T20 World Cup. According to me, it's a cowardly act. Pakistan cricket needs you. If you are scared that the pressure of the World Cup will be put on you, it's wrong. Misbah has been around since 2019 and has stepped down now.&nbsp;

"It is not good news for Pakistan cricket because it's very weird for the top management to leave abruptly. If I was in their place, I would not have run away from the situation. I would have stayed there and would not have backed off with the World Cup just around the corner," the 46-year-old Akhtar added.

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For the unversed, both Misbah and Waqar had a year left in their respective contracts before they decided to resign untimely and surprise one and all, especially the Pakistan cricket fans.&nbsp;

At present, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) have appointed Saqlain Mushtaq and Abdul Razzaq as the interim coaches.&nbsp;

The Babar Azam-led Men in Green are gearing up for a limited-overs series versus New Zealand, at home, and will feature in the T20 World Cup where they are placed in Group 2 with India, New Zealand, Afghanistan and two other teams (who will join from the qualifiers).

Pakistan cricket remains the most unpredictable. On Monday (September 6), the Babar Azam-led Pakistan squad was announced for the upcoming T20 World Cup, in the UAE.

Pakistan cricket remains the most unpredictable. On Monday (September 6), the Babar Azam-led Pakistan squad was announced for the upcoming T20 World Cup, in the UAE. Shortly after that, the head coach Misbah-ul-Haq and bowling coach Waqar Younis resigned from their respective posts. The duo's sudden resignations surprised many in the cricketing fraternity and that too, just a month ahead of the T20 World Cup. Thus, former Pakistan speedster Shoaib Akhtar has strongly reacted to Misbah and Waqar's resignations. He feels with Ramiz Raja taking over as the new chairman, he might have asked the two former cricketers to resign from their posts as he will now look to form his new team. Speaking on his official Youtube channel, Akhtar said, "I don't think they voluntarily resigned but were asked to do so. That was an order from the highest authority that they will not continue with either Misbah or Waqar. There could be bad news for PCB CEO Wasim Khan as well as I don't think he will be able to hang around his job. I feel it could be a sad end for him as a new chief or chairman brings his own team. Let's see. Ramiz Raja has all the right to bring his own team and ideas. He has the right to hire and fire anybody he wants as long as it is for the betterment of Pakistan cricket." "If I was in Misbah's place, I would have fought for it and would have told them to ask for my resignation. It hardly makes sense to resign near to the T20 World Cup. According to me, it's a cowardly act. Pakistan cricket needs you. If you are scared that the pressure of the World Cup will be put on you, it's wrong. Misbah has been around since 2019 and has stepped down now. "It is not good news for Pakistan cricket because it's very weird for the top management to leave abruptly. If I was in their place, I would not have run away from the situation. I would have stayed there and would not have backed off with the World Cup just around the corner," the 46-year-old Akhtar added. × For the unversed, both Misbah and Waqar had a year left in their respective contracts before they decided to resign untimely and surprise one and all, especially the Pakistan cricket fans. At present, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) have appointed Saqlain Mushtaq and Abdul Razzaq as the interim coaches. The Babar Azam-led Men in Green are gearing up for a limited-overs series versus New Zealand, at home, and will feature in the T20 World Cup where they are placed in Group 2 with India, New Zealand, Afghanistan and two other teams (who will join from the qualifiers).

Resigning before T20 WC is a cowardly act: Shoaib Akhtar lashes out at Misbah-ul-Haq and Waqar Younis

The rivalry between India and Pakistan is the most famous in the game of cricket. The match between the two attracts millions of fans around the world, however, this rivalry on the cricket pitch has become a rare event as the two collide during ICC events.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/makes-most-sense-for-us-virat-kohli-explains-reason-behind-choosing-ishant-sharma-over-r-ashwin-404968" hreflang="en">'Makes most sense for us': Virat Kohli explains reason behind choosing Ishant Sharma over R Ashwin</a>

There was a time these two teams visited the other country for a tour and many Pakistan cricketers revealed, in recent years, about their great experiences in India, one such player is Shoaib Akhtar.&nbsp;

In a recent interaction with Sportskeeda, the former Pakistan pacer talked about the memorable moments during his time in India. He shared an incident that took place in 2007 which involved Shoaib Akhtar and the Indian batting legend Sachin Tendulkar,&nbsp;

“After Pakistan, if there is one country where I have received a lot of love, it is India. I have a lot of good memories from my visits to India. During the 2007 tour, there was an awards function. So obviously, there was a get-together after the function. As usual, I wanted to do something different. So, I tried to lift Sachin Tendulkar, just for fun. I managed to lift him but then he slipped from my hands. Tendulkar fell down, not that badly, but I thought to myself that ‘I am dead’. I feared that if Sachin Tendulkar gets unfit or injured, I would never get an Indian Visa. The Indians would never allow me to come back to the country or would burn me alive.”

“When he fell down, I really thought I am done for life. I remember Harbhajan Singh and Yuvraj Singh were also there and they were telling me, ‘What are you doing man?’ And I responded by saying ‘I don’t really know, it just happened.’ So, then I went and hugged Tendulkar and asked him if he was okay. Thankfully, he said he was fine.

"Then I told him if anything would have happened, it could have caused big trouble to me, especially with the media and all the fans in India. Tendulkar later hammered us in the series. At that point, I wished he was unfit,” Akhtar added. &nbsp;

The rivalry between India and Pakistan is the most famous in the game of cricket. The match between the two attracts millions of fans around the world, however, this rivalry on the cricket pitch has become a rare event as the two collide during ICC events.

The rivalry between India and Pakistan is the most famous in the game of cricket. The match between the two attracts millions of fans around the world, however, this rivalry on the cricket pitch has become a rare event as the two collide during ICC events. ALSO READ: 'Makes most sense for us': Virat Kohli explains reason behind choosing Ishant Sharma over R Ashwin There was a time these two teams visited the other country for a tour and many Pakistan cricketers revealed, in recent years, about their great experiences in India, one such player is Shoaib Akhtar. In a recent interaction with Sportskeeda, the former Pakistan pacer talked about the memorable moments during his time in India. He shared an incident that took place in 2007 which involved Shoaib Akhtar and the Indian batting legend Sachin Tendulkar, “After Pakistan, if there is one country where I have received a lot of love, it is India. I have a lot of good memories from my visits to India. During the 2007 tour, there was an awards function. So obviously, there was a get-together after the function. As usual, I wanted to do something different. So, I tried to lift Sachin Tendulkar, just for fun. I managed to lift him but then he slipped from my hands. Tendulkar fell down, not that badly, but I thought to myself that ‘I am dead’. I feared that if Sachin Tendulkar gets unfit or injured, I would never get an Indian Visa. The Indians would never allow me to come back to the country or would burn me alive.” “When he fell down, I really thought I am done for life. I remember Harbhajan Singh and Yuvraj Singh were also there and they were telling me, ‘What are you doing man?’ And I responded by saying ‘I don’t really know, it just happened.’ So, then I went and hugged Tendulkar and asked him if he was okay. Thankfully, he said he was fine. "Then I told him if anything would have happened, it could have caused big trouble to me, especially with the media and all the fans in India. Tendulkar later hammered us in the series. At that point, I wished he was unfit,” Akhtar added.

'I thought I will never get Indian Visa': Shoaib Akhtar reveals an incident with Sachin Tendulkar

Pakistan's former cricketer Shoaib Akhtar has offered a piece of advice to all pacers of India for the upcoming Test series against England. Virat Kohli-led team India will lock horns with England in a five-match series that will kick-off with the first match scheduled to begin on August 4 in Nottingham.

The Pakistani speedster said that the aggression of the fast bowlers lies in their lengths. He further highlighted his success was not due to bouncers, but hitting the right areas. Akhtar also suggested that the Indian pacers must keep variation in their bowling.&nbsp;

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/hardik-pandya-krunal-pandyas-luxurious-8-bhk-apartment-has-over-the-top-amenities-see-pics-402039">Hardik Pandya, Krunal Pandya's luxurious 8-BHK apartment has over-the-top amenities - see pics</a>

After losing the inaugural edition of the World Test Championship (WTC) against New Zealand, India will look to winning ways and clinch their first Test series in England since 2007. With the likes of Ishant Sharma, Mohammed Shami and Jasprit Bumrah, India boasts of one of the best pace attacks in the current scenario, however, as also mentioned by Akhtar, England pacers like Jofra Archer and James Anderson will have home advantage.&nbsp;

In his Youtube channel, Akhtar said, "The aggression of the fast bowlers is in their length. People think that I was aggressive because of bowling bouncers, but no. I was aggressive because I was constantly hitting the right areas, and with the pace, with the variation in pace. So, whoever goes in from the Indian side, just remember to hit the deck with a lot of aggression and a lot of pace. And keep doing this variation throughout, which is the most important thing."

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/one-year-ban-for-gunathilaka-mendis-and-dickwella-along-with-hefty-fine-slc-401888">One year ban for Gunathilaka, Mendis and Dickwella, along with hefty fine: SLC</a>

He further added, "Once you find your aggression in length, then don’t let that go. Make sure you have your match on within your brain, not with the batsmen. It is my skill that is going to outsmart you out there. This is the mindset that you should have. It’s not about people who are holding the bad days or enemies of yours, no, it is your skill which is your best enemy, who is not letting you or allowing you to display that talent. In order to display that talent, you have to go through the pain barrier."

Pakistan's former cricketer Shoaib Akhtar has offered a piece of advice to all pacers of India for the upcoming Test series against England. Virat Kohli-led team India will lock horns with England in a five-match series that will kick-off with the first match scheduled to begin on August 4 in Nottingham.

Pakistan's former cricketer Shoaib Akhtar has offered a piece of advice to all pacers of India for the upcoming Test series against England. Virat Kohli-led team India will lock horns with England in a five-match series that will kick-off with the first match scheduled to begin on August 4 in Nottingham. The Pakistani speedster said that the aggression of the fast bowlers lies in their lengths. He further highlighted his success was not due to bouncers, but hitting the right areas. Akhtar also suggested that the Indian pacers must keep variation in their bowling. ALSO READ | Hardik Pandya, Krunal Pandya's luxurious 8-BHK apartment has over-the-top amenities - see pics After losing the inaugural edition of the World Test Championship (WTC) against New Zealand, India will look to winning ways and clinch their first Test series in England since 2007. With the likes of Ishant Sharma, Mohammed Shami and Jasprit Bumrah, India boasts of one of the best pace attacks in the current scenario, however, as also mentioned by Akhtar, England pacers like Jofra Archer and James Anderson will have home advantage. In his Youtube channel, Akhtar said, "The aggression of the fast bowlers is in their length. People think that I was aggressive because of bowling bouncers, but no. I was aggressive because I was constantly hitting the right areas, and with the pace, with the variation in pace. So, whoever goes in from the Indian side, just remember to hit the deck with a lot of aggression and a lot of pace. And keep doing this variation throughout, which is the most important thing." ALSO READ | One year ban for Gunathilaka, Mendis and Dickwella, along with hefty fine: SLC He further added, "Once you find your aggression in length, then don’t let that go. Make sure you have your match on within your brain, not with the batsmen. It is my skill that is going to outsmart you out there. This is the mindset that you should have. It’s not about people who are holding the bad days or enemies of yours, no, it is your skill which is your best enemy, who is not letting you or allowing you to display that talent. In order to display that talent, you have to go through the pain barrier."

Cricket - Shoaib Akhtar's advice to Indian pacers for England series: 'Remember to hit the deck with a lot of aggression'

Former Pakistan's fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar has made quite an interesting prediction regarding the winner of the upcoming T20 World Cup, which is scheduled to take place from October 17 to November 14 this year in the UAE and Oman. India and Pakistan are slated to play in the group stage as they are in the same pool, however, the former cricketer has predicted the arch-rivals will play the final clash also and not just that, Pakistan will end up defeating India.&nbsp;

While speaking to a media house, Akhtar said, "I have a feeling Pakistan and India will play in the T20 World Cup final and India will lose to Pakistan. Conditions in UAE will favour both India and Pakistan."

Pakistan team has never defeated India in World Cup matches as the Indian team boast a stunning 11-0 record. It is worth noting that India and Pakistan have not played any bilateral series in over a decade due to political tensions, however, they have faced each other in ICC tournaments. Despite the ban, India vs Pakistan is considered one of the fiercest rivalries in the cricket world. Particularly this year, as both the teams will contest to get the trophy for a second time.

Previously, India was supposed to host the T20 World Cup but owing to the ongoing Coronavirus (COVID-19) crisis, the entire event has been shifted to UAE.&nbsp;

'Today's batmen are fortunate...'

Recently, Akhtar commented that the batsmen of today's generation are "fortunate" as they haven't faced some of the legendary bowlers like Shane Warne, Wasim Akram, Waqar Younis and himself. During an interview with an India-based media house, the 45-year-old former fast bowler spoke about how the game of cricket has deteriorated over the past few years. He said that cricket has "not evolved", only the shots have "evolved". Akhtar said, "The quality of the game has deteriorated in the last 10 years. The deterioration has happened."&nbsp;

Former Pakistan's fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar has made quite an interesting prediction regarding the winner of the upcoming T20 World Cup, which is scheduled to take place from October 17 to November 14 this year in the UAE and Oman.

Former Pakistan's fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar has made quite an interesting prediction regarding the winner of the upcoming T20 World Cup, which is scheduled to take place from October 17 to November 14 this year in the UAE and Oman. India and Pakistan are slated to play in the group stage as they are in the same pool, however, the former cricketer has predicted the arch-rivals will play the final clash also and not just that, Pakistan will end up defeating India. While speaking to a media house, Akhtar said, "I have a feeling Pakistan and India will play in the T20 World Cup final and India will lose to Pakistan. Conditions in UAE will favour both India and Pakistan." Pakistan team has never defeated India in World Cup matches as the Indian team boast a stunning 11-0 record. It is worth noting that India and Pakistan have not played any bilateral series in over a decade due to political tensions, however, they have faced each other in ICC tournaments. Despite the ban, India vs Pakistan is considered one of the fiercest rivalries in the cricket world. Particularly this year, as both the teams will contest to get the trophy for a second time. Previously, India was supposed to host the T20 World Cup but owing to the ongoing Coronavirus (COVID-19) crisis, the entire event has been shifted to UAE. 'Today's batmen are fortunate...' Recently, Akhtar commented that the batsmen of today's generation are "fortunate" as they haven't faced some of the legendary bowlers like Shane Warne, Wasim Akram, Waqar Younis and himself. During an interview with an India-based media house, the 45-year-old former fast bowler spoke about how the game of cricket has deteriorated over the past few years. He said that cricket has "not evolved", only the shots have "evolved". Akhtar said, "The quality of the game has deteriorated in the last 10 years. The deterioration has happened."

Shoaib Akhtar predicts winner of T20 World Cup, says 'India will lose to Pakistan'

Former Pakistan pacer Shoaib Akhtar said that the batsmen of today's generation are "fortunate" as they haven't faced some of the legendary bowlers like Shane Warne, Wasim Akram, Waqar Younis and himself. During an interview with an India-based media house, the 45-year-old former fast bowler spoke about how the game of cricket has deteriorated over the past few years. He said that cricket has "not evolved", only the shots have "evolved". Akhtar said, "The quality of the game has deteriorated in the last 10 years. The deterioration has happened."&nbsp;

Speaking further, the Rawalpindi Express also pointed on the viewership and highlighted the issue of a dip in viewership. There are some instances when the viewership is high for some big matches but the trend is inconsistent. Akhtar also tried to establish the reason saying that "characters of the game have gone".&nbsp;

"The viewership of the game has not increased but it has come down because the characters of the game have gone. People are saying there's more viewership, but how is there more viewership? There's no viewership for Test matches. 600 million might have watched the Champions Trophy match, but that was a one-off," he said.&nbsp;

Akhtar on Sachin vs Virat debate

Akhtar weighed in on the highly debated topic in the cricketing world, which is, who is better — Sachin Tendulkar or Virat Kohli? While commenting on the same, Akhtar said, "Give Sachin Tendulkar credit and stop comparing him to Virat Kohli." Shoaib Akhtar, who played against the Master Blaster on many occasions said, "He [Virat] did not play the era of Sachin Tendulkar, which is like the single era of 50 overs, and then the reverse swing starts literally after 10 overs. Face that with Wasim Akram, Waqar Younis, and the spin of Shane Warne".&nbsp;

Former Pakistan pacer Shoaib Akhtar said that the batsmen of today's generation are "fortunate" as they haven't faced some of the legendary bowlers like Shane Warne, Wasim Akram, Waqar Younis and himself.

Former Pakistan pacer Shoaib Akhtar said that the batsmen of today's generation are "fortunate" as they haven't faced some of the legendary bowlers like Shane Warne, Wasim Akram, Waqar Younis and himself. During an interview with an India-based media house, the 45-year-old former fast bowler spoke about how the game of cricket has deteriorated over the past few years. He said that cricket has "not evolved", only the shots have "evolved". Akhtar said, "The quality of the game has deteriorated in the last 10 years. The deterioration has happened." Speaking further, the Rawalpindi Express also pointed on the viewership and highlighted the issue of a dip in viewership. There are some instances when the viewership is high for some big matches but the trend is inconsistent. Akhtar also tried to establish the reason saying that "characters of the game have gone". "The viewership of the game has not increased but it has come down because the characters of the game have gone. People are saying there's more viewership, but how is there more viewership? There's no viewership for Test matches. 600 million might have watched the Champions Trophy match, but that was a one-off," he said. Akhtar on Sachin vs Virat debate Akhtar weighed in on the highly debated topic in the cricketing world, which is, who is better — Sachin Tendulkar or Virat Kohli? While commenting on the same, Akhtar said, "Give Sachin Tendulkar credit and stop comparing him to Virat Kohli." Shoaib Akhtar, who played against the Master Blaster on many occasions said, "He [Virat] did not play the era of Sachin Tendulkar, which is like the single era of 50 overs, and then the reverse swing starts literally after 10 overs. Face that with Wasim Akram, Waqar Younis, and the spin of Shane Warne".

Shoaib Akhtar: 'Today's batmen fortunate as they haven't faced Warne, Akram, Younis and me'

Pakistan suffered a 3-0 whitewash against England after losing third and final against Stokes and Co. at Edgbaston in Birmingham. Several former Pakistan cricketers were disappointed that a full-strength Men in Green could not beat an English team that was assembled just a couple of days before their first team was isolated due to a coronavirus outbreak.

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Shoaib Akhtar has expressed his disappointment with the performance of Babar Azam and Co. and called it "shameful". He went on to criticise the Pakistan Cricket Board and called it "average".&nbsp;

“It's a shameful performance. Our board is average. It brings average people, the management is average so obviously, they are going to build an average team. You can’t expect extraordinary things from average people. It’s wrong for you to expect.

“Crowd are coming to the ground but after watching such performances, the fan following will never grow. There is no star to inspire the youngsters. Then how can you bring the next Shoaib Akhtar, Shahid Afridi or Wasim Akram? You have to build brand,” Akhtar said on his YouTube channel.

After a disappointing show in the first two ODIs, Pakistan put up a strong batting show in the third One Day, with skipper Babar Azam scoring his career-best 158, which is also the most by any Pakistan player against England and posted a string 331 at the loss of 9 wickets.&nbsp;

However, they miserably failed to defend the total and England, with the help of James Vince's maiden ton, easily chased the target within 48 overs with three wickets remaining.&nbsp;

“Why this England team is doing so much better than us? Our mindset after we lose a couple of wickets is to bat steadily, build partnerships and then only try and attack in the last 10 overs. This is 70s cricket. We are stuck in the 70s. England say even if we are bowled out in 40 overs we will make sure we get 300. Every England batsman that walked in, kept the scoreboard moving and it was not mindless slogging. It was methodical hitting, there was rotation of strike. But we are playing 70s cricket because our mindset is like that, we don’t want to improve,” Akhtar said.

“Pakistan cricket is in a serious situation. They are in treacherous waters. It’s a very hopeless situation for PCB and Pakistan. I don’t know what the authorities are thinking but it’s a very hopeless situation. I’m not saying because I need a job but I’m saying this because I’m hurt. I played this game for my country. I ran in and I made sure people get value for their money. And they did that. Unfortunately, I’m not getting value for money from this team. This is not defendable, this is unexpected. This must be looked into,” he said.

Babar Azam and Co. will now take on England in a three-match T20I series starting from July 16.

Pakistan suffered a 3-0 whitewash against England after losing third and final against Stokes and Co. at Edgbaston in Birmingham. Several former Pakistan cricketers were disappointed that a full-strength Men in Green could not beat an English team that was assembled just a couple of days before their first team was isolated due to a coronavirus outbreak.

Pakistan suffered a 3-0 whitewash against England after losing third and final against Stokes and Co. at Edgbaston in Birmingham. Several former Pakistan cricketers were disappointed that a full-strength Men in Green could not beat an English team that was assembled just a couple of days before their first team was isolated due to a coronavirus outbreak. ALSO READ: Cricket: Record-breaking Azam's ODI best can't stop England sweep of Pakistan Shoaib Akhtar has expressed his disappointment with the performance of Babar Azam and Co. and called it "shameful". He went on to criticise the Pakistan Cricket Board and called it "average". “It's a shameful performance. Our board is average. It brings average people, the management is average so obviously, they are going to build an average team. You can’t expect extraordinary things from average people. It’s wrong for you to expect. “Crowd are coming to the ground but after watching such performances, the fan following will never grow. There is no star to inspire the youngsters. Then how can you bring the next Shoaib Akhtar, Shahid Afridi or Wasim Akram? You have to build brand,” Akhtar said on his YouTube channel. After a disappointing show in the first two ODIs, Pakistan put up a strong batting show in the third One Day, with skipper Babar Azam scoring his career-best 158, which is also the most by any Pakistan player against England and posted a string 331 at the loss of 9 wickets. However, they miserably failed to defend the total and England, with the help of James Vince's maiden ton, easily chased the target within 48 overs with three wickets remaining. “Why this England team is doing so much better than us? Our mindset after we lose a couple of wickets is to bat steadily, build partnerships and then only try and attack in the last 10 overs. This is 70s cricket. We are stuck in the 70s. England say even if we are bowled out in 40 overs we will make sure we get 300. Every England batsman that walked in, kept the scoreboard moving and it was not mindless slogging. It was methodical hitting, there was rotation of strike. But we are playing 70s cricket because our mindset is like that, we don’t want to improve,” Akhtar said. “Pakistan cricket is in a serious situation. They are in treacherous waters. It’s a very hopeless situation for PCB and Pakistan. I don’t know what the authorities are thinking but it’s a very hopeless situation. I’m not saying because I need a job but I’m saying this because I’m hurt. I played this game for my country. I ran in and I made sure people get value for their money. And they did that. Unfortunately, I’m not getting value for money from this team. This is not defendable, this is unexpected. This must be looked into,” he said. Babar Azam and Co. will now take on England in a three-match T20I series starting from July 16.

Cricket- 'It's a shameful performance': Shoaib Akhtar criticises Babar Azam and Co. after England whitewash

Former Pakistan pacer Mohammed Amir has moved to England after controversially retiring from the national team after a fall-out with head coach Misbah-ul-Haq and bowling coach Waqar Younis.&nbsp;

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Amir has been criticised by several former Pakistan cricketers for his decision to retire from the national side. Shoaib Akhtar has now criticised Mohammed Amir and urged him to "grow up" and said the only way for a player to prove himself is to perform.

"Sometimes you have good days and sometimes you have bad days. Amir should have realised that papa Mickey Arthur will not always be there to safeguard him. Sometimes you have to grow up. I am saying this for Amir. Sometimes you have to grow up. You don’t let it go but you mature enough to realise that the management is not according to my wishes, now I have to raise my performance and level of hard work," Akhtar said to PTV sports.&nbsp;

He compared Amir's situation to that of Mohammad Hafeez. He said: "The management was also against Hafeez. What did Hafeez do that was different? He just made runs and nothing else. He didn’t give the management an envelope full of cash. Amir should have learned from Hafeez."

However, Amir has said that he will still play for Karachi Kings in the remainder of the Pakistan Super League (PSL). And then don the jersey of Kent for the T20 Blast in England.&nbsp;

Former Pakistan pacer Mohammed Amir has moved to England after controversially retiring from the national team after a fall-out with head coach Misbah-ul-Haq and bowling coach Waqar Younis.

Former Pakistan pacer Mohammed Amir has moved to England after controversially retiring from the national team after a fall-out with head coach Misbah-ul-Haq and bowling coach Waqar Younis. ALSO READ: Cricket: Amir, Malik and Lamichhane sign for Caribbean Premier League 2021 Amir has been criticised by several former Pakistan cricketers for his decision to retire from the national side. Shoaib Akhtar has now criticised Mohammed Amir and urged him to "grow up" and said the only way for a player to prove himself is to perform. "Sometimes you have good days and sometimes you have bad days. Amir should have realised that papa Mickey Arthur will not always be there to safeguard him. Sometimes you have to grow up. I am saying this for Amir. Sometimes you have to grow up. You don’t let it go but you mature enough to realise that the management is not according to my wishes, now I have to raise my performance and level of hard work," Akhtar said to PTV sports. He compared Amir's situation to that of Mohammad Hafeez. He said: "The management was also against Hafeez. What did Hafeez do that was different? He just made runs and nothing else. He didn’t give the management an envelope full of cash. Amir should have learned from Hafeez." However, Amir has said that he will still play for Karachi Kings in the remainder of the Pakistan Super League (PSL). And then don the jersey of Kent for the T20 Blast in England.

Cricket- 'You have to grow up': Shoaib Akhtar criticises Mohammad Amir

A controversy had erupted during the 2007 ICC T20 World Cup when Shoaib Akhtar had hit Mohammed Asif with a bat due to which the former pacer was called back from South Africa. Akhtar talked about this incident in his autobiography, Controversially Yours, where he accused Afridi of 'aggravating the situation'.

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Mohammad Asif has now reacted to this incident with Shoaib Akhtar. He said that he called Akhtar and urged him to 'move on' as he had lived off the incident for 13 years.

“The dressing room spat with Shoaib Akhtar in 2007 was an incident that Shoaib Akhtar has lived-off for 13 years. He has made so many comments about it and has kept on bringing it up whenever he can. Well, I had enough, so I called him up recently and told him to shut up about the incident and move on from it. I told him to get over what happened, it’s history now. Instead of talking about that incident in every interview, I told him to talk sense, talk about how he can help young cricketers in Pakistan. One day he’s dreaming of being the Chief Selector, the next day he’s dreaming about being Pakistan’s Head Coach or Chairman PCB, he needs to get back to reality and actually focus on helping young cricketers instead of chatting about something that happened more than 13 years ago,” Asif told Pak Passion.

Akhtar had previously had written about this incident in his autobiography. “Afridi was aggravating the situation and I swung the bat at both of them. Afridi ducked, but Asif couldn’t get out of the way, the bat struck him on his thighs and he collapsed. I had lost it. I had never behaved like this, especially in the dressing room,” wrote Shoaib.

A controversy had erupted during the 2007 ICC T20 World Cup when Shoaib Akhtar had hit Mohammed Asif with a bat due to which the former pacer was called back from South Africa.

A controversy had erupted during the 2007 ICC T20 World Cup when Shoaib Akhtar had hit Mohammed Asif with a bat due to which the former pacer was called back from South Africa. Akhtar talked about this incident in his autobiography, Controversially Yours, where he accused Afridi of 'aggravating the situation'. ALSO READ: Cricket: 'Virat and Ravi bhai have worked really hard': Umesh Yadav ahead of the WTC finale Mohammad Asif has now reacted to this incident with Shoaib Akhtar. He said that he called Akhtar and urged him to 'move on' as he had lived off the incident for 13 years. “The dressing room spat with Shoaib Akhtar in 2007 was an incident that Shoaib Akhtar has lived-off for 13 years. He has made so many comments about it and has kept on bringing it up whenever he can. Well, I had enough, so I called him up recently and told him to shut up about the incident and move on from it. I told him to get over what happened, it’s history now. Instead of talking about that incident in every interview, I told him to talk sense, talk about how he can help young cricketers in Pakistan. One day he’s dreaming of being the Chief Selector, the next day he’s dreaming about being Pakistan’s Head Coach or Chairman PCB, he needs to get back to reality and actually focus on helping young cricketers instead of chatting about something that happened more than 13 years ago,” Asif told Pak Passion. Akhtar had previously had written about this incident in his autobiography. “Afridi was aggravating the situation and I swung the bat at both of them. Afridi ducked, but Asif couldn’t get out of the way, the bat struck him on his thighs and he collapsed. I had lost it. I had never behaved like this, especially in the dressing room,” wrote Shoaib.

'Shoaib Akhtar has lived off incident for 13 years': Asif reacts to 2007 T20 WC spat

A controversy had erupted during the 2007 ICC T20 World Cup when Shoaib Akhtar had hit Mohammed Asif with a bat due to which the former pacer was called back from South Africa. Akhtar talked about this incident in his autobiography, Controversially Yours, where he accused Afridi of 'aggravating the situation'.

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“Afridi was aggravating the situation and I swung the bat at both of them. Afridi ducked, but Asif couldn’t get out of the way, the bat struck him on his thighs and he collapsed. I had lost it. I had never behaved like this, especially in the dressing room,” wrote Shoaib.

Former Pakistan skipper Shahid Afridi has now responded and has denied "aggravating" the situation. In an interview with Samaa TV, Afridi said: "Things happen."&nbsp;

“Asif had sided with me in a joke which enraged Shoaib and all this happened. But Shoaib has a very beautiful heart.”

Afridi also talked about his young days in cricket and how his father wanted him to focus on studies instead of cricket.&nbsp;

“When I played under 14 and 18, there was only cricket in my all life,” he said.

“I used to sleep in my kit if I had a match the next day because I didn’t want to be late.”

“There was no social media at that time, so people showed my pictures in Dawn and Jang to my father and said his son was indeed up to something good.”

A controversy had erupted during the 2007 ICC T20 World Cup when Shoaib Akhtar had hit Mohammed Asif with a bat due to which the former pacer was called back from South Africa. Akhtar talked about this incident in his autobiography, Controversially Yours, where he accused Afridi of 'aggravating the situation'. ALSO READ: 'It is a major confidence boost if you get to play from the first match itself': Avesh Khan “Afridi was aggravating the situation and I swung the bat at both of them. Afridi ducked, but Asif couldn’t get out of the way, the bat struck him on his thighs and he collapsed. I had lost it. I had never behaved like this, especially in the dressing room,” wrote Shoaib. Former Pakistan skipper Shahid Afridi has now responded and has denied "aggravating" the situation. In an interview with Samaa TV, Afridi said: "Things happen." “Asif had sided with me in a joke which enraged Shoaib and all this happened. But Shoaib has a very beautiful heart.” Afridi also talked about his young days in cricket and how his father wanted him to focus on studies instead of cricket. “When I played under 14 and 18, there was only cricket in my all life,” he said. “I used to sleep in my kit if I had a match the next day because I didn’t want to be late.” “There was no social media at that time, so people showed my pictures in Dawn and Jang to my father and said his son was indeed up to something good.”

'Things happen': Shahid Afridi recalls 2007 T20 WC controversy after Akhtar hit Asif with bat

Former Pakistan speedster Shoaib Akhtar agreed to BCCI's decision to indefinitely suspend IPL 2021 looking at the current COVID situation in India. Akhtar had pointed out a few weeks ago that IPL should not be held amidst such a crisis in the country.&nbsp;

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"When I said a couple of weeks ago that the IPL should be stopped this year, there were emotions behind it. And it was that there is a national catastrophe that is taking place in India. People are dying. And I made the appeal because there were 4 lakh cases being reported a day. During such times, IPL cannot take place, the pomp and show cannot take place," Akhtar said on his YouTube channel.

"I didn’t have a problem with people not making money. People have been making money since 2008. If they don’t make money for a year, what trouble will they get into? People are dying and you cannot have pomp and show. It’s a national disaster. So as a neighbour, I was requesting that the IPL should be stopped."

Akhtar also pointed out that bio-secure bubbles are not the way going forward. He pointed out the flaws of bio-bubbles during PSL and then pointed out the similar outcome during IPL.&nbsp;

"IPL was never viable. We made a bio-secure bubble in the PSL and it completely flopped. India tried and the same happened there. In UAE and England, we would have had it. Over here, even people working in hotels are not safe. They don’t remain in bio-secure bubble. International cricket can take place in a bubble, but not franchise cricket because the entire world comes. The IPL is not a small event," Akhtar added.

Former Pakistan speedster Shoaib Akhtar agreed to BCCI's decision to indefinitely suspend IPL 2021 looking at the current COVID situation in India. Akhtar had pointed out a few weeks ago that IPL should not be held amidst such a crisis in the country.

Former Pakistan speedster Shoaib Akhtar agreed to BCCI's decision to indefinitely suspend IPL 2021 looking at the current COVID situation in India. Akhtar had pointed out a few weeks ago that IPL should not be held amidst such a crisis in the country. ALSO READ: 'He is a world-class player and he can walk into any team': Tabraiz Shamsi on AB de Villiers possible international return "When I said a couple of weeks ago that the IPL should be stopped this year, there were emotions behind it. And it was that there is a national catastrophe that is taking place in India. People are dying. And I made the appeal because there were 4 lakh cases being reported a day. During such times, IPL cannot take place, the pomp and show cannot take place," Akhtar said on his YouTube channel. "I didn’t have a problem with people not making money. People have been making money since 2008. If they don’t make money for a year, what trouble will they get into? People are dying and you cannot have pomp and show. It’s a national disaster. So as a neighbour, I was requesting that the IPL should be stopped." Akhtar also pointed out that bio-secure bubbles are not the way going forward. He pointed out the flaws of bio-bubbles during PSL and then pointed out the similar outcome during IPL. "IPL was never viable. We made a bio-secure bubble in the PSL and it completely flopped. India tried and the same happened there. In UAE and England, we would have had it. Over here, even people working in hotels are not safe. They don’t remain in bio-secure bubble. International cricket can take place in a bubble, but not franchise cricket because the entire world comes. The IPL is not a small event," Akhtar added.

'It’s a national disaster': Shoaib Akhtar agrees with BCCI's decision to suspend IPL

Former Indian spinner Harbhajan Singh recalled a moment before India vs Pakistan semifinals match at World Cup 2011 when Pakistan pacer Shoaib Akhtar asked him to arrange tickets for the semis and finals.

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"Shoaib Akhtar told me the night before the match that he wants some tickets for his family and relatives from Pakistan. So I said no problem, and I called PCA (Punjab Cricket Association) and somehow arranged some four tickets for him. When I went to give them to him, he said 'It will be great if you can arrange four tickets for the final as well,” Harbhajan said in an interview with Sports Today.

"I asked what he would do with them. He asserted that they (Pakistan) were going to play the final in Mumbai. I replied 'If you are going to Mumbai, then where are we going? India will play the final, and you should come and watch. I will give you four more tickets as well, no problem, you come and comfortably spectate the game.'"

India went on to lift the World Cup in 2011 after MS Dhoni hit a six off Nuwan Kulasekera's delivery to end the 28-year wait. India became the first country to win the tournament at home.&nbsp;

Former Indian spin wizard recalled the finals of the 2011 World Cup and called it the most important day of his life.&nbsp;

"Unbelievable, 2nd of April, that day was the most important day I would say of my career, of my life. I was watching my dreams come true, the way the love was flowing, everyone had a smile on their face and was swaying with happiness. It was not just our win, it was India's win," the veteran spinner said in a video posted by his IPL franchise Kolkata Knight Riders.

Former Indian spinner Harbhajan Singh recalled a moment before India vs Pakistan semifinals match at World Cup 2011 when Pakistan pacer Shoaib Akhtar asked him to arrange tickets for the semis and finals.

Former Indian spinner Harbhajan Singh recalled a moment before India vs Pakistan semifinals match at World Cup 2011 when Pakistan pacer Shoaib Akhtar asked him to arrange tickets for the semis and finals. ALSO READ: IPL 2021- Eight groundsmen at Wankhede test positive for COVID-19 "Shoaib Akhtar told me the night before the match that he wants some tickets for his family and relatives from Pakistan. So I said no problem, and I called PCA (Punjab Cricket Association) and somehow arranged some four tickets for him. When I went to give them to him, he said 'It will be great if you can arrange four tickets for the final as well,” Harbhajan said in an interview with Sports Today. "I asked what he would do with them. He asserted that they (Pakistan) were going to play the final in Mumbai. I replied 'If you are going to Mumbai, then where are we going? India will play the final, and you should come and watch. I will give you four more tickets as well, no problem, you come and comfortably spectate the game.'" India went on to lift the World Cup in 2011 after MS Dhoni hit a six off Nuwan Kulasekera's delivery to end the 28-year wait. India became the first country to win the tournament at home. Former Indian spin wizard recalled the finals of the 2011 World Cup and called it the most important day of his life. "Unbelievable, 2nd of April, that day was the most important day I would say of my career, of my life. I was watching my dreams come true, the way the love was flowing, everyone had a smile on their face and was swaying with happiness. It was not just our win, it was India's win," the veteran spinner said in a video posted by his IPL franchise Kolkata Knight Riders.

'Come and comfortably spectate': Harbhajan Singh recalls 'ticket' incident with Shoaib Akhtar during WC 2011

Young Indian pacer Prasidh Krishna has been attracting plenty of praises and eyeballs following his stunning ODI debut for India in the first match against England in Pune. Prasidh registered the best bowling figures by an Indian on ODI debut as he scalped four wickets to help India win by 66 runs. Former Pakistan pacer Shoaib Akhtar is the latest to join the list of players who have heaped praise on Prasidh following his ODI debut against England.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Akhtar has labelled Prasidh Krishna as "Karishma (Miracle)” after the youngster made a terrific comeback with the ball following an onslaught by Jonny Bairstow&nbsp;in his first spell of the first ODI. Akhtar was even left impressed by the bravery shown by Prasidh as he got into a competitive mode when bowling his second spell of the match.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Akhtar opined on his&nbsp;Youtube&nbsp;channel, “He’s not Krishna, he’s ‘Karishma’ (miracle). The way he came back after getting beaten by the England openers and scalped four wickets is miraculous."&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/mike-hesson-expects-ab-de-villiers-to-keep-wickets-for-rcb-in-ipl-2021-373335" hreflang="en">Mike Hesson expects AB de Villiers to keep wickets for RCB in IPL 2021</a>

“I’m very happy to see that Prasidh Krishna has made a very impactful comeback in the first ODI against England. As a fast bowler, you need to show your attitude, your guts, your talent and skill to bounce back once you are down after leaking too many runs. But the way he scalped 4 wickets, very well done and keep it up,” Shoaib further said.&nbsp;

Akthar further said that it is important for a pace bowler to not drop his pace after getting hit by a batsman.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-think-both-of-them-vvs-laxman-on-suryakumar-yadav-ishan-kishan-for-t20i-world-cup-373288" hreflang="en">'I think both of them..': VVS Laxman on Suryakumar Yadav, Ishan Kishan for T20I World Cup</a>

The Rawalpindi Express&nbsp;added, “Whenever you get hit, just remember one thing – don’t drop your pace. Just keep an eye on the wickets and aim the ball there. You have to do only this if you don’t get what to do. Keep your pace up, never let it go down. End the game by keeping the pace on the higher side."&nbsp;

Prasidh will look to continue his good run of form during the second ODI against England, which is currently being played in Pune.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Young Indian pacer Prasidh Krishna has been attracting plenty of praises and eyeballs following his stunning ODI debut for India in the first match against England in Pune.

Young Indian pacer Prasidh Krishna has been attracting plenty of praises and eyeballs following his stunning ODI debut for India in the first match against England in Pune. Prasidh registered the best bowling figures by an Indian on ODI debut as he scalped four wickets to help India win by 66 runs. Former Pakistan pacer Shoaib Akhtar is the latest to join the list of players who have heaped praise on Prasidh following his ODI debut against England. Akhtar has labelled Prasidh Krishna as "Karishma (Miracle)” after the youngster made a terrific comeback with the ball following an onslaught by Jonny Bairstow in his first spell of the first ODI. Akhtar was even left impressed by the bravery shown by Prasidh as he got into a competitive mode when bowling his second spell of the match. Akhtar opined on his Youtube channel, “He’s not Krishna, he’s ‘Karishma’ (miracle). The way he came back after getting beaten by the England openers and scalped four wickets is miraculous." ALSO READ: Mike Hesson expects AB de Villiers to keep wickets for RCB in IPL 2021 “I’m very happy to see that Prasidh Krishna has made a very impactful comeback in the first ODI against England. As a fast bowler, you need to show your attitude, your guts, your talent and skill to bounce back once you are down after leaking too many runs. But the way he scalped 4 wickets, very well done and keep it up,” Shoaib further said. Akthar further said that it is important for a pace bowler to not drop his pace after getting hit by a batsman. ALSO READ: 'I think both of them..': VVS Laxman on Suryakumar Yadav, Ishan Kishan for T20I World Cup The Rawalpindi Express added, “Whenever you get hit, just remember one thing – don’t drop your pace. Just keep an eye on the wickets and aim the ball there. You have to do only this if you don’t get what to do. Keep your pace up, never let it go down. End the game by keeping the pace on the higher side." Prasidh will look to continue his good run of form during the second ODI against England, which is currently being played in Pune.

'As a fast bowler...': Shoaib Akhtar heaps praise on Prasidh Krishna after impressive ODI debut

Rishabh Pant's batting in the fourth Test left the cricketing world stunned. The southpaw scored a crucial quick-ton to put India in a commanding position in the final Test match of the series at the Narendra Modi Stadium. He earned a lot of praise from several experts and former players of the game, including Pakistan's Inzamam-Ul-Haq.&nbsp;

In pics:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/ind-vs-eng-rishabh-pants-magnificent-century-against-jimmy-anderson-and-co-368226" hreflang="en">IND vs ENG: Rishabh Pant's magnificent century against Jimmy Anderson and Co.</a>

Former Pakistan skipper said that he is yet to come across a player as boisterous as the young India wicketkeeper and added that it felt like watching a left-handed version of Virender Sehwag.

"Rishabh Pant, absolutely brilliant. After a long time, I have seen a player on whom pressure seems to have no effect. Even if six wickets are down at 146, the way he starts his innings, no one does. He plays his strokes, irrespective of the pitch or how many runs the other team has scored. He is equally good against spinners and fast bowlers. I thoroughly enjoy watching him. It's like watching Sehwag bat left-handed," Inzamam said on his YouTube channel.

Sehwag's form was at its peak when India toured Pakistan in 2004, the opening batsman smashed a memorable 309 at Multan. Taking a note from Sehwag's batting style, Inzamam pointed out a similarity in Pant.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/embarrassing-shoaib-akhtar-gives-his-verdict-on-englands-3-1-series-defeat-against-india-368566" hreflang="en">'Embarrassing': Shoaib Akhtar gives his verdict on England's 3-1 series defeat against India</a>

"I have played with Sehwag and he too didn't bother about other factors. When he used to bat, it didn't matter to him how the pitch behaved or what kind of bowling attack the opponent had. He just had to play his strokes, even if the fielders were on the boundary. After Sehwag, I have seen such a player, for whom nothing else matters," Inzamam added.

According to Inzamam, Pant is a rare cricketer as the level of confidence he possesses is remarkable, probably better than some of the big players Indian cricket has produced over the years.

"Ever since I've noted, it's not that he's only doing it in India, he did it in Australia too. He didn't get to score centuries because he plays at his own pace. After a long time, I have seen such a player. India had Sachin, Dravid… now they have Virat and Rohit. But the way he plays, it's amazing. The kind of self-confidence he has is surprising. I haven't come across a player like him in cricket," said Inzamam.

Rishabh Pant's batting in the fourth Test left the cricketing world stunned. The southpaw scored a crucial quick-ton to put India in a commanding position in the final Test match of the series at the Narendra Modi Stadium.

Rishabh Pant's batting in the fourth Test left the cricketing world stunned. The southpaw scored a crucial quick-ton to put India in a commanding position in the final Test match of the series at the Narendra Modi Stadium. He earned a lot of praise from several experts and former players of the game, including Pakistan's Inzamam-Ul-Haq. In pics: IND vs ENG: Rishabh Pant's magnificent century against Jimmy Anderson and Co. Former Pakistan skipper said that he is yet to come across a player as boisterous as the young India wicketkeeper and added that it felt like watching a left-handed version of Virender Sehwag. "Rishabh Pant, absolutely brilliant. After a long time, I have seen a player on whom pressure seems to have no effect. Even if six wickets are down at 146, the way he starts his innings, no one does. He plays his strokes, irrespective of the pitch or how many runs the other team has scored. He is equally good against spinners and fast bowlers. I thoroughly enjoy watching him. It's like watching Sehwag bat left-handed," Inzamam said on his YouTube channel. Sehwag's form was at its peak when India toured Pakistan in 2004, the opening batsman smashed a memorable 309 at Multan. Taking a note from Sehwag's batting style, Inzamam pointed out a similarity in Pant. Also read: 'Embarrassing': Shoaib Akhtar gives his verdict on England's 3-1 series defeat against India "I have played with Sehwag and he too didn't bother about other factors. When he used to bat, it didn't matter to him how the pitch behaved or what kind of bowling attack the opponent had. He just had to play his strokes, even if the fielders were on the boundary. After Sehwag, I have seen such a player, for whom nothing else matters," Inzamam added. According to Inzamam, Pant is a rare cricketer as the level of confidence he possesses is remarkable, probably better than some of the big players Indian cricket has produced over the years. "Ever since I've noted, it's not that he's only doing it in India, he did it in Australia too. He didn't get to score centuries because he plays at his own pace. After a long time, I have seen such a player. India had Sachin, Dravid… now they have Virat and Rohit. But the way he plays, it's amazing. The kind of self-confidence he has is surprising. I haven't come across a player like him in cricket," said Inzamam.

'Haven't come across player like him in cricket': Inzamam-Ul-Haq lauds Rishabh Pant

Former Pakistan fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar has lavished high praise on Team India following Virat Kohli and Co's 3-1 series win against England as the 'Rawalpindi Express' termed&nbsp;visitors’&nbsp;loss&nbsp;as “embarrassing”.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Akhtar said it would have been better had England focused on their batting and crib less about the pitch. While none of the England members&nbsp;criticised&nbsp;the pitch in public, former England captains such as Michael Vaughan, Andrew Strauss and Alastair Cook were critical of the pitch produced in Chennai and Ahmedabad.&nbsp;

“All in all, it was an embarrassing defeat for the England team, and they have got a reality check in India. But they need to now learn the art of playing spin in the sub-continent well. Not sure, how are they going to lift themselves up from this humiliating defeat and motivate themselves to play better,” Shoaib Akhtar said on his&nbsp;Youtube&nbsp;channel.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-new-zealand-southampton-leads-race-to-host-icc-world-test-championship-final-368557" hreflang="en">India vs New Zealand: Southampton leads race to host ICC World Test Championship final</a>

Akhtar defended the pitches in Ahmedabad as the former Pakistan speedster asked while the visitors struggled, how come India managed to post big totals like 365 on the scoreboard?&nbsp;&nbsp;

“While many might talk about the wickets in the series, but look how India scored 365. They also played on the same wickets, where the England batsmen struggled. If Rishabh Pant and Washington Sundar can score runs, why can’t the English? With utmost ease, India has beaten England in the series, and sealed a spot in the final of the World Test Championship final,” Akhtar added.&nbsp;

IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/ind-vs-eng-rishabh-pants-magnificent-century-against-jimmy-anderson-and-co-368226" hreflang="en">IND vs ENG: Rishabh Pant's magnificent century against Jimmy Anderson and Co.</a>

Akthar praised&nbsp;Axar&nbsp;Patel highly following his heroics with the ball against England as he said that the 27-year-old might go on to become the quickest to 100 Test wickets.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

“Not only did he get a suitable wicket to bowl on, but he is an intelligent bowler too. He wouldn’t have given a chance to the English players when the control was in his hands, and that is what he did. If he keeps getting a few series like this, he might just become fastest bowler to 100 wickets. Having said that, England should have played him better,” he added.&nbsp;

India and England will next play five T20Is starting from March 12 before locking horns in a three-match ODI series.&nbsp;

Former Pakistan fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar has lavished high praise on Team India following Virat Kohli and Co's 3-1 series win against England as the 'Rawalpindi Express' termed visitors’ loss as “embarrassing”.

Former Pakistan fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar has lavished high praise on Team India following Virat Kohli and Co's 3-1 series win against England as the 'Rawalpindi Express' termed visitors’ loss as “embarrassing”. Akhtar said it would have been better had England focused on their batting and crib less about the pitch. While none of the England members criticised the pitch in public, former England captains such as Michael Vaughan, Andrew Strauss and Alastair Cook were critical of the pitch produced in Chennai and Ahmedabad. “All in all, it was an embarrassing defeat for the England team, and they have got a reality check in India. But they need to now learn the art of playing spin in the sub-continent well. Not sure, how are they going to lift themselves up from this humiliating defeat and motivate themselves to play better,” Shoaib Akhtar said on his Youtube channel. ALSO READ: India vs New Zealand: Southampton leads race to host ICC World Test Championship final Akhtar defended the pitches in Ahmedabad as the former Pakistan speedster asked while the visitors struggled, how come India managed to post big totals like 365 on the scoreboard? “While many might talk about the wickets in the series, but look how India scored 365. They also played on the same wickets, where the England batsmen struggled. If Rishabh Pant and Washington Sundar can score runs, why can’t the English? With utmost ease, India has beaten England in the series, and sealed a spot in the final of the World Test Championship final,” Akhtar added. IN PICS | IND vs ENG: Rishabh Pant's magnificent century against Jimmy Anderson and Co. Akthar praised Axar Patel highly following his heroics with the ball against England as he said that the 27-year-old might go on to become the quickest to 100 Test wickets. “Not only did he get a suitable wicket to bowl on, but he is an intelligent bowler too. He wouldn’t have given a chance to the English players when the control was in his hands, and that is what he did. If he keeps getting a few series like this, he might just become fastest bowler to 100 wickets. Having said that, England should have played him better,” he added. India and England will next play five T20Is starting from March 12 before locking horns in a three-match ODI series.

'Embarrassing': Shoaib Akhtar gives his verdict on England's 3-1 series defeat against India

The ongoing Pakistan Super League has been postponed indefinitely due to a coronavirus outbreak. The decision was taken in a meeting between the organising committee and the team owners and management on Thursday due to recent COVID-19 cases reported in the league.&nbsp;

Former Pakistan pacer Shoaib Akhtar slammed the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and urged Prime Minister Imran Khan to look into the matter. He even asked the top courts of the country to take a "very good look at the matter."&nbsp;

"You (PCB) played with the lives of the people and at the same time, you played with the reputation of the country... Where is the Chairman of PCB, he has to be answerable. I request the higher authorities and to the honourable courts to take a very good look at this matter... Where is Mani? Come to the front and answer. You have damaged Pakistan's reputation by ruining PSL. I am asking the higher authorities and the Prime Minister, sir look into this matter. This is an insult to Pakistan and Pakistan cricket," Akhtar said on his YouTube channel.

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"It is time for blame-game. But you have to admit that this the responsibility of the medical panel and the bio-secure bubble should have been properly maintained. There should be strict inquiry against the medical panel... The medical panel should not be spared," Akhtar said in the video he posted on his YouTube channel.

"... The medical panel should be punished and I request the higher authorities because they played with the lives of the people... All the blame has been put on Wasim Khan and he has been asked to face everything. Who has brought Wasim Khan? Ehsan Mani (brought him). Where is Mani Sahab? Is this the responsibility of Wasim Khan to answer here? Ehsan Mani should give the answer," he added.

Last month, Peshawar Zalmi skipper Wahab Riaz and coach Daren Sammy breached the coronavirus bubble, however, the board (PCB) allowed the duo to join the side after testing negative for the coronavirus.

"Aren't you (PCB) that smart to book an entire hotel. People are getting married there, getting haircuts. Daren Sammy getting out. I fail to understand, why would you (Javed Afridi) breach the bio-secure bubble. I am asking the same question to Wahab Riaz," Akhtar said.

Akhtar said: "PSL brand got destroyed again just because of the incompetence. And the one's who do not even know how to write a prescription or see X-rays are PCB's doctors. I have witnessed this when I used to play, they (PCB doctors) did not know how to see X-rays. Nothing has changed so far."

The ongoing Pakistan Super League has been postponed indefinitely due to a coronavirus outbreak. The decision was taken in a meeting between the organising committee and the team owners and management on Thursday due to recent COVID-19 cases reported in the league.

The ongoing Pakistan Super League has been postponed indefinitely due to a coronavirus outbreak. The decision was taken in a meeting between the organising committee and the team owners and management on Thursday due to recent COVID-19 cases reported in the league. Former Pakistan pacer Shoaib Akhtar slammed the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and urged Prime Minister Imran Khan to look into the matter. He even asked the top courts of the country to take a "very good look at the matter." "You (PCB) played with the lives of the people and at the same time, you played with the reputation of the country... Where is the Chairman of PCB, he has to be answerable. I request the higher authorities and to the honourable courts to take a very good look at this matter... Where is Mani? Come to the front and answer. You have damaged Pakistan's reputation by ruining PSL. I am asking the higher authorities and the Prime Minister, sir look into this matter. This is an insult to Pakistan and Pakistan cricket," Akhtar said on his YouTube channel. × "It is time for blame-game. But you have to admit that this the responsibility of the medical panel and the bio-secure bubble should have been properly maintained. There should be strict inquiry against the medical panel... The medical panel should not be spared," Akhtar said in the video he posted on his YouTube channel. "... The medical panel should be punished and I request the higher authorities because they played with the lives of the people... All the blame has been put on Wasim Khan and he has been asked to face everything. Who has brought Wasim Khan? Ehsan Mani (brought him). Where is Mani Sahab? Is this the responsibility of Wasim Khan to answer here? Ehsan Mani should give the answer," he added. Last month, Peshawar Zalmi skipper Wahab Riaz and coach Daren Sammy breached the coronavirus bubble, however, the board (PCB) allowed the duo to join the side after testing negative for the coronavirus. "Aren't you (PCB) that smart to book an entire hotel. People are getting married there, getting haircuts. Daren Sammy getting out. I fail to understand, why would you (Javed Afridi) breach the bio-secure bubble. I am asking the same question to Wahab Riaz," Akhtar said. Akhtar said: "PSL brand got destroyed again just because of the incompetence. And the one's who do not even know how to write a prescription or see X-rays are PCB's doctors. I have witnessed this when I used to play, they (PCB doctors) did not know how to see X-rays. Nothing has changed so far."

'PSL brand destroyed': Shoaib Akhtar slams 'incompetent' PCB after league's postponement

The anthem for the sixth edition of Pakistan Super League has been released and attracted a lot of attention. Former Pakistan pacer Shoaib Akhtar's reaction to the song has gone viral.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/icc-test-rankings-india-skipper-virat-kohli-slips-to-fifth-spot-as-joe-root-enters-top-3-362638">ICC Test Rankings: Virat Kohli slips to fifth spot as Joe Root enters top 3</a>

The song featured Naseebo Lal, Young Stunners and Aima Baig and it's called 'Groove Mera'. Shoaib Akhtar was quick to criticise the lyrics of the song and said that they could have been better.&nbsp;

Akhtar went on to describe his first reaction to the song, he said that it felt like someone was "forcing him to walk on hot desert barefoot".

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Akhtar further took to social media platform to post a video and again criticise the newly released PSL 2021 anthem.

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Really disappointed by the anthem this year. Is this how you're taking PSL brand up? Going down every year. Kon banata hai yeh. 
 
Full review: <a href="https://t.co/WozlCcSSrg">https://t.co/WozlCcSSrg</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/psl6anthem?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#psl6anthem</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PSL6?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PSL6</a> <a href="https://t.co/zfcQrNvruu">pic.twitter.com/zfcQrNvruu</a>
— Shoaib Akhtar (@shoaib100mph) <a href="https://twitter.com/shoaib100mph/status/1359465879189262337?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 10, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Shoaib Akhtar's reaction went viral on the internet making several netizens laugh.&nbsp;

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Twitter ky so called blogger sun lo hm bolty hain to tum log hamain katne ko atty ho, 🌚🤣 <a href="https://t.co/2aTq1i0fnS">pic.twitter.com/2aTq1i0fnS</a>
— مان علی (@ik_tiger_) <a href="https://twitter.com/ik_tiger_/status/1359370483003764736?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 10, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Shoaib posted a new video on his YouTube channel, where he said:&nbsp;"If the 10 worst songs of the PSL are compiled, this song will be number one. Do you have any shame?&nbsp;My kids are scared of this song. When they don't sleep, I tell them I'll play it for them. That immediately scares them."&nbsp;

The video, that was launched on February 6, attracted 2.5 million views on YouTube. Many players, including Wahab Riaz, featured in the video.&nbsp;

The tournament kicks off on February 20 at Karachi's National Stadium with the first T20 being played between the Karachi Kings and Quetta Gladiators.&nbsp;

Karachi Kings won the previous edition of the tournament. They defeated Lahore Qalandars to lift their maiden title.

The anthem for the sixth edition of Pakistan Super League has been released and attracted a lot of attention. Former Pakistan pacer Shoaib Akhtar's reaction to the song has gone viral.

The anthem for the sixth edition of Pakistan Super League has been released and attracted a lot of attention. Former Pakistan pacer Shoaib Akhtar's reaction to the song has gone viral. ALSO READ: ICC Test Rankings: Virat Kohli slips to fifth spot as Joe Root enters top 3 The song featured Naseebo Lal, Young Stunners and Aima Baig and it's called 'Groove Mera'. Shoaib Akhtar was quick to criticise the lyrics of the song and said that they could have been better. Akhtar went on to describe his first reaction to the song, he said that it felt like someone was "forcing him to walk on hot desert barefoot". × Akhtar further took to social media platform to post a video and again criticise the newly released PSL 2021 anthem. Really disappointed by the anthem this year. Is this how you're taking PSL brand up? Going down every year. Kon banata hai yeh. Full review: https://t.co/WozlCcSSrg#psl6anthem #PSL6 pic.twitter.com/zfcQrNvruu — Shoaib Akhtar (@shoaib100mph) February 10, 2021 × Shoaib Akhtar's reaction went viral on the internet making several netizens laugh. Twitter ky so called blogger sun lo hm bolty hain to tum log hamain katne ko atty ho, 🌚🤣 pic.twitter.com/2aTq1i0fnS — مان علی (@ik_tiger_) February 10, 2021 × Shoaib posted a new video on his YouTube channel, where he said: "If the 10 worst songs of the PSL are compiled, this song will be number one. Do you have any shame? My kids are scared of this song. When they don't sleep, I tell them I'll play it for them. That immediately scares them." The video, that was launched on February 6, attracted 2.5 million views on YouTube. Many players, including Wahab Riaz, featured in the video. The tournament kicks off on February 20 at Karachi's National Stadium with the first T20 being played between the Karachi Kings and Quetta Gladiators. Karachi Kings won the previous edition of the tournament. They defeated Lahore Qalandars to lift their maiden title.

WATCH- 'Worst song ever': Shoaib Akhtar hilariously trolls PSL 2021 anthem

Pakistan suffered yet another away series defeat as New Zealand thrashed them 2-0 to complete a whitewash. The Kiwis won the second Test by an innings and 176 runs to inflict yet another heavy defeat to Pakistan.&nbsp;

Former Pakistan cricketer Shoaib Akhtar, who had earlier taken a jibe at the team for playing 'School Level Cricket', ripped into the Mohammad Rizwan-led side as he said if Pakistan continue&nbsp;to play such cricket then other teams will stop visiting inviting them for Test matches.&nbsp;

Akhtar has been pretty vocal about Pakistan and world cricket, and after the crushing defeat in Christchurch, the Rawalpindi Express questioned the defensive mind-set of the team while further asking who will take accountability for the team selection.

"Pakistan team will always perform badly when they travel abroad. They will get exposed. The question is if the Cricket Board or the media is responsible for Pakistan team's demolition? Or our selection? Or the mindset that has been going on since 2005 of playing defensively?," Akhtar said in a YouTube video.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohlis-captaincy-feats-against-australia-unlikely-to-be-emulated-soon-ravi-shastri-354856" hreflang="en">Virat Kohli's captaincy feats against Australia unlikely to be emulated soon: Ravi Shastri</a>

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Pakistan folded for a paltry 297 and 186 in first two innings respectively in response to &nbsp;New Zealand's 659/9 (decl). After was a humiliating defeat for Pakistan, Akhtar said that teams will stop inviting Pakistan for Test series due to the standards being not good.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/jamiesons-first-11-humbles-pakistan-as-new-zealand-hit-number-one-354762" hreflang="en">Jamieson's first 11 humbles Pakistan as New Zealand hit number one</a>

"We are going towards a disastrous situation here where we fall down to No.8 in the rankings. I fear the world might stop inviting Pakistan for Test matches. They will say our standards are not good. This is the law of the ICC," Akhtar added.&nbsp;

Pakistan suffered yet another away series defeat as New Zealand thrashed them 2-0 to complete a whitewash. The Kiwis won the second Test by an innings and 176 runs to inflict yet another heavy defeat to Pakistan.

Pakistan suffered yet another away series defeat as New Zealand thrashed them 2-0 to complete a whitewash. The Kiwis won the second Test by an innings and 176 runs to inflict yet another heavy defeat to Pakistan. Former Pakistan cricketer Shoaib Akhtar, who had earlier taken a jibe at the team for playing 'School Level Cricket', ripped into the Mohammad Rizwan-led side as he said if Pakistan continue to play such cricket then other teams will stop visiting inviting them for Test matches. Akhtar has been pretty vocal about Pakistan and world cricket, and after the crushing defeat in Christchurch, the Rawalpindi Express questioned the defensive mind-set of the team while further asking who will take accountability for the team selection. "Pakistan team will always perform badly when they travel abroad. They will get exposed. The question is if the Cricket Board or the media is responsible for Pakistan team's demolition? Or our selection? Or the mindset that has been going on since 2005 of playing defensively?," Akhtar said in a YouTube video. ALSO READ: Virat Kohli's captaincy feats against Australia unlikely to be emulated soon: Ravi Shastri × Pakistan folded for a paltry 297 and 186 in first two innings respectively in response to New Zealand's 659/9 (decl). After was a humiliating defeat for Pakistan, Akhtar said that teams will stop inviting Pakistan for Test series due to the standards being not good. ALSO READ: Jamieson's first 11 humbles Pakistan as New Zealand hit number one "We are going towards a disastrous situation here where we fall down to No.8 in the rankings. I fear the world might stop inviting Pakistan for Test matches. They will say our standards are not good. This is the law of the ICC," Akhtar added.

World might stop inviting Pakistan for Test matches: Shoaib Akhtar after 2-0 whitewash against New Zealand

Indian pacer Jasprit Bumrah has been outstanding in all formats of cricket in recent years and he now leads Virat and Co.'s bowling unit. Bumrah is playing a vital role in the on-going Test against Australia.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/very-disciplined-marnus-labuschagne-lauds-indian-bowlers-but-wants-aussies-to-grind-for-runs-353858" hreflang="en">'Very disciplined' - Marnus Labuschagne lauds Indian bowlers but wants Aussies to 'grind' for runs</a>

Pakistan's former paceman Shoaib Akhtar talked about Bumrah and what makes him special. According to Pak pacer, Bumrah uses tactics of what Wasim Akram, Akhtar and Waqar Younis used to do.&nbsp;

“He (Bumrah) is probably India’s first fast bowler, who checks the wind speed and wind direction rather than how much grass has been left on the track. This thing used to be the art of Pakistanis, we used to know how you could play with the wind,” Akhtar said on YouTube channel “Sports Today”.

Akhtar used&nbsp;the example of how the two Ws (his fellow paceman) and he used to read the wind speeds during their prime. “We used to actually (do that), me, Wasim bhai and Waqar bhai, we used to note the wind speed and direction, look the wind is blowing from that corridor, okay I might get reverse from that end,” he said.

“We knew mechanics and aero dynamics of fast bowling, how much swing and at what time of the day. This is my assumption that Bumrah knows these sort of things which I hardly think other fast bowlers know these sort of things.”

“In Bumrah’s world, in those five seconds, he only visualises the batsman and thinks about his art of taking wickets,” Akhtar said.

“He is a great character. He will be the most unusual but great fast bowler if fitness permits. If his back remains okay, he will play for a long time.”

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/england-set-to-fly-for-sri-lanka-tour-after-clearing-covid-19-tests-353908" hreflang="en">England set to fly for Sri Lanka tour after clearing COVID-19 tests</a>

“He has proved people wrong time and again. The more people were critical of his ungainly action, he just told them, look boss this is what I can do with this action.”

“He sets up subtle traps. The 2x2 length corridor where he bowls, if you ask him to pitch 60 balls at same place, he can do that day in and day out. When he comes over the wicket, he uses the crease well. He also comes close to the stumps, if need be goes wider, he plays with variations, so the length will increase or decrease as per need but it won’t be outside the corridor,” Akhtar pointed out.

“He can bowl those away swingers to left-handers which will swing back in the air as the batsman will commit to an incoming delivery. Then after pitching, it will become and away going delivery. He is that accurate fast bowler that if you get him out of sleep, he will pitch the bowler there only. He knows art of taking wickets.”

(with PTI inputs)

Indian pacer Jasprit Bumrah has been outstanding in all formats of cricket in recent years and he now leads Virat and Co.'s bowling unit. Bumrah is playing a vital role in the on-going Test against Australia.

Indian pacer Jasprit Bumrah has been outstanding in all formats of cricket in recent years and he now leads Virat and Co.'s bowling unit. Bumrah is playing a vital role in the on-going Test against Australia. Also read: 'Very disciplined' - Marnus Labuschagne lauds Indian bowlers but wants Aussies to 'grind' for runs Pakistan's former paceman Shoaib Akhtar talked about Bumrah and what makes him special. According to Pak pacer, Bumrah uses tactics of what Wasim Akram, Akhtar and Waqar Younis used to do. “He (Bumrah) is probably India’s first fast bowler, who checks the wind speed and wind direction rather than how much grass has been left on the track. This thing used to be the art of Pakistanis, we used to know how you could play with the wind,” Akhtar said on YouTube channel “Sports Today”. Akhtar used the example of how the two Ws (his fellow paceman) and he used to read the wind speeds during their prime. “We used to actually (do that), me, Wasim bhai and Waqar bhai, we used to note the wind speed and direction, look the wind is blowing from that corridor, okay I might get reverse from that end,” he said. “We knew mechanics and aero dynamics of fast bowling, how much swing and at what time of the day. This is my assumption that Bumrah knows these sort of things which I hardly think other fast bowlers know these sort of things.” “In Bumrah’s world, in those five seconds, he only visualises the batsman and thinks about his art of taking wickets,” Akhtar said. “He is a great character. He will be the most unusual but great fast bowler if fitness permits. If his back remains okay, he will play for a long time.” Also read: England set to fly for Sri Lanka tour after clearing COVID-19 tests “He has proved people wrong time and again. The more people were critical of his ungainly action, he just told them, look boss this is what I can do with this action.” “He sets up subtle traps. The 2x2 length corridor where he bowls, if you ask him to pitch 60 balls at same place, he can do that day in and day out. When he comes over the wicket, he uses the crease well. He also comes close to the stumps, if need be goes wider, he plays with variations, so the length will increase or decrease as per need but it won’t be outside the corridor,” Akhtar pointed out. “He can bowl those away swingers to left-handers which will swing back in the air as the batsman will commit to an incoming delivery. Then after pitching, it will become and away going delivery. He is that accurate fast bowler that if you get him out of sleep, he will pitch the bowler there only. He knows art of taking wickets.” (with PTI inputs)

'He is great character': Former speedster Shoaib Akhtar praises Indian paceman Jasprit Bumrah

India completed a memorable triumph in Melbourne as the visitors defeated Australia by eight wickets to equalise the four-match Test series 1-1. The victory impressed former Pakistan pacer, Shoaib Akhtar.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/as-warner-returns-for-australia-will-the-hitman-formula-to-bolster-team-india-353392" hreflang="en">As Warner returns for Australia, will the 'Hitman' formula bolster Team India?</a>

Akhtar praised the stand-in skipper Rahane for the character he showed during the Boxing Day Test and leading Team India to a comfortable win against the hosts.&nbsp;

“Team India has beaten Australia like how you beat up a person in a sack. Characters are not made in crisis, they are exhibited. Team India has exhibited their talent when they were in deep crisis. This is team India’s character,” Shoaib Akhtar said on his YouTube channel.

“The best part was that they showed heart and courage today. They didn’t have 3 of their star players but it didn’t matter to them. Ajinkya Rahane quietly led the team but his success is making all the noise for him today. They say work hard in silence and let your success make the noise,” he added.

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Kohli-less India had to make four changes after a disappointing collapse in the first Test against Australia. Team India brought in Ravindra Jadeja, Rishabh Pant, Mohammed Siraj (debutant), and Shubman Gill (debutant).&nbsp;

“India picked Siraj, he took 5 wickets. He is still young, couldn’t be by his father’s side when he passed away. He paid tribute to his father with his performance. Then came Gill, he’s certainly a big star in the making. So, Team India showed their character, that they have guts, heart and courage,” Akhtar further said.

“What impressed me the most was they should have fallen flat on their face in this match after the kind of defeat they suffered in the 1st Test. But they didn’t. They rose up to the challenge. When teams show their character like this, it doesn’t matter which religion or country the players belong to, I feel very happy,” he concluded.

India completed a memorable triumph in Melbourne as the visitors defeated Australia by eight wickets to equalise the four-match Test series 1-1. The victory impressed former Pakistan pacer, Shoaib Akhtar.

India completed a memorable triumph in Melbourne as the visitors defeated Australia by eight wickets to equalise the four-match Test series 1-1. The victory impressed former Pakistan pacer, Shoaib Akhtar. Also read: As Warner returns for Australia, will the 'Hitman' formula bolster Team India? Akhtar praised the stand-in skipper Rahane for the character he showed during the Boxing Day Test and leading Team India to a comfortable win against the hosts. “Team India has beaten Australia like how you beat up a person in a sack. Characters are not made in crisis, they are exhibited. Team India has exhibited their talent when they were in deep crisis. This is team India’s character,” Shoaib Akhtar said on his YouTube channel. “The best part was that they showed heart and courage today. They didn’t have 3 of their star players but it didn’t matter to them. Ajinkya Rahane quietly led the team but his success is making all the noise for him today. They say work hard in silence and let your success make the noise,” he added. × Kohli-less India had to make four changes after a disappointing collapse in the first Test against Australia. Team India brought in Ravindra Jadeja, Rishabh Pant, Mohammed Siraj (debutant), and Shubman Gill (debutant). “India picked Siraj, he took 5 wickets. He is still young, couldn’t be by his father’s side when he passed away. He paid tribute to his father with his performance. Then came Gill, he’s certainly a big star in the making. So, Team India showed their character, that they have guts, heart and courage,” Akhtar further said. “What impressed me the most was they should have fallen flat on their face in this match after the kind of defeat they suffered in the 1st Test. But they didn’t. They rose up to the challenge. When teams show their character like this, it doesn’t matter which religion or country the players belong to, I feel very happy,” he concluded.

'Like how you beat up person in sack': Shoaib Akhtar on India's win against Australia

Former Pakistan pacer Shoaib Akhtar believes that India-Australia's Test series will be Rohit Sharma's "best chance" in the absence of skipper Kohli to stake a claim for captaincy in one of the limited-overs formats.

People have been urging for split captaincy ever since Rohit Sharma's fifth IPL trophy win with Mumbai Indians. He also led India to an Asia Cup title in Virat Kohli's absence.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/after-ipl-2020-rohit-sharma-begins-fitness-training-at-nca-344118" hreflang="en">After IPL 2020, Rohit Sharma begins fitness training at NCA</a>

Shoaib Akhtar feels that Rohit might be given the reigns of Test squad even though Ajinkya Rahane is the vice-captain.&nbsp;

While speaking to PTI, Akhtar said: "My take on it is pretty simple. From what I know Virat is very keen to take the team forward. It all depends on how fatigued he is feeling. He has been playing non-stop since 2010, has got 70 centuries and a mountain of runs under his belt."

"If he is feeling fatigued, then he should think about giving the leadership role to Rohit is one of the formats (preferably T20s).

"I could see the boredom on his face during the IPL, may be it was because of the bio-bubble situation, he seemed a bit stressed out. It all depends on how he feels. Rohit has been ready for captaincy for a while."

Rohit will be up against one of the best bowling attacks in the world. He will be facing lethal spearheads like Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc and Josh Hazlewood. Rohit will be rested for the limited-overs series against the Aussies but will be a part of the Test squad.&nbsp;

"Rohit is one of the greatest batsmen India has produced. Now he also understands the real value of his talent.

"Australia will be his best chance to prove himself as captain. He should grab it with both hands. He has the talent and ability to lead the team. It will be a tough test for India, and I would look for these kind of situations as a player.

"The whole world would be looking at Rohit as captain and batsman. If he does well for himself and the team, then there should be a debate about split captaincy."

Former Pakistan pacer Shoaib Akhtar believes that India-Australia's Test series will be Rohit Sharma's "best chance" in the absence of skipper Kohli to stake a claim for captaincy in one of the limited-overs formats.

Former Pakistan pacer Shoaib Akhtar believes that India-Australia's Test series will be Rohit Sharma's "best chance" in the absence of skipper Kohli to stake a claim for captaincy in one of the limited-overs formats. People have been urging for split captaincy ever since Rohit Sharma's fifth IPL trophy win with Mumbai Indians. He also led India to an Asia Cup title in Virat Kohli's absence. Also read: After IPL 2020, Rohit Sharma begins fitness training at NCA Shoaib Akhtar feels that Rohit might be given the reigns of Test squad even though Ajinkya Rahane is the vice-captain. While speaking to PTI, Akhtar said: "My take on it is pretty simple. From what I know Virat is very keen to take the team forward. It all depends on how fatigued he is feeling. He has been playing non-stop since 2010, has got 70 centuries and a mountain of runs under his belt." "If he is feeling fatigued, then he should think about giving the leadership role to Rohit is one of the formats (preferably T20s). "I could see the boredom on his face during the IPL, may be it was because of the bio-bubble situation, he seemed a bit stressed out. It all depends on how he feels. Rohit has been ready for captaincy for a while." Rohit will be up against one of the best bowling attacks in the world. He will be facing lethal spearheads like Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc and Josh Hazlewood. Rohit will be rested for the limited-overs series against the Aussies but will be a part of the Test squad. "Rohit is one of the greatest batsmen India has produced. Now he also understands the real value of his talent. "Australia will be his best chance to prove himself as captain. He should grab it with both hands. He has the talent and ability to lead the team. It will be a tough test for India, and I would look for these kind of situations as a player. "The whole world would be looking at Rohit as captain and batsman. If he does well for himself and the team, then there should be a debate about split captaincy."

'If Rohit does well..': Shoaib Akhtar sparks split-captaincy debate

The battle between Sachin Tendulkar and Shoaib Akhtar enthralled cricket fans during their playing days. The face-off between two top cricketers at the peak of their powers was nothing short of feast for cricket lovers. While many a times Tendulkar came out on top, there were moments when Akhtar dominated with his extreme pace.&nbsp;

Former Pakistan speedster Shoaib Akhtar recalled bowling to Sachin Tendulkar for the first time as he explained the build-up to the match in 1999 where India and Pakistan locked horns at the Eden Gardens.&nbsp;

Akhtar recalled that there was certain hype surrounding Tendulkar as everyone portrayed him as ‘God’ while adding that motivated him to get him dismissed in the first delivery, which he did.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2020-in-uae-from-match-timings-to-womens-ipl-key-takeaways-from-ipl-gc-meeting-317694">IPL 2020 in UAE: Key takeaways from IPL Governing Council meeting</a>

“I heard Sachin was the God. I said this is a God?. He didn’t recognize me, and I didn’t recognize him. He was in his own attitude and I was in my attitude. But I wanted to get him out on the first ball and that happened,” Akhtar told ARY News on Saturday.

Akhtar, who has been among the headlines for his controversial statements, had taken a jibe at the BCCI following the postponement of T20 World Cup while dragging ‘Monkeygate’ controversy to support his point.&nbsp;

“Sometimes they get easy wickets in Melbourne, at times someone calls another person a monkey but gets saved, the talk goes to boycotting the series. I am asking the Australians, where are their ethics?” Akhtar said.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australian-women-stars-slam-timing-of-indias-t20-challenge-317796" hreflang="en">Australian women stars slam timing of India's T20 Challenge</a>

Akhtar had bowled Tendulkar on the very first ball in 1999 Kolkata test where the duo was locking horns for the first time. Akhtar went on to dismiss VVS Laxman, Rahul Dravid and Venkatesh Prasad to mark his presence against India and finished with good figures of 4/71 in the first innings before picking another four in the second. Pakistan ultimately won the Test by 46 runs. 
&nbsp;

The battle between Sachin Tendulkar and Shoaib Akhtar enthralled cricket fans during their playing days. The face-off between two top cricketers at the peak of their powers was nothing short of feast for cricket lovers.

The battle between Sachin Tendulkar and Shoaib Akhtar enthralled cricket fans during their playing days. The face-off between two top cricketers at the peak of their powers was nothing short of feast for cricket lovers. While many a times Tendulkar came out on top, there were moments when Akhtar dominated with his extreme pace. Former Pakistan speedster Shoaib Akhtar recalled bowling to Sachin Tendulkar for the first time as he explained the build-up to the match in 1999 where India and Pakistan locked horns at the Eden Gardens. Akhtar recalled that there was certain hype surrounding Tendulkar as everyone portrayed him as ‘God’ while adding that motivated him to get him dismissed in the first delivery, which he did. ALSO READ: IPL 2020 in UAE: Key takeaways from IPL Governing Council meeting “I heard Sachin was the God. I said this is a God?. He didn’t recognize me, and I didn’t recognize him. He was in his own attitude and I was in my attitude. But I wanted to get him out on the first ball and that happened,” Akhtar told ARY News on Saturday. Akhtar, who has been among the headlines for his controversial statements, had taken a jibe at the BCCI following the postponement of T20 World Cup while dragging ‘Monkeygate’ controversy to support his point. “Sometimes they get easy wickets in Melbourne, at times someone calls another person a monkey but gets saved, the talk goes to boycotting the series. I am asking the Australians, where are their ethics?” Akhtar said. ALSO READ: Australian women stars slam timing of India's T20 Challenge Akhtar had bowled Tendulkar on the very first ball in 1999 Kolkata test where the duo was locking horns for the first time. Akhtar went on to dismiss VVS Laxman, Rahul Dravid and Venkatesh Prasad to mark his presence against India and finished with good figures of 4/71 in the first innings before picking another four in the second. Pakistan ultimately won the Test by 46 runs.

'This is God?' - Shoaib Akhtar recalls facing Sachin Tendulkar for the first time

The International Cricket Council (ICC) has “successfully finished” cricket in the last decade and brought the gentlemen’s game down to its knees, former Pakistan speedster Shoaib Akhtar said while launching a scathing attack on cricket’s global body.

Akhtar expressed his anguish at batting-friendly conditions in the limited-overs format, which has heavily favoured the batters of late. &nbsp;

"Can I tell you something bluntly? They (ICC) are finishing the cricket. I am openly saying that in last 10 years, ICC has successfully finished cricket, and I would say job well-done guys. Jo socha thaa apne woh kiya (You did what you intended to)," Akhtar told Manjrekar in a chat for ESPNCricinfo.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sri-lanka-suspends-shehan-madushanka-after-heroin-arrest-301148" hreflang="en">Sri Lanka suspends Shehan Madushanka after heroin arrest</a>

Akhtar is also of the view that the number of bouncers per over should be increased with two new balls and only four fielders outside the 30-yard circle for the better part of an ODI match as he rued contests like Sachin Tendulkar vs Shoaib Akhtar has been missing from cricket for a long time.

"I have been saying repeatedly that change bouncer rule (one per over). You have two new balls and four fielders outside. Please ask ICC whether, in the last 10 years, quality of cricket has gone up or gone down. Where are those Sachin versus Shoaib contests?"

On Tendulkar, Akhtar said he never got aggressive against the Master Blaster as they shared immense respect.&nbsp;

"But yes, I would try to outthink him. Like in the 2006 tour of Pakistan, I knew he had tennis elbow problems and he can't hook or pull me, so I bowled a barrage of bouncers to keep him quiet," Akhtar said.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/what-if-a-player-tests-positive-in-between-a-series-or-match-rahul-dravid-asks-for-better-resumption-stategy-301091" hreflang="en">"What if a player tests positive in between a series or match?" - Rahul Dravid asks for better resumption stategy</a>

Akthar further said that he should be working in the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) in a bid to produce tearaway fast bowlers for the country.&nbsp;

"People like me should have been in PCB and I would have produced fast bowlers. Fast bowlers should be like leopards which would hunt down its prey.

"I would have produced 12 fast bowlers and prepared them on every aspect, technique, mannerism, studies, diet, what to do with the body.

"I would have built a complete brand. You don't get fast bowlers from people who are by nature ghulaam (subservient)." 
&nbsp;

The International Cricket Council (ICC) has “successfully finished” cricket in the last decade and brought the gentlemen’s game down to its knees, former Pakistan speedster Shoaib Akhtar said while launching a scathing attack on cricket’s global body.

The International Cricket Council (ICC) has “successfully finished” cricket in the last decade and brought the gentlemen’s game down to its knees, former Pakistan speedster Shoaib Akhtar said while launching a scathing attack on cricket’s global body. Akhtar expressed his anguish at batting-friendly conditions in the limited-overs format, which has heavily favoured the batters of late. "Can I tell you something bluntly? They (ICC) are finishing the cricket. I am openly saying that in last 10 years, ICC has successfully finished cricket, and I would say job well-done guys. Jo socha thaa apne woh kiya (You did what you intended to)," Akhtar told Manjrekar in a chat for ESPNCricinfo. ALSO READ: Sri Lanka suspends Shehan Madushanka after heroin arrest Akhtar is also of the view that the number of bouncers per over should be increased with two new balls and only four fielders outside the 30-yard circle for the better part of an ODI match as he rued contests like Sachin Tendulkar vs Shoaib Akhtar has been missing from cricket for a long time. "I have been saying repeatedly that change bouncer rule (one per over). You have two new balls and four fielders outside. Please ask ICC whether, in the last 10 years, quality of cricket has gone up or gone down. Where are those Sachin versus Shoaib contests?" On Tendulkar, Akhtar said he never got aggressive against the Master Blaster as they shared immense respect. "But yes, I would try to outthink him. Like in the 2006 tour of Pakistan, I knew he had tennis elbow problems and he can't hook or pull me, so I bowled a barrage of bouncers to keep him quiet," Akhtar said. ALSO READ: "What if a player tests positive in between a series or match?" - Rahul Dravid asks for better resumption stategy Akthar further said that he should be working in the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) in a bid to produce tearaway fast bowlers for the country. "People like me should have been in PCB and I would have produced fast bowlers. Fast bowlers should be like leopards which would hunt down its prey. "I would have produced 12 fast bowlers and prepared them on every aspect, technique, mannerism, studies, diet, what to do with the body. "I would have built a complete brand. You don't get fast bowlers from people who are by nature ghulaam (subservient)."

ICC has 'successfully finished' cricket in last 10 years: Shoaib Akhtar

Former Pakistan speedster Shoaib Akhtar extended his deepest condolences after a Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) flight from Lahore to Karachi crashed near Karachi airport in a residential area on Friday. Akhtar took to social media platform Twitter to offer his condolences while praying for those affected in the crash.

As per reports, the PIA flight had 98 passengers on board and crashed in Karachi’s suburb destroying several houses, damaging cars and properties. The flight captain had informed about a ‘technical snag’ before it crashed.&nbsp;

"Just heard the devastating news of PIA plane crash. &nbsp;May Allah bless every soul we lost in this. It was flying Lahore to Karachi &amp; crashed just before landing. Inna lillahi wa inna elaihi rajaoon," Akhtar tweeted.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/unbelievable-effort-bcci-president-sourav-ganguly-hails-kolkata-police-as-restoration-process-begins-in-west-bengal-after-cyclone-amphan-300353" hreflang="en">'Unbelievable effort' - BCCI president Sourav Ganguly hails Kolkata Police as restoration process begins in West Bengal after cyclone Amphan</a>

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Just heard the devastating news of PIA plane crash. May Allah bless every soul we lost in this. 
It was flying Lahore to Karachi &amp; crashed just before landing. 
Inna lillahi wa inna elaihi rajaoon.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PIAplanecrash?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PIAplanecrash</a>
— Shoaib Akhtar (@shoaib100mph) <a href="https://twitter.com/shoaib100mph/status/1263775971615916034?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 22, 2020</a></blockquote>
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According to PTI, the flight PK-303 from Lahore was supposed to land in Karachi when the crash happened at the Jinnah Garden area nearby Model Colony, Malir. &nbsp;It added that the crash took place minutes before the landing of the PIA aircraft, damaging scores of houses in the area.&nbsp;

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ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/on-a-scale-of-10-chance-of-india-touring-down-under-is-9-cricket-australia-ceo-kevin-roberts-300347" hreflang="en">On a scale of 10, chance of India touring Down Under is 9: Cricket Australia CEO Kevin Roberts</a>

As per reports Army Quick Reaction Force and Singh Pakistan Rangers have arrived at the crash site and an emergency has been declared in all Karachi hospitals in the wake of the crash. 
As per officials, as many as 98 people were on board including 91 passengers and seven crew members.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
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Former Pakistan speedster Shoaib Akhtar extended his deepest condolences after a Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) flight from Lahore to Karachi crashed near Karachi airport in a residential area on Friday.

Former Pakistan speedster Shoaib Akhtar extended his deepest condolences after a Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) flight from Lahore to Karachi crashed near Karachi airport in a residential area on Friday. Akhtar took to social media platform Twitter to offer his condolences while praying for those affected in the crash. As per reports, the PIA flight had 98 passengers on board and crashed in Karachi’s suburb destroying several houses, damaging cars and properties. The flight captain had informed about a ‘technical snag’ before it crashed. "Just heard the devastating news of PIA plane crash. May Allah bless every soul we lost in this. It was flying Lahore to Karachi & crashed just before landing. Inna lillahi wa inna elaihi rajaoon," Akhtar tweeted. ALSO READ: 'Unbelievable effort' - BCCI president Sourav Ganguly hails Kolkata Police as restoration process begins in West Bengal after cyclone Amphan Just heard the devastating news of PIA plane crash. May Allah bless every soul we lost in this. It was flying Lahore to Karachi & crashed just before landing. Inna lillahi wa inna elaihi rajaoon.#PIAplanecrash — Shoaib Akhtar (@shoaib100mph) May 22, 2020 × According to PTI, the flight PK-303 from Lahore was supposed to land in Karachi when the crash happened at the Jinnah Garden area nearby Model Colony, Malir. It added that the crash took place minutes before the landing of the PIA aircraft, damaging scores of houses in the area. × ALSO READ: On a scale of 10, chance of India touring Down Under is 9: Cricket Australia CEO Kevin Roberts As per reports Army Quick Reaction Force and Singh Pakistan Rangers have arrived at the crash site and an emergency has been declared in all Karachi hospitals in the wake of the crash. As per officials, as many as 98 people were on board including 91 passengers and seven crew members.

Shoaib Akhtar offers condolences, prayers after Pakistan airways flight crashes in residential area near Karachi

Former India cricketer Sachin Tendulkar’s smashing knock of 98 against Pakistan in the 2003 World Cup is regarded as one of the best innings of all-time. Pakistan bowlers were hammered all over the park by the Master Blaster before he ended up getting dismissed, falling two runs short of a memorable century. Former Pakistan speedster Shoaib Akthar, who was part of the iconic pace attack, has revealed that he was “very sad” as Tendulkar got out at 98.&nbsp;

Tendulkar, who was battling cramps while batting with a runner, was sent packing by Akhtar after a sharp bouncer got the better of him. Akhtar has said that he would have loved to see Tendulkar hitting him for a six in that bouncer which got him out. The former Pakistan pacer further said that it is unfair to compare Tendulkar with Kohli.

“I was very sad because Sachin got out for 98. It was a special inning; he should have touched the century mark. I wanted him to slam the ton. For that bouncer, I may have loved to see him hit a six, as he did it before,” Akhtar said during a live chat.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/lancashire-offer-to-host-test-cricket-during-covid-19-crisis-after-posting-record-earnings-299623" hreflang="en">Lancashire offer to host Test cricket during COVID-19 crisis after posting record earnings</a>

“Tendulkar batted in the toughest era of cricket. If he had to get the chance now, he may hit more than 1.30 lakh runs. So it’s not good to make a comparison between Sachin and Kohli,” Akhtar, a veteran of 46 Tests and 163 ODIs, said.

Earlier, Akhtar had revealed how his knee problem and poor captaincy from Waqar Younis led to Pakistan’s crushing defeat in the match against India despite posting a total of 274 runs, a challenging total in that era.

“The most disappointing match for me in my entire career was the 2003 World Cup match against India at Centurion. We had failed to defend a target of 274 despite having a very good bowling line-up,” said Akhtar.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/chasing-is-a-situation-where-virat-kohli-reveals-his-mindset-during-run-chases-299605" hreflang="en">'Chasing is a situation where...'- Virat Kohli reveals his mindset during run-chases</a>

“After the end of our innings, I told my teammates that we have probably scored 30-40 runs less. However, all the players in the team shouted at me saying if ‘273 is not enough then what is’. They said we will be able to get India all out. However, I knew that the pitch was a good one for batting and it will remain so in the second innings as well.”

“It was a bitter experience for me because we could have defeated India, both in 1999 and 2003, but we couldn’t. Not to take the credit away from India who have played us exceeding well at the World Cups,” he further added. 
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Former India cricketer Sachin Tendulkar’s smashing knock of 98 against Pakistan in the 2003 World Cup is regarded as one of the best innings of all-time. Pakistan bowlers were hammered all over the park by the Master Blaster before he ended up getting dismissed, falling two runs short of a memorable century.

Former India cricketer Sachin Tendulkar’s smashing knock of 98 against Pakistan in the 2003 World Cup is regarded as one of the best innings of all-time. Pakistan bowlers were hammered all over the park by the Master Blaster before he ended up getting dismissed, falling two runs short of a memorable century. Former Pakistan speedster Shoaib Akthar, who was part of the iconic pace attack, has revealed that he was “very sad” as Tendulkar got out at 98. Tendulkar, who was battling cramps while batting with a runner, was sent packing by Akhtar after a sharp bouncer got the better of him. Akhtar has said that he would have loved to see Tendulkar hitting him for a six in that bouncer which got him out. The former Pakistan pacer further said that it is unfair to compare Tendulkar with Kohli. “I was very sad because Sachin got out for 98. It was a special inning; he should have touched the century mark. I wanted him to slam the ton. For that bouncer, I may have loved to see him hit a six, as he did it before,” Akhtar said during a live chat. ALSO READ: Lancashire offer to host Test cricket during COVID-19 crisis after posting record earnings “Tendulkar batted in the toughest era of cricket. If he had to get the chance now, he may hit more than 1.30 lakh runs. So it’s not good to make a comparison between Sachin and Kohli,” Akhtar, a veteran of 46 Tests and 163 ODIs, said. Earlier, Akhtar had revealed how his knee problem and poor captaincy from Waqar Younis led to Pakistan’s crushing defeat in the match against India despite posting a total of 274 runs, a challenging total in that era. “The most disappointing match for me in my entire career was the 2003 World Cup match against India at Centurion. We had failed to defend a target of 274 despite having a very good bowling line-up,” said Akhtar. ALSO READ: 'Chasing is a situation where...'- Virat Kohli reveals his mindset during run-chases “After the end of our innings, I told my teammates that we have probably scored 30-40 runs less. However, all the players in the team shouted at me saying if ‘273 is not enough then what is’. They said we will be able to get India all out. However, I knew that the pitch was a good one for batting and it will remain so in the second innings as well.” “It was a bitter experience for me because we could have defeated India, both in 1999 and 2003, but we couldn’t. Not to take the credit away from India who have played us exceeding well at the World Cups,” he further added.

'Was very sad Sachin Tendulkar got out at 98, wanted him to slam ton against us': Shoaib Akhtar on 2003 World Cup match vs India

Former Pakistan speedster Shoaib Akhtar has reacted to International Cricket Council’s (ICC) brutal trolling of him as the Rawalpindi Express took to social media platform Twitter to slam the world governing body for throwing neutrality out of the window.&nbsp;

A few days back, ICC had posted a few photographs indicating at battle of past and present and it had Akhtar facing off against Australian maestro Steve Smith to which the former Pakistan cricketer said it would take him minutes to dismiss Smith as he would bowl three hurting bouncers before dismissing the swashbuckling Aussie batsman in the fourth delivery.&nbsp;

"Even today, 3 hurting bouncers and I can dismiss @stevesmith49 on the 4th ball. Lol," Akhtar had tweeted.&nbsp;

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While fans made a mockery of Akhtar for his overconfidence or sarcasm, ICC took a hilarious jibe at the Rawalpindi Express.&nbsp;

Reverting to ICC’s trolling, Akhtar wrote: “A symbolic tweet, how ICC has thrown neutrality out of the window. Basically this is how the state of affairs are run there :)”

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A symbolic tweet, how ICC has thrown neutrality out of the window. 
Basically this is how the state of affairs are run there :) <a href="https://t.co/OEoJx30lXt">https://t.co/OEoJx30lXt</a>
— Shoaib Akhtar (@shoaib100mph) <a href="https://twitter.com/shoaib100mph/status/1260521515898077185?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 13, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Dear <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@icc</a>, find a new meme or Emoji. Sorry i couldn't find any, only found some real videos <a href="https://t.co/eYID4ZXTvT">pic.twitter.com/eYID4ZXTvT</a>
— Shoaib Akhtar (@shoaib100mph) <a href="https://twitter.com/shoaib100mph/status/1260589706552717314?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 13, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Akhtar has been pretty vocal about all things related to cricket and has been active on social media platforms to share his views. While most of his videos are linked to Indian cricket in some way or another, Akhtar is also a big critic of Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and how cricket is being managed in Pakistan.&nbsp;

The former speedster is facing a legal lawsuit for his comments against PCB’s legal advisor Tafazzul Rizvi after Akhtar slammed the lawyer for his ‘incompetency’. Akhtar had slammed the defamation notice by claiming it was legally faulty.

 
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Former Pakistan speedster Shoaib Akhtar has reacted to International Cricket Council’s (ICC) brutal trolling of him as the Rawalpindi Express took to social media platform Twitter to slam the world governing body for throwing neutrality out of the window.

Former Pakistan speedster Shoaib Akhtar has reacted to International Cricket Council’s (ICC) brutal trolling of him as the Rawalpindi Express took to social media platform Twitter to slam the world governing body for throwing neutrality out of the window. A few days back, ICC had posted a few photographs indicating at battle of past and present and it had Akhtar facing off against Australian maestro Steve Smith to which the former Pakistan cricketer said it would take him minutes to dismiss Smith as he would bowl three hurting bouncers before dismissing the swashbuckling Aussie batsman in the fourth delivery. "Even today, 3 hurting bouncers and I can dismiss @stevesmith49 on the 4th ball. Lol," Akhtar had tweeted. pic.twitter.com/IHqHevy35e — ICC (@ICC) May 12, 2020 × While fans made a mockery of Akhtar for his overconfidence or sarcasm, ICC took a hilarious jibe at the Rawalpindi Express. Reverting to ICC’s trolling, Akhtar wrote: “A symbolic tweet, how ICC has thrown neutrality out of the window. Basically this is how the state of affairs are run there :)” A symbolic tweet, how ICC has thrown neutrality out of the window. Basically this is how the state of affairs are run there :) https://t.co/OEoJx30lXt — Shoaib Akhtar (@shoaib100mph) May 13, 2020 × Dear @icc, find a new meme or Emoji. Sorry i couldn't find any, only found some real videos pic.twitter.com/eYID4ZXTvT — Shoaib Akhtar (@shoaib100mph) May 13, 2020 × Akhtar has been pretty vocal about all things related to cricket and has been active on social media platforms to share his views. While most of his videos are linked to Indian cricket in some way or another, Akhtar is also a big critic of Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and how cricket is being managed in Pakistan. The former speedster is facing a legal lawsuit for his comments against PCB’s legal advisor Tafazzul Rizvi after Akhtar slammed the lawyer for his ‘incompetency’. Akhtar had slammed the defamation notice by claiming it was legally faulty.

Shoaib Akhtar reacts after being hilariously trolled by ICC over Steve Smith tweet

Former Pakistan speedster Shoaib Akthar has given a scathing statement after receiving criminal and defamation suit from Pakistan Cricket Board’s (PCB) long-serving legal advisor Tafazzul Rizvi. Akhtar, taking to social media platform Twitter, posted a series of video in which he explained that his statement has been taken out of context and his remark was only on Rizvi and not the entire legal fraternity of Pakistan.&nbsp;

Akhtar captioned the video thread: “My detailed statement. I have immense respect for the lawyers’ community. In the past, I have supported the lawyers’ movement. In this particular instance, I have talked about one particular lawyer and I stand by my statement about him. I have a right to give an opinion about incompetence.”

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My detailed statement.I have immense respect for the lawyers community .In the past i have supported lawyers movement. 
In this particular instance,i have talked about one particular lawyer and i stand by my statement about him.I have a right to give an opinion about incompetence. <a href="https://t.co/TGZDUuCwfU">pic.twitter.com/TGZDUuCwfU</a>
— Shoaib Akhtar (@shoaib100mph) <a href="https://twitter.com/shoaib100mph/status/1256200171005845505?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 1, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Akhtar, in the videos, is seen saying that, under Freedom of Speech, he has the right to criticise someone’s work and if he feels someone is incompetent then no one can send a legal notice to him on the basis of that. The Rawalpindi Express further stated that his remarks were aimed at only one person (Rizvi) and not the legal fraternity of Pakistan while adding he has immense respect for the lawyers who have fought hard for their country.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/shoaib-akhtar-faces-defamation-criminal-proceedings-from-pcbs-legal-advisor-tafazzul-rizvi-296060" hreflang="en">Shoaib Akhtar faces defamation, criminal proceedings from PCB's legal advisor Tafazzul Rizvi</a>

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2/3 <a href="https://t.co/5s7xWYdfam">pic.twitter.com/5s7xWYdfam</a>
— Shoaib Akhtar (@shoaib100mph) <a href="https://twitter.com/shoaib100mph/status/1256201220055797760?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 1, 2020</a></blockquote>
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In Rizvi’s legal suit, Akhtar’s previous legal charges were highlighted to which the former speedster said that he was given a clean chit by the judge who was in charge of the case.

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3/3 <a href="https://t.co/wgYqo4k7rY">pic.twitter.com/wgYqo4k7rY</a>
— Shoaib Akhtar (@shoaib100mph) <a href="https://twitter.com/shoaib100mph/status/1256202266970710017?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 1, 2020</a></blockquote>
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In the legal notice sent to Akhtar, Rizvi highlighted legal charges and punishments awarded to the former fast-bowler throughout his career. He also demanded that he retracts his statements, tenders an unconditional apology, pays PKR 100 million in damages and refrains from repeating and making defamatory remarks against the lawyer in the future.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/match-fixing-former-pcb-chairman-alleges-wasim-akram-offered-atta-ur-rahman-to-underperform-in-a-match-296072" hreflang="en">Match fixing? Former PCB chairman alleges Wasim Akram offered Atta-ur-Rahman to underperform in a match</a>

Akhtar had posted a video following the three-year ban imposed on Umar Akmal for not reporting corrupt approaches but ended up irking the Pakistan Bar Council, which cautioned him to be careful in what he says. The Pakistan Bar Council, in a statement, stated that it was disappointed by the comments made by Akthar towards Rizvi. 
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Former Pakistan speedster Shoaib Akthar has given a scathing statement after receiving criminal and defamation suit from Pakistan Cricket Board’s (PCB) long-serving legal advisor Tafazzul Rizvi.

Former Pakistan speedster Shoaib Akthar has given a scathing statement after receiving criminal and defamation suit from Pakistan Cricket Board’s (PCB) long-serving legal advisor Tafazzul Rizvi. Akhtar, taking to social media platform Twitter, posted a series of video in which he explained that his statement has been taken out of context and his remark was only on Rizvi and not the entire legal fraternity of Pakistan. Akhtar captioned the video thread: “My detailed statement. I have immense respect for the lawyers’ community. In the past, I have supported the lawyers’ movement. In this particular instance, I have talked about one particular lawyer and I stand by my statement about him. I have a right to give an opinion about incompetence.” My detailed statement.I have immense respect for the lawyers community .In the past i have supported lawyers movement. In this particular instance,i have talked about one particular lawyer and i stand by my statement about him.I have a right to give an opinion about incompetence. pic.twitter.com/TGZDUuCwfU — Shoaib Akhtar (@shoaib100mph) May 1, 2020 × Akhtar, in the videos, is seen saying that, under Freedom of Speech, he has the right to criticise someone’s work and if he feels someone is incompetent then no one can send a legal notice to him on the basis of that. The Rawalpindi Express further stated that his remarks were aimed at only one person (Rizvi) and not the legal fraternity of Pakistan while adding he has immense respect for the lawyers who have fought hard for their country. ALSO READ: Shoaib Akhtar faces defamation, criminal proceedings from PCB's legal advisor Tafazzul Rizvi 2/3 pic.twitter.com/5s7xWYdfam — Shoaib Akhtar (@shoaib100mph) May 1, 2020 × In Rizvi’s legal suit, Akhtar’s previous legal charges were highlighted to which the former speedster said that he was given a clean chit by the judge who was in charge of the case. 3/3 pic.twitter.com/wgYqo4k7rY — Shoaib Akhtar (@shoaib100mph) May 1, 2020 × In the legal notice sent to Akhtar, Rizvi highlighted legal charges and punishments awarded to the former fast-bowler throughout his career. He also demanded that he retracts his statements, tenders an unconditional apology, pays PKR 100 million in damages and refrains from repeating and making defamatory remarks against the lawyer in the future. ALSO READ: Match fixing? Former PCB chairman alleges Wasim Akram offered Atta-ur-Rahman to underperform in a match Akhtar had posted a video following the three-year ban imposed on Umar Akmal for not reporting corrupt approaches but ended up irking the Pakistan Bar Council, which cautioned him to be careful in what he says. The Pakistan Bar Council, in a statement, stated that it was disappointed by the comments made by Akthar towards Rizvi.

Watch - 'I can question someone's incompetency': Shoaib Akhtar gives scathing statement after PCB's legal advisor sends legal notice

Former Pakistan pacer Shoaib Akhtar has landed himself in trouble again after Pakistan Cricket Board’s (PCB) legal advisor Tafazzul Rizvi slapped a criminal and defamation suit against the Rawalpindi Express for his alleged comments against him on a YouTube video.

Rizvi, who is a long-serving legal advisor of PCB, confirmed that he has initiated defamation and a criminal suit against Akhtar while lodging a formal complaint with the Federal Investigation Agency under its cyber-crime laws.&nbsp;

In the legal notice sent to Akhtar, Rizvi highlighted legal charges and punishments awarded to the former fast-bowler throughout his career. He also demanded that he retracts his statements, tenders an unconditional apology, pays PKR 100 million in damages and refrains from repeating and making defamatory remarks against the lawyer in the future.

Akhtar had posted a video following the three-year ban imposed on Umar Akmal for not reporting corrupt approaches but ended up irking the Pakistan Bar Council, which cautioned him to be careful in what he says. The Pakistan Bar Council, in a statement, stated that it was disappointed by the comments made by Akthar towards Rizvi.&nbsp;

"Shoaib Akhtar should be very careful in his discussions on matters pertaining to the legal community," the statement said.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ross-taylor-wins-kiwi-crickets-top-gong-eyes-world-cup-exit-in-india-296046" hreflang="en">Ross Taylor wins Kiwi cricket's top gong, eyes World Cup exit in India</a>

The PCB, whereas, in a statement said it was disappointed by Akhtar’s selection of words while publicly commenting about the PCB’s legal department and advisor.&nbsp;

"The language used by Akhtar was highly inappropriate and disrespectful, and cannot be condoned in any civilised society. The PCB's legal advisor, Mr Taffazul Rizvi, in his own discretion, has initiated defamation and criminal proceedings against Shoaib Akhtar, while the PCB too reserves its rights."

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-lose-top-spot-in-icc-test-rankings-for-first-time-since-october-2016-australia-the-new-world-no-1-in-tests-and-t20is-296033" hreflang="en">India lose top spot in ICC Test rankings for first time since October 2016; Australia the new world No. 1 in Tests and T20Is</a>

Akthar, in his video, had defended Umar while slamming the three-year-ban imposed by the Disciplinary Panel of the PCB. However, Akhtar had mocked Rizvi and questioned his legal experience while commenting that he always complicate matters between players and board.&nbsp;

Former Pakistan skipper Younis Khan, defended Akhtar for his comments on Rizvi as he said he stands with Akhtar.&nbsp;

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What a befitting and bitter truth spoken by <a href="https://twitter.com/shoaib100mph?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@shoaib100mph</a>! It takes a backbone to be simply uncompromisingly forthright. Time for <a href="https://twitter.com/TheRealPCB?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@TheRealPCB</a> to honestly evaluate his remarks for the betterment of Pakistan Cricket and its players. I stand by with <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ShoaibAkhtar?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ShoaibAkhtar</a>. <a href="https://t.co/VuVYIYpcgi">pic.twitter.com/VuVYIYpcgi</a>
— Younus Khan (@YounusK75) <a href="https://twitter.com/YounusK75/status/1255568463411757056?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 29, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Thank you <a href="https://twitter.com/YounusK75?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@YounusK75</a> for further substantiating my claim. <a href="https://t.co/IH4JsVbDuW">https://t.co/IH4JsVbDuW</a>
— Shoaib Akhtar (@shoaib100mph) <a href="https://twitter.com/shoaib100mph/status/1255965031121985538?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 30, 2020</a></blockquote>
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What a befitting and bitter truth spoken by @shoaib100mph! It takes a backbone to be simply uncompromisingly forthright. Time for @TheRealPC to honestly evaluate his remarks for the betterment of Pakistan Cricket and its players. I stand by with #ShoaibAkhtar. 
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Former Pakistan pacer Shoaib Akhtar has landed himself in trouble again after Pakistan Cricket Board’s (PCB) legal advisor Tafazzul Rizvi slapped a criminal and defamation suit against the Rawalpindi Express for his alleged comments against him on a YouTube video.

Former Pakistan pacer Shoaib Akhtar has landed himself in trouble again after Pakistan Cricket Board’s (PCB) legal advisor Tafazzul Rizvi slapped a criminal and defamation suit against the Rawalpindi Express for his alleged comments against him on a YouTube video. Rizvi, who is a long-serving legal advisor of PCB, confirmed that he has initiated defamation and a criminal suit against Akhtar while lodging a formal complaint with the Federal Investigation Agency under its cyber-crime laws. In the legal notice sent to Akhtar, Rizvi highlighted legal charges and punishments awarded to the former fast-bowler throughout his career. He also demanded that he retracts his statements, tenders an unconditional apology, pays PKR 100 million in damages and refrains from repeating and making defamatory remarks against the lawyer in the future. Akhtar had posted a video following the three-year ban imposed on Umar Akmal for not reporting corrupt approaches but ended up irking the Pakistan Bar Council, which cautioned him to be careful in what he says. The Pakistan Bar Council, in a statement, stated that it was disappointed by the comments made by Akthar towards Rizvi. "Shoaib Akhtar should be very careful in his discussions on matters pertaining to the legal community," the statement said. ALSO READ: Ross Taylor wins Kiwi cricket's top gong, eyes World Cup exit in India The PCB, whereas, in a statement said it was disappointed by Akhtar’s selection of words while publicly commenting about the PCB’s legal department and advisor. "The language used by Akhtar was highly inappropriate and disrespectful, and cannot be condoned in any civilised society. The PCB's legal advisor, Mr Taffazul Rizvi, in his own discretion, has initiated defamation and criminal proceedings against Shoaib Akhtar, while the PCB too reserves its rights." ALSO READ: India lose top spot in ICC Test rankings for first time since October 2016; Australia the new world No. 1 in Tests and T20Is Akthar, in his video, had defended Umar while slamming the three-year-ban imposed by the Disciplinary Panel of the PCB. However, Akhtar had mocked Rizvi and questioned his legal experience while commenting that he always complicate matters between players and board. Former Pakistan skipper Younis Khan, defended Akhtar for his comments on Rizvi as he said he stands with Akhtar. What a befitting and bitter truth spoken by @shoaib100mph! It takes a backbone to be simply uncompromisingly forthright. Time for @TheRealPCB to honestly evaluate his remarks for the betterment of Pakistan Cricket and its players. I stand by with #ShoaibAkhtar. pic.twitter.com/VuVYIYpcgi — Younus Khan (@YounusK75) April 29, 2020 × Thank you @YounusK75 for further substantiating my claim. https://t.co/IH4JsVbDuW — Shoaib Akhtar (@shoaib100mph) April 30, 2020 × What a befitting and bitter truth spoken by @shoaib100mph! It takes a backbone to be simply uncompromisingly forthright. Time for @TheRealPC to honestly evaluate his remarks for the betterment of Pakistan Cricket and its players. I stand by with #ShoaibAkhtar.

Shoaib Akhtar faces defamation, criminal proceedings from PCB's legal advisor Tafazzul Rizvi

Pop quiz! What’s common between foreign policy debates on Pakistani TV and the ex-Pakistani cricketers' YouTube channels? Both have practically one fixation, India. And what’s the difference? While the foreign policy debates are an endless exercise in India-bashing, the YouTube channels are a lesson in India pandering! This has paid rich dividends for these YouTubers. 
&nbsp; 
India has 10 times more internet subscribers (706 million approx.) than Pakistan (76 million). To make money on YouTube, you need to ensure that your videos get lots and lots of views. These Pakistani YouTubers also know these two facts.

Sample this, Shoaib Akhtar’s channel has 2.12 million subscribers, Shahid Afridi’s channel has 650,000, Rashid Latif and cricket expert Dr Nouman Niaz’s caught behind has almost 300,000 subscribers. Channels of Inzamam ul Haq, Saqlain Mushtaq et al also fall in the region of around 100-150,000 subscribers.

Then there are channels and shows by Ramiz Raja, Mohammed Wasim, and Danish Kaneria etc. It seems, almost all ex-Pakistani players and their uncles have a YouTube channel today.

Well, on the face of it, it seems a good way to connect with fans, stay relevant and make a little money. However, their business model runs on Indian viewership.

Just scroll through the comments on these channels and you will find the majority of it coming from Indians, hence by extension, we can safely assume that majority of the subscribers are Indians as well. &nbsp;

First, credit where credit is due. Quality of cricket discussions on the Hindi news channels in India is absolutely the pits. It hides behind graphics and Ekta Kapoor-esque multiple shots of cricket stars.

These do a huge disservice to the Hindi heartland’s cricket fans and their deep and nuanced understanding of the game. Hence, with English discussions, which are marginally better but not easily accessible to the Hindi cricket fan, they turn to the internet.

The ex-Pakistani cricketers who have played cricket at the highest level and are untouched by English (most of them) put across the nitty-gritty of the game in a chatty, colloquial manner without compromising on the technicalities. This indeed appeals to the subscribers from India. Who doesn’t love it when Shoaib says “India ne Pakistan ki Fenti laga di”.

However, it is too naïve to just stop here. The Pakistani YouTubers have perfected the formula of keeping the Indian subscriber engaged. The secret sauce is profuse admiration of Indian cricket team and its administration and disparaging comments on the Pakistani cricketers and its administration in Pakistan. Most of these channels also are used to settle scores with the board or complaint by players about their frustrations with Pakistan cricket set up. Hence, you find an Abdul Razzak calling Bumrah a baby bowler and that he would have dominated him, ‘if’ he was still playing! Another YouTuber Tanveer Ahmed, an also-ran Pakistani medium-pacer from a decade ago, his negative and frustrated observations alone are enough to give depression to a Pakistani cricket fan. The story doesn’t differ much on other channels as well. Akhtar, Latif et al have complained at multiple times on not being offered fat jobs in the Pakistani cricket set up, of course, they don’t care for the money but to contribute to Pakistan cricket (wink, wink). Then there is the ugly, almost racist, fight between Karachi and Punjab cricketers. Bottom-line is that they are disparaging of their own cricket, their own cricketers and cricket administration. While some of it is richly deserved, there is a sense of it being overdone to offer schadenfreude to their Indian subscribers.

When another person's bad luck secretly makes you feel good, that's schadenfreude. I admit some of us do enjoy our schadenfreude at the cost of Pakistani cricket’s downfall.

As a kid of the 90s, we were at too much of a receiving end from the Pakistani cricket team, mostly at Sharjah, though now there is a lot of daylight between the two teams and that is unlikely to be made up by Pakistan in the next decade or so.

Pakistani cricket is caught up in the missing the 'good old days mode' without investing in the future. Its frustrations of losing a lot more and consistently to India does boil over. You had Imran Khan saying recently that he used to feel bad for the Indian team as his team used to beat the Indians quite often.

The facts of today cause misery, which then is translated into anger towards their own team. Not for nothing, Shoaib Akhtar’s video on Pakistani loss to India in the world cup, titled brainless captaincy has almost 10 million views, the helplessness of his explanations of Pakistan’s loss is almost sad to see. Schadenfreude. On the bright side, some of these ex-Pakistani cricketers are making money through their videos, even if that means selling out the very cricket team that made them heroes and that is perhaps why Pakistani cricket is in the slump that it is, self before the team.

The changed tunes of people like Afridi who once famously claimed that “Indians ke dil bahut chotey hote hain”; today can’t thank Indians like Yuvraj and Harbhajan enough for their contribution to his charity. Javed Miandad, father in Law to Dawood Ibrahim’s offspring, talks of peace between India and Pakistan through cricket on his videos. How the mighty have fallen!

The Hindi YouTube audience is truly now a force to be reckoned with and they are already making these ex-Pakistani greats dancing to their tunes. Pander on I say to them.

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Pop quiz! What’s common between foreign policy debates on Pakistani TV and the ex-Pakistani cricketers' YouTube channels? Both have practically one fixation, India.

Pop quiz! What’s common between foreign policy debates on Pakistani TV and the ex-Pakistani cricketers' YouTube channels? Both have practically one fixation, India. And what’s the difference? While the foreign policy debates are an endless exercise in India-bashing, the YouTube channels are a lesson in India pandering! This has paid rich dividends for these YouTubers. India has 10 times more internet subscribers (706 million approx.) than Pakistan (76 million). To make money on YouTube, you need to ensure that your videos get lots and lots of views. These Pakistani YouTubers also know these two facts. Sample this, Shoaib Akhtar’s channel has 2.12 million subscribers, Shahid Afridi’s channel has 650,000, Rashid Latif and cricket expert Dr Nouman Niaz’s caught behind has almost 300,000 subscribers. Channels of Inzamam ul Haq, Saqlain Mushtaq et al also fall in the region of around 100-150,000 subscribers. Then there are channels and shows by Ramiz Raja, Mohammed Wasim, and Danish Kaneria etc. It seems, almost all ex-Pakistani players and their uncles have a YouTube channel today. Well, on the face of it, it seems a good way to connect with fans, stay relevant and make a little money. However, their business model runs on Indian viewership. Just scroll through the comments on these channels and you will find the majority of it coming from Indians, hence by extension, we can safely assume that majority of the subscribers are Indians as well. First, credit where credit is due. Quality of cricket discussions on the Hindi news channels in India is absolutely the pits. It hides behind graphics and Ekta Kapoor-esque multiple shots of cricket stars. These do a huge disservice to the Hindi heartland’s cricket fans and their deep and nuanced understanding of the game. Hence, with English discussions, which are marginally better but not easily accessible to the Hindi cricket fan, they turn to the internet. The ex-Pakistani cricketers who have played cricket at the highest level and are untouched by English (most of them) put across the nitty-gritty of the game in a chatty, colloquial manner without compromising on the technicalities. This indeed appeals to the subscribers from India. Who doesn’t love it when Shoaib says “India ne Pakistan ki Fenti laga di”. However, it is too naïve to just stop here. The Pakistani YouTubers have perfected the formula of keeping the Indian subscriber engaged. The secret sauce is profuse admiration of Indian cricket team and its administration and disparaging comments on the Pakistani cricketers and its administration in Pakistan. Most of these channels also are used to settle scores with the board or complaint by players about their frustrations with Pakistan cricket set up. Hence, you find an Abdul Razzak calling Bumrah a baby bowler and that he would have dominated him, ‘if’ he was still playing! Another YouTuber Tanveer Ahmed, an also-ran Pakistani medium-pacer from a decade ago, his negative and frustrated observations alone are enough to give depression to a Pakistani cricket fan. The story doesn’t differ much on other channels as well. Akhtar, Latif et al have complained at multiple times on not being offered fat jobs in the Pakistani cricket set up, of course, they don’t care for the money but to contribute to Pakistan cricket (wink, wink). Then there is the ugly, almost racist, fight between Karachi and Punjab cricketers. Bottom-line is that they are disparaging of their own cricket, their own cricketers and cricket administration. While some of it is richly deserved, there is a sense of it being overdone to offer schadenfreude to their Indian subscribers. When another person's bad luck secretly makes you feel good, that's schadenfreude. I admit some of us do enjoy our schadenfreude at the cost of Pakistani cricket’s downfall. As a kid of the 90s, we were at too much of a receiving end from the Pakistani cricket team, mostly at Sharjah, though now there is a lot of daylight between the two teams and that is unlikely to be made up by Pakistan in the next decade or so. Pakistani cricket is caught up in the missing the 'good old days mode' without investing in the future. Its frustrations of losing a lot more and consistently to India does boil over. You had Imran Khan saying recently that he used to feel bad for the Indian team as his team used to beat the Indians quite often. The facts of today cause misery, which then is translated into anger towards their own team. Not for nothing, Shoaib Akhtar’s video on Pakistani loss to India in the world cup, titled brainless captaincy has almost 10 million views, the helplessness of his explanations of Pakistan’s loss is almost sad to see. Schadenfreude. On the bright side, some of these ex-Pakistani cricketers are making money through their videos, even if that means selling out the very cricket team that made them heroes and that is perhaps why Pakistani cricket is in the slump that it is, self before the team. The changed tunes of people like Afridi who once famously claimed that “Indians ke dil bahut chotey hote hain”; today can’t thank Indians like Yuvraj and Harbhajan enough for their contribution to his charity. Javed Miandad, father in Law to Dawood Ibrahim’s offspring, talks of peace between India and Pakistan through cricket on his videos. How the mighty have fallen! The Hindi YouTube audience is truly now a force to be reckoned with and they are already making these ex-Pakistani greats dancing to their tunes. Pander on I say to them. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Ex-Pakistani cricketer’s huge Indian YouTube subscribers’ base. It's schadenfreude!

With coronavirus pandemic wiping out the entire sporting calendar, sportspersons have been restricted to train indoors with no live sporting action happening at the moment. While many tournaments and series have been either postponed or cancelled, there are dark clouds hovering around the resumption of matches. Former Pakistan speedster Shoaib Akhtar reckons that cricket would not be played for at least a year due to COVID-19 pandemic as he said that with people getting infected rapidly, one can’t go ahead with any sort of cricket anywhere around the world.&nbsp;

“If you ask me honestly, I do not know for how long the coronavirus outbreak will last, until and unless it is not known that how many people are infected, one cannot go ahead with any kind of cricket anywhere,” Akhtar said in a video posted on his YouTube channel.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/umar-akmal-summoned-as-disciplinary-panel-sets-hearing-for-april-27-293597" hreflang="en">Umar Akmal summoned as disciplinary panel sets hearing for April 27</a>

“I do not see cricket being played for at least a year due to the coronavirus. I see the virus troubling us for one year, these are troublesome times, I just hope we come out of this stronger,” he added.

“The situation is very bad; it is very tricky. I am not seeing the virus going for at least one year. But, we a group as different communities will come out of it. The world is not starting for the next one year, how can cricket start,” Akhtar further said.

There are speculations that bowlers would not be allowed to apply saliva to shine the ball after the resumption of play post coronavirus pandemic. Akhtar is of the view that bowlers won’t be able to apply saliva on the ball as it goes in the hands of players and spectators in the stadium.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/kl-rahul-donates-icc-world-cup-2019-bat-and-other-memorabilia-on-his-28th-birthday-293582" hreflang="en">KL Rahul donates ICC World Cup 2019 bat and other memorabilia on his 28th birthday</a>

“I do not think that one can apply saliva on the ball now, we as bowlers apply saliva on the ball to make the ball shinier, the ball goes in the hands of everyone on the park, I saw a report of the ICC which said bowlers would not be able to apply saliva on the ball, Akhtar said.

“Cricket is a game which requires contact, if ICC is thinking about passing the law related to applying saliva on the ball, then I welcome the decision keeping coronavirus in mind,” he added.

Meanwhile, South Africa’s tour of Sri Lanka is the latest bilateral series to be postponed amid the COVID-19 pandemic. 
&nbsp;

With coronavirus pandemic wiping out the entire sporting calendar, sportspersons have been restricted to train indoors with no live sporting action happening at the moment.

With coronavirus pandemic wiping out the entire sporting calendar, sportspersons have been restricted to train indoors with no live sporting action happening at the moment. While many tournaments and series have been either postponed or cancelled, there are dark clouds hovering around the resumption of matches. Former Pakistan speedster Shoaib Akhtar reckons that cricket would not be played for at least a year due to COVID-19 pandemic as he said that with people getting infected rapidly, one can’t go ahead with any sort of cricket anywhere around the world. “If you ask me honestly, I do not know for how long the coronavirus outbreak will last, until and unless it is not known that how many people are infected, one cannot go ahead with any kind of cricket anywhere,” Akhtar said in a video posted on his YouTube channel. ALSO READ: Umar Akmal summoned as disciplinary panel sets hearing for April 27 “I do not see cricket being played for at least a year due to the coronavirus. I see the virus troubling us for one year, these are troublesome times, I just hope we come out of this stronger,” he added. “The situation is very bad; it is very tricky. I am not seeing the virus going for at least one year. But, we a group as different communities will come out of it. The world is not starting for the next one year, how can cricket start,” Akhtar further said. There are speculations that bowlers would not be allowed to apply saliva to shine the ball after the resumption of play post coronavirus pandemic. Akhtar is of the view that bowlers won’t be able to apply saliva on the ball as it goes in the hands of players and spectators in the stadium. ALSO READ: KL Rahul donates ICC World Cup 2019 bat and other memorabilia on his 28th birthday “I do not think that one can apply saliva on the ball now, we as bowlers apply saliva on the ball to make the ball shinier, the ball goes in the hands of everyone on the park, I saw a report of the ICC which said bowlers would not be able to apply saliva on the ball, Akhtar said. “Cricket is a game which requires contact, if ICC is thinking about passing the law related to applying saliva on the ball, then I welcome the decision keeping coronavirus in mind,” he added. Meanwhile, South Africa’s tour of Sri Lanka is the latest bilateral series to be postponed amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

'The situation is very bad, tricky': Shoaib Akhtar predicts no cricket for next one year

Virat Kohli is regarded as one of the finest batsmen of all-time due to his sheer consistency and piles of records and runs. The Indian skipper has been termed as the greatest ever, across formats, by many experts. Kohli is known for his dominating nature of batting and has uncountable times dominated bowlers to win matches for India or in the Indian Premier League (IPL).&nbsp;

Former Pakistan speedster Shoaib Akhtar came up with a plan to dismiss Kohli as he said if he was bowling, he would go wider of the crease while pitching the ball up to take it away from the Indian skipper in a bid to make him drive.&nbsp;

Akhtar continued, jokingly, that if his plan A doesn’t work then he will bowl to Kohli at 150 kmph to get swashbuckling Indian batsman out. Earlier, Akhtar had termed Kohli as ‘modern-day Bradman’.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wasnt-in-condition-to-play-2015-wc-semis-but-dhoni-said-cant-go-to-any-other-bowler-mohammed-shami-292860" hreflang="en">Wasn't in condition to play 2015 WC semis but Dhoni said can't go to any other bowler: Mohammed Shami</a>

“If I was bowling, I would go wider of the crease and pitch the ball up [to Kohli] and shape it away from him in order to make him drive.”

“If that does not work, I will bowl him at 150 [kph] and he will get out,” Akhtar was quoted as saying in a video on Instagram Live.

Akhtar also recalled his highly-popular duel with Sachin Tendulkar as he called the Master Blaster one of the greatest batsmen of all-time while adding that he had a good time bowling to Tendulkar. Akhtar said he dismissed Tendulkar 12-13 times in his career but Indian fans only remember that memorable upper-cut six in the 2003 World Cup.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-australia-to-stand-down-all-but-skeleton-staff-from-april-27-until-end-of-the-financial-year-amid-covid-19-pandemic-292852" hreflang="en">Cricket Australia to stand down all but skeleton staff from April 27 until end of the financial year amid COVID-19 pandemic</a>

Akhtar also spoke about his duel with Sachin Tendulkar and said: “I had a good time bowling to Sachin Tendulkar. He is one of the greatest batsmen of all-time but I dismissed him 12-13 times as well.”

“Although, Indians only remember that one six which he hit me in Centurion [during the 2003 ICC World Cup] as it makes them really happy,” he added.

“If I had known that one six makes 1.3 billion people happy, then I would have let him hit me for a six every day,” he added, talking about his camaraderie with Sachin.”&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Virat Kohli is regarded as one of the finest batsmen of all-time due to his sheer consistency and piles of records and runs. The Indian skipper has been termed as the greatest ever, across formats, by many experts.

Virat Kohli is regarded as one of the finest batsmen of all-time due to his sheer consistency and piles of records and runs. The Indian skipper has been termed as the greatest ever, across formats, by many experts. Kohli is known for his dominating nature of batting and has uncountable times dominated bowlers to win matches for India or in the Indian Premier League (IPL). Former Pakistan speedster Shoaib Akhtar came up with a plan to dismiss Kohli as he said if he was bowling, he would go wider of the crease while pitching the ball up to take it away from the Indian skipper in a bid to make him drive. Akhtar continued, jokingly, that if his plan A doesn’t work then he will bowl to Kohli at 150 kmph to get swashbuckling Indian batsman out. Earlier, Akhtar had termed Kohli as ‘modern-day Bradman’. ALSO READ: Wasn't in condition to play 2015 WC semis but Dhoni said can't go to any other bowler: Mohammed Shami “If I was bowling, I would go wider of the crease and pitch the ball up [to Kohli] and shape it away from him in order to make him drive.” “If that does not work, I will bowl him at 150 [kph] and he will get out,” Akhtar was quoted as saying in a video on Instagram Live. Akhtar also recalled his highly-popular duel with Sachin Tendulkar as he called the Master Blaster one of the greatest batsmen of all-time while adding that he had a good time bowling to Tendulkar. Akhtar said he dismissed Tendulkar 12-13 times in his career but Indian fans only remember that memorable upper-cut six in the 2003 World Cup. ALSO READ: Cricket Australia to stand down all but skeleton staff from April 27 until end of the financial year amid COVID-19 pandemic Akhtar also spoke about his duel with Sachin Tendulkar and said: “I had a good time bowling to Sachin Tendulkar. He is one of the greatest batsmen of all-time but I dismissed him 12-13 times as well.” “Although, Indians only remember that one six which he hit me in Centurion [during the 2003 ICC World Cup] as it makes them really happy,” he added. “If I had known that one six makes 1.3 billion people happy, then I would have let him hit me for a six every day,” he added, talking about his camaraderie with Sachin.”

'I would go wider of the crease and...' - Shoaib Akhtar reveals master-plan to dismiss Virat Kohli

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