The World Opinion

Tag: Babar Azam

  • Babar Azam furious after Haris Rauf concedes last ball boundary against USA in T20 World Cup 2024- WATCH | Cricket News

    Pakistan suffered a shocking defeat to the USA in their opening match of the T20 World Cup 2024 at the Grand Prairie Stadium, Dallas. This loss has put Pakistan’s campaign in jeopardy, significantly reducing their chances of reaching the Super 8s. Babar Azam was visibly upset with fast bowler Haris Rauf after he gave up 11 runs in the last three balls, forcing a Super Over in Dallas. Despite starting well, Rauf failed to defend 14 runs in the final over of the second innings. Babar Azam stormed off the field, expressing his frustration verbally, as Pakistan failed to defend 159 runs against the USA, who are playing their first T20 World Cup.

    Ka karo may be in full angry mood #babarazam pic.twitter.com/h6s5RXB0fK

    — Babariology (@bismajahangir4) June 6, 2024

    The Pakistan team struggled in the first 10 overs with the ball, putting pressure on themselves. However, the fast bowlers made a strong comeback in the second half, with wickets from Haris Rauf and Mohammed Amir keeping Pakistan in the game. Rauf, who had been bowling well, came to defend 15 runs in the final over but ended up giving away 14 runs, leading to the Super Over at the Grand Prairie Stadium.

    Babar Azam’s frustration continued in the Super Over as Mohammed Amir gave up 18 runs against relatively unknown batters. Amir bowled multiple wide balls and overthrows, adding easy runs to the USA’s total. In the end, Pakistan failed to chase down the 19-run target in the Super Over, leading to one of the biggest upsets in T20 World Cup history.

    Pakistan’s Big Game Against India

    Pakistan is in trouble after losing to the USA. Their next game against India will be almost like a knockout match. It will take place at Nassau County Stadium in New York on Sunday, June 9. Historically, Pakistan has struggled against India in T20 World Cups, losing six out of seven matches. However, Pakistan’s captain, Babar Azam, remains optimistic, saying the outcome will depend on which team stays composed.

  • Pakistan’s T20 Campaign Derailed After Loss to USA: Here’s How PAK Can Still Qualify for Super 8 – All Scenarios Explained | Cricket News

    Pakistan suffered a shocking defeat to the USA in their opening match of the T20 World Cup 2024 at the Grand Prairie Stadium, Dallas. This loss has put Pakistan’s campaign in jeopardy, significantly reducing their chances of reaching the Super 8s. Coming into the World Cup with a shaky form—having lost two games to a second-string New Zealand, one T20I to Ireland, and a T20I series to England—Pakistan was expected to perform well in conditions favorable to fast bowlers. However, the USA displayed grit and determination, outplaying Pakistan in all departments to stun the 2022 runners-up.

    Pakistan’s Road To Qualification

    To keep their hopes alive, Pakistan must win their next three matches. A crucial game against India is scheduled for June 9, and a victory is essential for Pakistan to have a realistic chance of advancing. Additionally, Pakistan needs to defeat both Canada and Ireland to bolster their qualification prospects.

    If Pakistan loses to India, their chances become slim, even with wins against Canada and Ireland. This scenario arises because the USA could potentially accumulate more points than Pakistan. Even if the USA loses to Ireland and India, their superior run rate might give them an edge over Pakistan if Pakistan falls to India.

    Pakistan Qualification Scenarios Explained

    Pakistan needs a minimum of six points from the four matches in the group stage. After the unexpected loss to the USA, the road ahead is challenging for the Asian giants.

    Best Qualification Scenerio Result Pakistan vs India Pak Win Pakistan vs Ireland Pak Win Pakistan vs Canada Pak Win

    Points so far: 0 Total points needed: 6 Wins needed: 3 Matches remaining: 3

    If Pakistan win there all remaining matches and USA lose to India and Ireland Pakistan will directly qualify for the super 8 stage

    Tough Qualification Scenario Result Pak vs Ind Ind Win Pak vs Ire Pak Win Pak vs Can Pak Win


    In this case, Pakistan will have to hope that the USA loses to both India and Ireland, and that too by a large margin, so Pakistan can qualify based on net run rate. These are the only scenarios in which Pakistan can qualify for the Super 8 stage.

    The Gary Kirsten-coached side must secure victories in all their remaining group-stage matches. Another loss would force Pakistan to rely on the results of other Group A matches to keep their Super 8 hopes alive.

  • Pakistan Cricket Team Players Host $25 ‘Meet and Greet’ Dinner, Face Backlash From Ex-Pakistani Captain Ahead Of T20 World Cup | Cricket News

    The Pakistan cricket team and its players continue to spark controversies. Just before the start of their T20 World Cup 2024 campaign, they reportedly hosted a ‘private dinner’ in the USA, inviting fans for a ‘meet and greet.’ However, this event wasn’t free or for charity; it had an entry fee of $25, which upset many in the Pakistani cricket community. Rashid Latif, a legendary Pakistan cricketer, took to social media to criticise this event organized by the Pakistan Cricket Board and the players.

    In a video shared by Latif, fans could meet Pakistan players during the private dinner if they paid $25. Latif and others in the video were shocked by this concept.

    “There are official dinners, but this is a private dinner. Who can do this? It’s terrible. That means you met our players for $25. God forbid, if something went wrong, people would say the boys are just making money,” Latif said in the video.

    Let’s Save The Star & Be Stars Unofficial Private Dinner During WC24#T20WorldCup pic.twitter.com/BXEgPyA2p2 — Rashid Latif | (@iRashidLatif68) June 4, 2024

    Presenter Nauman Niaz condemned the ‘sad state of affairs’ in the Pakistan team, while a fan suggested the price should have been higher if they proceeded with the idea. Latif acknowledged the concept of charity dinners but found a private dinner with a fee unacceptable.

    “People tell me that whoever calls the Pakistani players, they just ask, ‘how much money will you give?’ This has become common. Things were different at our time, we had 2-3 dinners but they were official. But this is highlighted because it’s the World Cup. So the players should be careful. The amount of 25 dollars shouldn’t be blatantly used like this. You attend 2-3 dinners, but without the commercial angle. You can go for charity dinners and fundraisers, but this is neither fundraising nor a charity dinner. This is a private function with the name of Pakistan and Pakistan cricket associated with it. Don’t make this mistake,” he added.

    T20 World Cup 2024: Pakistan’s WC campaign to begin from tomorrow against USA

    The Pakistan team will start their World Cup campaign against the USA at the Grand Prairie Stadium in Dallas on Thursday, June 6. The Men in Green aim to begin their campaign with a win against the USA. In the last edition of the T20 World Cup, Pakistan reached the final but lost to England. Tomorrow Against USA.

  • Virat Kohli on Babar Azam’s mind as Pakistan captain recalls MCG clash ahead of T20 World Cup 2024 | Cricket News

    The stage is set. The buzz is palpable. As cricketing titans India and Pakistan gear up for their much-anticipated clash at the Nassau County International Cricket Stadium in New York on July 9, the atmosphere is electric. With both teams placed in Group A of the T20 World Cup 2024, the stakes are higher than ever. This rivalry, steeped in history and passion, is more than just a game—it’s a battle of pride and prestige.

    ICC rates Virat Kohli’s 18.5 as “SHOT OF THE CENTURY” __ pic.twitter.com/gB9AP3cZBW

    — Keval 18 (@kevalVK18) November 7, 2023

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    The MCG Clash: A Haunting Memory

    Pakistan captain Babar Azam recently opened up about the indelible mark left by their last encounter with India at the 2022 T20 World Cup. It was a match that showcased Virat Kohli’s brilliance, as he played an unforgettable innings that snatched victory from Pakistan’s grasp. In a nail-biting finish at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), Kohli’s unbeaten 82 off 53 balls orchestrated a dramatic four-wicket win for India.

    Babar reminisced about that fateful match, admitting that Pakistan should have clinched the victory. “For me, in 2022 [World Cup]we could and should have won the India game, but they took it away,” he said. Kohli’s extraordinary six off Haris Rauf became the stuff of legends, and commentator Gerard Whateley’s phrase “shot of an emperor” aptly captured the moment’s grandeur.

    Handling Pressure: Barbar’s Approach

    As the Pakistan team prepares for their World Cup opener, Babar emphasizes the significance of managing the immense pressure that comes with an India-Pakistan clash. “The expectations and hype around the match cause some nervousness,” he noted on the PCB podcast. However, Babar believes that focusing on the basics and maintaining composure can help players navigate the pressure cooker atmosphere.

    “It’s a game of immense pressure, and if you keep your cool, stay calm, and trust your hard work and skills, things will be easier,” he advised. This approach will be crucial as Pakistan aims to improve on their recent form, having failed to make it past the group stages in the last World Cup.

    India’s unpredictability and Pakistan’s consistency

    Both India and Pakistan have experienced fluctuating fortunes in recent T20 World Cup editions. India, despite their immense talent, has often faltered at critical junctures since their inaugural T20 World Cup win under MS Dhoni. The current squad, under the guidance of coach Rahul Dravid, seeks redemption and aims to draw inspiration from their past successes in the 50-over format.

    On the other hand, Pakistan’s T20 World Cup record is a study in contrasts. Known for their unpredictability, Pakistan has reached the semi-finals or better in six of the eight editions, marking them as one of the most consistent teams in the tournament’s history. Despite internal strife and volatile performances, Pakistan remains a formidable force on paper.

    Virat Kohli: The Game Changer

    For Babar, the specter of Virat Kohli looms large. Kohli’s performance in their last World Cup encounter was a masterclass in handling pressure and executing under duress. His ability to anchor the innings and finish with a flourish is something that Pakistan will be wary of. Kohli’s presence adds an extra layer of challenge for Pakistan, who must strategize meticulously to contain his impact.

    The Road Ahead

    As the T20 World Cup 2024 unfolds in the West Indies and the USA, all eyes will be on the July 9 showdown. For fans and players alike, an India-Pakistan match is a spectacle that transcends cricket. It’s a contest that brings out the best and worst, showcasing raw emotion and unyielding determination.

    Both teams have much to prove. For India, it’s about reclaiming their status as T20 giants, while Pakistan seeks to shed the ‘unpredictable’ tag and affirm their consistency. As Babar Azam and his men take to the field, they will carry the lessons of the past, the weight of expectations, and the hopes of a nation eager for victory.

  • Big blow for Babar Azam’s Pakistan ahead of T20 World Cup 2024, suffer demolishing defeat against England | Cricket News

    The iconic Lord’s Cricket Ground witnessed an absolute demolition job by England as they crushed Pakistan by 7 wickets in the 4th T20I to seal the three-match series 2-0. A superlative all-round display by the hosts left the Pakistani unit thoroughly outclassed on a night where very little went right for the visitors.

    ENGLAND CHASE DOWN 158 RUNS FROM JUST 15.3 OVERS against Shaheen, Amir, Naseem & Rauf. __pic.twitter.com/5izKGm4Mvb

    — Johns. (@CricCrazyJohns) May 31, 2024

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    Bowlers dismantle Pakistan’s batting

    Put into bat first, Pakistan got off to a flying start with openers Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan taking the attack to the English bowlers. However, the introduction of Adil Rashid stemmed the run flow as the wily leg-spinner struck crucial blows. Rashid’s web of spin accounted for the big wickets of Rizwan and

    Shadab Khan to leave Pakistan reeling at 86/5.

    Despite a gritty 38 from Usman Khan, the English seamers led by the fiery Mark Wood ran through the Pakistani batting line-up. Wood’s well-directed bouncer caught Azam Khan’s glove on its way through to Buttler to sum up Pakistan’s dismal batting display as they folded up for 157.

    Salt and Butler’s Batting Fireworks

    Chasing a modest total, England’s explosive opening pair of Phil Salt and Jos Buttler came out all guns blazing. The duo took the Pakistani bowling attack to the cleaners, with the 19-year-old Naseem Shah being the prime target. Salt smashed 45 off just 24 balls while the rampant Buttler looked in ominous form, racing to 39 off just 21 deliveries.

    Despite losing both openers in quick succession, the likes of Jonny Bairstow and Harry Brook ensured England overhauled the target with consummate ease. Their whirlwind knocks underlined England’s sheer batting depth as the hosts romped home with 4.3 overs to spare.

    Rashid’s Match-Winning Performance

    While England’s batting stole the spotlight, it was the outstanding bowling performance that laid the foundation for this comprehensive victory. The supremely skilled Adil Rashid was pick of the bowlers, snaring 2 crucial wickets and conceding just 27 runs in his frugal 4-over spell. His mastery over spin and variation completely outfoxed the Pakistani batters, making him a worthy recipient of the Player of the Match award.

    Road ahead to T20 World Cup

    This resounding series triumph serves as a major boost for England heading into the marquee T20 World Cup in the West Indies later this year. The hosts displayed all the key ingredients – explosive batting firepower, a well-rounded bowling attack and an abundance of talent across the ranks. If they can maintain this stellar form, the defending champions will surely be the team to beat.

    For Pakistan, however, this series exposed some glaring deficiencies that need urgent attention from coach Saqlain Mushtaq and skipper Babar Azam. With their batting lacking substance and bowling sans penetration, the road ahead looks incredibly arduous for this Pakistani unit seeking to end their elusive wait for a first T20 World Cup crown.

  • Sachin Tendulkar Set To Boost Team India’s Spirits At T20 World Cup 2024 Clash Against Pakistan In New York | Cricket News

    The anticipation for the T20 World Cup 2024 is reaching fever pitch, and Indian cricket fans have another reason to celebrate. Legendary cricketer Sachin Tendulkar is expected to be present at India’s highly anticipated match against arch-rivals Pakistan. This epic showdown is scheduled for June 9 at the Nassau County International Cricket Stadium in New York.

    Sachin Tendulkar is likely to attend the India vs Pakistan match at New York in the T20I World Cup. [PTI] pic.twitter.com/ihjcVVvLeK — Johns. (@CricCrazyJohns) May 28, 2024

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    The Master Blaster’s Presence: A Morale Booster

    The confirmation of Tendulkar’s attendance comes from a reliable source close to the International Cricket Council (ICC). The source revealed, “Yes, if all goes well, Sachin will be watching the match in New York and cheering the Indian team.” While it’s still uncertain whether Tendulkar will interact with the players before the match, his presence alone is expected to significantly boost the morale of the Indian team.

    Rohit Sharma and his squad will undoubtedly draw inspiration from seeing one of cricket’s greatest icons in the stands. Tendulkar, who remains the highest run-scorer in both Tests and One-Day Internationals (ODIs), has always been a beacon of excellence and motivation for Indian cricketers. His illustrious career, spanning over two decades, set the benchmark for the sport, and his support could be a pivotal factor in such a crucial game.

    Historic Rivalry Rekindled in a New Arena

    The India-Pakistan cricket rivalry is legendary, often transcending the sport to become a cultural phenomenon. Matches between these two teams are always high-stakes affairs, laden with pressure and excitement. This year, the T20 World Cup has added a unique twist by hosting the marquee clash in New York, marking the first time these two teams will face off on American soil in a World Cup match.

    The Nassau County International Cricket Stadium, situated on the outskirts of New York, is expected to be filled to capacity. Fans from both nations, along with a vibrant diaspora, will converge to witness this historic match. The electric atmosphere, combined with Tendulkar’s presence, promises an unforgettable experience.

    Standout Performances to Watch

    While Tendulkar’s presence is a major highlight, the players on the field will be the ultimate focus. Captain Rohit Sharma, known for his explosive batting and strategic acumen, will lead the Indian team. Jasprit Bumrah, returning from injury, will spearhead the bowling attack with his lethal pace and precision. Suryakumar Yadav and Yuzvendra Chahal are also key players expected to make significant contributions.

    Pakistan, on the other hand, will rely on their own stars to counter India’s challenge. Babar Azam, one of the world’s top batsmen, will be crucial in anchoring his innings. Shaheen Afridi, with his fiery pace and ability to swing the ball, will aim to unsettle the Indian batsmen early on. The match is poised to be a thrilling contest of skill and nerve.

    Tendulkar’s Enduring Legacy

    Sachin Tendulkar’s involvement in cricket extends beyond his playing days. He has frequently been associated with the ICC and other cricketing bodies, often serving as a brand ambassador. His presence at key matches, such as the 2015 and 2023 World Cups, underscores his enduring influence in the sport. Even in retirement, Tendulkar continues to inspire millions. His journey from a young prodigy to a cricketing legend is a testament to his dedication, talent, and passion for the game. His upcoming appearance in New York is not just about watching a cricket match; it symbolizes the connection and respect he maintains with the sport and its global fanbase.

  • Babar Azam Scripts HUGE Captaincy Record After Pakistan Beat Ireland In 2nd T20I; Check Here | cricket news

    Pakistan captain Babar Azam has extended his position as the most successful T20I captain of all time after the Men In Green registered a massive win over Ireland in the 2nd match of the series. Pakistan had lost the first T20I to the Irish, much to the shock and dismay of the fans back home. But Pakistan bounced back in style, winning the contest by 7 wickets. Mohammad Rizwan was named the Player of the Match for his outstanding display of batting. After winning the toss, Pakistan opted to bowl first. Ireland posted 193 for 7 in 20 overs. Pakistan chased down the total in just 16.5 overs, all thanks to brilliance of Rizwan and also of Fakhar Zaman.

    Chasing 194 runs to win, Rizwan hit 75 off 46 balls, including 6 fours and 4 sixes. Fakhar smashed 78 off 40 balls, hitting 6 fours and sixes each. Pakistan wicketkeeper and batsman Azam Khan hit 30 off 10 balls to return unbeaten after sealing the victory.

    This was the 45th T20I win for Pakistan under the captaincy of Babar Azam. Pakistan captain surpassed Uganda’s Brian Masaba’s record of 44 wins. Third on the list is Aaron Finch with 40 wins (win percentage of 52.63) as T20I captain in 76 matches. MS Dhoni is next best with 41 wins but winning percentage lower than that of Finch. Eoin Morgan is fourth with 42 wins and win percentage of 58.33.

    While Babar failed to worry the scorers against Ireland, edging a Graham Hume ball to keeper Lorcan Tucker in the second over, Rizwan and Fakhar helped Pakistan even the series.

    Fakhar demonstrated his power-hitting abilities by smashing six sixes, while a steadier Rizwan handled the support position admirably as the pair put up 140 in rapid succession to take the game away from Ireland.

    While Fakhar was dismissed in the 15th over to provide the hosts with a glimmer of hope, Azam Khan joined the party to hit an unbeaten 30 from just 10 deliveries to guide Pakistan home.

    Meanwhile, the third and final game of the three-match series will be played in Dublin on Tuesday.

  • Blame Game In Pakistan Cricket Team’s Camp After Humiliating Defeat Against Ireland, Captain Babar Azam Says THIS | cricket news

    In a stunning upset, Pakistan suffered a historic five-wicket loss against Ireland in the opening T20I of the series in Dublin. The cricketing world was left stunned as the Associate nation defied the odds to script a remarkable victory over the formidable Men in Green. At the heart of the defeat was the candid admission from Pakistan’s captain Babar Azam, who pulled no punches in his assessment of his team’s dismal performance.

    “We didn’t start well in the first 6 overs; the pitch was a bit two-paced and had some bounce. We recovered well after that and got 182 but I think 190 was a par score,” he said. However, it was Pakistan’s lacklustre bowling and sloppy fielding that ultimately proved their undoing, according to the skipper. “But I think we lost due to the bowling and fielding. We didn’t execute our plans and had some sloppy lapses in the field which cost us,” Babar added.

    Pakistan’s Bowling Woes

    Babar’s scathing remarks were not without merit, as Pakistan’s vaunted bowling attack, spearheaded by the fiery Shaheen Shah Afridi, faltered under pressure. Shadab Khan, typically economical, leaked 54 runs from his four overs, while Naseem Shah and Abbas Afridi also struggled to contain the Irish batters.

    The Batting Heroics

    Chasing a daunting target of 183, Ireland’s openers Andrew Balbirnie and Paul Stirling provided a solid start, laying the foundation for the remarkable chase. Balbirnie, in particular, was the star of the show, his innings of 77 off just 55 deliveries laced with seven boundaries and two maximums.

    The right-hander’s intelligent batting, coupled with crucial partnerships with Harry Tector (36) and George Dockrell (24*), kept Ireland in the hunt throughout the innings. With 16 runs required off the final over, it was Curtis Campher who played the decisive hand, smashing an unbeaten 15 off just 7 balls to guide his team across the line with a ball to spare.

    Pakistan’s Batting Woes

    While Pakistan posted a competitive total of 182/6, their batting lineup also failed to fire on all cylinders. Barring Babar Azam’s resolute 57 and Iftikhar Ahmed’s quickfire 37, the rest of the batters struggled to cope with the Irish bowling attack.

    The unexpected hero for Ireland was Craig Young, who not only dismissed the dangerous Babar but also accounted for Azam Khan’s wicket in the same over, derailing Pakistan’s momentum in the middle overs.

    Historic Moment for Irish Cricket

    This victory against a cricketing powerhouse like Pakistan marks a watershed moment for Irish cricket. Not only did they claim their maiden T20I win over the Men in Green, but they also gained valuable momentum ahead of their much-anticipated clash against Pakistan in the upcoming T20 World Cup in the USA and West Indies.

  • PAK vs NZ 1st T20I: Babar Azam Breaks Silence On Reports Of ‘FIGHTS’ With Shaheen Shah Afridi, Says, ‘I Want To Make Clear…’ | cricket news

    Pakistan’s reinstated captain, Babar Azam, has addressed the recent captaincy controversy involving Shaheen Shah Afridi, who was replaced by Azam after Pakistan’s 1-4 loss to New Zealand under Afridi’s leadership. Reports surfaced suggesting Afridi was dissatisfied with how he was removed from captaincy, fueled further by his cryptic social media posts. Despite this turmoil, Azam emphasized the enduring bond between him and Afridi, stating their support for each other remains unwavering.

    “I want to make clear that Shaheen [Afridi] and my bond is not recent, it goes back a long way. We support each other in every situation. Our aim is to put Pakistan first, and how to put Pakistan’s name up in lights. We don’t think of individual glory, and thankfully, those elements are not present in my team,” Babar said as quoted by ESPNcricinfo.

    Speaking ahead of the first T20I match against New Zealand, Azam reiterated the team’s unity and commitment to prioritizing Pakistan’s success over individual accolades. He hinted at experimentation throughout the five-game series, with an eye on optimizing the squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup.

    “Our line-up is flexible. We’re trying to give opportunities to our young players and bench strength. You’ll see different combinations in this series and check what works for us. You’ll see that in the bowling as well as batting, and in every spot, by the time we get to the Ireland and England series, we’ll have a clearer picture,” he said.

    Azam expressed satisfaction with the squad’s blend of youth and experience, emphasizing the importance of nurturing young talent and providing support to newcomers adjusting to international cricket. The series begins in Rawalpindi on April 18, featuring both Pakistan and New Zealand squads.

    “I am very happy when I see a new player getting selected for the Pakistan Cricket Team on the basis of domestic performance. So all the youngsters that come, we try to keep them in our wings. Because in international, whenever you come, you struggle a little. It helps to have a senior player who can give you a little backing.