The World Opinion

Tag: PCB

  • ‘Babar Azam Should Be Dropped’: Ex-Pakistan Legend Calls For Star Batsman’s Exclusion From Test Squad | cricket news

    Former Pakistan cricket legend Zaheer Abbas, famously known as the “Asian Bradman,” has made a bold statement regarding Babar Azam’s place in the Pakistan Test team. Speaking at the Cricket Predicta Conclave in Ajman, UAE, during the 100th episode celebration of the international cricket talk show, Zaheer voiced his opinion on Babar’s recent struggles.

    “Babar Azam should be dropped from the team if he’s not scoring runs. He’s our main batsman, and if he’s out of form, he should be out of the team,” said Zaheer. His remarks come after Babar’s string of low scores in Pakistan’s recent Test series against Bangladesh, where he managed just 0, 22, 11, and 31, contributing to Pakistan’s defeat in the series.

    Adding to the pressure on Babar, his name was recently removed from the ICC top 10 Test batsmen rankings for the first time in years. This slump in form has ignited debates about Babar’s place in the team, especially after Pakistan’s early exit from the 2024 T20 World Cup, where they suffered defeats to the USA and India, leading to their group-stage elimination.

    Zaheer also dismissed ongoing comparisons between Babar and Indian batting maestro Virat Kohli, calling them “pointless” given their current form. “The comparisons are meaningless. Virat Kohli scores in every match; Babar doesn’t score in any match. So how can you compare? The one who scores is the bigger player,” Zaheer added.

    With Pakistan’s next assignment being the Test series against England as part of the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) 2023-25, starting in Multan on October 7, all eyes will be on Babar’s performance.

    Babar Azam Steps Down As White Ball Captain

    In a surprising move that has once again shaken the Pakistan cricket world, star batsman Babar Azam has stepped down as the captain of Pakistan’s ODI and T20I teams for the second time in less than a year. Babar, who announced his resignation on social media on October 2, 2024, cited the increased workload of captaincy as the key reason behind his decision. His departure from the leadership role has ignited widespread discussions about his form, future, and the trajectory of Pakistan cricket.

    In his statement, Babar emphasized his desire to prioritize his performance, stating, “By stepping down, I will gain clarity moving forward and focus more energy on my game.” For Pakistan cricket fans, the hope is that this move will allow Babar to once again rise to the top as one of the game’s premier players.

  • Improve Fitness Or Contract Termination: PCB Warns Centrally Contracted Players | cricket news

    The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has issued a stern warning to 6-7 centrally contracted players, urging them to improve their fitness or risk losing their contracts. The Pakistan team fitness trainer and physiotherapist will conduct another round of fitness tests on Monday in Lahore after some players didn’t meet the required benchmarks in the tests held earlier this month.

    “The players who have central and domestic contracts have been told in clear terms that there will be no compromise on fitness and they have to meet the benchmarks set by the team’s fitness experts,” a board official said.

    The official said that “the two foreign head coaches, Jason Gillispie and Gary Kirsten had told the PCB Chairman that no player should be given any benefit as far as fitness levels are concerned.”

    These fitness tests are aimed at assessing stamina, endurance, muscle strength, and other crucial factors.

    The PCB has delayed the announcement of the list of players eligible for central contracts for the 2024/2025 period, which typically runs from July to July. Last year, the announcement was postponed until September due to changes in board leadership.

    This year it is anticipated that the board will reduce the number of players receiving central contracts from the existing list of 27 as the new coaches are also laying a lot of stress on performance and behavioral evaluations.

    The official said the players found struggling to meet the benchmark in fitness tests earlier this year had been given two months to work on their fitness and the tests on Monday are part of the evaluation process.

    The Pakistan team has frequently faced criticism for its fitness standards compared to other international teams. (‘Retain Virat Kohli’: RP Singh Comes Up With Blunt Advice For RCB Ahead Of IPL 2025 Mega Auction)

    After the World Cup in India last year, team director Muhammad Hafeez and former captain Misbah ul Haq revealed that former head coach Mickey Arthur and captain Babar Azam had instructed the trainer not to pressure players on fitness, allowing them to focus on performance.

  • Gary Kirsten Set To Be Fired? Pakistan Head To Could Lose Job After Champions Trophy 2025 Due To THIS Reason | cricket news

    The winds of change are blowing through Pakistan cricket once again, and Gary Kirsten may be the next high-profile casualty. The South African coach, who was hailed as a game-changer upon his appointment earlier this year, has found himself under immense pressure after a series of disappointing performances. The 2025 ICC Champions Trophy looms large, and many are already predicting that it could mark Kirsten’s last days as Pakistan’s head coach.

    Also Read: Virat Kohli’s Witty Response Leaves Kanpur Hotel Staff Stumped Ahead Of India vs Bangladesh 2nd Test – Watch

    Struggles leading to unrest

    Pakistan cricket, often characterized by its passionate fanbase and volatile leadership, has found itself in a storm. Despite Gary Kirsten’s reputation as one of the finest cricketing minds, the results have not gone in his favour. The recent debacles, particularly at the 2024 T20 World Cup, have left the cricketing world in shock and disappointment.

    Pakistan’s group-stage exit, punctuated by humiliating losses to the USA and arch-rivals India, raised serious questions about the team’s preparedness and strategy. The USA defeat was especially hard to digest, given their status as a non-Test playing nation. Many fans and pundits, including former cricketers, are now openly questioning whether Kirsten has what it takes to lead the team out of its current slump.

    Basit Ali’s Warning: ‘Tata Bye Bye for Kirsten’

    Former Pakistan cricketer Basit Ali didn’t mince his words when he recently predicted that Gary Kirsten’s time as head coach will likely end after the 2025 Champions Trophy. Speaking on his YouTube channel, Ali made a bold claim, stating, “Congratulations to Gary Kirsten. He will be at the helm of the team till the Champions Trophy. However, he will be fired after that. It will be tata, bye bye for him.”

    Ali’s prediction reflects the uncertainty within Pakistan cricket, where patience is often short-lived. He also alluded to the internal politics that have plagued the team for years, a factor he believes will contribute to Kirsten’s downfall. “They have stepped into the politics of Pakistani cricket. They won’t be successful,” Ali remarked, a statement that underscores the broader issues within the team beyond just performance on the field.

    Can Kirsten Turn It Around?

    Despite the looming pressure, Kirsten remains committed to his role and has publicly expressed his desire to “bring pride back into Pakistan cricket.” In a recent high-level camp organized by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), Kirsten emphasized the importance of professionalism and unity within the team. He acknowledged that the current squad must improve in several areas if they are to compete at the highest level.

    “We want the Pakistan team to be as successful as it possibly can be across all formats,” Kirsten said. He also highlighted the importance of presenting themselves as professionals and restoring pride in a team that has, at times, appeared fragmented and disjointed.

    While Kirsten’s words offer hope, actions will speak louder. The Champions Trophy, set to be held in February 2025, presents a critical juncture. As the host nation, Pakistan has the advantage of playing on home soil, and expectations will be sky-high. Kirsten’s future likely hinges on whether the team can at least reach the semifinals, a task that even Basit Ali believes will be a significant achievement given the current state of affairs.

    Internal Struggles: A Divided Dressing Room

    One of the major issues highlighted during the recent “connection camp” in Lahore was a lack of unity within the team. Reports have emerged suggesting that players have voiced concerns about poor communication between themselves and top officials. In response, the PCB has agreed to set up a two-member independent committee to act as a bridge between the players and the board, a move aimed at addressing internal unrest.

    Babar Azam, who remains the captain of Pakistan’s white-ball team, has also found himself at the center of this crisis. Although he has retained his position, many believe that both he and Kirsten are on borrowed time if results do not improve.

    The Politics of Pakistani Cricket

    Basit Ali’s remarks about “the politics of Pakistani cricket” have sparked debate within the cricketing community. Internal politics, meddling by influential figures, and the constant reshuffling of players and staff have long been issues that have destabilized the team. Kirsten’s failure to navigate this landscape may prove to be her undoing.

    While Kirsten’s pedigree as a coach is unquestionable—having led India to the 2011 World Cup triumph—the complexities of managing Pakistan’s cricketing ecosystem may be more than he bargained for.

  • Babar Azam, Shan Masood Among Senior Players To Attend PCB Workshop On Pakistan Cricket’s Future | cricket news

    Captains Babar Azam and Shan Masood, along with other senior players, will attend a day-long workshop on Monday, convened by the PCB to outline the future vision for Pakistan cricket. The Pakistan Cricket Board has named the day-long workshop the “Strategic Connection Camp,” to be held at a local hotel. Along with captains Babar Azam and Shan Masood, senior players Fakhar Zaman, Mohammad Rizwan, Saim Ayub, Salman Ali Agha, Saud Shakeel, Shadab Khan, and Shaheen Shah Afridi will be in attendance.

    The meeting will also be joined by national team head coaches Jason Gillespie and Gary Kirsten, assistant coach Azhar Mahmood, and High Performance specialist David Reid. (WTC Points Table 2023-25: India Tightens Grip On No. 1 Spot After 280 Run Victory, Bangladesh Slips To 6th Position)

    “We aim to identify key issues, foster open dialogue and collectively agree on a strategic path forward to successfully reshape Pakistan cricket.” PCB chief Mohsin Naqvi said in a statement.

    “The Connection Camp is a critical step toward unifying our approach to restore Pakistan cricket to its former glory. Our aim is to identify key issues, foster open dialogue and collectively agree on a strategic path forward. The PCB remains optimistic that this session, which builds on prior discussions with former cricketers, will lead to a results-driven strategy that improves both player management and team performance.”

    Pakistan Test captain Masood said the session will focus on setting performance benchmarks, developing player development programs, and formulating strategies to enhance grassroots cricket.

    Red-ball head coach Jason Gillespie and white-ball coach Gary Kirsten have also expressed optimism that the meeting will be beneficial.

    “We’re all striving toward the same goal – raising the standard of Pakistan cricket and creating a culture of winning.” Gillispie said. (‘Pakistan Samjhe The Kya,’ Fans Can’t Keep Calm After Team India Crushes Bangladesh In 1st Test)

    Kirsten said the focus is on refining the approach to white-ball cricket, building a team that can consistently perform at the highest level and bringing joy to the fans who support them. The PCB leadership group will also attend the meeting besides the national selectors.

    This is not the first time the PCB is hosting such a meeting/workshop as in the past also previous Chairmanmen have followed the same path in a bid to identify key issues in Pakistan cricket and to reach a consensus on a strategic path forward. Unfortunately the success rate and outcome of such meetings has not been high.

  • Pakistan vs Bangladesh: Second Test In Karachi To Be Held Without Spectators- Here’s Why | cricket news

    The Pakistan Cricket Board has decided to hold the second Test against Bangladesh at Karachi’s National Stadium behind closed doors due to ongoing construction work. Ticket sales are suspended, and refunds will be issued.

    |Last Updated: Aug 14, 2024, 05:44 PM IST|Source: PTI

  • Afghanistan Confirms Participation In Champions Trophy 2025, Boosting Pakistan’s Hosting Prospects: Reports | cricket news

    In a significant boost for the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), Afghanistan has confirmed its participation in the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy. This assurance comes as a relief amid speculations about some countries potentially following India’s lead if the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) decides not to send its team to Pakistan for the event. The confirmation came during the ICC Annual Board Meeting held in Colombo, where Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) President Mirwais Ashraf and CEO Naseeb Khan met with PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi. The Afghan officials expressed their eagerness to participate in the Champions Trophy, marking Afghanistan’s debut in this prestigious tournament.

    Also Read: EXPLAINED: Why Smriti Mandhana Replaced Harmanpreet Kaur As Indian Women’s Team Captain In Match Against Nepal In Women’s Asia Cup 2024

    Naqvi shared the news with optimism, stating, “They told the chairman that Afghanistan is looking forward to sending its team to Pakistan since they are participating in the Champions Trophy for the first time.” This assurance helps counter the prevailing perception that the BCCI’s financial influence could sway other cricket boards, including those of Afghanistan, Sri Lanka, and Bangladesh, to follow its path.

    Overcoming Speculation and Uncertainty

    The cricketing world has been abuzz with speculation about India’s potential non-participation in the Champions Trophy if it is held in Pakistan. A former PCB chairman, Khalid Mehmood, had even suggested in an interview that if India opts out, other teams might insist on relocating the tournament to a different venue.

    However, the ACB’s commitment to participating in the Champions Trophy signifies a positive shift. This development not only bolsters Pakistan’s efforts to successfully host the tournament but also showcases Afghanistan’s commitment to international cricket despite regional politics.

    Historical Significance for Pakistan

    The Champions Trophy 2025 holds immense significance for Pakistan. It will be the first major ICC event hosted by the country since it co-hosted the 1996 World Cup with India and Sri Lanka. This tournament presents an opportunity for Pakistan to reaffirm its capability to host high-profile international cricket events, enhancing its reputation on the global stage.

    Excitement Building for the Champions Trophy

    As the cricketing world gears up for the Champions Trophy in February and March 2025, the anticipation is palpable. Afghanistan’s assurance of participation adds an exciting dimension to the tournament, promising thrilling encounters and standout performances.

    Afghanistan’s cricket journey has been nothing short of remarkable. From gaining full member status with the ICC in 2017 to producing world-class talents like Rashid Khan and Mohammad Nabi, the team has consistently punched above its weight. Their participation in the Champions Trophy will undoubtedly bring fresh enthusiasm and competitiveness to the event.

    Implications for Regional Cricket Dynamics

    Afghanistan’s decision to play in Pakistan despite potential political pressures highlights the growing maturity and independence of cricketing nations in the region. It also underscores the importance of separating sports from politics, allowing cricket to serve as a unifying force.

    The PCB, on its part, has been diligently working to ensure top-notch security and hospitality for all participating teams. Hosting the Champions Trophy successfully would be a testament to Pakistan’s preparedness and resilience, setting the stage for more international cricket in the country.

  • 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.

  • T20 World Cup 2024: Pakistan Players To Get Extra Prize Money From PCB If They Win Tournament

    PCB announces special prize money for players if they win T20 World Cup 2024.

  • T20 World Cup 2024: India’s 2011 WC Winning Coach Appointed By Pakistan Cricket Board

    Gary Kirsten will coach the Pakistan cricket team in white-ball formats.

  • PCB Name New Head Coach For New Zealand Series; Announce Full List Of Support Personnel | cricket news

    Former Pakistan fast bowler Azhar Mahmood has been appointed as the head coach of the Pakistan men’s cricket team for the upcoming five-match T20I series against New Zealand. Scheduled to be played in Rawalpindi and Lahore from April 18 to 27, the matches will witness Mahmood taking charge of the team. Having represented Pakistan in 164 internationals, Mahmood has a notable record of 162 wickets and 2,421 runs. He previously served as the bowling coach for the Pakistan men’s cricket team from 2016 to 2019.

    In addition to Mahmood’s appointment, Wahab Riaz has been named as the senior team manager, while Mohammad Yousuf will take on the role of batting coach. Saeed Ajmal, who previously served as the bowling coach during tours of Australia and New Zealand, will continue in his capacity as the spin bowling coach.

    The support staff for the Pakistan team during the New Zealand T20Is includes Wahab Riaz as the senior team manager, with Mansoor Rana appointed as the team manager. Alongside Mahmood, Mohammad Yousuf, Saeed Ajmal, Aftab Khan, Cliffe Deacon, Drikus Saiman, Talha Butt, Irtiza Komail, Raza Kitchlew, Zain Maqsood, Dr. Khurram Sarwar, and Mohammad Imran will contribute to various roles within the team’s support structure.

    The squad for the New Zealand series will be unveiled on Tuesday, April 9, at 12:45 PM in the media conference room at the Gaddafi Stadium. Due to space limitations, only PCB-accredited reporters, camerapersons, and photographers are invited to attend the announcement.