All Posts in "Cricket"

Champions Trophy 2025: Sunil Gavaskar Tips Pakistan as Strong Contenders

Pakistan’s Home Advantage in Focus

Legendary cricketer Sunil Gavaskar has identified Pakistan as the favorites to win the Champions Trophy 2025. Scheduled for February-March, the tournament will be hosted by Pakistan, where the defending champions aim to leverage their home-ground advantage.

Historic Rivalry and the Road Ahead

As per the schedule, Pakistan will open the tournament against New Zealand at Karachi’s National Bank Stadium on February 19. A much-anticipated clash against India is slated for February 23 at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, followed by their final group-stage match against Bangladesh on February 27 in Rawalpindi.

India’s Participation in the UAE

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) decided that India’s games would be held in the UAE, marking another chapter in the teams’ historic rivalry. Notably, Pakistan defeated India in the 2017 Champions Trophy final, a match etched in cricketing history.

Gavaskar’s Perspective on Pakistan’s Strengths

In a conversation with Indian media, Gavaskar emphasized Pakistan’s home advantage. “It’s always tough to beat a team on their home turf. Pakistan’s familiarity with the conditions gives them a significant edge. India had an impressive run in the ODI World Cup 2023 but fell short in the final. This tournament could be Pakistan’s to lose,” he remarked.

Group A Lineup and Predictions

Pakistan, India, New Zealand, and Bangladesh form Group A, setting the stage for a thrilling contest. Pakistan’s seasoned players and crowd support could be decisive in their quest to reclaim the title.

Afshan Ibrahim by — January 20, 2025 in Cricket
Sindh Governor Honors Pakistan Blind Cricket Team for T20 World Cup Glory

Governor Tessori’s Heartfelt Recognition

In a moving ceremony at the Governor House in Karachi, Governor Sindh Kamran Tessori celebrated Pakistan’s blind cricket team for their historic victory in the Blind T20 World Cup. Tessori awarded a cash prize of PKR 500,000 to the team, praising their exceptional determination and resilience.

The governor described the players as “national heroes,” acknowledging their undefeated performance throughout the tournament. “Their victory is a gift to the nation,” he remarked, emphasizing their unwavering spirit.

Promising More Support

Beyond the initial cash prize, Tessori pledged to work with the Sindh Government to secure an additional PKR 500,000 for each player. This promise highlights the importance of their achievement, which has brought pride and joy to the entire country.

Breaking Records and Making History

Last month, Pakistan’s blind cricket team made history by claiming their first-ever Blind T20 World Cup title. They defeated Bangladesh in the final with an extraordinary 10-wicket win, ending India’s dominance in the competition. Previously, India had won the title three times in a row.

A Boost for Blind Cricket in Pakistan

The team’s monumental victory has shone a spotlight on blind cricket in Pakistan, encouraging greater support and recognition for differently-abled athletes. Government officials and cricket authorities have lauded the players, vowing to further develop facilities and opportunities for such talented individuals.

Nationwide Inspiration

The triumph is not just a cricketing milestone; it is a beacon of hope for the entire differently-abled community in Pakistan. It demonstrates that with passion and perseverance, even the greatest challenges can be overcome, setting a new benchmark for future athletes.

Web Desk by — January 11, 2025 in Cricket
Tim Nielsen Departs as Pakistan’s Assistant Coach Ahead of Test Series

PCB Makes Bold Coaching Change Before South Africa Tour

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has decided against renewing Tim Nielsen’s contract as assistant coach, a move that comes just weeks before the high-stakes Test series against South Africa starting December 26.

End of a Short-Lived Tenure

Nielsen was appointed as high-performance red-ball coach in August and worked closely with head coach Jason Gillespie during Pakistan’s tour of Australia. Despite hopes for an extension, Nielsen’s stint came to an abrupt end. The PCB cited no specific reasons, but insiders speculate on policy changes favoring locally based staff.

Gillespie’s Concerns Grow

This unexpected move has reportedly left Jason Gillespie re-evaluating his future with the team. The head coach, already facing reduced responsibilities after being removed from the Test selection panel in October, was not consulted before Nielsen’s dismissal. This lack of communication has deepened Gillespie’s frustration with the PCB.

Coaching Dynamics and Future Prospects

Nielsen’s departure mirrors the resignation of former head coach Gary Kirsten, who cited similar challenges due to non-residency. Both coaches shared concerns about the PCB’s preference for locally stationed personnel. Nielsen had been optimistic about leading the team into the tours of South Africa and the West Indies, making the decision particularly surprising.

Uncertainty Looms Over Replacement

The PCB has yet to announce a successor, but recent trends suggest a likely shift to domestic coaching talent. Nielsen’s positive relationship with the players was an asset, leaving questions about the impact of his departure on team morale.

Web Desk by — December 12, 2024 in Cricket
Melbourne Stars Revive ‘Pakistan Bay’ for an Exciting BBL 14 Season

A Fan Zone Like No Other


The Melbourne Stars are bringing back the beloved Pakistan Bay for the Big Bash League (BBL) 14 season, turning the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) into a hub of energy and celebration. This special fan zone is dedicated to the Stars’ Pakistani supporters, providing a unique space for fans to unite, cheer, and celebrate cricket during the team’s home games.

Game Days for Pakistan Bay Fans


Memberships for Pakistan Bay are now open for the first four home matches of the season, scheduled for December 18, January 4, January 9, and January 19. This vibrant initiative allows fans to experience the thrill of cricket while embracing their cultural heritage.

Multicultural Cricket at Its Best


This initiative aligns with Cricket Australia’s Multicultural Action Plan, showcasing the organization’s commitment to fostering inclusivity. By engaging fans from diverse backgrounds, the Melbourne Stars aim to make cricket more accessible and enjoyable for everyone.

Usama Mir Back in Action


Pakistani leg-spinner Usama Mir, who made waves during BBL 13 with five wickets in five matches, is set to dazzle again this season. His presence will undoubtedly energize the Pakistan Bay as fans rally behind their star player.

A Tradition of Inclusivity


The Pakistan Bay concept follows similar fan engagement initiatives, such as the Pakistan fan zones during the national team’s white-ball series in Australia. Cricket Australia’s dedication to multiculturalism is evident in these efforts, creating a sense of belonging for fans.

A Season to Remember


BBL 14 promises to be a thrilling ride, starting with the Melbourne Stars facing off against the Perth Scorchers on December 15. As the season progresses toward its January 27 finale, Pakistan Bay will be the heartbeat of the Stars’ home matches, adding a unique cultural flavor to the tournament.

Sajal Subhan by — December 9, 2024 in Cricket
PCB Chief Mohsin Naqvi Prioritizes Gaddafi Stadium Renovations for Champions Trophy

Gaddafi Stadium Upgrades on Fast Track as PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi Sets Goals for Champions Trophy

In preparation for the ICC Champions Trophy, Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi visited Lahore’s iconic Gaddafi Stadium to assess the ongoing upgrades, marking a major step forward for the stadium’s infrastructure. Nearly 50% of the renovation work has been completed, with particular focus on enclosure updates and flooring enhancements. Naqvi’s visit highlighted the importance of readying the stadium to host a high-profile international tournament, and he expressed satisfaction with the project’s progress.

After inspecting the site, Naqvi held a meeting with the Frontier Works Organization (FWO) team and project officials to review designs and progress reports. He emphasized the need for a coordinated approach to keep the momentum going and avoid any delays. The chairman’s key directives included ensuring ample parking and an improved outer appearance for the stadium, enhancing accessibility and visual appeal.

Transforming Gaddafi Stadium into a World-Class Venue

Naqvi underlined that these upgrades are essential for transforming Gaddafi Stadium into a premier venue that meets international expectations. He stressed that both player facilities and fan experiences need to reach global standards, making it a prime spot for high-stakes matches. The project is not only a showcase of Pakistan’s hospitality but also a demonstration of the nation’s dedication to promoting cricket at a global level.

Among those present were PCB officials, including the director of infrastructure, director of domestic, and senior general managers, alongside FWO and NESPAK representatives. With such collaboration, the PCB aims to establish Gaddafi Stadium as a shining example of Pakistan’s readiness to host international sporting events.

Afshan Ibrahim by — November 3, 2024 in Cricket
PCB Announces Shan Masood as Captain for Bangladesh Test Series

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has confirmed that Shan Masood will continue as the captain of the national team for the upcoming Test series against Bangladesh. PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi made this announcement on Thursday, emphasizing Masood’s leadership qualities and positive feedback received regarding his captaincy.

In a media briefing, Naqvi mentioned that he had a video call with Masood to discuss strategies and improvements for the team in Test cricket. He clarified that there were no plans to replace Masood as the Test captain, reaffirming the board’s confidence in his abilities.

Regarding the venues for the Bangladesh Test series, Naqvi stated that the PCB has finalized either Multan, Karachi, or Rawalpindi as potential venues, as Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore is currently undergoing upgrades.

The upcoming two-match series between Pakistan and Bangladesh holds significance as part of the ICC Test Championship 2023-2025.

Web Desk by — July 4, 2024 in Cricket
HBL PSL 2024: Bigger, Better, and Back in February!

Cricket fans, get ready for a T20 feast! The Pakistan Super League (PSL) is roaring back for its ninth season, kicking off on February 17th, 2024. This year, the action goes beyond boundaries, with matches across four vibrant cities: Karachi, Lahore, Multan, and Rawalpindi.

Defending Champions Lahore Qalandars Clash with Rivals:

The tournament promises electrifying matchups, with defending champions Lahore Qalandars facing off against their arch-rivals Islamabad United in the opening match. Prepare for fireworks when Lahore and Karachi Kings clash on February 24th and March 9th!

More Matches, More Cities, More Fun:

Get ready for 34 action-packed matches, spread across two legs. The first leg (February 17-27) brings the heat to Lahore and Multan, while the second leg (February 28-March 12) takes over Rawalpindi and Karachi. The playoffs and final will be an exclusive Karachi affair, culminating in a grand finale at the National Bank Stadium on March 18th.

Your Favorite Teams, Your Hometown Heroes:

Each team will play five matches at their home ground, giving fans a chance to cheer on their local heroes. Peshawar Zalmi takes over Pindi Cricket Stadium, while Quetta Gladiators will split their matches between Karachi, Lahore, and Multan.

PCB Management Committee Chair Mr. Zaka Ashraf:

“We’re thrilled to bring PSL back bigger and better! Hosting matches across four cities brings top-notch cricket to fans nationwide. We aim to not only entertain but also inspire young players at the grassroots level.”

Mark Your Calendars, Book Your Tickets:

Get ready to witness cricketing magic unfold! Pakistan Super League 2024 promises a thrilling tournament, packed with fierce rivalries, spectacular performances, and unforgettable moments. So, grab your PSL gear, get your friends together, and cheer on your favorite teams!

Don’t miss the first match on February 17th!

PSL 2024 Schedule:

(Note: Included only the first few matches for brevity)

  • February 17: Lahore Qalandars vs. Islamabad United (Lahore)
  • February 18: Quetta Gladiators vs. Peshawar Zalmi (Lahore), Multan Sultans vs. Karachi Kings (Multan)
  • February 19: Lahore Qalandars vs. Quetta Gladiators (Lahore)
  • February 20: Multan Sultans vs. Islamabad United (Multan)
  • February 21: Peshawar Zalmi vs. Karachi Kings (Lahore)

Stay tuned for the complete schedule and updates!

Sajal Subhan by — January 13, 2024 in Cricket
Former Cricketer Basit Ali Believes Pakistan Can Conquer Australia

Former Pakistani cricketer Basit Ali has expressed his confidence in Pakistan’s ability to defeat Australia in the upcoming three-match Test series, despite Pakistan’s poor historical record in Australia.

“Playing in Australia is not as difficult as it is often portrayed to be,” Ali stated on the ARY News show Sports Room. He urged the Pakistani players to adopt a fearless and winning mindset, similar to India’s approach, to secure victory.

Ali praised the Pakistani team’s top-order batsmen, highlighting their consistent performances in Test cricket over the past year. He also expressed optimism about Babar Azam’s performance, predicting that the former captain will thrive at number four without the pressure of captaincy.

Regarding the pitches, Ali noted that Australian tracks have become less bouncy in recent years, with conditions in Sydney and Melbourne resembling those in Asia. He believes that these conditions will favor Pakistan’s spinners and give them a good chance of winning in those cities.

Ali’s comments have injected a dose of optimism into the Pakistani camp ahead of the crucial Test series. Pakistan will undoubtedly look to break their losing streak in Australia and make a bold statement with a series victory.

Afshan Ibrahim by — December 1, 2023 in Cricket
Who are the famous Cricketers in Pakistan?

Pakistan is a country that has produced many great cricketers over the years. Some of them have achieved legendary status in the world of cricket and have inspired generations of fans and players. Here are some of the most famous cricketers in Pakistan:

  • Imran Khan: He is the greatest and most successful Pakistani cricketer of all time. He is also one of the best all-rounders in the game and has amassed over 7000 runs and more than 500 wickets. Imran Khan was the captain of the Pakistani team that won the World Cup in 1992 in Australia. He is also a politician and the former Prime Minister of Pakistan.
  • Wasim Akram: He is widely regarded as one of the greatest fast bowlers of all time. He is counted amongst the finest exponents of reverse swing bowling. He became a commentator and coach following his retirement as a player. He is a recipient of the Pakistan Government’s Hilal-e-Imtiaz award.
  • Javed Miandad: He is touted to be the “greatest batsman Pakistan has ever produced.” He had an unusually long playing career spanning almost two decades. He was known for his unconventional style of captaincy and his famous last-ball six against India in 1986. He was inducted into the ICC Cricket Hall of Fame in 2009.
  • Shahid Afridi: He is one of the most popular and entertaining cricketers in Pakistan. He is known for his aggressive batting style and his ability to hit sixes at will. He holds the record for the fastest century in ODI cricket, which he scored in 37 balls against Sri Lanka in 1996. He also holds the record for the most sixes in international cricket, with 476.
  • Babar Azam: He is regarded as one of the best batsmen in contemporary world cricket. Currently, he captains the Pakistan team in all formats. He has scored more than 8000 runs across all formats and has an average of over 50 in both Tests and ODIs. He is also ranked among the top five batsmen in all formats by the ICC.
Sajal Subhan by — June 30, 2023 in Blogs
Why Cricket is Famous in Pakistan?

Cricket is a sport that has a huge fan following in Pakistan. It is not only a game, but also a source of national pride, cultural identity and social cohesion. Cricket has a long history in Pakistan, dating back to the colonial era when it was introduced by the British. Since then, cricket has evolved into a popular and competitive sport that attracts millions of viewers and players across the country.

There are many reasons why cricket is famous in Pakistan. One of them is the success and achievements of the national team, which has won several international tournaments and produced some of the world’s best players. Pakistan has won the Cricket World Cup once, in 1992, and the ICC World Twenty20 twice, in 2009 and 2016. Some of the legendary cricketers from Pakistan include Imran Khan, Wasim Akram, Javed Miandad, Inzamam-ul-Haq and Shahid Afridi.

Another reason why cricket is famous in Pakistan is the passion and enthusiasm of the fans, who support their team with fervor and loyalty. Cricket matches are often celebrated as festivals, with people gathering in stadiums, parks, streets and homes to watch and cheer for their team. Cricket also brings people together across different regions, languages, religions and ethnicities, creating a sense of unity and harmony among the diverse population.

A third reason why cricket is famous in Pakistan is the social and economic impact of the sport on society. Cricket provides opportunities for young people to pursue their dreams and talents, as well as to earn income and recognition. Cricket also contributes to the development of infrastructure, tourism, media and education in the country. Cricket also inspires many people to overcome challenges and hardships, as well as to promote peace and goodwill among nations.

Cricket is more than just a sport in Pakistan. It is a way of life, a symbol of hope and a source of joy for millions of people.

Sajal Subhan by — June 26, 2023 in Blogs