Sunday, 29 December 2024

Pakistan vs South Africa first test 2024

 

  

Pakistan narrowly lost to South Africa by two wickets in the first test at Centurion. Pakistan should have won the first test given the chances they had as in the first innings they had South Africa at 213 for 8 from then onwards they let South Africa to a total of 301 runs hence conceding a healthy lead of 90 runs. This lead was the main reason why Pakistan lost the test match. 

Then in the second innings after getting South Africa to be at 99 for 8 Pakistan let South Africa reach that target of 148 runs. Mohammad Abbas made an excellent return to test cricket and we were really missing his bowling all this time. The batting let Pakistani cricket team down in this test match and no batsmen except Saud Shakeel, Babar Azam and Kamran Ghulam impressed me.

In the end what i would like to say is that Pakistan were too one dimensional in this test match in their bowling. If they had included Noman Ali in their team who was a spinner Pakistan might have won this test match.

Wednesday, 25 December 2024

Pakistan's best coach ever

 


I think Intikhab Alam was Pakistan's best coach ever and he was also the most successful coach Pakistan has ever had. Under Intikhab Alam's coaching we won the 1992 World Cup and then later on also we won the 2009 Twenty20 world cup which was held in England. 1992 World cup upto this date remains Pakistan's only 50 over World Cup title. The 2009 World Cup twenty20 remains Pakistan's only Twenty20 world cup title.

In the 1992 World cup Pakistan were almost knocked out of the tournament after losing unfairly to a rain affected match against South Africa. But then onwards Intikhab Alam devised a master strategy plan alongwith Captain Imran Khan and vice captain Javed Miandad which led to Pakistan winning four consecutive matches in a row including the semi final and final of the tournament.

Similarly in 2009 Twenty20 world cup in England , Pakistan were down and out after losing to Sri lanka  in the super eights stage of the tournament. From then onwards an Intikhab Alam inspired Pakistan won against New Zealand and Ireland in the super eights stage then they defeated South Africa in the Semi finals and finally won the title against Srilanka in the Final of the tournament.

In the end what i would like to say is that had Intikhab Alam not written that terrible report on Pakistani players in their disastrous tour of Australia in 2010 he would have coached Pakistan to more glory.

Monday, 23 December 2024

Pakistan vs South Africa 3rd ODI 2024

 


Pakistan just did the unthinkable they defeated South Africa 3-0 and they just whitewashed South Africa which no cricket team has done in South African soil. Pakistan is finally playing like a team rather than relying on individual players and things look bright for Pakistan in the Champions Trophy to be held in Pakistan and UAE.

Saim Ayub looks to be in the peak form of his life and I sincerely hope that he continues to play for Pakistan like this forever. Shaheen Afridi and Naseem Shah are back in form. Pakistan will dearly miss Shaheen Afridi in the test matches with the kind of form he showed in the ODI series against South Africa. 

In the end what i would like to say is that Pakistan has a fifty fifty percent chance of winning against South Africa provided that their batting scores heavily in the upcoming test matches against South Africa.

Saturday, 21 December 2024

Pakistan vs South Africa 2nd ODI 2024

Pakistan won the ODI series against South Africa in South Africa which is a proud moment in cricket for the whole Pakistan nation. This was a team effort as Pakistan outshone, out conquered and outclassed South Africa in all three departments of the game to win the ODI series. The bowling line up selected for this second ODI by the South Africans was weak and inexperienced. Pakistan batsmen took full advantage of this weak bowling line up missing Kagiso Rabada and Anrich Nortje in their bowling line up to put up an imposing total of 329 on board which the South Africans found very difficult to chase.

Muhammad Rizwan and Babar Azam again formed a huge and well refined partnership of 100 plus runs which laid the foundation of a huge total of 329 runs. Kamran Ghulam played the best knock of his short career at an impressive strike rate which led to Pakistan's great total. Despite Klaasen's whirlwind knock of 97 runs Pakistan managed to beat South Africa by 81 runs due to Shaheen Afridi and Naseem Shah's superb bowling.

In the end what I would like to say is that Pakistan would put an icing on the cake if they are able to whitewash South Africa 3-0 in this ODI series.  

Wednesday, 18 December 2024

Pakistan vs South Africa 1st ODI 2024

 


Pakistan finally register their first win of the tour against South Africa. Pakistan won the first ODI against South Africa by 3 wickets. This win is a fantastic achievement as South Africa is a very tough team to beat at home. Saim Ayub and Salman Ali Agha impressed with both bat and ball in this match and this was a good all round performance from both of them.

Saim Ayub is not only scoring runs consistently and heavily but he is scoring these runs quickly and with a good strike rate. All our spinners Abrar Ahmed, Salman Ali Agha and Saim Ayub are bowling superbly. Shaheen Afridi is bowling well amongst the pacers as well. The only worry for me in this current Pakistani team is that only Saim Ayub is performing consistently with the bat and rest of the batsmen in the Pakistani team are out of form.

In the end what I would like to say is that after this performance at Paarl I am quite confident Pakistan will do well in the rest of the tour of South Africa.

Friday, 13 December 2024

Pakistan vs South Africa second twenty20 2024

 


Pakistan were thrashed by South Africa by 7 wickets in the second twenty20 international played at Centurion. Pakistan despite amassing a high total of 206 lost this match to a second string South African team. In both the twenty20 internationals our bowling was too expensive which cost Pakistan both the matches.

Saim Ayub played a wonderful and selfless innings in this 2nd Twenty20 international playing an almost match winning knock of 98 runs. Saim Ayub will hopefully perform like Saeed Anwar did with distinction for Pakistan. 

In the end what I would like to say is that the way our bowling has being hit to all parts of the ground by South African batsmen Pakistan would do well if they can prevent a whitewash against South Africa in this Twenty20 series.

Tuesday, 10 December 2024

Pakistan vs South Africa first twenty20 2024

 


Pakistan had a great chance of winning against South Africa in the first twenty20 international played in Durban when they had South Africa at 141 for 8. From 141 for 8 Pakistan should have bowled South Africa for a low total instead they let South Africa off the hook and bowled them out for 185 for 9 which proved to be a steep chase for the Pakistanis to chase.

Also Sufiyan Muqeem proved to be very expensive especially his final over of the innings against South Africa which cost Pakistan the match. I dont know what was Muhammad Rizwan's logic to bowl Sufiyan Muqeem an inexperienced spinner the last over of the innings and he should have saved Shaheen Afridi for the last over and completed Muqeem's quota of overs a lot earlier.

In the end what I would like to say is that since South Africa is playing its second string side in this series Pakistan should bounce back in this twenty20 series.

Saturday, 7 December 2024

Pakistan tour of South Africa.

 


Pakistan's tour of South Africa will be a stern test for both Pakistan's batsmen and bowlers. Pakistani batsmen in particular will be tested by the fast and bouncy pitches of South Africa. A lot depends on Babar Azam's batting if his batting clicks then Pakistan might be able to spring a surprise win or two. The bowlers selected in the test side are all medium pacers with the exception of Naseem Shah in the test matches.

Mir Hamza, Khurram Shehzad and Aamir Jamal are all bowlers with no pace and they will prove to be ineffective on the South African pitches in the test matches. I dont know why they didnt select the inform Sajid Khan on this tour. South africa is a good all round team and will be very tough to beat in all three formats of the game.

In the end what I would like to say is that if Pakistani players adjust to the conditions in South Africa quickly then they have a good chance of winning against South Africa.

Thursday, 5 December 2024

Pakistan's series victory over Zimbabwe in the Twenty20 series 2024

 


Pakistan beat Zimbabwe in the twenty20 series 2-1 which is a tremendous achievement. I am saying this because Zimbabwe beat World Twenty20 champions India in one Twenty20 match this year in the  twenty20 series played in Zimbabwe which means Zimbabwe is not a weak side in Twenty20 cricket. 

Pakistan found a lot of talented players in this twenty20 series like Sufiyan Muqeem and Abrar Ahmed. Sufiyan Muqeem in particular was the find of the tour as he was almost unplayable throughout the Twenty20 series. Sufiyan Muqeem is a great talent and I think we should play him in all formats of the game.

In the end what I would like to say is that Pakistan's tour of Zimbabwe proved to be a successful tour as we won both the Twenty20 Series and ODI series with a young and inexperienced team.

Friday, 29 November 2024

Pakistan's victory over Zimbabwe in the ODI series 2024

 Pakistan defeated Zimbabwe by 10 wickets and 99 runs respectively in the second ODI and third ODI respectively. These victories came after Pakistan were beaten badly by Zimbabwe in the first ODI by 80 runs. Pakistan bounced back by winning the next two ODI's convincingly to beat Zimbabwe 2-1 in the ODI series.

Faisal Akram and Abrar Ahmed had wonderful debuts in this ODI series against Zimbabwe while in batting Saim Ayub and Kamran Ghulam scored heavily with a great strike rate. Zimbabwe's batting was weak throughout the series as they scored modest and low totals of 204, 145 and 205 in the three matches resulting in easy wins for Pakistan in the second ODI and third ODI.

In the end what I would like to say is that Pakistan should be able to whitewash Zimbabwe in the Twenty20 series something which they failed to do in the ODI series.

Monday, 25 November 2024

Pakistan vs Zimbabwe 1st ODI 2024

 


Zimbabwe thrashed Pakistan by 80 runs in the first ODI at Bulawayo. This result wasnt expected as Pakistan just came on this tour of Zimbabwe fresh from the ODI series win in Australia. Pakistan will suddenly start performing so pathetically in their batting having colllapsed in their batting regularly since the ODI series win in Australia in the following Twenty20 series in Australia and the first ODI was least expected.

Pakistani selectors didnt take the Zimbabwe team seriously playing their weakened and second string team against Zimbabwe. There was no logic in not selecting their key players Babar Azam, Naseem Shah and Shaheen Afridi in this tour of Zimbabwe. Zimbabwean teams of the past were known to cause an upset to Pakistan in the past too and Pakistan should have played their best possible team against them.

In the end I would like to say is that Pakistan have enough talent in their current squad to bounce back and defeat Zimbabwe in this ODI series and the following Twenty20 series.

Monday, 18 November 2024

Pakistan vs Australia 3rd twenty20 international 2024

 


Pakistan were absolutely pathetic with both bat and ball in the 3rd twenty20 international. Australia literally crushed Pakistan by 7 wickets with a lot of overs to spare.  Pakistan were off to a fine start by Babar Azam and Haseebullah Khan and they look to set Australia a decent target but they collapsed to 117 all out. 

Australia despite wobbling initially scampered home by 7 wickets thanks to Marcus Stoinis breezy innings. Australia dominated Pakistan in this twenty20 series by whitewashing Pakistan 3-0. If Pakistan had selected Saim Ayub instead of the ineffective Sahibzada Farhan Pakistan would have probably won atleast the Sydney 2nd twenty20 international as Saim Ayub is in form.

In the end what I would like to say is that Pakistan should whitewash Zimbabwe in their upcoming whiteball tour to Zimbabwe.

Sunday, 17 November 2024

Pakistan vs Australia first and second Twenty20 internationals 2024

 



Pakistan were defeated by Australia in the first and second twenty20 internationals by Australia in Brisbane and Sydney respectively. Australia has now won the twenty20 series and Pakistan will do well if they win the third twenty20 international against Australia. Pakistan should have won the second twenty20 international after restricting Australia to 148 run target which was a modest target. 

Only Usman Khan and Irfan Khan played innings of substance. Otherwise there wasnt any support at the other end to these two batsmen. If other batsmen had contributed too Pakistan would have probably defeated Australia in this twenty20 international.  Our bowling was good as usual but Shaheen Afridi and Naseem Shah conceded a lot of runs. 

In the first Twenty20 international which was a 7 over a side affair Pakistan were beaten by Maxwell's whirlwind innings. If they had got Maxwell out a lot earlier they would have won the first twenty20 international.

In the end what I would like to say is that had they selected Saim Ayub in this twenty20 squad Pakistan would have won this series by now.

Tuesday, 12 November 2024

Pakistan's ODI series victory over Australia 2024

 Pakistan defeated Australia 2-1 in Australia for the first time since 2002. This is a tremendous achievement by the Pakistan cricket team as all cricket experts including Wasim Akram were predicting that Australia will win this ODI series afterall the Australians are the World Champions in this format.

Mohammad Rizwan's captaincy in his debut series as captain of the ODI and twenty20 sides was excellent. Muhammad Rizwan's tactics put the Australian batsmen under relentless pressure. Haris Rauf was phenomenal with the ball. Saim Ayub and Abdullah Shafique gave Pakistan great starts in their chase in 2nd ODI and the 3rd ODI. All the Pakistani bowlers were superb especially their pacemen.

In the end what I would like to say is that after this performance in Australia I consider Pakistan to be one of the favourites of the upcoming Champions Trophy tournament in Pakistan.

Saturday, 9 November 2024

Pakistan's victory over Australia in the 2nd ODI 2024

 Pakistan crushed Australia by 9 wickets in the 2nd ODI in Adelaide and they made a huge statement to the world that they are a force to be reckoned with in world cricket. Pakistan outclassed Australia in all three departments of the game to win by a huge margin against them. So ruthless were Pakistan that they chased down Australia's target of 163 runs in only 26.3 overs.

Saim Ayub and Abdullah Shafique performed brilliantly as openers in this ODI. Saim Ayub in particular impressed me a lot with his strike rate and shots. Haris Rauf is proving to be almost unplayable in Australia.

In the end what I would like to say is that Pakistan should In Sha Allah win this series by winning the third ODI as Australia will be missing quite a few test players in their squad for the third ODI with Josh Inglis as their captain.

Monday, 4 November 2024

Pakistan vs Australia 1st ODI 2024

 Pakistan fought closely with Australia in the first ODI and were unlucky they didnt win the first ODI against them. Perhaps Pakistan should have won this match had they scored atleast 50 to 60 runs more than their total score of 203 runs. Their bowlers fought valiantly against Australia which is an encouraging sign. 

Had Muhammad Rizwan and Babar Azam converted their starts against Australia into a substantial score they would have been able to set Australia a decent target. Pakistan were too timid and defensive in their approach to batting thats why they did put up a competitive score on board.

In the end what I would like to say is that Pakistan will In Sha Allah be successful in atleast one match of the ODI series judging from their performance in the first ODI.

Wednesday, 30 October 2024

Pakistan s tour of Australia

 Pakistan although on a high after winning the test series against England have little chance of winning against Australia. Australia is always tough to beat at home not just for Pakistan but for the every international team. It's almost impossible to beat Australia at home.

Pakistan is also suffering from the fact that Gary Kirsten resigned as Pakistan's coach in white ball cricket. Gary Kirsten's resignation will have a huge impact on Pakistan cricket team s performance on their tour of Australia.

In the end what I would like to say is that even if Pakistan wins one match against Australia in either Twenty20 series or ODI series it will be a huge achievement for the Pakistan cricket team. 

Saturday, 26 October 2024

Pakistan's test series win over England 2024

 Pakistan finally won the test series against England against all odds and expectations. They won against England in emphatic fashion by 9 wickets in Rawalpindi in the third and final test. This test match win at Rawalpindi was due to Saud Shakeel's century in batting and due to the guile and magic of Sajid Khan and  Noman Ali's bowling.

Aqib Javed was a very wise choice to be nominated as chief selector by Mohsin Naqvi as his selected players made an immediate impact. Aqib Javed will bring merit into his selection of the team that's what I admire about him. Shan Masood also made a big improvement as captain of Pakistan's test team.

In the end what I would like to say is that Pakistani cricket has been revived by this test series win 2-1 against England in Pakistan's home conditions.

Friday, 18 October 2024

Pakistan's victory over England in the 2nd test at Multan

 


Pakistan won atlast against England which comes as a big sigh of relief.  This was Pakistan's first victory after six consecutive defeats under Shan Masood's captaincy. This was also Pakistan's first victory against England in any format for over two years now. This was also Pakistan's first victory in home soil for over three years the last win coming against South Africa in 2021.

Kamran Ghulam was the find of this test match as Pakistan finally found a reliable middle order batsman coming at no. 4 and he should play for Pakistan in all the formats. Sajid Khan and Noman Ali in particular were phenomenal with the ball. One worrying sign for Pakistan is that they dont have a reliable pace bowler in their team and they are a team relying heavily on spinners.

In the end what I would like to say is that if Pakistani curators make a similar pitch in Rawalpindi as well Pakistan should go onto win the series 2-1. In Sha Allah.

Wednesday, 16 October 2024

Pakistan vs England 2nd test day 2 at Multan

 Pakistan are in a commanding position in the second test after the second day's play. After Kamran Ghulam's splendid debut century and Sajid Khan's great four wickets and Noman Ali's two wickets Pakistan are in a great position in this test match. If Pakistan are able to take the lead in this test match then they should go onto win this test match as England will bat last in this test match. The pitch on the fourth and fifth days of the test match will be very difficult to bat on in this test match.

Kamran Ghulam proved to be a perfect replacement for Babar Azam as he impressed everyone with not only his technique but also his attacking shots especially charging down the wicket. Kamran Ghulam has got talent and has a great future ahead of him as Pakistan's no.4 batsman. Sajid Khan in particular is turning the ball viciously and is taking full advantage of wear and tear of the pitch.

In the end what I would like to say is that I hope Pakistan is able to win this test match and break their losing streak in test cricket.

Friday, 11 October 2024

Pakistan vs England 1st Test at Multan

 Pakistan despite amassing 556 runs in their first innings let England off the hook by bowling pathetically letting England score a massive 823 for 7 declared. Pakistan although were playing their best possible side lost to England by an innings and 47 runs having being bowled out for 220. Pakistan cricket is in a constant downslide and there seem to be no respite from this slump.

By the look of things Pakistan will be whitewashed by England 3-0 in all probability. Pakistan have been preparing road of pitches and flat tracks for too long and Pakistan's bowling suffers by making such kind of wickets.

In the end what I would like to say is that Pakistan will do well if they even compete with England in this series.

Thursday, 3 October 2024

Shan Masood as Captain

 


Shan Masood although is not a bad captain by any means he didnt make a successful start as captain of Pakistan's test team. Pakistan was whitewashed twice under his captaincy by Australia 3-0 and by Bangladesh 2-0.  The team that Shan Masood has is a weak and inexperienced team especially the bowling. 

There are absolutely no genuine fast bowlers in the Pakistani team. Mir Hamza, Mohammad Ali and Khurram Shehzad  are all medium pacers with no pace. Our batting is also collapsing repeatedly with only Saud Shakeel and Muhammad Rizwan scoring runs consistently. 

In the end what I would like to say that Shan Masood will improve his captaincy skills as he gets experienced as captain.

Saturday, 28 September 2024

Jason Gillespie as Pakistan's test coach

 Jason Gillespie is a nice choice for Pakistan as test coach as he will bring the Australian style and approach  of playing cricket into the Pakistan team. Jason Gillespie although didnt start well with Pakistan's team losing infact being whitewashed by Bangladesh 2-0. Jason Gillespie also compliments Pakistani players by giving them encouraging comments.

Jason Gillespie as a player for Australia was a fine fast bowler in his playing days. He alongwith Glenn McGrath and Brett Lee formed a formidable pace attack for Australia. Pakistani fast bowlers can learn a lot from Jason Gillespie especially the art of yorkers and reverse swing.

In the end what I would like to say is that Jason Gillespie should be given a long tenure by PCB as Pakistan's test coach.

Thursday, 26 September 2024

Asad Shafiq a replica of Muhammad Yousuf

 


Asad Shafiq was a Pakistani test cricketer who played and batted like Muhammad Yousuf. His technique and defensive shots resembled Muhammad Yousuf's technique and defensive shots. Asad Shafiq played a number of sheet anchor innings during Misbah Ul Haq's captaincy. He alongwith Azhar Ali were Pakistan's main stay in batting during Misbah ul Haq s tenure as Pakistan's test captain. Asad Shafiq mainly played in the test team with very few One Day appearances.

Asad Shafiq was a very solid batsman with sound technique. His innings in Brisbane in Australia in 2016 tour of Australia was superb as he almost guided Pakistan to an impossible victory target of 450 plus runs. He played a number of useful and crucial innings for Pakistan test team.

In the end what I would like to say is that Asad Shafiq was forced to retire early from the sport as PCB treated him unfairly.

Tuesday, 24 September 2024

Pakistan s home test series against England

 England start as clear favourites against Pakistan in Pakistan s home series against England in October. Pakistan has a terrible record at home in the recent past losing even to a weak test side like Bangladesh. Shan Masood is most likely to remain Pakistan's captain in this test series at home against England. Pakistan has a terrible record against England in recent times having being winless against them in any format for two years now.

England team is also more experienced than Pakistan especially in bowling. Pakistan lacks experience and quality in bowling as Pakistan will find it very difficult to get twenty wickets in order to beat England in this home test series.

In the end what I would like to say is that Pakistan must utilize home conditions to defeat England in atleast one test match of the series. Even if Pakistan defeat England in one test match it will be a huge achievement for the Pakistani cricket team.

Sunday, 22 September 2024

Azhar Ali a reliable and dependable batsman

 Azhar Ali proved himself to be a reliable and dependable batsman when he played for Pakistan mainly in the test team. He played as an opener and no.3 batsman for the Pakistani team. He made his debut on Pakistan's tour of England in 2010 on that ill fated tour which resulted in bans on Muhammad Amir, Muhammad Asif and Salman Butt after being caught in spot fixing. Azhar Ali was the reason why Misbah Ul Haq was such a successful captain in tests with Azhar Ali playing crucial and vital innings quite a number of times under Misbah Ul Haq's captaincy.

Azhar Ali also played a vital role as an opener alongwith Fakhar Zaman in Pakistan's champions Trophy win in 2017. His opening partnership alongwith Fakhar Zaman in the final against India in Champions Trophy 2017 laid the foundation on Pakistan's big score of 338 which resulted in Pakistan's victory.

In the end what I will like to say is that Azhar Ali proved himself to be a batting great like Younis Khan as only he and Younis Khan alongwith Inzamam Ul Haq and Hanif Muhammad scored triple century for Pakistan in test cricket.

Wednesday, 18 September 2024

Inzamam ul Haq as captain

 


Inzamam ul Haq was very successful as captain of the Pakistani cricket team. Inzamam Ul Haq like Imran Khan used to lead from the front as he used to score heavily in most of Pakistan's victories as captain. Inzamam ul Haq led Pakistan to a very successful tour of India in 2005.

In that tour of India in 2005 Pakistan won the ODI series by a convincing margin of 4-2 and drew the test series 1-1. In the ODI series after losing the first two ODI s by big margins Pakistan bounced back by winning the ODI series 4-2 and winning four consecutive matches in a row. Inzamam ul Haq played a captain's knock of fifty plus in the ODI at Ahmedabad which was the fourth ODI in the series and won that match for Pakistan by hitting Tendulkar on the last ball of the match for winning runs.

In the end what I would like to say is that Inzamam Ul Haq deserved a better farewell to captaincy when Pakistan lost that disastrous world cup for Pakistan in 2007 resulting in their coach Bob Woolmer's death.

 

Saturday, 14 September 2024

Mohammad Amir the prodigy

 Mohammad Amir who was banned for spot fixing alongwith Muhammad Asif and Salman Butt returned to the Pakistan national team in 2016 after serving his ban. He immediately made a key impact as he played a vital role in defeating India in the final of Champions Trophy in 2017 played in England at the oval London.

Muhammad Amir is a very talented bowler. He not only has pace but he can swing the ball in both Directions making the opposition batsmen almost impossible to play him. He has a very deadly and accurate yorker as well.

In the end what I like to say is that Mohammad Amir still has a lot of cricket left in him and he still has a lot to offer. Pakistan should play him regularly in international cricket atleast until Champions Trophy. to be played in Pakistan in 2025. Pakistan should also convince him to play test cricket. 

Tuesday, 10 September 2024

Mohammad Asif the Glenn McGrath of Pakistan

 Mohammad Asif wasted his talent and promise by indulging in spot fixing in 2010. Salman Butt, Muhammad Amir and Mohammad Asif were involved in spot fixing when Pakistan toured England in 2010. Mohammad Asif was banned from playing international cricket for 8 years. He wasnt selected for Pakistan again after serving this ban.

Mohammad Asif was a geniune fast bowler who bowled with immaculate accuracy and line and length just like Glenn McGrath used to do for Australia. He used to bowl magical and unplayable deliveries. He had every skill like inswing, outswing, incutters, outcutters and bouncers. He also deceived the batsmen with slight variations of pace. AB devilliers once said that Muhammad Asif made him to cry when he once dismissed him. Who can forget Mohammad Asif clean bowling of Sehwag, Tendulkar and Laxman all in quick succession in the historic Karachi Test in 2006. Pakistan won that test match against India in Karachi in 2006 all because of Mohammad Asif's bowling.

In the end what I would like to say is that Muhammad Asif wasted himself by getting involved in spot fixing.


Wednesday, 4 September 2024

Second Test between Pakistan and Bangladesh 2024

 Pakistan lost the second test to Bangladesh at home in Rawalpindi and hence Bangladesh has whitewashed Pakistan 2-0. Pakistan now have a terrible record at home losing test series to England, Australia and now even to a low ranked team like Bangladesh. This is not surprising as Bangladesh team was much more experienced than Pakistan and they outplayed and outclassed Pakistan in all departments of the game that is batting, bowling and fielding.

Having said that Pakistan were in control of the second test match when they had Bangladesh at 26 for 6 from then onwards Bangladesh fought back through Litton Das and Mehidy Hasan Miraz world record partnership of 165 runs. I think Shan Masood was found lacking in his captaincy as he didnt make any proper strategy to break this partnership a lot earlier and the inexperienced Pakistani bowlers became complacent.

In the end what I would like to say is that Pakistan should better starts winning at home and every international team in cricket are lions at home. 

Thursday, 29 August 2024

Younis Khan as Captain

  Younis Khan was another successful captain of Pakistan. Besides being Pakistan's all time highest scorer in Test cricket with over 10,000 test runs. He led Pakistan to a number of memorable victories like the Twenty20 World Cup 2009 and also leading Pakistan to Semi Finals in Champions trophy 2009. Besides leading Pakistan to a memorable Karachi test win over India in 2006 in the absence of Inzamam ul Haq.

Younis Khan led Pakistan to its only title in 2009 Twenty20 World Cup. Younis Khan retired from Twenty20 internationals after that. This Twenty20 World Cup 2009 win was a tremendous achievement as Pakistan's performance in 2014, 2016 and 2024 Twenty20 World Cups was below par. 

In the end what I would like to say is that if Pakistani players didnt revolt against Younis Khan after Pakistan's disastrous tour of Sri Lanka in 2009 where they lost the ODI series 3-2 and test series 2-0 to Sri Lanka then Younis Khan would have led Pakistan to more glory as captain.

Monday, 26 August 2024

First test between Pakistan and Bangladesh 2024

 Pakistan lost to Bangladesh in the first test at Rawalpindi by 10 wickets. This is a big blow for Pakistan's chances in the World Test Championship 2023-2025 making it almost impossible for them to reach the final of World test championship 2023-2025. Pakistan's selection was flawed in this test match especially in bowling as they selected 4 fast bowlers with no genuine spinner in the team. They should have played Abrar Ahmed instead of probably Mohammad Ali who is inexperienced at this level.

This was also Bangladesh's first test win in it's history against Pakistan. Pakistan cricket is at its lowest ebb at the moment and there seems no respite in the near future.

On the otherhand Pakistan has a lot of talent but they are not playing upto their full potential. They should also make sporting pitches when they know their main strength is fast bowling. Rawalpindi pitch for the first test pitch was a flat track hardly supporting the bowlers both fast and spin.

In the end what I would like to say is that Pakistan has the potential to level the series if they play according to their strengths.

Monday, 19 August 2024

Saqlain Mushtaq the inventor of Doosra

 


Saqlain Mushtaq was one of the finest off spinners in the world produced by Pakistan. He had one mystery delivery the doosra which was a ball that Saqlain Mushtaq invented which was a ball that turned away. This ball turned in opposite direction to his stock ball which was the off break. Saqlain Mushtaq used this delivery pretty cleverly and often bamboozled and outfoxed the opposition batsmen by it.

Saqlain Mushtaq's best performance came in 1999 test tour of India in which he bagged 20 wickets in the series taking 5 wickets in each innings in the two test series which was drawn 1-1. Pakistan won the Chennai test by the narrowest of margins of 12 runs when Saqlain Mushtaq dismissed Sachin Tendulkar caught by Wasim Akram with just 17 runs still needed.

Saqlain Mushtaq was a brilliant ODI bowler often bowling incisive spells with great economy rates. He played a key role in Pakistan's triumph in Carlton and United Series in Australia. in 1996/1997.

In the end what I would like to say is that Saqlain was not only an amazing off spin bowler but a great coach of Pakistan cricket team as well. Coaching Pakistan to semi finalist standing in 2021 Twenty20 World Cup and runners up in 2022 Twenty20 World cup.

Friday, 16 August 2024

Wasim Akram as Captain

Wasim Akram led Pakistan to many great victories as captain. Under Wasim Akram's captaincy Pakistan reached the 1999 World Cup final. This was Pakistan's last great performance in a 50 over World Cup. Otherwise Pakistan had very disappointing campaigns in 2003, 2007, 2015, 2019 and 2023 World Cup. The lone exception being 2011 World Cup when Pakistan reached the semi finals under Shahid Afridi's captaincy.

A great achievement under Wasim Akram's captaincy was the Carlton and United Series in Australia in 1996/1997 when Pakistan beat West Indies in the best of three finals to win the tournament. Australia which was the World best test side in that era failed to reach the finals and won just three matches out of eight in the competition.

As a test captain Wasim Akram won the Asian test Championship beating Sri Lanka in the final in 1999 in Dhaka. Besides defeating England in England  in 1996 in the test series 2-0.

In the end what I would like to say is that if Wasim Akram had been allowed to stay as captain till the 2003 World Cup he would have led to Pakistan to more and better victories.

Monday, 12 August 2024

Pakistani Legend Muhammad Yousuf

 Muhammad Yousuf formerly known as Yousuf Youhana when he was a christian is a true Pakistani legend and a Pakistani batting genius. Amongst his list of achievements his achievement a world record of highest tally of runs in a calendar year is the best. Muhammad Yousuf scored 1700 runs in a calendar year in test cricket in 2006 beating another great Viv Richards record.

Muhammad Yousuf was a very elegant batsman and a stylish batsman with sound technique. He rescued Pakistan a number of times from losing positions. In the 2000 Carlton series against India in a match at Brisbane GABBA Pakistan were in a losing position when they were at one stage 70 for 6 Muhammad Yousuf saved Pakistan from that position helped them win the match by 2 wickets chasing the Indian total of 195. Muhammad Yousuf also played a number of memorable innings like his century against India in champions trophy in 2009 which resulted in India's elimination from that tournament.

In the end what I would like to say is that PCB treated Muhammad Yousuf unfairly which caused his early retirement from the sport.

Saturday, 10 August 2024

Gary Kirsten as Pakistan's white ball coach

 

Gary Kirsten's tenure as Pakistani coach didnt begin well as Pakistan lost the Twenty20 Series 2-0 against England and they had a terrible Twenty20 World Cup 2024 not going beyond the first round. Although the results so far havent been good so far I back Gary Kirsten as coach of white ball cricket.

I am saying this because Gary Kirsten has had a pretty decent record as coach of India and South Africa. He needs time to settle down as Pakistan's white ball coach. First of all he needs the support of Pakistani players. Also the problem with foreign coaches in Pakistan is that of communication gap as most of the Pakistani players are illiterate and they dont understand the English language.

In the end what I would like to say is that Gary Kirsten has the ability to inculcate skills, technique, tactics, strategy and temperament in Pakistani players.

Wednesday, 7 August 2024

Misbah ul Haq as Captain

 Misbah ul Haq was Pakistan s most successful test captain. Under Misbah ul Haq Pakistan very briefly were ranked No.1 Test team in the world. He won many memorable test series for Pakistan in UAE as Captain. He Captained Pakistan to 3-0 whitewash of England in 2012 when England were the No.1 ranked team in the World. He Captained Pakistan to 2-0 whitewash of Australia in 2014. He captained Pakistan to 2-0 test series win over England in 2015. All these series wins came in UAE which used to be Pakistan's adopted home.

As an ODI captain Misbah was successful but not as successful as he was a test captain. Pakistan defeated India in India's home in the ODI series played in 2012-2013 by a margin of 2-1. This was a tremendous achievement as defeating India in their own backyard is not easy at all. He was the first Pakistani Captain to defeat South Africa in South Africa 2-1 in 2013. He won Pakistan's only the second Asia cup title in 2012 defeating Bangladesh in the final. He captained Pakistan to Asia cup title in 2012 after a long gap of 12 years.

In the end what I would like to say is that Misbah ul Haq was a very shrewd, master strategist and a great Pakistani Captain.

Saturday, 3 August 2024

Pakistan vs India

 Pakistan and India matches are always exciting and thrilling to watch. In the past Pakistan always started as favourites against India but now the Indian team is better than Pakistan.

This is because all of a sudden Pakistani legendary duo of Wasim Akram and Waqar Younis retired from international cricket in 2003. From then onwards mostly India has got the upper hand against Pakistan. This can be seen from the fact that Pakistan s last ODI win against India came in the final of the Champions Trophy in 2017. Pakistan s last test win against India came in 2006 in the historic Karachi test. Pakistan s last Twenty20 win against India came in Asia Cup in 2022. Otherwise India have really dominated Pakistan in recent times. 

In the end what I would like to say is that when it's Pakistan s day no team can defeat them not even India. 

Thursday, 1 August 2024

Pakistan vs India ICC events

 India has a superior record against Pakistan in all ICC trophies. In Twenty20 World Cup India has won 7 times, and Pakistan has only beaten India once. In 50 over cricket World Cup matches India has defeated Pakistan 8 times while Pakistan hasn't won even a single time against them.

I think India is mentally tougher than Pakistan when it comes to world cup matches. Maybe Pakistani cricketers are unable to take pressure and panic against India in world cup matches. Also of late India has more talented, skilful and experienced players than Pakistan. In recent times India has the edge over Pakistan.

In the end what I would like to say that Pakistan can take heart for having a better record over India in Champions Trophy. In Champions Trophy Pakistan has defeated India three times and lost just twice to India. 

Thursday, 18 July 2024

Bangladesh tour of Pakistan 2024

 Bangladesh is going to tour Pakistan in 2024 with the First Test match in Rawalpindi and the second test match in Karachi. This time Pakistan are the favourites as they are playing in home conditions and Bangladesh is a weak test team. We almost gave Australia a huge scare in the last two test matches of the test series in Australia but batting proved to be Pakistan's Achilles heel during that series and we were whitewashed 3-0 by Australia. Shan Masood made his debut as captain in the Australian series. Shan Masood this time has a good chance of opening his account as a winner in this home test series against Bangladesh.

Pakistan has got a match winning spinner in mystery spinner Abrar Ahmed. Abrar Ahmed can spin the ball both ways making him a dangerous spinner. In pace bowling they have Aamer Jamal who made quite a decent debut against Australia. In Babar Azam they have got a world class batsman. The only Bangladeshi batsman Pakistan has to worry about is Mushfiqur Rahim.

In the end what I will like to say is that Pakistan should win this series atleast by a margin of 1-0. 

Sunday, 14 July 2024

Should Babar Azam stay as white ball captain

 I think Babar Azam should better resign as Pakistan's white ball captain. I am saying this because Babar Azam no longer has the respect and support of his team mates. Throughout the Twenty20 World Cup 2024 some players deliberately underperformed under Babar Azam's captaincy. The most notable player who underperformed on purpose was pace spearhead Shaheen Shah Afridi.

Shaheen Shah Afridi not only bowled poorly in the Twenty20 World Cup 2024 but also dropped a crucial catch of Aaron Jones in the match against USA. If Shaheen Afridi had taken that catch of Aaron Jones Pakistan would have definitely won that match and they would have qualified for the Super eights as Aaron Jones played a vital innings for USA in their win against Pakistan.

In the end what I will like to say is that not only Shaheen Afridi but Imad Wasim and Shadab Khan deliberately underperformed in the Twenty20 World cup 2024 to undermine Babar Azam's captaincy. As suggested to PCB by Sarfraz Ahmed , Muhammad Rizwan should be made captain of the White ball teams.

Tuesday, 9 July 2024

World Championship of Legends

 


In the World Championship of Legends Pakistan is doing well as they have won all four matches they have played so far. Pakistan defeated India in this tournament which comes as a sign of big relief for Pakistani fans because Pakistan havent defeated India in any format of the game ever since that Twenty20 World Cup 2021win.

Given the team that Pakistan has in this tournament I predict they will not only win the semi final but they will In Sha Allah go onto win the Championship. As they have stars like openers Sharjeel Khan and Kamran Akmal in their team. In the middle order they have Sohaib Maqsood, Shoaib Malik, Shahid Afridi, Misbah Ul Haq and Younis Khan. In bowling they have Wahab Riaz, Abdul Razzaq, Sohail Tanvir and Saeed Ajmal.

In the end what I will like to say is that Pakistan should win this tournament and cheer up the whole Pakistani nation after their disappointing Twenty20 World Cup 2024 campaign.

Monday, 1 July 2024

Pakistan's performance at Twenty20 World Cup 2024

 Pakistan's performance at Twenty20 World Cup wasnt that bad, It wasnt as bad as Pakistani public is saying. New Zealand which has always been a strong team failed to reach super eights. Sri Lanka who have been former champions of Twenty20 World Cup 2014 failed to reach Super eights. Australia a world Champion team was beaten by minnows Afghanistan and they failed to go beyond super eights part of the tournament. Both New Zealand and Australia two strong international sides were beaten by minnows Afghanistan.

Pakistan cricket team was unlucky throughout the tournament. If Muhammad Amir didnt bowl those wides and if he had been careful with his line and length in the Super over then Pakistan would have beaten USA. If Jasprit Bumrah didnt bowl that incisive spell against Pakistani batting Pakistan would have probably chased down that Indian total of 119. Infact throughout the competition only Pakistan was the team that came close to defeating India in Twenty20 World Cup 2024.

In the end what I would like to say is that it wasnt written in Pakistan's destiny to reach Super Eights part of the Twenty20 World Cup 2024.

Tuesday, 25 June 2024

Sarfraz Ahmed as Captain

 Sarfraz Ahmed as captain was doing well in 2019. Fresh from defeating Sri Lanka in the ODI series at home in 2019 2-0 Sarfraz Ahmed was removed as captain in all formats by the Pakistan Cricket board after being whitewashed 3-0 by Sri Lanka in the preceding Twenty20 series. He was replaced as captain by Babar Azam in white ball cricket and by Azhar Ali in tests. This was a huge mistake by Pakistan Cricket board to remove Sarfraz Ahmed as captain.

I am saying this because Sarfraz was being very successful as Pakistani skipper. As a youngster he won the 2006 ICC Under-19 World Cup for Pakistan. He captained Pakistan to it's only ICC trophy in seven years by winning the ICC champions trophy in 2017. He made Pakistan no.1 Twenty20 side for two years consecutively. He was the last Pakistani Captain to win a test series against Australia.

In the end what I would like to say is that given Sarfraz Ahmed's achievements as captain of the Pakistani cricket team. PCB made a huge mistake by removing Sarfraz Ahmed as captain in 2019. If he was allowed to stay as captain Pakistani cricket would have been in a much better situation than it is now.

Sunday, 16 June 2024

Pakistan out of the Twenty20 World Cup 2024

 The USA and Ireland match was washed out on Friday which means USA gained a point from the rained off match and they are now in the Super Eights at the expense of Pakistan. Pakistan are only themselves to blame as they should have defeated USA and India according to their match position in these two matches.

   I dont know why Abrar Ahmed wasnt played instead of Shadab Khan who is an allrounder, Shadab Khan is not a proper batsman and we could have easily played Abrar Ahmed instead of him. Their last league match is to be played in Florida against Ireland. This match is likely to be washed out too.

In the end what I would like to say is that luck didnt favour Pakistan as rain played spoilsport in the USA-Ireland match giving USA a crucial point. ICC should have intervened and moved the matches out of Florida to perhaps New York when they knew the weather forecast. In this way Pakistan have been treated unfairly by the ICC.

Monday, 10 June 2024

Pakistan vs Canada Twenty20 World Cup 2024

Pakistan are almost out of the Twenty20 World Cup 2024 after losing to India and USA. It will take a minor miracle if Pakistan are to qualify for Super eight part of the competition. For that to happen Pakistan will need to defeat both Canada and Ireland and then hope that India beat USA and Ireland beat USA. Then net run rate will decide Pakistan's fate in the tournament.

Pakistan have plenty of talent to beat Canada and they should beat Canada by a big margin to boost their net run rate. Pakistan although they lost both their matches were on the otherhand close to winning both the matches had good luck gone their way. 

In the end what i will like to say that Pakistan should beat Canada and Ireland by big margins to restore some pride if not qualifying for the Super Eights is not meant for them. 

Saturday, 8 June 2024

Pakistan vs India Twenty20 World Cup 2024

 Pakistan is a team that rises to the occasion when the chips are down. I have full faith that Pakistan will bounce back and win three consecutive matches in a row to reach the super eights stage of the tournament.

Pakistani bowlers will need to come with a plan to contain Indian batsmen especially Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma and Hardik Pandiya. Their batsmen will need to clear the ropes on a regular basis as Indian bowling is quite decent.

In the end what I will like to say is that Pakistan should now play like cornered tigers. 

Sunday, 2 June 2024

Pakistan vs USA Twenty20 World Cup 2024

 Pakistan face USA in their first match of the Twenty20 World Cup 2024. This is by no means an easy match for Pakistan as USA showed plenty of class in their opening match against Canada. Aaron Jones emerges as a dangerous hitter in USA batting line up. There is also the former New Zealand all rounder Corey Anderson in the USA team. Corey Anderson broke Shahid Afridi's fastest hundred record before AB DeVilliers broke it again both against West Indies.

Although the USA bowling line up isnt great but it includes Corey Anderson who is a dangerous All rounder. Pakistan team isnt in great form of late and the USA has every ability to upset Pakistan in this Twenty20 World Cup match.

In the end what I will like to say is that Pakistan will have to work hard in order to beat USA and USA will give Pakistan a good run for their money.

Sunday, 26 May 2024

Pakistan vs England review of 2nd Twenty20 2024

England defeated Pakistan by 23 runs in the Second Twenty20 international at Birmingham. Pakistan haven't defeated England in a Twenty20 international for two years now and the trend continues. 

Saim Ayub and Azam Khan are liabilities in the Pakistani team as they hardly score any runs. Saim Ayub especially needs to be dropped and in his place Pakistan must bring the successful opening pair of Muhammad Rizwan and Babar Azam.

Our bowling is giving too many runs as Shadab Khan is being hit all over the ground by the opposition batsmen too often now. Abrar Ahmed will prove to be a much better bowler than Shadab Khan.

In the end what I will like to say is that Pakistan need to improve in all departments that is batting, bowling and fielding in order to beat England in this series. 

Thursday, 23 May 2024

Pakistan vs England 2nd Twenty20 international 2024

 The first match between Pakistan and England at Leeds of the Twenty20 series has been rained off. This is effectively a best of three match series with the first match being abandoned. I will again say that England are the favourites as England have home advantage.

Pakistani cricket team underperformed in their home series against a second string New Zealand team and given that they are a talented side they should have whitewashed Ireland 3-0 instead winning 2-1 against Ireland. This indicates Pakistan cricket team is not in form and they will find it very hard to beat England even in one match in the series in England's own backyard.

In the end what I would like to say is that Pakistan should have named their squad much earlier and they are the only team not to name their squad before the Twenty20 World Cup in June. All this causes instability in their squad.

Wednesday, 15 May 2024

Pakistan vs Ireland 3rd twenty20 international 2024

 I am delighted with Pakistan winning the series 2-1 against Ireland after being 0-1 down in this series. Pakistan bounced back in this series recovering well to win the series. On the otherhand given that Pakistan is more talented than Ireland in all aspects of the game that is batting, bowling and fielding Pakistan should have whitewashed Ireland in this series 3-0. Pakistan's bowling was ordinary throughout the series which resulted in them losing the first match.

Ireland scored 178 for 7 in the third match which was easily overhauled by Pakistan thanks to Muhammad Rizwan and Babar Azam partnership. Pakistan's batting was impressive throughout the series thanks to hard hitting by Muhammad Rizwan, Babar Azam, Fakhar Zaman and Azam Khan.

In the end what I would like to say is that if Pakistan bat like this as they did in this series they have a good chance of doing well on England Tour and the upcoming Twenty20 World Cup in June.


Monday, 13 May 2024

Pakistan win the Second Twenty20 against Ireland 2024

 


Pakistan defeated Ireland by 7 wickets in the second Twenty20 International in Dublin. Pakistan finally played upto its potential in this match which was a one sided one. Pakistan's bowling again was disappointing and it looked quite ordinary against Ireland in this match as well as the first match. On the otherhand Pakistan batted well in this match and Pakistan's batting ensured they won this match.

    Ireland is competing well in this series and is giving Pakistan a tough time in this series. They are showing they are no longer minnows and cannot be taken lightly. Ireland's batting especially is giving tough time to Pakistan in this Twenty20 Series.

In the end what I will like to say is that Pakistan should overcome Ireland in this series and are clear favourites to win the decider on Tuesday 14th May of 2024.

Friday, 10 May 2024

Pakistan vs Ireland 1st Twenty International 2024

 Well Pakistan is not playing to its true potential and they lost to Ireland in the first Twenty20 International by 5 wickets. These are not good signs for Pakistan for the Twenty20 World cup to be played in West Indies and USA. The way Pakistan is playing I am not sure they will go past the first round in the upcoming Twenty20 World cup in June. Pakistan cricket team is really disappointing its fans and are disheartening it's fans. Pakistan cricket team is really having a terrible 2024 so far.

I am not sure that making Babar Azam the captain again was a smart move as Babar Azam's captaincy inspite of being Pakistan's second most successful captain in it's history after Imran Khan has proved to be disappointing so far. New Zealand defeated Pakistan 4-1 under Shaheen Afridi's captaincy but that New Zealand team was at full strength playing in home conditions. On the otherhand Babar Azam's team lost two matches to a severely depleted New Zealand team at home in April of this year. and now they lost a Twenty20 International to minnows Ireland.

In the end what I will like to say is that Pakistan cricket team definitely have the talent and ability to bounce back in this Twenty20 international Series against Ireland.

Monday, 6 May 2024

Pakistan tour of England 2024

 Pakistan will tour England for four Twenty20 Internationals later after playing the Ireland Twenty20 Series in May. England are the favourites to win this series because Pakistan come into pressure whenever they play England. Pakistan havent defeated England in any format of the game for a long time.

England is a strong Twenty20 international side whereas Pakistan seem to have a psychological problem whenever they face England. England has the edge over Pakistan in all formats of the game.

England is better than Pakistan in all aspects of the game that is batting, bowling and fielding. England have more power hitters than Pakistan which is a prerequisite in Twenty20 cricket. England's bowling is also much tighter than Pakistan and they can easily contain Pakistan to a low total.

In the end what I will like to say is that England have home advantage and Pakistan will find it difficult to beat England in their own conditions. I hope Pakistan cricket team's morale will not be down after this series as it will be detrimental to Pakistan's chances in the upcoming twenty20 World Cup to be held in June.

Wednesday, 1 May 2024

Pakistan tour of Ireland 2024

 Pakistan will visit Ireland for Three Twenty20 Internationals in May of this year. Pakistan are the favourites as Ireland as compared to Pakistan is a weak and inexperienced Twenty20 team. On the otherhand Pakistan cannot take Ireland lightly as they lost to Ireland in the 2007 ODI World Cup resulting in their foreign coach Bob Woolmer's death.

The only batsman of Ireland Pakistan have to worry about is Paul Stirling who plays in Pakistan Super League. Pakistan have plenty of talent to whitewash Ireland in this Twenty20 Series and have all bases covered. Still Pakistan should pick's it s best available team in order to beat Ireland.

In the end what I will like to say is that Pakistan should win atleast 2-1 against Ireland in this Twenty20 International Series. 

Sunday, 28 April 2024

Pakistan bounce back in the 5th Twenty20 against New Zealand

 Pakistan bounced back in the Twenty20 international series against New Zealand in the 5th twenty20 international to draw the series 2-2. When the series started Pakistan were the favourites but it was seen that no team can be taken lightly at international level.

  Babar Azam found useful partners with first Usman Khan and then Fakhar Zaman to post a fighting total of 178 against New Zealand. Once Usama Mir got the wicket of Tim Seifert who scored an important 52 runs New Zealand collapsed to 125 for 7 chasing 178 with Shaheen Afridi doing most of the damage with figures of 4 for 30.

  In the end what I will like to say is that if Pakistan perform like they did against New Zealand in this home series in the 2nd Twenty20 International and in the 5th Twenty20 international they would do well In Sha Allah in the upcoming Twenty20 World Cup in June.

Friday, 26 April 2024

Pakistan so far having a terrible year in cricket

 Pakistan cricket team having a terrible 2024 so far. The year began with a defeat to Australia in the third Sydney test match, then losing to New Zealand 4-1 in the Twenty20 series away from home and are now on the verge of losing another series this time at home to a second string New Zealand team.

A lot has to do with the mindset of Pakistani players in their pathetic performances so far this year. Pakistani players come onto the ground with a losing mindset. This mindset affects their performance. Pakistan in the current series against New Zealand have been experimenting with different combinations in every match so far in the series. Pakistan should have stuck with the winning side in the Second Twenty20 international and also Mohammad Rizwan their regular wicket keeper is injured which doesnt help matters.

I hope Pakistan turns things around in the next international twenty20 series against England and hopefully perform well in the Twenty20 World Cup to be held in West Indies and USA in June this year that is 2024.

Sunday, 21 April 2024

First Three Twenty20 Internationals NewZealand tour of Pakistan

 The Pakistan - New Zealand Series is so far even at 1-1. Given that Pakistan absolutely thrashed New Zealand in the 2nd Twenty20 international by 7 wickets bowling New Zealand to a very low total of 90. I was surprised that in just one day after absolutely dominating New Zealand in the 2nd Twenty20 international Pakistan's performance will nose dive to badly lose to New Zealand by 7 wickets in the 3rd Twenty20 International.

Given that New Zealand is playing almost a second string side with several key players playing in Indian Premier League Pakistan's performance in the 3rd Twenty20 international was pathetic to say the least. Pakistan's total of 178 was low given that Rawalpindi is a high scoring ground and their bowling was pathetic clearly missing Mohammad Amir. Shaheen Afridi and Naseem Shah's bowling was erratic as they were hit to all parts of the ground.

In the end what I would like to say is that Pakistan clearly need to show consistency in their performance and they should not disturb a winning combination.

Saturday, 13 April 2024

Bringing back Babar Azam as captain

 Bringing back Babar Azam back as captain was a good choice by the Pakistan Cricket Board. Babar Azam is back as captain in the white ball formats of the sport. Babar Azam will lead Pakistan in the Twenty20 World Cup to be held in West Indies and USA in June 2024 instead of Shaheen Afridi who was made captain of the Twenty20 side just for the abroad series against New Zealand.

Babar Azam is a better choice of captain instead of Shaheen Afridi because Shaheen Afridi is inexperienced at international level in Twenty20 cricket whereas Babar Azam has plenty of exposure in Twenty20 cricket at international level captaincy wise.

Given that Babar Azam has a decent record as captain of white ball cricket formats. I recommend Babar Azam to stay as captain in Twenty20 Internationals and One day internationals for as long as possible.

Sunday, 31 March 2024

Pakistan Super League 2024

 Pakistan Super League contained some great action and players for the future for Pakistan cricket team. Pakistan found talented players like Usman Khan and Mehran Mumtaz who will serve Pakistani cricket in future. This tournament also proved to be a comeback for Mohammad Amir and Imad Wasim who have returned to the Pakistan National side.

Mohammad Amir had a lot of cricket left in him when he retired from international cricket. He still swings the ball in both directions and has not lost his ability. Imad Wasim is a valuable allrounder and proved himself to be match winner as his team Islamabad United lifted the PSL 2024 trophy.

Islamabad United proved to be a strong and resilient team as they won three knockout matches in a row to lift the trophy. Lahore Qalandars the defending champions had a torrid time in PSL 2024 as they won just one match in the league phase and finished at the bottom of PSL 2024.

In the end what i will like to say is that PSL 2024 has created a lot of talented players for Pakistan's bench strength and these players will serve Pakistan in the future.

Thursday, 14 March 2024

New Zealand tour of Pakistan 2024

 New Zealand is coming to Pakistan for five Twenty20 internationals. This time Pakistan are the favourites as New Zealand will be without several key players missing from action as they are contracted to play in Indian Premier League. Also Pakistan has the home advantage and home conditions suit them.

Pakistan has great openers like Saim Ayub, Saud Shakeel and Fakhar Zaman which can provide Pakistan with quick start. They are openers who can hit the ball a long away. In the upper middle order in their batting they have Babar Azam and Iftikhar Ahmed who are solid batsmen.

In bowling they have Shaheen Afridi, Haris Rauf, Abbas Afridi, Shadab Khan and Usama Mir who can easily contain New Zealand to a low total. 

In the end what I would like to say is that I predict a series win for Pakistan in this home series against New Zealand. 

Thursday, 29 February 2024

ICC Twenty20 World Cup 2024

 Pakistan has a decent chance in the Twenty20 World Cup to be held in West Indies and USA. Pakistan are one of the favourites as they are a pretty good Twenty20 side.

Pakistan has a great all round side with hardly any weakness. In twenty20 cricket you need quick scoring for which Pakistan has got good hitters like Fakhar Zaman. In bowling they have some of the fastest bowlers in the world such as Shaheen Shah Afridi and Haris Rauf who can reverse swing the ball as well. They have nice spinners like Shadab Khan and Usama Mir. 

In the end what I will like to say that conditions in West Indies suit Pakistan cricket team and In Sha Allah they will reach the Semi Finals at least in the tournament. 

Wednesday, 7 February 2024

Removing Babar Azam from captaincy.

 Removing Babar from captaincy was a big mistake. We lost the test series 3-0 against Australia under Shan Masood whereas a weak team like West Indies managed to beat Australia in one test. This clearly shows lack of good leadership.

Under Shaheen s captaincy we lost the twenty20 series 4-1. All this results indicate that Babar was a much better choice as captain.

In the end what I would like to say that without Babar s leadership at the top we will perform even worse than before. 

Friday, 2 February 2024

Pakistan tour of New Zealand review 2024

 Pakistan team performed below expectation in the Twenty20 series against New Zealand losing the series 4-1. Pakistan defended a low total of 132 runs in the 5th Twenty20 and avoided a whitewash against New Zealand by bowling out New Zealand for 92 runs in the 5th Twenty20.

Pakistan were outclassed in all departments of the game that is batting, bowling and fielding in the first 4 Twenty 20 internationals.

In the end what I would like to say that had Pakistan batted first in the first three Twenty 20 internationals the results might have been quite different.






Saturday, 20 January 2024

Pakistan s performance in World Cup 2023

 Pakistan s performance in World Cup 2023 wasn't that bad. It was a satisfactory performance as Pakistan finished 5th in the world Cup. England finished just 7th in the World Cup and Pakistan performed better than England.

Afghanistan defeated Pakistan which was a major upset. If Pakistan had defeated Afghanistan Pakistan would have been a better position to reach the Semi Finals. Their morale would have been high in their match against England and who knows they might have defeated England in their last league match.

In the end What I will like to say is that had Umpiring favoured Pakistan in their match against South Africa Pakistan would have reached the Semi Finals.

Thursday, 4 January 2024

Pakistan tour of New Zealand 2024

 

Pakistan has a good chance of competing with New Zealand on their tour of New Zealand. Pakistan is a good Twenty20 team and they have a good chance of winning atleast two matches in the best of 5 match series.

Pakistan have batsmen who can score quickly which is a prerequisite in Twenty20 cricket. They have got good hitters like Fakhar Zaman who can hit the ball a long way. Their bowling attack is good and they can easily contain New Zealand batting to a slower run rate.

In the end what I would like to say is that New Zealand just lost to a weak team like Bangladesh in a Twenty20 international so Pakistan Twenty20 team definitely has a chance against New Zealand.