Pakistan Sports Journal

Butt banned for 10 years, Asif 7, Amir 5

2011-02-05T20:11:00.000-08:00

Pakistan cricketers Salman Butt, Mohammad Asif and Mohammad Amir have been handed long bans today after charges under the International Cricket Council's anti-corruption code were proved.

Former Pakistan captain Butt has been banned for 10 years, five of which are suspended.

Michael Beloff QC, who chaired the three-man anti-corruption tribunal in Doha found the charge that Butt had failed to disclose an approach from player agent Mazhar Majeed to bat out a maiden over in the fourth Lord's Test against England in August as proved, although a charge that he agreed to bat out a maiden over was dismissed.

Asif was banned for seven years, two of which were suspended, while Amir will serve a five-year ban.

Charges under Article 2.1.1 of the ICC's anti-corruption code against Asif and Amir - that they had agreed to and did bowl one no-ball and two no-balls respectively in the Lord's Test against England last year - were proved, as was the fact that Butt was party to the bowling of those no-balls as captain.

"The Tribunal found that the charge under Article 2.1.1 of the Code that Mr Butt agreed to bat out a maiden over in the Oval Test match played between Pakistan and England from 18 to 21 August 2010 was dismissed, whereas the charge under Article 2.4.2 that Mr Butt failed to disclose to the ICC's ACSU the approach by Mr Majeed that Mr Butt should bat a maiden over in the Oval Test was proved.

Mr Beloff said in a statement released by the ICC: "The Tribunal found that the charge under Article 2.1.1 of the Code that Mr Butt agreed to bat out a maiden over in the Oval Test match played between Pakistan and England from 18 to 21 August 2010 was dismissed, whereas the charge under Article 2.4.2 that Mr Butt failed to disclose to the ICC's ACSU (Anti-Corruption and Security Unit) the approach by Mr Majeed that Mr Butt should bat a maiden over in the Oval Test was proved.

'The Tribunal found that the charges under Article 2.1.1 of the Code that (respectively) Mr Asif agreed to bowl and did bowl a deliberate no ball in the Lord's Test match played between Pakistan and England from 26 to 29 August 2010, Mr Amir agreed to bowl and did bowl two deliberate no balls in the same Test, and Mr Butt was party to the bowling of those deliberate no balls, were proved.

"We impose the following sanctions:

"On Mr Butt a sanction of ten years ineligibility, five years of which are suspended on condition that he commits no further breach of the code and that he participates under the auspices of the Pakistan Cricket Board in a programme of Anti-Corruption education.

'On Mr Asif a sanction of seven years ineligibility two years of which are suspended on condition that he commits no further breach of the code and that he participates under the auspices of the Pakistan Cricket Board in a programme of Anti-Corruption education.

"On Mr Amir sanction of five years of ineligibility."

The ICC bans come a day after the trio were told they would have to appear in a British court charged with cheating bookmakers.

Butt, Asif and Amir - who were questioned by Scotland Yard detectives over the alleged match-fixing scandal last August - will be charged with conspiring to cheat bookmakers, along with agent Mazhar Majeed, the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) said on Friday.

Pakistan seals stunning win in the first Test

2011-01-08T22:26:00.000-08:00

Abdul Rahman kept New Zealand under pressure in whole Test- photo from web

A dream start for green shirts in 2011 as a full blooded performance from Pakistan team beats New Zealand by 10 wickets in the first Test. Abdul Rahman and Wahab Rahman destroyed New Zealand and got them out for just 110 runs in the second innings.

Pakistan got the lead of 92 in the first innings due to some determent batting display from lower middle order including captain Misbah-ul-Haq , ASad Shafique , Adnan Akmal and Abdul Rahman. Tale also wagged as it had been doing for all season.

Asad Shafiqe and Misbah started the day as Pakistan was trailing by 40 runs. Both the batsman was adjudged leg-before after contributing their parts to the total. Adnan Akmal and man of the match Abdul Rahman put up an important partnership for Pakistan and took the lead to some respectable level. Umar Gull and Tanvir Ahmad then extend the lead to 92 which almost proved enough to beat New Zealand by an innings but in the end Pakistan reach the target of 19 without losing any wicket.

In the second innings, it was the devastating spell of 11 consecutive overs from Wahab Riaz who broke the backbone of kiwi batting, Abdul Rahman fully supported his parner and both grab 3 wickets each to closed New Zealand’s innings on 110.

Mohamam Hafeez and Taufeeq Umar then wrapped up the victory in just 3.4 overs to guide the visitors to 21-0 and a 1-0 lead in the two-match series. The second test begins in Wellington next Saturday.

Article Source : Pakcricketworld.com

Kamran Akmal included in the World Cup squad

2011-01-04T05:24:00.000-08:00

Kamran Akmal has been names into the 30-men initial world cup squad- photo from web

PCB has announced the 30 - men squad for the World Cup 2011. Senior batsmen Mohammad Yousuf and wicketkeeper Kamran Akmal also included in the 30-men squad. Shoaib Malik and Danish Kaneria failed to get their names in the squad.

Senior batsman Misbah -ul- Haq also included in the initial squad. Shahid Afridi and Abdul Razzaq also named in the preliminary world cup squad for the forth consecutive times from 1999. Shahid Afridi is likely to be named captain for the mega event but no official statement has come out yet from PCB.

Chief Selector Mohsin Hassan Khan said that they have selected the best available squad.

“We are satisfied that we have selected the best squad from amongst the available players,” said chief selector Mohsin Khan.

“The Integrity Committee has given its views on some players to the selectors, who have taken into consideration that input and has selected the best 30 players for the World Cup,” Butt said in a statement released by the board.

A Pakistan squad for six one-dayers against New Zealand will be announced next week.

Squad: Shahid Afridi, Ahmed Shahzad, Mohammad Hafeez, Taufiq Umer, Nasir Jamshed, Mohammad Yousuf, Younis Khan, Misbah-ul-Haq, Umar Akmal, Azhar Ali, Asad Shafiq, Naved Yasin, Kamran Akmal, Sarfraz Ahmed, Salman Ahmed, Abdul Razzaq, Yasir Arafat, Rana Naved-ul-Hasan, Abdur Rehman, Saeed Ajmal, Yasir Shah, Zulfiqar Babar, Shoaib Akhtar, Umar Gul, Wahab Riaz, Sohail Tanveer, Tanveer Ahmed, Junaid Khan, Aizaz Cheama, Asad Ali.

Article Courtesy : Pakcricketworld.com

A review of Pakistan cricket of disastrous 2010.

2010-12-30T23:42:00.000-08:00

If you say that 2010 was the worst ever year for Pakistan cricket then this would not be wrong. Pakistan cricket was destroyed and demolished not only because of the on-field performance but off-the field controversies as well.

In 2010 Pakistan failed to win a One Day or Test series. Even though they ended up the disappointing year with a huge win over New Zealand in T20 after 6 consecutive losses.

Pakistan started the 2010 in disappointing fashion where they didn’t even won a single game on whole tour. Australia defeated them in Tests 3-0, ODIs 5-0 and in Twenty-20 match.

After this disastrous performance on Australia tour, PCB took serious action and banned and fined 7 of Pakistan’s top players including Younis Khan and Mohammad Yousuf. Bans were lifted and fines were reduced for 5 players including Umar Akmal, Kamran Akmal , Shahid Afridi , Shoaib Malik and Mohammad Yousuf but relationship between Younis Khan and PCB got worst and worst and Younis remained out of Test side for 12 months.

Pakistan worst ever tour to England started with 2 T20s and 2 Tests against Australia. After losing the first Test, new skipper Salman Butt created history as he became Pakistan’s first captain to beat Australia in Tests after 15 years.

After this historic Test win then began the four match Test series against England which was supposed to be a jam of the series. Pakistan bowling attack specially Mohammad Amir and Asif in particular destroyed English batting line all over the park but it was Pakistan batting performance which lead them down in the first two Tests of the series and because of this Mohammad Yousuf was called up for the third Test.

Due to superb bowling performance again in the third Test Pakistan came back strongly and beat England and series was alive once again.

Then began the 4^th Test at Lords which changed the fortune of Pakistan cricket completely, after the end of third days play, a video appeared from and English newspapers about Pakistani players involved in spot-fixing. Initially seven Pakistani players were named in spot-fixing case but after some proceedings ICC banned Mohammad Amir, Mohammad Asif and Salman Butt and their faith to be decided on 11 January. Pakistan only managed to win a T20 series against Australia on that tour.

This controversy not only destroyed the career of banned players but also made Pakistani cricket shameful than ever. ICC strictly instructs PCB to do some adjustments and made their domestic system better.

Then in the One day series against South Africa Mysterious \Zulqurnain Haider ran away to England after playing a match winnings innings which brought back Pakistan into the series. He said that he was threatened by some people to fix the match and his life is in danger if ha stays in Pakistan and with the team so he left the team. Later he announced his retirement from international cricket and now nobody knows what he is doing.

Now Pakcricketworld will bring you some short review of some bright and dark moment s of Pakistan cricket in 2010.

Finds of 2010

Azhar Ali was induct into the Test side in the absence of Yousuf and Younis and he responded very bravely. He showed that he has temperament and skills and he is a pure Test match player. In his 2^nd Test against Australia he played the crucial innings of 49 which lead Pakistan to first ever win over Australia in 15 years. Against England he also played very solidly and later against South Africa he almost proved himself as the permanent member of Test side because of his solid temperament to stay at the wicket.

Asad Shafique was called up for the ODI series against England to strengthen the middle order and he’s done that in style. He is the player with fine technique and talent. Now he is also a regular member of the squad.

Best Performance of 2010

Pakistan’s win over Australia in Test match after 15 years was no doubt the best moment of 2010 for Pakistan cricket. Wasim, Waqar , Inzamam, Yousuf, Shahid and few other captains tried their best but Salman Butt was the man to done it for Pakistan.

Worst Performance of 2010

Pakistan tour to Australia was the most disastrous tour for Pakistan ever. Pakistan played 3 Tests, 5 ODIS and 1 Twenty-20 and lost all of the matches. This was the first time when Pakistan comeback from Australia without winning after a full tour.

Best individual performance of 2010

Abdul Razzaq’s miraculous innings of 109* of just 72 balls in the 2^nd ODI against South Africa was the best player performance of 2010. At this time team was needed something to lift the spirits of the unit and Abdul Razzaq, the way he done this, was once in a life time innings to see.

Now the 2010 have ended and like always before we hope that Pakistan cricket will rise and shine in 2011 and hopefully we gonna get some good news from the big world cup 2011.

Courtesy : Pakcricketworld.com

Pakistan destroyed New Zealand at Christchurch

2010-12-30T01:16:00.000-08:00

Abdul Razzaq was very special with bat and ball - photo from web

Pakistan destroyed New Zealand in the last Twenty-20 match by 103 runs and ends the disappointing year with some pride. Openers and bowlers powered Pakistan to a huge 103 run victory at Christchurch.

Pakistan set a huge target of 184 to black caps but it was too much in the end. New Zealand bundled out for their lowest ever T20 total 80.

Opener Ahmad Shahzad (54) destroyed New Zealand bowlers all over the park and put up a big 81 runs partnership with Hafeez (34) in no time. Middle order just slowed down the proceedings until Abdul Razzaq steals the show with his power hitting. He made 34 of just 11 balls including 3 fours and 3 sixes and took three wickets as well to grab the player of the match award.

Chasing a huge total of 184 Kiwi innings started in disastrous way, top four batsmen got out without scoring any run. Scot Styris was the only players who looked in any kind of rhythm, he made 45.

Shahid Afridi was outstanding in his bowling spell. He took 4wickets for just 14 runs in 2.5 runs. Afridi made this match historical as he becomes the first players to complete 50 wickets in Twenty 20 internationals.

Pakistan fielding was very special tonight. Everyone was jumping and diving around, Afridi was very pleased in his post match presentation. Announcement of world cup squad is just around the corner and ODI series will be a good chance to finalize the unit for the world cup.

This victory is a big boost for the Test series staring next Friday and hopefully this will be a crunch series looking forwards to the world cup.

Article Courtesy : Pakcricketworld.com

Dominant New Zealand won 2nd T20, series 2-0

2010-12-28T20:45:00.000-08:00

Mohammad Hafeez looked good for his 46 but he was alone in the mission - photo from web

Dominant New Zealand beats Pakistan in the second Twenty 20 international by 39-runs and won the series 2-0. Off-spinner Nathan McCullum took 4 crucial wickets to restrict Pakistan from reaching the target of 186 at Seddon Park on Tuesday.

Chasing the huge total of 186 runs Pakistan only managed to score 146 runs and grabs another series loss.

Batting first New Zealand made a huge total of 185 courtesy of fantastic second wicket partnership between Guptill and Franklin of 90. Scott Styris scored furious 30 and McGlashan made 26 of just 10 balls and took the total to 185.

Saeed Ajmal took 3 wickets for 35 runs in his 4 overs, Pacers were hammered by Kiwis. Shahid Afridi was economical, he gave only 22 in his 4 overs and took 1 wicket.

Pakistan batting innings was got of to a flying start, Hafeez and Afridi made 24 in 1.5 overs but Afridi was bold by Mills on the last ball of second over. Hafeez continued his aggression with Ahmad Shahzad and both took the score to 68 in 7.5 overs.

Wickets of Ahmad Shahzad brought the downfall of Pakistani innings, from a position of 68 for 1, Pakistan slipped down to 76 for 4. Younis khan, Asad Shafique and Abdul Razzaq failed big time in the huge run chase.

Top scorer Mohammad Hafeez (46) was unfortunately got run out because of misjudgment from Umar Akmal, who refuse to comeback for the second run in last moment.

After all this it was just the matter of time for the Kiwis to take the series after such a long time and embarrassments after Asian tours.

Pakistan innings ended up on 146 runs after 20 overs for the loss of 9 wickets. Kiwis were really pleased with this effort because Pakistan is the strong T20 side. Third T20 is on 30^th and both the teams will be hoping to end their disastrous years on high.

Article Courtesy : Pakcricketworld.com

Afridi to open the innings in T20's in New Zealand

2010-12-10T19:56:00.000-08:00

Afirid wants to ends his career by leading his side to World Cup crown - photo from web

Pakistan one day and T20 captain Shahid Afridi has said that he can promote himself as an opener in the upcoming Twnety20 series against New Zealand.

Talking to the reporters on Friday Afridi also said that I want to finish my career by leading Pakistan side to World Cup glory. “As captain I would love to end my career after leading our team to the World Cup title,”

He said that we almost have completed 90 percent of the world cup squad. He told reporters that he is planning to open the innings against New Zealand in Twenty20’s and also planning to give wicket-keeping job to Umar Akmal.

He said Miandad is really helping the great deal to the youngsters, young players like Fawad Alam and Umar Akmal should learn from him. “Miandad’s guidance is much appreciated and the tips that come from him are always very helpful,” he said.

Pakistan will play 3 Twenty20, 2 Tests and 6 ODI games before the big World Cup starting 19 Feb and Afridi is hoping that players will get a big boost from the victories on New Zealand tour. “I am sure that this tour will enhance the confidence of our players and that would reflect in the World Cup.”

Courtesy : Pakcricketworld.com

Kamran Akmal left out from New Zeland tour

2010-12-10T02:36:00.000-08:00

Kamran Akmal have to wait some more time for his return- photo from web

Pakistan's cricket selectors have recalled former captain Younis Khan for next month's Twenty20 internationals against New Zealand.

Khan retired from Twenty20 cricket after leading Pakistan to the World Cup title in England last year, but said last month he was available to represent Pakistan in all formats of the game.

Chief selector Mohsin Khan said that the squad for the six one-day internationals against New Zealand will be announced later.

Veteran batsman Mohammad Yousuf, who was injured before the two-Test series against South Africa played in the United Arab Emirates earlier this month, was not picked for the two Test matches against New Zealand.

"The upcoming tour of New Zealand is extremely important for us as it will help in the preparations for the World Cup," Mohsin Khan said in a statement.

Pakistan lost the Twenty20 and ODI series to South Africa, but drew the two Test matches at Abu Dhabi and Dubai.

Misbah-ul-Haq was retained as captain for the Tests while Shahid Afridi will lead the side in the Twenty20s.

Left-arm fast bowler Sohail Tanvir, who was sidelined from international cricket for more than a year, recovered from knee injury and was included in both the Twenty20 and Test squads, while Mohammad Sami's 13th Test comeback is over after one match, with the seamer left out for the New Zealand series.

The series begins with a three-match Twenty20 series starting on December 26.

Squads:

Twenty20: Shahid Afridi (captain), Mohammad Hafeez, Ahmed Shahzad, Younis Khan, Umar Akmal, Fawad Alam, Adnan Akmal (wk), Saeed Ajmal, Abdur Rehman, Abdul Razzaq, Umar Gul, Shoaib Akhtar, Tanvir Ahmed, Sohail Tanvir, Wahab Riaz (subject to fitness).

Test: Misbah-ul-Haq (captain), Mohammad Hafeez, Taufiq Umar, Younis Khan, Azhar Ali, Asad Shafiq, Umar Akmal, Adnan Akmal (wk), Saeed Ajmal, Abdur Rehman, Umar Gul, Tanvir Ahmed, Sohail Tanvir, Wahab Riaz (subject to fitness).

Pakistan wins Hockey gold in Asian Games

2010-11-25T05:20:00.000-08:00

Pakistan hockey team has become Asian Champions after 20 years, Pakistan has beaten Malaysia 2-0 in the Asian Games Hockey final and regain their gold medal after 20 long years.

Penalty corner specialist and world top scorer Sohail Abbas converted a penalty corner into the goal and gave Pakistan 1-0 lead in the 28^th minute of the first half then Rehan Butt scored the second goal for Pakistan in the second half and that was enough to give the Pakistan its third gold medal in 16^th Asian Games.

This is Pakistan’s first win after the 1990 in the Asian games and with this Pakistan have secured their place in 2010 London Olympics.

Solid Pakistan draws series

2010-11-24T07:18:00.000-08:00

Misbah lead his side from the front as Test captain - photo from web

Another solid batting performance from Misbah-Ul-Haq and Azhar Ali helped Pakistan to draw the second Test and series against world’s no.2 South Africa.

Misbah scored his 3rd consecutive half-century in the series with determent Azhar Ali and in the end it was fighting effort from Pakistani batting line that draws-level the series for Pakistan.

Chasing 354 on the last day Pakistan got a good opening stand of 66 between inform Hafeez and Omar but after the lunch 3 wickets fell without scoring a run. From a position of 66/0 to 66/3 after the lunch was definitely the big challenge for Misbah and Azhar to save the Test match and both did it in style.

Misbah made 58* and Azhar Ali 28*, left arm spinner Paul Harris got 2 wickets and Johan Botha got 1 wicket of Taufeq Omar.

Jacques Kallis deservingly got the man of the series award for his brilliant batting and AB de Villiers was man of the match for his outstanding 278* in the first innings which got them out of the trouble.

Since the miraculous innings from Abdul Razzaq in the 2nd ODI of UAE series Pakistan fought very hard against the South African side.

Pakistan’s next assignment is another tough series against New Zealand in New Zealand so this is a good sign that Pakistan batting line is coming into good form before the World Cup and hopefully it continue to the World Cup.

Source : Pakcricketworld.com

Pakistan women wins first gold medal in cricket

2010-11-19T18:31:00.000-08:00

Nida Rashid took 4 wickets and made 51 runs in the final - AP Photo

Pakistan women’s cricket team beats Bangladesh by 10 wickets in the Asian Games cricket tournament final on Friday

This victory brought Pakistan’s first Gold medal in this Guangzhou Asian Games.

Batting fist Bangladeshis ladies made 92 in their 20 overs and in reply Pakistani women chased down the total without losing any wicket.

Nida Rashid was the star of the final for Pakistan as she took 4 wickets and scored 51 runs to won the gold medal for Pakistan.

Asian Games started with spectacular show

2010-11-12T19:22:00.000-08:00

GUANGZHOU: China was everyone’s dream world on Friday as The Asian Games opened with a mind blowing water-themed gala ceremony. China has showed the world that china is still a dominating region when it comes to sports.

10.000 athletes from 45 different countries will challenge their luck for the gold medal in 42 sports. China is favorites for the top medal table, South Korea and Japan will fight for the second place.

Pakistan is eying to win a gold medal in Hockey and Cricket.

The Games will run until November 27.

Pakistan lose final ODI , series 3-2

2010-11-08T20:31:00.000-08:00

Abdul Razzaq couldn't finish the final game for Pakistan at Dubai - file photo from web

South Africa beats Pakistan by 57 runs in the 5^th and final ODI at Dubai. All round performance from Jacques Kallis lead the South Africa to a thrilling series win 3-2.

Chasing huge target of 318 Pakistan got out on 260 in the 45^th over. Hafeez and Akmal scored half-centuries but nothing from the middle order damage Pakistan in the run-chase.

Pakistan got to a flying start by Hafeez and Shahzaib, both scores 82 runs in alsmot 13^th over. Shahzaib (42) was the first man to go and after him, Younis (3) , Yousuf (3) and Alam (1) also went very quickly.

82 for 0 and then 101 for 4, definitely was a big task for Umar Akmal and Mohammad Hafeez to get even closer to that target.

Wickets kept falling for Pakistan as Hafeez got out after scoring beautiful 59 , Afridi was looking good until be lost his cool and played a ridiculous shot on 24.

Abdul Razzaq and Umar Akmal started to create some panic in South Africans ranks as both were playing intelligently. They took the power play in 39^th over but Umar Akmal soon got out on a full toss, he played it straight to cover in the hands of Graem Smith.

Game was again in the hands of Abdul Razzaq but this time his magic failed and he got out trying to smash the ball out of Dubai, he made 39 runs. Pakistan eventually got out on 260 and another series lose was written in their fortune.

Source : Pakcricketworld.com

Thrilling Razzaq levels the series

2010-11-01T02:34:00.001-07:00

If anyone says miracles don’t happened these days, believe me it’s wrong. People in the ground who was watching the second ODI in Abu Dhabi and millions of watching home, have witness a miraculous innings from Abdul Razzaq who pulled off a sensational victory against South Africa and levels the series 1-1.

Abdul Razzaq stunned South Africa with his 109 notout of just 72 balls, Pakistan chased down the target of 287 on the second last ball of the match and 9 wickets down. Razzaq hit 10 huge sixes and 7 fours, was absolutely unbelievable under the circumstances. This was South Africa’s first defeat after 11 ODIs, now series is back alive 1-1.

Pakistan had started their run chase poorly as Asad Shafiq (1), Mohammad Hafeez (30), Younus Khan (18) and Misbah-ul-Haq (17) all struggled to score at a good rate as Langeveldt struck twice.

Pakistan was on the edge of losing the second one dayer as well, 70 for 4 was the score when captain Shahid Afridi and Fawad Alam started the recovery work. Both took the score to 136 in the 30^th over. Afridi was looking very good to get closer to the target but got out in the same fashion as ever before. He played well for his 49 of just 40 balls including 2 sixes and 3 fours.

Fawad Alam played a little slow but he was setting things up for Abdul Razzaq, Alam got out after making 68 and after this things were looking very dark for Pakistan.

Zulqurnain Haider, Wahab Riaz and Saeed Ajmal, all sacrificed their wickets to get Abdul Razzaq on strike.

Two sixes over midwicket from the first three balls of the last over - bowled by Morkel - put the pressure back on South Africa for the first time, and after a dot ball, he carved the fifth ball through the covers for the winning hit.

In South African innings Ingram (100) scored a well compiled century but his innings was sent way back somewhere by Abdul Razzaq.

Now third ODI at Dubai is supposed to be a cracker of a match, let’s see whose goanna take the lead in the next match,

Source : Pakcricketworld.com

South Africa beats Pakistan despite the desert heat

2010-10-29T19:14:00.000-07:00

Return of Younis Khan boosted the Pakistan side - photo from web

Pakistan batting collapse continues as South Africa beats Pakistan in the first ODI by 8 wicket and take 1-0 lead in the 5 match series.

Lonwabo Tsotsobe bowled another devastating spell of 4 for 27 in his 10 overs , completely change the game in the favor of South Africa.

Return of Younis Khan resulted in a big 2^nd wickets partnership of 114 runs between opener Mohammad Hafeez and Younis Khan , that partnership sets up things nicely for the middle order to fire but no one was able to go even into the double figures except Misbah 14 and Haider 12.

140 for 1 in the 31st over and then 203 for 10 in the 49^th, after a solid platform at the top order, batsmen failed to capitalize and kept joining the famous batting collapse show from Pakistani batsmen.

Mohammad Hafeez played a beautiful knock 68 runs with the full support of Younis Khan who made crucial 54 at the comeback in international cricket. Misbah , Alam , Afridi and Razzaq , big middle order collapsed and dream of getting a big total was crashed.

Pakistani bowler who are getting almost nothing to defend so far in this tour, tried their best to restrict South Africa from reaching the small target of 204 but experience showed by South Africa as Jacques Kallis scored 66 but he retired hurt due to cramps, before him Graem Smith also got injured trying to pull the ball from Shoaib Akhtar who hit him on his hand.

Hashim Amla and AB de Villiers played handy knock of 35 and 51 who were enough to take South Africa home with 8 wickets and 10 overs to spare.

Still Pakistan doesn’t know how to solve their batting problem. Well, its better that they solve this before the World Cup and could be even better if in the next matches.

Source : Pakcricketworld.com

Pakistan lose series 2-0

2010-10-28T07:06:00.000-07:00

Another dismal batting performance from Pakistan resulted in series lose 2-0 against the outstanding South Africans. Pakistan got out for 120, South Africa chase down the total in professional fashion and reached home with 6 wickets in hand and 8 balls to spare.

Gream Smith, JP Duminy and Colin Ingran again played superb innings to lead their team of to a great start of the tough and long tour. Smith made 38 of 42 balls, Duminy was unbeaten on 20 and Ingram made 31.

Pakistan powerful attack does their best but the total of 120 runs was too little to defend. Captain Shahid Afridi was outstanding while bowling, he ended his figures with 1 for 13 in his four overs. Part time off-spinner Mohammad Hafeez also bowled very tightly and got 1wicket of just 19 runs in his four overs but South Africa got home with the collective team effort.

Hafeez 14 , Misbah 33 , Razzaq 25 and Zulqurnain 17 were the only players which got into double figures from Pakistan. After 5 for 39, it was very tough to comeback from this but Misbah and Razzaq took the score to 84, then dangerous looking Abdul Razzaq got out on the full toss.

Batting is getting more and more wonderable of Pakistan team, ODIs are coming up so let’s see what Younis can induct to this side or it will be the same as before.

Source : Pakcricketworld.com

South Africa beats Pakistan in 1st T20

2010-10-27T01:35:00.000-07:00

Shahid Afridi played a little blinder of 27 of just 7 balls - photo from web

South Africa beats Pakistan in the first T2- match by 6 wickets. Chasing small target of 120 runs South Africa got home easily with the superb innings from JP Duminy and Colin Ingram.

South Africa was got in lots of trouble early in their innings when they lost 3 quick wickets but the Partnership of 66 runs between JP Duminy and Colin Ingram lead South Africa to 1-0 lead in the 2 match series.

South Africa chase down the small total of 120 runs in 18.2 overs with six wickets in hand. Colin Ingram top scored with 46 notout.

38 for 1 in 5 overs was supposed to be the good start for Pakistan but their famous middle order batting collapse happened again and thanks to Afridi can Misbah who took the score over 100 and eventually ended up on 119.

There was nothing spectacular about Pakistan batting innings but the innings from Afridi who gave the spectator something really entertaining. In his 7 balls innings he hit 3 sixes and 1 four which was ended on 27 from just 7 balls. Other than this batting batsman never got going and middle order collapse big time.

Imran Farhat was the first man to get out for Pakistan on 16. Domestic Twenty20 star Shahzaib Hassan failed at international platform once again, he was trying to hit the ball out of Abu Dhabi but got out in the process, Duminy took the superb catch to get rid of him. He went after scoring just 9 runs in 14 balls.

A lot was expected from Umar Akmal but his bad run continues as he got out after making just 14 runs in 21 balls. Razzaq, Hafeez and Zulqurnain, all failed to get a big score.

Misbah was playing very slowly but he ran out of partners in the last over as Shoaib Akhar got runout and innings was finished at 119.

Another batting collapse for Pakistan lead them to disappointment in the end, bowling was as usual great but runs on the board was not enough to restrict the Africans away from the first win of the tour.

Source : Pakcricketworld.com

Asif withdraws appeal against suspension

2010-10-22T20:35:00.000-07:00

Pakistan fast bowler Mohammad Asif has withdrawn his appeal against the provisional ban which is imposed by ICC after the spot-fixing controversy.

The International Cricket Council said in a statement that Asif withdrew his challenge ''pending determination of the charges brought against him under the ICC's anti-corruption code.''

Pakistan is currently on the tour of UAE where they will play two Twenty20, five One Dayers and Two Test matches in Abu Dhabi and Dubai.

In case of suspension had lifted, even then Asif would not have been able to participate in the series because his entrance is banned in UAE following a drugs offence in 2008. Asif earlier this week went to England to meet with his lawyers.

Now the hearing of Two Pakistan players Salman Butt and Mohammad Amir will be held on 30-31 October 2010 in Dubai.

Source: Pakcricketworld.com

Younis back in the Pakistan side for South Africa series

2010-10-20T07:44:00.000-07:00

PCB has finally recalled former Pakistan captain Younis Khan in the Pakistan team for the One Day and Test series against South Africa in UAE.

Younis received an indefinite ban after the Australia tour earlier in the year, his issues with PCB chairman Ijaz Butt kept him out of the game for more than 8 month but all issues were resolved in the meeting between Younis Khan and Ijaz Butt on Wednesday.

PCB chairman was under a lot of pressure about the selection of Younis Khan in the team and finally he called Younis to meet him and everything got cleared and now Younis is available for the team.

Pakistan chief selector Mohsin Khan told the reporters that "The chairman [PCB] has given clearance this afternoon to Younis Khan and that is good news, "I discussed with the selection committee and we picked him straight away. He is fit, playing top-class cricket."

However PCB does not showed any reason that why Younis was not played for Pakistan but its good that he is back in Pakistan team in this crucial and testing time.

Source : Pakcricketworld.com

Yousuf out of the South Africa series

2010-10-20T07:41:00.000-07:00

Another bad news for Pakistan cricket as Mohammad Yousuf has been ruled out from the Pakistan team for the T20 and One Day series against South Africa in UAE.

Mohammad Yousuf got injured during the practice session in the Lahore. He pulled his hamstring and will take some time to get fit.

UAE series is tough and Mohammad Yousuf was really important part of it but now Pakistan batting is looking very weak and inexperienced. Definitely bowling is Pakistan’s main power now and let’s see what Pakistan can produce in the absence of senior players like Yousuf and Younis.

Source : Pakcricketworld.com

Shoaib Malik to lead Pakistain in Hong Kong Super Sixes , Shahzaib and Wahab added in squads for UAE series

2010-10-18T07:46:00.000-07:00

Former Pakistan captain Shoaib Malik will lead the Pakistan side in the hong Kong Super Sixes tournament. Hard hitting batsman Imran Nazir will be his deputy.

Sohail Khan, Shoaib Khan, Asad Ali , Ahmad Shahzad , Shabir Ahmad , Imran Nazir and Shoaib Malik will represent the Pakistan team in Hong Kong Super Sixes starting from November 6.

Faysal bank T20 tournament best players Shahzaib Hassan and Wahab Riaz have been included in the T20 and one day squad for the series against South Africa. When the team announced for the South Africa series Shahid Afridi was willing to include Shahzaib in the team, after the successful run in T20 tournament he has been included in the team.

Source : Pakcricketworld.com

Lahore Lions won the T20 title

2010-10-16T23:38:00.001-07:00

Abdul Razzaq smashed 71* of just 29 notout to lead Lahore Lions to their first T20 title - photo from web

Lahore lions defeated Karachi Dolphins by 37 runs in the final of Faysal Bank T20 Championship at Gaddafi stadium Lahore. Blistering knock from Abdul Razzaq who smashed 71 notout from just 29 balls, took Lahore lions to the 2^nd highest total of the tournament 221 for 3 which proved enough to beat the full powered batting line of Karachi Dolphins.

Chasing the total of 222, powerful Karachi Dolphins bowled out of 184, giving Lahore Lions their first T20 title at jam packed Gaddafi stadium in Lahore.

Lahore lions openers Ahmad Shahzad and Nasir Jamshed gave flying start to their innings, Shahzad got out after playing the solid innings of 43 of just 43 balls. Umar Akmal was loking good but he was stumped on 17. Then 82 run partnership from Abdul Razzaq and Nasir Jamshed completely destroyed the Dolphins bowling lions.

Jamshed scored 68 of just 57 balls, later in the innings there was Abdul Razzaq who shoed everyone that he is still a match winner and good enough for T20 cricket, he smashed 6 sixes and 4 fours in the total of 71 notout of just 29 balls. Lions ended their innings with the 2^nd highest total of the tournament 221 for 3. The game was full on because Karachi Dolphins had the powerful batting line to chase that total.

Karachi Dolphins starts their innings with 2 sixes in the first over, tournament most successful batsman Shahzaib Hassan started his innings in thrilling fashion and take Dolphins to 53 in 5^th over. He got out on 33 and left two youngsters Asad Shafiq and Fawad Alam to take the responsibility but regular fall of wickers made life difficult for the Karachi Dolphins and captain Shahid Afridi.

Shahid Afridi top scored for Dolphins 48 of just 29 balls but it was not enough to take Dolphins home and they fell short by 36 runs. Wahab Riaz was the stand out bowler for Lahore Lions, he took 3 for 14 in 3.4 overs.

Abdul Razzaq named player of the match for his match wining effort of 71 notout. Shahzaib Hassan deservingly got the player of the tournament award, He was outstanding throughout the tournament.

At this time when no international cricket is played in the country, this tournament really showed the love and passion which Pakistani nation has for the cricket.

Source : Pakcricketworld.com

Pakistan ends CMG at 17th position

2010-10-15T20:05:00.000-07:00

Azhar Hussain won the first gold medal for Pakistan in wrestling after 40 years - photo by AFP

Pakistan finished common wealth games at 17^th position with five medals (2 gold, 2 bronze and 1 silver) after the disappointment in Tennis, Hockey and Squash events.

Wrestler Azhar Hussain and Mohammad Inam won gold medals in their wrestling events for the first time in 40 years and gave Pakistan some respect in Common Wealth Games 2010 in Delhi.

Boxers Haroon Iqbal and Mohammad Wasim won bronze medal in 49Kg and 55 Kg categories.

Azhar Hussain won the silver medal in 55Kg wrestling category.

Pakistan hockey team got sixth place after he defeat against baby South African hockey team.

Aisam-ul-Haq was the biggest hope of gold medal for Pakistan in Common Wealth Games but he failed in both, singles and doubles event.

Squash players Amir Atlas and Farhan Mahoob failed to succeed after the third round.

Flag controversy between Pakistan’s chief demission Dr.Mohammad Ali Shah and weight lifter Shujjah Uddin Malik carried on till the ends of the games and not finished yet.

Pakistan has done well but this could have been much better if they played better in hockey, tennis and squash events. Hockey has become our biggest disappointment, if federation and players didn’t do anything necessary for the betterment of hockey then I’m afraid the end of Pakistan hockey is getting closer.

Oval ODI was not fixed says ICC

2010-10-13T07:19:00.000-07:00

Pakistan won the Oval ODI by 23 runs in stunning fashion - photo from web

The International Cricket Council has declared that last month one-dayer between Pakistan and England at Oval was not fixed, there was no evidence of corruption in that match which Pakistan won by 23 runs in stunning fashion.

“The investigation is now complete but if new and corroborating evidence comes to light then clearly the Anti-Corruption and Security Unit will re-open the matter,” the statement said.

According to the statement of ICC, there is no compelling evidence to suspect any players after the investigation about the scoring Patten of match at Oval on September 17.

Earlier in that tour ICC announced that the full investigation is warranted after the report of the English newspapers The Sun, according to newspapers the bookies were aware of the scoring patterns before the game begun.

Source : Pakcricketworld.com

Boxers Harron and Wasim wins bronze medals in CMG

2010-10-13T07:11:00.000-07:00

Pakistani boxers Harron Iqbal and Mohammad Wasim received defestes in the semi-finals and end their CMG with bronze medals.

Indian boxer Joy beats Harron Iqbal 9-3 in the 53 Kg category and Mohammad Wasim lost his match against Otani from Namibia in 46 Kg category.