Cricket
Mudassar Nazar attends Kenya's past cricketers' reunion
BIPIN DANIFormer Pakistani all-rounder Mudassar Nazar was one of the foreign invitees at the colourful and enjoyable 3rd Edition of Kenya Past Cricketers Reunion held in Nairobi last week. This was revealed by Subhash Modi, the Hon. Coordinator/PRO: Kenya Past Cricketers Reunion Third Edition 2023. Speaking exclusively over the telephone from Nairobi, he said, "Mudassar has not played cricket in Nairobi but was in charge of the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in the past. We invited him with his wife Jackie Janmohamed, who is the former Chairlady of Cricket Kenya and also Immediate Past Chairlady of Africa Cricket Association and also the first Kenyan Lady Umpire to umpire top cricket league matches in Nairobi"."Her support for cricket in Kenya is simply praiseworthy. Jackie has been supporting our cricketing functions since its inception in 2018. We value her unending support. Jackie Janmohamed, besides one of our platinum sponsors, was also our honoured Chief Guest. Janmohamed lives in Nairobi but she travels a lot overseas. She is one of the well-known lawyers here in Kenya"."Mudassar Nassar, a well-known Pakistan Cricketing Icon is husband to Jackie Janmohamed. The reason for inviting Mudassar was because he has served ICC and Kenya's National Cricket Academy with dedication and commitment", added the former international umpire Modi.Mudassar lives in Pakistan, Nairobi, Dubai, and United Kingdom (UK) depending on his travel plans, and work commitments.
CRICKET - 31 Aug, 2023
BIPIN DANIDr Daminda Attanayake, who is currently working as the Chief Medical Officer (CMO) to the Sri Lanka Cricket team and also the medical representative to the International Cricket Council (ICC) from Sri Lanka has been appointed as an Event Chief Medical officer for the Asia Cup. She will be looking after the Sri Lanka leg of the Asia Cup. The ongoing Asia Cup is being hosted by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and the matches are being played in Pakistan and Sri Lanka. Dr. Saleem Sohail is holding the same post and is looking after the event in Pakistan. "Event Chief Medical Officers are responsible for the co-ordination and governance of medical services provided by event medical staff to players, officials and team management during the event in both host cities (at the match, practise venue and at team hotels)", one of the sources aware about development said to this reporter. "Both Dr. Daminda Attanayake and Dr. Sohail will also ensure the proper processes outlined in the Medical Handbook are adhered to. They will also ensure that proper structures are in place to support emergencies and health issues related to spectators and other venue staff in both countries, Pakistan and Sri Lanka", the source further added. Dr. Daminda has also experience of working as a Team Physician to National Hockey and Netball teams and the Contingent Doctor for the Commonwealth Games 2018 in Australia. The decision on replacement of the injured player, if any, during the tournament will lie with the medical panel of the PCB, it is learned.
CRICKET - 30 Aug, 2023
Skipper Babar Azam, Ifikhar Ahmed hit tons, Green Shirts pile-up 342 in 50 oversSports Bulletin ReportMULTAN: A couple of remarkable innings, Babar Azam (151), and Iftikhar Ahmed (109 not out), helped Pakistan to post a comprehensive triumph against minnows Nepal by 238 runs in the opening fixture of the Asia Cricket Cup 2023 here at Multan Cricket Stadium on Wednesday.Chasing a challenging target of 343 runs, inexperienced XIs Nepal faced an early setback as Kushal Bhurtel was dismissed for just 8 runs. The wickets continued to tumble for Nepal as Shaheen Shah Afridi and Haris Rauf wreaked havoc with their pace and accuracy. Aarif Sheikh showed resistance with a gutsy 26, but the rest of the batting line-up struggled to cope with the pressure exerted by Pakistan's bowlers.Shadab Khan's spin proved to be the undoing of Nepal's middle order, as he claimed four vital wickets. The Nepal batters struggled to find their rhythm against Shadab's variations and impeccable line and length. As a result, Nepal's innings came to a swift end at 104 runs in 23.4 overs.Earlier after opting to bat first, Pakistan's captain Babar Azam led from the front, showcasing his sublime skills with a scintillating knock of 151 runs off 131 balls. His innings was marked by 14 boundaries and four towering sixes, as he anchored the team's innings and guided them to a formidable total. Fakhar Zaman and Imam-ul-Haq were dismissed in quick succession due to brilliant efforts in the field by Nepal.Mohammad Rizwan contributed a crucial 44 runs, displaying his ability to find gaps and rotate the strike effectively. Iftikhar Ahmed then stole the show with a breathtaking display of power-hitting, smashing an unbeaten 109 off just 71 balls, which included 11 boundaries and four sixes. He was involved in a 214-run partnership with Babar Azam – the highest fifth-wicket stand for Pakistan in ODIs as the duo’s efforts propelled Pakistan to 342-6.Scores in Brief:Pakistan beat Nepal by 238 runsPakistan: 342-6 in 50 overs (Babar Azam 151, Iftikhar Ahmed 109 not out; Sompal Kami 2-85, Karan KC 1-54, Sandeep Lamichhane 1-69)Nepal: 104 all out in 23.4 overs (Sompal Kami 28, Aarif Sheikh 26; Shadab Khan 4-27, Haris Rauf 2-16, Shaheen Shah Afridi 2-27)Player of the Match: Babar Azam (Pakistan)Pakistan Squad: Babar Azam (c), Abdullah Shafique, Fakhar Zaman, Imam-ul-Haq, Salman Ali Agha, Iftikhar Ahmed, Mohammad Rizwan, Mohammad Haris, Shadab Khan, Mohammad Nawaz, Usama Mir, Faheem Ashraf, Haris Rauf, Mohammad Wasim Jnr, Naseem Shah, Shaheen Afridi, Saud Shakeel, Tayyab Tahir (travelling reserve).Nepal Squad: Rohit Paudel (c), Kushal Bhurtel, Aasif Sheikh, Bhim Sharki, Kushal Malla, Aarif Sheikh, Dipendra Singh Airee, Gulshan Jha, Sompal Kami, Karan KC, Sandeep Lamichhane, Lalit Rajbanshi, Pratish GC, Mousom Dhakal, Sundeep Jora, Kishore Mahato, Arjun Saud
CRICKET - 30 Aug, 2023
Sports Bulletin ReportMultan (August 30, 2023): Pakistan have won the toss and elected to bat first in the day, and night inaugural fixture of the Asia Cricket Cup 2023 here at Multan Cricket Stadium on Wednesday (August 30) a 50 overs per innings fixture. This will be a maiden contest between Pakistan and Nepal at the top level. Pakistan Squad: Babar Azam (c), Abdullah Shafique, Fakhar Zaman, Imam-ul-Haq, Salman Ali Agha, Iftikhar Ahmed, Mohammad Rizwan, Mohammad Haris, Shadab Khan, Mohammad Nawaz, Usama Mir, Faheem Ashraf, Haris Rauf, Mohammad Wasim Jnr, Naseem Shah, Shaheen Afridi, Saud Shakeel, Tayyab Tahir (travelling reserve).Nepal Squad: Rohit Paudel (c), Kushal Bhurtel, Aasif Sheikh, Bhim Sharki, Kushal Malla, Aarif Sheikh, Dipendra Singh Airee, Gulshan Jha, Sompal Kami, Karan KC, Sandeep Lamichhane, Lalit Rajbanshi, Pratish GC, Mousom Dhakal, Sundeep Jora, Kishore Mahato, Arjun Saud
CRICKET - 29 Aug, 2023
Sports Bulletin ReportMULTAN: World number 1 One Day International (ODI) Pakistan will take on low-ranked Nepal in the day & night inaugural contest of the Asia Cricket Cup 2023 here at Multan Cricket Stadium on Wednesday (August 30) a 50 overs per innings fixture. This will be a maiden contest between Pakistan and Nepal at the top level.The atmosphere in the picturesque Multan Cricket Stadium promises to be electrifying for the Wednesday clash. Both teams will receive tremendous support from the cricket-loving Multan fans. The fans will be treated with an absorbing opening ceremony before the match, which begins at 1430 PKT time.Pakistan’s last outing in Multan in the format was in June last year and the home side enjoyed resounding success over the West Indies by thrashing them 3-0 in the three-match series. The team has played 10 ODIs here and won seven.Pakistan enter the Asia Cup with momentum on their side. They topped the ICC rankings for ODI teams on Saturday after securing a 3-0 whitewash over Afghanistan in Sri Lanka. This is the second instance of the team surmounting the chart since April. Pakistan also boast the best win/loss ratio of 2.750 with 22 wins in 31 matches since in this World Cup cycle.The team has enjoyed success across formats at home and away recently. In April-May, they levelled the T20 International series 2-2 and won the five-match ODI series 4-1 against New Zealand, whitewashed Sri Lanka in Sri Lanka in the two-Test series in July and defeated Afghanistan 3-0 in ODIs in Sri Lanka this month.Pakistan will fly to Sri Lanka on 31 August to play India in the second Group-A match on 2 September at Kandy. The venue will also host the third and final match of the group between India and Nepal on 4 September.Pakistan squad: Babar Azam (captain), Shadab Khan (vice-captain), Abdullah Shafique, Faheem Ashraf, Fakhar Zaman, Haris Rauf, Iftikhar Ahmed, Imam-ul-Haq, Mohammad Haris (wk), Mohammad Nawaz, Mohammad Rizwan (wk), Mohammad Wasim Jnr, Naseem Shah, Salman Ali Agha, Saud Shakeel, Shaheen Afridi and Usama Mir. Traveling reserve: Tayyab Tahir
IBSA Games 2023: Pakistan thrash arch-rival India by 5 wickets in Final
Sports Bulletin ReportBirmingham (UK): Pakistan thrashed arch-rival India by 5 wickets in the final of the IBSA Games 2023 to clinch the gold medal for the country at the Edgbaston Cricket Stadium Birmingham, United Kingdom (UK) on Saturday. The final clash was set alight as India won the toss and opted to bat first under the afternoon sun. Displaying their batting prowess, India managed to amass a formidable total of 184 runs for the loss of 3 wickets within the stipulated 20 overs. Durga Tompaki led the charge with an impressive knock of 76 runs off 57 balls, complemented by Sunil Ramesh's 48 runs off 29 balls. Pakistan's bowlers Muhammad Salman and Matiullah each secured a crucial wicket.Undeterred by the challenge, Pakistan embarked on their pursuit of the target with flair and determination. Exhibiting exceptional teamwork, Pakistan's response was swift and calculated, achieving victory in just 14.1 overs with 8 wickets to spare. The unbeaten innings of Muhammad Salman, who scored 48 runs off 25 balls, coupled with Badar Munir's explosive 41 runs off a mere 16 balls, featuring 7 fours and 1 six, propelled Pakistan towards an emphatic win.
CRICKET - 26 Aug, 2023
Sports Bulletin ReportLAHORE: Zaka Ashraf, Chairman of the PCB Management Committee, extends his heartiest congratulations to the Pakistan men’s cricket team on their remarkable achievement of securing the No. 1 ranking in the ICC ODI Team Rankings. This outstanding feat comes on the heels of a sensational 3-0 series victory against Afghanistan, showcasing Pakistan's exceptional skill, determination, and unwavering commitment to the sport.Zaka Ashraf said: “This achievement reflects the hard work, dedication, and unity exhibited by our talented players and their unwavering focus on excellence. It is a proud moment for all of us as Pakistan cricket team reclaim the top spot in the ODI rankings.“I also want to congratulate and laud the efforts of the entire squad, coaching staff, and support personnel for their collective commitment to raising the flag of Pakistan high in the world of cricket.“The passion and enthusiasm of our fans have been instrumental in motivating our players to push their limits and achieve extraordinary feats. Achieving the top spot is a great example of our team reciprocating the love shown by the fans all across the world.“We have Asia Cup and World Cup coming in the future, so we are determined to maintain this position and continue to excel across all formats of the game. Our journey has just begun, and I am confident that with the collective efforts of our players, management, and fans, Pakistan cricket will continue to scale new heights and bring more glory to our beloved nation.”
Pakistan beat England by 6 Wickets in IBSA World Blind Games Cricket
Sports Bulletin ReportBirmingham (UK): Pakistan outclassed hosts England by 6 Wickets in IBSA World Blind Games Cricket match on Thursday in Birmingham United Kingdom (UK).In the morning, England won the toss and decided to bat first. Pakistan's bowlers displayed exceptional skills, preventing the English batsmen from finding their rhythm and accumulating runs freely. England's batting lineup was dismantled, leading to their dismissal at a total of 103 runs in 18 overs. Among the top contributors, Luke Sugg managed 25 runs while Matt Dean secured 13 runs. Notably, Shahzaib Haider stood out as the standout bowler, clinching four (4) wickets, supported by Muhammad Shahzeb and Mohsin Khan with two wickets and one wicket respectively.In response, Pakistan efficiently achieved the required target within 9.4 overs, losing four wickets along the way. Nisar Ali shone as the top scorer with an impressive 35 runs off 17 balls, while Matiullah contributed 22 runs. Ed Hossell, Jones, and Ahmed each managed to claim a wicket a piece for the English side.The outcome resulted in Pakistan's triumph by six wickets. This victory marked Pakistan's success in all four league games, positioning them at the forefront of the points table and guaranteeing their spot in the Final. The upcoming eliminator match is anticipated to be between the second-ranked India and the third-ranked team, the latter to be determined following the outcome of the Australia-Bangladesh match. The grand final is scheduled to take place at the prestigious Edgbaston Cricket Stadium on Saturday, August 26th, promising an exciting culmination to the tournament.
Former Test cricketer, Henry Olonga apologizes to Heath Streak
BIPIN DANIFormer Zimbabwe fast bowler Henry Olonga was believed to be the first one to have unintentionally spreaded the death news of Heath Streak, However, the 48-year-old has denied being instrumental in the fiasco and has named the middle order batter Sean Williams for this confusion. Olonga also shared the screenshot of the Whatsapp chats between Sean Williams and Pommie Mbangwa, where the death news first surfaced. Speaking exclusively over the telephone from Australia, where Olonga resides, he said, "My tweet got more traction. I issued my various retractions and apologies to Heath". Explaining the sequence of the confusion, he says, "It is complicated and although I could share some personal intimate correspondence between the Streaks, I shall limit it to what is simple. We all heard it is imminent. So I know how grave things are"."I was even asked along with others touched by his life to provide a eulogy so that Heath can see them while he is here, which I did. Then someone else published on Twitter that it had actually happened. Gave a RIP tribute basically. Someone currently who is playing in the CPL and who is very close to Heath. He then deleted the tweet many hours later. A Facebook page announced it. Zimbabwean and Rhodesian sportsmen I think. I did check with two other former players who confirmed it. We were all obviously mistaken"."I did ask the family but got no response from them or another former teammate. It was late at night as I am in Aus. By then a few others had posted about it so I then did a tribute with pictures and the rest as they say is history. I had a somewhat higher traction than the others. Mid afternoon Streaky replies to my enquiry of his well being and gets in touch to correct the story. I amend all my posts and here we are. It has been a sad day as I really did think we lost him so try processing that with what we have now. Of course no malice intended and it grew a life of its own"."Heath and I are on good terms. It just went a little crazy. Of course I have apologised", Olonga concluded.
CRICKET - 24 Aug, 2023
Qasim Akram to lead Green Shirts in a regional mini-Olympic international fixture 2023Sports Bulletin ReportLAHORE: The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) today (Thursday) confirms that all-rounder Qasim Akram will lead Pakistan Shaheens in the 19th Asian Games, set to take place in Hangzhou, China. The event will be played in a T20 format from 28 September to 7 October.20-year-old Qasim, has till date featured in 20 first-class matches and 40 T20 matches and also captained Pakistan U19 in the ICC U19 World Cup in 2022. In the 15-member squad, there are eight players who have already represented the Pakistan men’s team at the international level.The players who have represented Pakistan at the international level are Aamir Jamal (2 T20Is), Arshad Iqbal (1 T20I), Asif Ali (21 ODIs, 55 T20Is), Haider Ali (2 ODIs, 33 T20Is), Khushdil Shah (10 ODIs, 24 T20Is), Mohammad Hasnain (9 ODIs, 27 T20Is), Shahnawaz Dahani (2 ODIs, 11 T20Is) and Usman Qadir (1 ODI, 23 T20Is).Also, eight players in the 15-member squad, Aamir Jamal, Arafat Minhas, Arshad Iqbal, Omair Bin Yousuf, Qasim Akram, Rohail Nazir, Shahnawaz Dahani and Sufiyan Muqeem have been associated with the Shaheens side recently. Since May 2023, Pakistan Shaheens have toured Zimbabwe, Sri Lanka and Australia.In Zimbabwe, Shaheens whitewashed Zimbabwe A in the two four-dayers, but lost 4-2 in the 50-over matches to Zimbabwe Select. Shaheens later won the ACC Men’s Emerging Asia Cup in Sri Lanka in July, beating India A by 108 runs in the final. However, they finished as runners-up in the six-team Top End T20 Series in Darwin, Australia earlier this month.As per the tournament’s rule, Shaheens will feature in the event from the quarter-finals stage scheduled to take place on 3 and 4 October. The semi-finals will be played on 6 October, while the final will take place on 7 October. The match for Bronze medal will also take place on Saturday, 7 October.Pakistan men’s team won a bronze medal in their maiden and only appearance in the Asian Games held in Guangzhou, China, in 2010. Pakistan Shaheens squad: Qasim Akram (captain), Omair Bin Yousuf (vice-captain), Aamir Jamal, Arafat Minhas, Arshad Iqbal, Asif Ali, Haider Ali, Khushdil Shah, Mirza Tahir Baig, Mohammad Hasnain, Mohammad Akhlaq (wk), Rohail Nazir, Shahnawaz Dahani, Sufiyan Muqeem and Usman QadirPlayer Support Personnel: Shahid Aslam (head coach-cum-manager), Umar Rasheed (bowling coach), Hanif Malik (batting and fielding coach) and Hafiz Naeem ul Rasool (physiotherapist)
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