Sports Bulletin

SB News LAHORE (January 4, 2020):-Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KPK) Under-13 beat Southern Punjab U13 by five wickets at Faisalabad’s Iqbal Stadium on Saturday to win the National U13 Catch em Championship. Khyber Pakhtunkhwa chased down the 157-run target with 13 balls spare in the 30-over contest. Khyber Pakhtunkhwa captain and opener Ahmed Hussain led his side from the front with an unbeaten 72 off 78 balls, hitting eight fours, while the other notable performances came from Zulqarnain, who batted at number seven and scored 41 runs from 40 balls and cracked six fours. Earlier in the match, Southern Punjab had scored 156 for nine with wicketkeeper-batsman Fahad Kashif top-scoring with a 47-ball 48. The opening batsman struck five fours. Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s Mohammad Salman starred with the ball picking three wickets for 20 runs in five overs. Khyber Pakhtunkhwa captain Ahmed picked up two wickets for 27 runs in six overs. For his all-round performance, Ahmed was declared player of the final. He was also awarded player of the tournament award for scoring 283 runs and taking 11 wickets in six matches. The tournament is part of Pakistan Cricket Board’s efforts to identify and develop a pool of cricketers at the junior level to train them to become part of U16 and U19 level. The tournament included six U13 Cricket Association teams, which were finalised by the national junior selection committee. A total of 16 matches, including the final, were played at different venues in Faisalabad. At the conclusion of the match, players from both sides were gifted kit bags to encourage them to continue working on their skills. Scores in brief: Southern Punjab U13 156-9, 30 overs (Fahad Kashif 48; Mohammad Salman 3-20, Ahmed Hussain 2-27) Khyber Pakhtunkhwa U13 157-5, 27.5 overs (Ahmed Hussain 72 not out, Zulqarnain 41 not out) Result: Khyber Pakhtunkhwa U13 won the final by five wickets

Abdullah Asjad ISLAMABAD (January 4, 2020):-The ICC Under-19 Cricket World Cup has seen more than its fair share of future stars deliver sensational moments over the years. From the emergence of India’s Yuvraj Singh and his all-round exploits in 2000, to his countryman Shikhar Dhawan’s 505 runs four years later, and the recent discoveries of Afghanistan’s Mujeeb ur Rahman and Pakistan’s Shaheen Shah Afridi in 2018, the tournament has never been found lacking for stardust. Sri Lankan batsman, and former captain, Dinesh Chandimal is another to have dazzled at a young age on the world stage as he produced some magic behind the stumps in Malaysia in 2008 – a moment which particularly stands out in his mind. For, despite Sri Lanka ultimately finishing eighth, Chandimal enjoyed a memorable tournament thanks to his exploits in a Group C match with an Australia side featuring Steve Smith and Phil Hughes where he was involved in seven dismissals. Subsequently, despite only scoring six runs with the bat, he was named Player of the Match – a remarkable feat solely judged on his nimble work in claiming four catches, two run outs and a stumping. “We played a match against Australia and I was a wicketkeeper-batsman in the team,” Chandimal said. “I could only get six runs in that match, however, I was able to contribute by being involved in claiming seven victims as a wicketkeeper. “For that reason I was given the Player of the Match award. It might have been the first time in history that the Player of the Match award was given solely on wicketkeeping performance. “It is something which made my U19 Cricket World Cup experience so memorable.” Another man who has fond memories of the tournament, having featured in both the 2000 and 2002 editions, is former Zimbabwean batsman Hamilton Masakadza, while he is expecting more memorable moments with the Chevrons squad featuring two veterans of the competition this time round. “Playing in two Under-19 World Cups are some of my fondest memories – but watch out for two of our boys who are playing their third this time round [Milton Shumba and Wesley Madhevere],” Masakadza said. “Winning the plate championship in 2002 in New Zealand, which was my second and last appearance at the tournament, was particularly special. “Playing in the Under-19 World Cup was huge for my career, as it pitted me against some of the best players in the world for the first time and helped me realise how much work I needed to put in and what I needed to do if I was ever to dream about playing and surviving at the highest level. “It is also a springboard to the national team and a huge opportunity to showcase what you can do at the world stage. “You meet and play against some of your ‘lifetime’ competitors for the first time and a lot of career-long rivalries are birthed here. “Lifelong friendships also start here, which for me is a very big part of playing this game.” This year’s competition, where 16 teams from five continents are set to compete across 48 matches in South Africa, is now rolling into view and a new crop of cricketers will create fresh memories. But while the pressure will be on for all those competing for the chance to be called world champions, Chandimal believes just getting picked to play at the event is a huge achievement in itself. He added: “I must say it’s really an honour to play and represent your country. Masakadza “I think if you play at under-19 level, it’s a big achievement in your cricketing career, because it’s the starting step of competitive international cricket. “A World Cup is a big event for any player, as you learn how to step up and cope with the pressure and play in certain situations, at a young age too. It is a great opportunity to step up to international cricket. “It’s a very big opportunity, because there are lots of things to learn as a professional cricketer. “The important thing is the experience that you have gained. If you are performing well at U19 level, it’s a bonus when you enter full international level as it gives you extra confidence and boosts you to improve your skills and abilities.” And as the next generation of young stars gear up to show what they can do and, they hope, begin to forge a legacy for themselves, Chandimal has some advice for how these youngsters should prepare for the competition and, crucially, learn from their experiences during it. “You need to practice hard and play harder for your country,” he added. “At the same time you have to maintain your discipline and your character on and off the field, gain experience and make sure, whether winning or losing, that you pick the positives out of every performance to develop your cricketing career.” And Masakadza, who played 38 Test matches and 209 One-Day Internationals for his country, also offered some words of wisdom to those competing this year in a tournament he holds so dear. He added: “Go out and represent your countries with pride, embrace and enjoy the moment. “It is a big achievement to have made it this far. Play hard, play to win but it’s not about winning at all costs. “Play fair, show good sportsmanship and above all keep the game of cricket clean.”

Abdullah Asjad ISLAMABAD (January 4, 2020):-Qasim Akram is one of the batting prodigies named in Pakistan’s ICC U19 Cricket World Cup 2020 squad that will contest for the trophy in South Africa in the tournament beginning from 17th January. The Lahore-born Qasim started his love affair with cricket after he was inspired by his friends playing cricket in his neighbourhood. Qasim, who hails from a lower middle-class area in Lahore and also bowls off-spin, started taking keen interest in the game when he saw cricket matches at the Kot Khawaja Saeed club ground near his home. After a long wait he was allowed access to the ground by one of the coaches as a ball-picker. Qasim was tasked with retrieving balls hit far and long by batsmen at the nets, one day his luck changed as the club team gave him an opportunity of playing when one of the team players didn’t show up. Qasim made an impression as a fast bowler and his cricket journey started. Qasim Akram on his early days and cricketing ambition: “On my coach’s instructions I started taking batting seriously. I used to stay out late due to my interest in cricket, my father used to scold me but with my brothers’ intervention, I was allowed to pursue cricket. My father and brother worked at the old clothes shop. “I have worked very hard for the ICC U19 Cricket World Cup, head coach Ijaz Ahmed has helped me identify and overcome by mistakes. I would want to play a central role in Pakistan’s success at the tournament.” Qasim made an entry into PCB recognised cricket through his induction in the PCB-Pepsi U16 tw0-day tournament; he scored 373 runs in eight matches to justify his inclusion. Qasim progressed to U19 cricket and represented Lahore for the next two years. Last year, Qasim scored 260 runs in five matches of the National U19 three-day tournament to occupy the third spot on the batting chart. In the one-day version, Qasim hammered two centuries in a 296-run tally in five games with a hugely impressive average of 74 with the best of 131. Qasim has already represented Pakistan U19 on tours of South Africa and Sri Lanka, at the ICC U19 Cricket World Cup he wants to take the next big step and emulate his idols Virat Kohli and Babar Azam, the prolific batting duo announced their talents to the world at the same platform, a golden opportunity awaits Qasim. Pakistan ICC U19 Cricket World Cup squad: Rohail Nazir (captain and wicketkeeper), Abbas Afridi (Peshawar), Abdul Wahid Bangalzai (Quetta), - Amir Ali (Larkana), Amir Khan (Peshawar), Arish Ali Khan (Karachi), Fahad Munir (Lahore),  Haider Ali (vice-captain), Qasim Akram (Lahore), Mohammad Haris (Peshawar), Mohammad Huraira (Sialkot), Mohammad Irfan Khan (Lahore),  Mohammad Shehzad (Multan), Mohammad Wasim Jnr (North Waziristan), Tahir Hussain (Multan) Team management – Ijaz Ahmed (head coach-cum-manager), Rao Iftikhar Anjum (bowling coach), Abdul Majeed (assistant coach), Saboor Ahmad (trainer), Hafiz Naeem-ur-Rasul (physiotherapist), Usman Hashmi (analyst), Emmad Ahmed Hameed (media manager) and Col (retd) Usman Riffat Anwari (security manager).    

By Abdul Jabbar Faisal ISLAMABAD (January 3, 2020):-The fourth term fitness tests of the centrally contracted players will be held at the National Cricket Academy on 6 and 7 January this year 2020. According to media department of Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), all the available centrally contracted players will attend the two-day testing, which is aligned to their contracts. Wahab Riaz, Mohammad Amir and Shadab Khan, who will be occupied with their commitments in the Bangladesh Premier League, will undergo the tests on 20 and 21 January. The fitness tests, to be conducted by Yasir Malik, the strength and conditioning coach of the Pakistan national men’s team, will cover five major areas, namely fat analysis, strength, endurance, speed endurance and cross-fit, and will carry equal weightage. A player failing to meet the minimum fitness requirements will be fined 15 per cent of his monthly retainer, which will remain effective until such time he achieves the minimum fitness standards. Player failing consecutive tests will risk the chances of retaining his central contract category and may face demotion. Zakir Khan, PCB – Director, International Cricket, said: “There has always been an emphasis on the monitoring of players’ fitness levels. This time we have decided to enforce penalties, which is in accordance with the contracts, as part of our objective to make the players more accountable and responsible for maintaining high fitness standards throughout the year, which is one of the basic requirements any professional athlete. “All the players were informed last month of the PCB’s expectations and potential sanctions in the scenario of failures. “These fitness tests will not be limited to the centrally contracted players, but will trickle down to the six Cricket Association teams. Their tests will be conducted by their respective coaches and trainers as per their own schedules and players failing to pass fitness tests will jeopardise their chances of featuring in the Pakistan Cup One-Day Tournament to be held from 25 March to 19 April.” Centrally contracted players: Category A – Babar Azam (Central Punjab), Sarfaraz Ahmed (Sindh) and Yasir Shah (Balochistan) Category B – Asad Shafiq (Sindh), Azhar Ali (Central Punjab), Haris Sohail (Balochistan), Imam-ul-Haq (Balochistan), Mohammad Abbas (Southern Punjab), Shadab Khan (Northern), Shaheen Shah Afridi (Northern) and Wahab Riaz (Southern Punjab) Category C – Abid Ali (Sindh), Hasan Ali (Central Punjab), Fakhar Zaman (Khyber Pakhtunkhwa), Imad Wasim (Northern), Mohammad Amir (Northern), Mohammad Rizwan (Khyber Pakhtunkhwa), Shan Masood (Southern Punjab) and Usman Shinwari (Khyber Pakhtunkhwa).

SB News ISLAMABAD (January 2, 2020):-Had a young Sylvester Okpe not been so fond of wandering off, then perhaps Nigeria’s journey into new territory would never have been possible. Nigeria U19s For it was while being distracted during an Independence Day celebration that Okpe, teeming with interest, stumbled across a group playing with bat and ball. Curiosity got the better of him, so he asked what those running back and forth over 22 yards were up to. And in doing so, he got his first introduction to cricket. Fast forward just a handful of years, and Okpe’s determination to try something new isn’t ending there. Only this time, he’ll do so as Nigeria captain at the ICC U19 Cricket World Cup. In a country where football dominates the sporting agenda, the 19-year-old’s story of stumbling into cricket is not a unique one. Throughout the squad representing their country at South Africa 2020 – Nigeria’s first global cricket competition – very few had even seen the sport before first picking up a bat. Some didn’t have shoes, let alone kit or equipment, for a game seen by teachers and parents as an easy way out of lessons. For some, support from family and outside sources was minimal, with humble and sometimes poor backgrounds putting sport in perspective. British colonial masters and missionaries first brought cricket to Nigeria in the 1900s but it’s taken time to flourish, stalling in the latter stages of the 20th century following independence. But the past 20 years have seen the tide turn, the game brought back to life as previously active and passionate individuals rekindled their love. Only this time, they were determined to get it right for good. The Nigeria Cricket Foundation (NCF) helped pave the way, not only bringing the talent to the fore but finding time for player welfare, sporting education, mentality and professionalism. Sylvester Okpe bowls against Hong Kong The result, clear for all to see, is players such as Okpe: he was only 15 when first brought into the U19 squad and hadn’t yet turned 16 when he was made captain. By this time, coaches and management were taking their approaches long-term, with his appointment inspired by West Indies’ selection of Jason Holder as ODI skipper when aged 23. Such a step-up would disrupt most but the talented teenager took it in his stride, his captaincy as important as the right-arm off-break bowling that the U19 side have relied upon. So too have Nigeria’s senior team, with Okpe named vice-captain for the 2019 ICC Men's T20 World Cup Qualifier. Such leadership has been integral and the unity paid dividends on the pitch too, as the team went unbeaten in Division Two of U19 World Cup qualification. In March 2019 – with a place at the U19 World Cup on the line – it was to get even better. By their own admission, not even those at the heart of Nigeria’s journey had expected them to progress at such an impressive rate, with the following generation set to be the benchmark for success. But Okpe and his side weren’t ones for waiting, going into Namibia’s backyard and beating the hosts in the opening game in Windhoek. Batting first and scoring 129 for eight from 50 overs was far from a perfect start to life in Division One, particularly with just one team from six qualifying for South Africa. But this Nigeria side is one of determination, and true to form it was the captain who delivered – figures of three for 16 helped skittle Namibia for 77 and the result sent shockwaves around the tournament. The Junior Yellow Greens have not looked back since – a tense two-wicket win over Sierra Leone securing their U19 World Cup place, having been 91 for seven in their chase of 139. It may have been a surprise to those watching but Nigeria, from humble beginnings, have long been a side with confidence after years of physical and mental preparation. So what of South Africa 2020 and Nigeria’s ground-breaking steps in cricket? A minimum of three games await but no challenge has come close to this one. In Australia, England and West Indies, each of their Group B opponents have won the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup at least once, and the ICC U19 Cricket World Cup five times between them. In doing so, they’ve produced the likes of Steve Smith, Ben Stokes and Brian Lara – all esteemed alumni of U19 cricket – with players heading to Africa desperate for career-defining breakthroughs of their own. One win would therefore be a huge achievement for a country with such limited cricket history, but Okpe and his proud nation head across the continent knowing games are won on the pitch, not on paper. And on a journey that few before them have ever taken, they aren’t ready to stop wandering any time soon.

SB News KARACHI (January 2, 2020):-Since Aamir Ali was named in the Pakistan squad for the ICC U19 Cricket World Cup 2020, the left-arm spinner is aiming to be the highest wicket-taker in the most-important age-group tournament, which will commence in South Africa from 17 January. For Aamir, son of a labourer, the rise to Pakistan junior team is a tale of hard work, determination and resilience and facing up to difficulties. Due to lack of facilities in Dadu, his hometown, the 17-year-old had to practice his art on grounds far away from his home but he never gave up his dreams. He idolises Rangana Herath and learned the art of spin bowling watching him bowl Sri Lanka to famous Test wins. Taking up the sport was never easy for Aamir. His family initially insisted him to become a tailor, like his brother, but soon he started to get the backing of his father to pursue his career in cricket. He started his career in the PCB-Pepsi U16 three-day tournament in which he claimed 19 wickets in the tournament to leave a big mark on his first high profile event. Aamir truly grabbed attention in 2016 by taking 19 wickets in four games of the PCB-Pepsi U16 two-day tournament. Aamir Ali, while speaking on his early struggles and passion for cricket, said: “My father does labour work and my brother does tailoring work. I was initially told by my family to take up tailoring, but after watching me play and realising that it meant everything to me, my father started to back my passion. “We have scarce playing facilities in my hometown and it is a huge honour for me to represent Pakistan U19.  My aim though is to become the first player from Dadu to represent Pakistan in international cricket.” He was at his brilliant best in this year’s National U19 three-day tournament collecting 28 wickets in four matches at a miserly average of 12.86 runs per wicket. In the one-day version of the National U19 tournament this year, Aamir collected seven wickets in four games. He was Pakistan’s most successful bowler on the tour of South Africa earlier last year taking 13 wickets in seven games. In the ACC U19 Asia Cup 2019, Aamir picked four wickets in three games. Aamir aspires to leave a lasting impression in the ICC U19 Cricket World Cup by leading his side to glory. He says it is a stepping stone to the realisation of his ultimate dream of representing Pakistan at the senior level. Pakistan ICC Under-19 Cricket World Cup squad: Rohail Nazir (captain and wicketkeeper), Abbas Afridi (Peshawar), Abdul Wahid Bangalzai (Quetta), - Amir Ali (Larkana), Amir Khan (Peshawar), Arish Ali Khan (Karachi), Fahad Munir (Lahore),  Haider Ali (vice-captain), Qasim Akram (Lahore), Mohammad Haris (Peshawar), Mohammad Huraira (Sialkot), Mohammad Irfan Khan (Lahore),  Mohammad Shehzad (Multan), Mohammad Wasim Jnr (North Waziristan), Tahir Hussain (Multan) Team management :– Ijaz Ahmed (head coach-cum-manager), Rao Iftikhar Anjum (bowling coach), Abdul Majeed (assistant coach), Saboor Ahmad (trainer), Hafiz Naeem-ur-Rasul (physiotherapist), Usman Hashmi (analyst), Emmad Ahmed Hameed (media manager) and Col (retd) Usman Riffat Ansari (security manager).

SB News ISLAMABAD (January 1, 2020):-They contest cricket’s biggest prizes on the field, but members of the ICC ODI Team of the Year are agreed on one thing – the role of the ICC U19 Cricket World Cup in their development. Joe Root Virat Kohli, Ben Stokes, Joe Root, Rashid Khan, Mustafizur Rahman and Ross Taylor all honed their craft in the tournament and now walk the field of ODI cricket as kings. After an era-defining ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup in 2019, and ahead of this month’s renewal of the U19 Cricket World Cup in South Africa, top stars say the competition made them the players they are today. Nearly 12 years on from captaining India to victory at the U19 Cricket World Cup, Kohli is the top-ranked ODI batsman in the world with 43 centuries to his name in the format. Kohli steered a side featuring Ravindra Jadeja and Manish Pandey to overall victory in Malaysia, leading by example and making a superb hundred in the group stage against West Indies. Less predictably, then-19-year-old Kohli gave his medium pace a successful airing, snaffling a vital two for 27 including the wicket of captain Kane Williamson in the semi-final win over New Zealand. True to form, Kohli relished testing himself against the best young players in the world. Virat Kohli celebrates his hundred and India's win “The ICC U19 World Cup was a very important milestone in my career,” said Kohli, who made 235 runs at an average of 47 in 2008. “It helped us get a good platform to build on and make our careers from thereon, so it holds a very important place in my mind and heart. It is very important to understand and respect the opportunity it provides to you. “I remember playing against Kane (Williamson). He was someone who always stood out in the team, his batting ability was very different from the other players who were around. “It is good to know that so many people from that batch, like Kane and Steve Smith, have played for their respective countries.” Stokes Stokes’ ability to shape games and tournaments in England’s favour shone through at the 2010 U19 Cricket World Cup, where he appeared alongside fellow Men’s Cricket World Cup winners Joe Root and Jos Buttler. Just as he pulled England back from the brink to win last summer’s Cricket World Cup, Stokes strode to the crease at 60 for four in the final group game of 2010 against India and took matters into his own hands. The all-rounder peeled off 100 from 88 balls, including six sixes, to lift England to a total of 246 that they successfully defended and gave them a flawless group stage record in New Zealand. It’s an innings that still sticks in the memory of Root, who feels the tournament played a crucial role in the development of a world-beating generation of English one-day cricketers. “We didn’t get off to the best start in that India game but Ben played one of the best innings I’d ever seen for a player of that age,” said Root. “It was on the first world stage you can play on – he made a brilliant hundred and we ended up winning the game against the tournament favourites, which was fantastic and great to be a part of. “It was a launchpad for me and I played in a squad with a guys who are still in the team now, like Ben and James Vince. “To play alongside players like that, learn from them and watch them develop, to then go back and play against them in county cricket, meant we were always pushing each other to get better.” Four years on and the modern bowling phenomenon that is Rahman was unleashed by Bangladesh on ICC tournament play for the first time in the UAE. The left-arm quick, nicknamed ‘Fizz’, put in place the building blocks of his reputation with three for 24 against Namibia and then three for 11 against Canada as Bangladesh won the Plate Championship. Mustafizur Mustafizur credits the U19 World Cup with helping him make a record-breaking start to international cricket, becoming the tenth bowler in the history of ODIs to take five wickets on debut, against India. “It wasn’t the best event in terms of results,” reflects Mustafizur. “But it was a stage to show my skills and the tournament really helps you to get accustomed to international cricket. “When I made my T20I debut the next year against Pakistan, and then ODIs against India, I was ready to accept the challenge of playing against world-class teams and the U19 World Cup helped me a lot in understanding what was expected at that level. “This tournament gives aspiring cricketers a taste of things to come and those who go on to make it to international cricket find it easier to adapt to the demands if they have the experience of an U19 World Cup behind them.” Ross Taylor Ross Taylor, the first Kiwi to reach 20 ODI centuries, first served notice of his talent back in 2002 in a U19 Cricket World Cup on home soil. The tournament was graced by future stars in Dwayne Bravo, Hashim Amla, Shaun Marsh and George Bailey and won by an Australia side spearheaded by Cameron White and Xavier Doherty. For Taylor, who skippered New Zealand, the tournament did nothing short of confirm cricket was the life for him. “Whenever you represent your country and at whatever level it is, it’s always a special thing and even more to do so in your own country in front of family and friends,” said Taylor. “I was fortunate and humbled to captain the side against all of the best young players in the world. “It was nice to give you that hunger and drive to want to play at the next level. “To go to a tournament like that at such a young age – I was 17 – meant I think it reinforced that this is what I wanted to do in life.”

Sports Desk ISLAMABAD (January 1, 2020)-From Brian Lara to Virat Kohli, Ben Stokes to Steve Smith, the ICC U19 Cricket World Cup has never fallen short of showcasing cricket’s brightest young stars. 2067 Brian Lara played in the ICC U/19 Cricket World Cup 1988 From Brian Lara to Virat Kohli, Ben Stokes to Steve Smith, the ICC U19 Cricket World Cup has never fallen short of showcasing cricket’s brightest young stars. More than 30 years have passed since the world’s top talents first announced themselves on the big stage, with the 1988 Youth Cricket World Cup a ground-breaking step in bringing ability to the fore. Fresh-faced Lara and Michael Atherton were among those making names for themselves all those years ago, when hosts Australia were victorious after defeating Pakistan in the final. A decade later and the U19 Cricket World Cup found regularity in the calendar, with the bi-annual competition becoming the pinnacle for teenager cricketers across the globe. In 1998, it was South Africa’s turn to host – just as they will do in 2020 – with England winning a highly-competitive tournament which saw the format change to include 16 teams. Since then the development of new countries into the cricket landscape has been plentiful, with Japan and Nigeria’s upcoming debuts at South Africa 2020 taking the total number of representatives to 31, with Canada, Bermuda, Afghanistan and Fiji among those making the step up this century. Two years on and the competition’s most successful country earned the first of their four wins, with Player of the Tournament Yuvraj Singh inspiring India to victory at Sri Lanka 2000. Only Australia and Pakistan can join them in boasting more than one ICC U19 Cricket World Cup title, with sole successes for England, South Africa and West Indies highlighting the tournament’s competitive nature. History was made in 2002 as Australia – featuring future captain Cameron White – became the first team to prevail on two separate occasions, with White himself finishing as lead run-scorer. Indian U19 cricketer Shikhar Dhawan (L) prepares to play a stroke as Bangladeshi wicketkeeper Dhiman Ghosh looks on during a match of The Under-19 World Cup Cricket tournament between Bangladesh and India, 20 February 2004. Indian U19 cricketer Shikhar Dhawan (L) prepares to play a stroke as Bangladeshi wicketkeeper Dhiman Ghosh looks on during a match of The Under-19 World Cup Cricket tournament between Bangladesh and India, 20 February 2004. By now the impact of those progressing from the U19 Cricket World Cup to fully-fledged international cricket was heavily felt, with Shikhar Dhawan the latest to benefit after scoring the most runs at Bangladesh 2004. But his 505 runs – still the best in a single edition of the tournament – wasn’t enough to topple Pakistan, who became the first – and so far only – side to defend their title when winning in Sri Lanka 24 months on. They had to do it the hard way, however, bowled out for 109 by India before reducing their opponents to nine for six in response. Anwar Ali was the hero with a five-wicket haul. Fast forward two years and we’d get the first glimpses of the players who currently light up the international scene. A teenage starlet by the name of Virat Kohli was doing what he does best in Malaysia, his century against West Indies helping India to their second title. But he wasn’t the only current great taking guard in Kuala Lumpur, with New Zealand’s Kane Williamson and Steve Smith of Australia taking the opening first steps of their unforgettable careers. There was one man who stood head and shoulders above the rest, however, with Tim Southee named Player of the Tournament for his all-round excellence, including a superb five for 11 against Zimbabwe. Three weeks later, Southee took his first five-wicket haul on Test debut for New Zealand against England. Come 2010 and yet more household names in Jos Buttler, Joe Root and Stokes – heroes of England’s ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2019 glory – were performing, though victory in New Zealand didn’t come their way. Instead Josh Hazlewood, who would later top the ICC ODI Bowling Rankings, guided Australia to their third title, taking four for 30 to help them defend 208 against Pakistan. India were back on top in 2012 before new winners took the title two years later in the UAE, Aiden Markram scoring an unbeaten century in the quarter-final and a match-winning 66 not out as South Africa edged out the once-again disappointed Pakistan. Then came the turn of the West Indies, victorious for the first time in 2016 despite the efforts of India’s Sarfaraz Khan in registering a record seven half-centuries across two ICC U19 World Cup campaigns. And it’s India who will be the team to beat at South Africa 2020, looking to defend their title after reigning supreme in 2018. Prithvi Shaw Prithvi Shaw led his country through a dominant tournament, while Afghanistan's Mujeeb ur Rahman and Pakistan's Shaheen Shah Afridi have since become regulars in their respective senior teams. The stage is set, therefore, for the latest crop to show exactly what they’re about when South Africa 2020 gets under way – with 16 teams from five continents competing across 48 matches. And in their bid to reach the Potchefstroom final on February 9, they certainly won’t have far to look for inspiration.

By Our Special Correspondent ISLAMABAD (January 1, 2020):-As expected and anticipated the revamped first-class Quaid-e-Azam Trophy provided the right balance between bat and ball which led to riveting contests throughout the tournament. The introduction of no-toss rule and home and away matches provided equal opportunities to all six Cricket Association teams, while the implementation of Kookaburra balls took away the undue advantage that the pace bowlers had enjoyed in the previous seasons. With matches going the distance, for the first time since 2012-13 season, a spinner, Nauman Ali, finished as the highest wicket-taker in the tournament. Batsmen got complete value for investing time at the crease, which was evident with a significant jump in the average first innings score to 422 this year from the last edition’s 263. Batting feats Despite a reduction in the number of matches from 69 to 31, the number of centuries and the instances of the batsmen crossing the 200-run mark increased from the last year. As many as 77 centuries were scored this season – five more than the previous season – with champions Central Punjab leading the tally with 18. The tally of double-centuries (eight) this season was two times than the last season. Two each were scored by the batsmen from Central Punjab, Northern and Sindh, while the remaining two were divided equally amongst Southern Punjab and Balochistan batsmen. Four batsmen – Balochistan’s Imran Butt, Southern Punjab’s Sami Aslam, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s Ashfaq Ahmed and Sindh’s Fawad Alam – scored four centuries each, the most in the tournament, and the highest individual score of the event was 249 not out, made by Sindh’s Abid Ali. Central Punjab – who boasted a star-studded batting line-up which included Babar Azam, Azhar Ali, Salman Butt, Kamran Akmal, Umar Akmal and Ahmed Shehzad –recorded the highest innings total, a feat which they achieved in the final against Northern with their first innings score of 675 for eight. They, however, also recorded the lowest innings score – 113 all-out against Khyber Pakhtunkhwa in the ninth round – during their only defeat of the season. Top run-getters Imran Butt was the stand out batsman with 934 runs at an average of 62.27 in nine matches. The right-handed 24-year-old batsman scored four centuries, including a double-century, and three half-centuries. Central Punjab’s Kamran Akmal and Salman Butt were the second and third highest run-getters with 906 and 901 in 11 and 10 matches. Both batsmen registered three centuries and three half-centuries each, with Salman, who scored at an imposing average of 75.08, making a double-century. Sami Aslam, fourth on the list, had the highest batting average amongst the top run-getters. He made 864 runs at a scintillating average of 78.44 with four centuries, including a double in his team’s tournament opener against Central Punjab at Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore, and a half-century. Northern’s Faizan Riaz, promoted to first XI mid-season, made 857 runs at an impressive average of 71.42 in eight matches and was fifth higest run-getter. Spinners’ domination Central Punjab were also dominant in the bowling department with seven – the most – of the 26 five-wicket hauls coming from their side as pacer Aizaz Cheema and off-spinner Bilal Asif picked up two five-fers each. It was Northern captain Nauman Ali, however, who stamped his authority in the bowling department with as many as five-wicket hauls in 10 matches. The left-arm orthodox was the highest wicket-taker in the tournament with 54 scalps and had the best bowling figures in an innings in the tournament with eight for 71. The next four, in the list of highest wicket-takers, were also spinners. Same as the on the list of highest run-getters, the second and third spots were occupied by Central Punjab’s bowlers with spinners Bilal, who took eight for 112 in Northern’s second innings in the final, taking 43 and Zafar Gohar, the player of the tournament, taking 38. Zafar also made the record for best bowling figures in the match with 11 for 133 against Northern at Faisalabad’s Iqbal Stadium. Balochistan’s Mohammad Asghar and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s Sajid Khan were fourth and fifth with 27 and 25. Kamran Akmal with most scalps in gloves The champions of the 2019-20 season were at the forefront in wicketkeeping department as well, thanks to Kamran. He accounted for 41 batsmen – 38 catches and three stumpings – in 11 matches. The next on the list was his younger brother Adnan Akmal, who donning Southern Punjab’s colours, had 33 dismissals to his name. With 26 dismissals in seven matches, Sindh captain Sarfaraz Ahmed is at number three. Balochistan’s Imran had the most number of catches for a non-wicketkeeper fielder with 16 grabs in nine matches. Highest team scores: ·         Central Punjab 675-8d against Northern in the final ·         Balochistan 553-8d against Khyber Pakhtunkhwa in the fifth round ·         Northern 550-6 against Southern Punjab in the fifth round ·         Southern Punjab 546 all-out against Sindh in the fourth round ·         Khyber Pakhtunkhwa 526-9d against Northern in the first round ·         Sindh 515 all-out against Balochistan in the 10th round Team performances: ·         Central Punjab – Wins 4, Loses 1, Draws 6 ·         Northern – Wins 3, Loses 3, Draws 5 ·         Khyber Pakhtunkhwa – Wins 2, Losses 1, Draws 7 ·         Southern Punjab – Wins 1, Losses 0, Draws 9 ·         Sindh – Wins 0, Losses 2, Draws 8 ·         Balochistan – Wins 0, Losses 3, Draws 7

By Abdul Jabbar Faisal ISLAMABAD (January 1, 2020):-The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) fulfilled one more of its promises to the fans and followers when it announced the schedule of the HBL Pakistan Super League 2020 with all 34 matches to be played across four international venues of the country from 20 February to 22 March. The schedule announcement was part of the 50 days to go to HBL Pakistan Super League 2020 celebrations that also featured the launching of the countdown clock, which has been mounted at the main entrance of the Gaddafi Stadium – the home of Pakistan cricket. Reigning champions Quetta Gladiators will open the event at the back of an opening ceremony at the National Stadium in Karachi when they will go toe to toe with two-time former winners Islamabad United, while curtains will fall on the fifth edition of one of the most popular and followed leagues on 22 March at the Gaddafi Stadium. National Stadium will also play host to the Qualifier between the top two sides, whereas the Gaddafi Stadium will be the venue of the two Eliminators and the final. Of the 34 event matches, National Stadium will stage nine matches and Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium will play host to 14 matches. Multan Sultans will play three games at the Multan Cricket Stadium, while Pindi Cricket Stadium will be the venue for eight matches. According to the event schedule, defending champions Quetta Gladiators will play three matches in Lahore, four in Karachi, one in Multan and two in Rawalpindi; while Peshawar Zalmi, the 2017 winners and the 2019 losing finalists, will be in action in one match each in Lahore and Multan, three in Karachi and five in Rawalpindi. Islamabad United will play three matches in Lahore, two in Karachi and five in Rawalpindi; Karachi Kings will play two matches in Lahore, five in Karachi, one in Multan and two in Rawalpindi; Multan Sultans will play five matches in Lahore, one in Karachi, three in Multan and one in Rawalpindi; and Lahore Qalandars will play eight matches in Lahore and one each in Karachi and Rawalpindi. PCB Chairman Ehsan Mani said: “After bringing Test cricket back to Pakistan, hosting of the entire HBL Pakistan Super League is our other major achievement. I never had any doubts it was Pakistan’s league and should be played in front of home crowds. We had made this commitment to the people of Pakistan at the end of last year’s event and I am pleased today we have announced the event schedule with four centres to share the 34 event matches between them. “The HBL Pakistan Super League 2020 will feature 36 foreign stars. It was gratifying that 425 overseas players from 22 countries registered their interest in playing in the HBL PSL 2020. Of these, 39 from Afghanistan, 12 from Australia, 23 from Bangladesh, 10 from Canada, 109 from England, seven from Hong Kong, six from Ireland, seven from the Netherlands, eight from Nepal, 11 from New Zealand, nine from Oman, five from Scotland, four from Singapore, 27 from South Africa, 39 from Sri Lanka, nine from the UAE, six from the USA, 82 from the West Indies, 9 from Zimbabwe and one each from Bermuda, Kenya and Namibia. “This shows the confidence that players throughout the world have in playing in Pakistan. “Through this event, we expect economy and tourism to get significant boost, which will have a direct impact on the overall health of the country. “For the fans, this will be a long-awaited opportunity to see their cricketing heroes live in action and reinforce their love for this great game. I am expecting like last year, the entire country will get behind this tournament and by turning up in big numbers, they will once again show the world their passion for cricket. “For the PCB itself, the schedule announcement means we will now work flat-out until the final ball is bowled to ensure we produce an event that is memorable for all stakeholders, including the players, commercial partners, fans and media. “I want to especially thank the local governments and security agencies for their support and assistance. They have gone out of their way to facilitate the PCB in bringing HBL PSL back to Pakistan, for which we are grateful.” Event schedule 20 Feb – Opening ceremony to be followed by star Quetta Gladiators v Islamabad United, National Stadium (Start time TBC) 21 Feb – Karachi Kings v Peshawar Zalmi, National Stadium (2pm-5.15pm); Lahore Qalandars v Multan Sultans, Gaddafi Stadium (7pm-10.15pm) 22 Feb – Quetta Gladiators v Peshawar Zalmi, National Stadium (2pm-5.15pm); Islamabad United v Multan Sultans, Gaddafi Stadium (7pm-10.15pm) 23 Feb – Karachi Kings v Quetta Gladiators, National Stadium (2pm-5.15pm); Lahore Qalandars v Islamabad United, Gaddafi Stadium (7pm-10.15pm) 26 Feb – Multan Sultans v Peshawar Zalmi, Multan Cricket Stadium (7pm-10.15pm) 27 Feb – Islamabad United v Quetta Gladiators, Pindi Cricket Stadium (7pm-10.15pm) 28 Feb – Multan Sultans v Karachi Kings, Multan Cricket Stadium (2pm-5.15pm); Peshawar Zalmi v Lahore Qalandars, Pindi Cricket Stadium (7pm-10.15pm) 29 Feb – Multan Sultans v Quetta Gladiators, Multan Cricket Stadium (2pm-5.15pm); Islamabad United v Peshawar Zalmi, Pindi Cricket Stadium (7pm-10.15pm) 1 Mar – Islamabad United v Karachi Kings, Pindi Cricket Stadium (7pm-10.15pm) 2 Mar – Peshawar Zalmi v Karachi Kings, Pindi Cricket Stadium (7pm-10.15pm) 3 Mar – Quetta Gladiators v Lahore Qalandars, Gaddafi Stadium (7pm-10.15pm) 4 Mar – Islamabad United v Lahore Qalandars, Gaddafi Stadium (7pm-10.15pm) 5 Mar – Peshawar Zalmi v Quetta Gladiators, Pindi Cricket Stadium (7pm-10.15pm) 6 Mar – Karachi Kings v Multan Sultans, Gaddafi Stadium (7pm-10.15pm) 7 Mar – Peshawar Zalmi v Islamabad United, Pindi Cricket Stadium (2pm-5.15pm); Lahore Qalandars v Quetta Gladiators, Gaddafi Stadium (7pm-10.15pm) 8 Mar – Multan Sultans v Islamabad United, Pindi Cricket Stadium (2pm-5.15pm); Lahore Qalandars v Karachi Kings, Gaddafi Stadium (7pm-10.15pm) 10 Mar – Lahore Qalandars v Peshawar Zalmi, Gaddafi Stadium (7pm-10.15pm) 11 Mar – Quetta Gladiators v Multan Sultans, Gaddafi Stadium (7pm-10.15pm) 12 Mar – Karachi Kings v Lahore Qalandars, National Stadium (7pm-10.15pm) 13 Mar – Peshawar Zalmi v Multan Sultans, National Stadium (7pm-10.15pm) 14 Mar – Karachi Kings v Islamabad United, National Stadium (7pm-5.15pm) 15 Mar – Multan Sultans v Lahore Qalandars, Gaddafi Stadium (2pm-5.15pm); Quetta Gladiators v Karachi Kings, National Stadium (7pm-10.15pm) 17 Mar – Qualifier (1 v 2), National Stadium (7pm-10.15pm) 18 Mar – Eliminator 1 (3 v 4), Gaddafi Stadium (7pm-10.15pm) 20 Mar – Eliminator 2 (loser Qualifier v winner Eliminator 1), Gaddafi Stadium (7pm-10.15pm) 22 Mar – Final, Gaddafi Stadium (start time TBC)