Sports Bulletin

Lahore (PR): PCB Medical Panel yesterday received radiology reports of Mohammad Rizwan and Muhammad Irfan Khan. After reviewing the reports and in consultation with the Pakistan team management, it has been decided to rest the two players from Thursday’s and Saturday’s T20Is against New Zealand. The two players will work on their rehabilitation with the PCB Medical Panel at NCA.

Sport Bulletin ReportRAWALPINDI: Pakistan defeated New Zealand by 7 wickets in the 2nd T20 International match here at Pindi Cricket Stadium on Saturday night.Pakistan Captain Babar Azam won the toss and decided to field first. New Zealand made 90 all out in 18.1 overs. Mark Chapman was the top scorer with 19 runs for New Zealand, as he hit 3 fours. Cole McConchie made 15 runs including 1 four, Dean Foxcroft got 13 runs on 14 balls with the help of 1 four and a huge six, and Tim Seifert smashed 12 runs with 1 four and 1 big six. Shaheen Shah Afridi achieved 3 wickets for 13 runs, Mohammad Amir and Shadab Khan shared 2 wickets each.Pakistan achieved their target in 12.1 overs by showing excellent batting. Mohammad Rizwan was the top scorer with 45 off 34 runs, as he hit 4 fours and 1 big six. Irfan Khan could make only 18 runs off 18 balls with 1 four and 1 six, Babar Azam hit 14 runs and smashed 3 fours. Ben Lister, Ish Sodhi, and Micheal Bracewell each took 1 wicket.Summarized scorecard:New Zealand (Batting) 90 all out in 18.1 OversMark Chapman (19 runs, 16 balls, 4x3, 6x0), Cole McConchie (15 runs, 18 balls, 4x1, 6x0), Dean Foxcroft (13 runs, 14 balls, 4x1, 6x1), Tim Seifert (12 runs, 10 balls, 4x1, 6x1)Pakistan (Bowling)Shaheen Shah Afridi (3 for 13), Mohammad Amir (2 for 13), Shadab Khan (2 for 15)Pakistan (Batting) 92 for 3 runs in 12.1 OversMohammad Rizwan (45 runs not out, 34 balls, 4x4, 6x1), Irfan Khan (18 runs, 18 balls, 4x1, 6x1), Babar Azam 9 14 runs, 13 balls, 4x3, 6x0)New Zealand (Bowling)Ben Lister(1 for 10), Ish Sodhi (1 for 18), Micheal Bracewell (1 for 19)

Abdul Jabbar FaisalRAWALPINDI: New Zealand bundled out on a meager total of 90 runs in 18.1 overs against Pakistan in the 2nd T20 match here at Pindi Cricket Stadium on Saturday night. Pakistan need just 91 runs in 20 overs.Pakistan (Playing XI): Babar Azam (captain), Abrar Ahmed, Iftikhar Ahmed, Irfan Khan, Mohammad Amir, Mohammad Rizwan (Wicketkeeper), Naseem Shah, Saim Ayub, Shadab Khan, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Usman KhanNew Zealand (Playing XI): Michael Bracewell (captain), Mark Chapman, Jacob Duffy, Dean Foxcroft, Ben Lister, Cole McConchie, James Neesham, Tim Robinson, Ben Sears, Tim Seifert (Wicketkeeper), Ish Sodhi

Sports Bulletin ReportRAWALPINDI: Burly wicketkeeper batter, Azam Khan has been advised to undergo a 10-day rest following radiology reports confirming a Grade One tear of his right calf muscle. Consequently, Azam will be unable to participate in the ongoing T20I series against New Zealand, which culminates in Lahore on April 27.According to media department of Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), Azam will now depart from the Pakistan men’s cricket team and report to the National Cricket Academy, where he will commence his rehabilitation process under the supervision of the PCB medical panel.It is pertinent to mention here that the discomfort in Azam's right calf was first noticed during batting practice in the pre-first T20I training session at the Pindi Cricket Stadium Rawalpindi. 

Abdul Jabbar FaisalRAWALPINDI: Pakistan captain Babar Azam has won the toss and decided to field first in the 2nd T20 match against New Zealand here at Pindi Cricket Stadium on Saturday night.Pakistan (Playing XI): Babar Azam (captain), Abrar Ahmed, Iftikhar Ahmed, Irfan Khan, Mohammad Amir, Mohammad Rizwan (Wicketkeeper), Naseem Shah, Saim Ayub, Shadab Khan, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Usman KhanNew Zealand (Playing XI):Michael Bracewell (captain), Mark Chapman, Jacob Duffy, Dean Foxcroft, Ben Lister, Cole McConchie, James Neesham, Tim Robinson, Ben Sears, Tim Seifert (Wicketkeeper), Ish Sodhi

Sports Bulletin ReportEdgbaston (UK): The World Championship of Legends has achieved an extraordinary milestone by surpassing worth 100K USD in ticket sales on its inaugural day, setting a new standard in the world of cricket.Firstly, the championship has received the prestigious approval of a Test Playing Nation, notably the England Cricket Board, establishing the Edgbaston Cricket Ground in Birmingham as its distinguished home. This endorsement has not only added prestige but also credibility to the championship, setting it apart from others in its category.One of the major highlights driving ticket sales is the highly anticipated clash between cricketing powerhouses India and Pakistan. This legendary rivalry has captured the imagination of fans globally, promising an electrifying atmosphere and unparalleled competition on the field.Furthermore, the championship boasts the largest pool of cricketers, including iconic names like Yuvraj Singh, Harbhajan Singh, Suresh Raina, Brett Lee, Shahid Afridi, Kevin Pietersen, Ian Bell, Jacques Kallis, Darren Sammy, and many others. This star-studded lineup promises high-quality cricket and unforgettable performances on the field. 

Sports Bulletin ReportLAHORE: Fast bowler Ihsanullah left for Manchester, England, on Sunday morning for his crucial appointment on Monday with esteemed orthopedic surgeon, Professor Adam Watts, regarding his elbow injury. Professor Watts specialises in hand and wrist surgery, shoulder and elbow procedures, sports injuries, and trauma surgery.Ihsanullah's franchise, Multan Sultans, has collaborated with the PCB to secure this appointment. The PCB, as Ihsanullah’s parent body, will cover all expenses for his treatment and rehabilitation.

Sports Bulletin ReportRAWALPINDI: The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) today announced match officials for the Pakistan versus New Zealand five-match T20I series, which will roll into action on April 18 at Pindi Cricket Stadium Rawalpindi.According to media department of PCB, Andy Pycroft, a member of the Emirates ICC Elite Panel of Match Referees, will lead the playing control team that includes five umpires, namely Ahsan Raza (elite panelist), Aleem Dar, Asif Yaqoob, Faisal Afridi and Rashid Riaz (all from the ICC’s international panel), who will share umpiring responsibilities.The Pindi Stadium will stage the opening three T20Is on 18, 20 and 21 April before action will move to Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium where the last two matches will be played on 25 and 27 April.Umpire and match referee appointments:18 April – First T20I. Ahsan Raza and Aleem Dar (on-field umpires), Faisal Afridi (third umpire), Rashid Riaz (fourth umpire); Andy Pycroft (match referee)20 April – Second T20I. Asif Yaqoob and Aleem Dar (on-field umpires), Ahsan Raza (third umpire), Faisal Afridi (fourth umpire); Andy Pycroft (match referee)21 April – Third T20I. Ahzan Raza and Asif Yaqoob (on-field umpires), Rashid Riaz (third umpire), Aleem Dar (fourth umpire); Andy Pycroft (match referee)25 April – Fourth T20I. Faisal Afridi and Rashid Riaz (on-field umpires), Asif Yaqoob (third umpire), Ahsan Raza (fourth umpire); Andy Pycroft (match referee)27 April – Rashid Riaz and Faisal Afridi (on-field umpires), Aleem Dar (third umpire), Asif Yaqoob (fourth umpire); Andy Pycroft (match referee)

Imad and Amir named in a 17-player squad, Irfan and Usman earn maiden Pakistan selectionSports Bulletin ReportLAHORE: The National Selection Committee (NSC) for Men of Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) announced a 17-man squad for the T20 International Series against New Zealand, which will be played from April 18 to 27 in Rawalpindi and Lahore aiming to set a suitable squad for forthcoming T20 World Cup, which will be played United States of America and West Indies simultaneously in June this year 2024.Uncapped middle-order batter Mohammad Irfan Khan and opener batter Usman Khan have been included in the 17-player squad led by skipper Babar Azam. Both new players have earned the selectors’ nod following impressive performances in the HBL Pakistan Super League.Irfan Khan of Karachi Kings was adjudged the Emerging Player and Best Fielder of the HBL PSL 9 after scoring 171 runs at a strike-rate of 140.16. Overall, the 21-year-old Mianwali-born Irfan has featured in 34 T20s in which he has scored 499 runs at a strike-rate of 135.96. Irfan has also represented Pakistan in the ICC U19 Cricket World Cups 2020 and 2022.Usman Khan of Multan Sultans smashed two centuries and two half-centuries in the most recent event to help his side reach the final where they lost to Islamabad United in a last-ball thriller. In the HBL PSL 8, the 28-year-old Karachi-born right-hander had smashed a 36-ball century against Quetta Gladiators - the fastest century in the tournament’s history. Overall, Usman has featured in 36 T20s in which he has scored 1,207 runs at a strike-rate of 146.12.Irfan Khan on his selection said: “I am deeply honoured to have been selected in the Pakistan squad for the upcoming T20I series against New Zealand. Breaking into such a formidable team like Pakistan is a testament to the dedication and effort I have put into my game. Now, my focus is on seizing this opportunity and solidifying my position within the team. I am fully committed to continuing to work diligently and proving myself worthy of the trust placed in me by the captain and selectors.”Usman Khan said on his selection: “Being chosen to represent one’s country is the ultimate dream and goal for any athlete. Today, I am absolutely thrilled and filled with joy as the selectors have granted me the opportunity to be part of the upcoming series against New Zealand. This selection validates the relentless effort and dedication I have poured into my craft, and I am fully committed to upholding the high standards I have set for myself.”Selection committee member and batting coach Mohammad Yousuf said: “On behalf of the selection committee, I extend heartfelt congratulations to Mohammad Irfan Khan and Usman Khan on their inclusion in the Pakistan men’s cricket team for the upcoming home series against New Zealand. Both players have undeniably earned their spots through a string of consistent, outstanding performances. We hold great optimism and belief in their potential to become key impact players, yet recognise that this requires ongoing dedication and effort. I trust that both players will continue their upward trajectory, sparing no effort in proving themselves worthy of the selectors' and captain's trust and confidence.”Abrar retained, Imad and Mohammad Amir recalled:The other uncapped player in the squad is wrist spinner Abrar Ahmed. He was named in the squad for the T20I series against New Zealand earlier this year, but returned after Australia Tests due to fitness reasons. He will be the second wrist spinner in the side along with Usama Mir.Also named in the squad are all-rounder Imad Wasim and fast bowler Mohammad Amir. The two experienced campaigners had become available after coming out of retirement last month.Imad has played 66 T20Is in which he has scored 486 runs at a strike-rate of 131.7 and taken 65 wickets at an economy-rate of 6.26. He last played for Pakistan 12 months ago at his home ground in Rawalpindi against New Zealand.Amir, who last played for Pakistan in August 2020 at Old Trafford against England, has played in 50 T20Is in which he has taken 59 wickets at an economy-rate of 7.02.Selection committee member and senior team manager Wahab Riaz said: “The decision to include Imad Wasim and Mohammad Amir was a straightforward one, given their availability for selection and considering Haris Rauf's injury and Mohammad Nawaz's current form. Both Amir and Imad possess undeniable match-winning capabilities, and we trust they will consistently deliver strong performances to bolster the team's objectives. We have communicated our overarching selection policy and strategy to all elite players, and there is complete alignment within the group. To ensure the policy's implementation in letter and spirit, I will closely collaborate with the team management during the series. As we prepare for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024 in the USA and West Indies, this series holds significant importance for Pakistan. Rather than solely focusing on the formidable New Zealand side, we aim to introspect and identify areas for improvement. I anticipate that players will seize the opportunities presented to strengthen their claims for the World Cup.”Names of Players: Babar Azam (captain), Abrar Ahmed, Azam Khan, Fakhar Zaman, Iftikhar Ahmed, Imad Wasim, Mohammad Abbas Afridi, Mohammad Rizwan, Mohmmad Amir, Mohammad Irfan Khan, Naseem Shah, Saim Ayub, Shadab Khan, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Usama Mir, Usman Khan, Zaman KhanNon-travelling reserves: Haseebullah, Mohammad Ali, Mohammad Wasim Jnr, Sahibzada Farhan, and Salman Ali Agha

Sports Bulletin ReportLAHORE: Pakistan captain Babar Azam has termed the pre-season camp in Kakul as highly successful, adding that it not only contributed to preparing the players for the long and challenging cricket season ahead but also strengthened unity and understanding amongst the group through strategically designed team bonding exercises and drills.Babar Azam was joined by Aamer Jamal, Azam Khan, Imad Wasim, Naseem Shah and Shadab Khan in paying tribute to the facilities, atmosphere, and support of the highly trained and skilled instructors. They also believed the 11 days spent at the location will help them successfully overcome the demands of upcoming challenges and contribute in producing strong performances.Twenty-nine elite cricketers attended the pre-season camp at the historic and iconic Pakistan Military Academy in Kakul from March 26 to April 6, with the training and drills designed by Pakistan Army experts and strategists. During the camp, there was a focus on team building aimed to enhance the physical and mental strength of the players, ensuring they were in the best condition to face the challenges ahead.Under the guidance of experienced trainers and coaches, the players underwent a comprehensive training regime tailored to elevate their fitness levels, agility, leadership, strategic thinking and overall performance on the field.Pakistan captain Babar Azam said: “This was my third boot camp, and with each visit, I’ve gleaned new insights. This time, our focus extended beyond physical fitness to encompass team bonding activities and performance-improving lectures. These elements are crucial considering our team environment where collective performance is paramount for achieving desired results. The notable deviation from previous camps was the absence of cricket-centric activities. Instead, the emphasis was squarely on physical conditioning, teamwork and mental resilience. Immersed in such an inspiring facility, guided by top-notch instructors and a well-structured programme, all the players have experienced significant growth. I’m confident that we’ll return to competitive cricket as better, fitter and mentally tougher athletes, thereby enhancing our overall performance. Unlike our usual routine during other camps and international series, we engaged in confidence-building exercises and team-building activities. Notably, we opted to share rooms, facilitating deeper connections among team members. These shared spaces fostered discussions ranging from strategic planning and team combinations to the evolution of cricket, latest innovations in the sport, analysis of opponents and our approach to each day's challenges. Given the upcoming cricket fixtures, this camp proves exceptionally valuable. It not only mitigates injury risks but also augments both individual skills and collective team performance.”All-rounder Aamer Jamal said: “These sessions were instrumental in enhancing both our speed and endurance. Given the high altitude of this location, unique training methods were necessary to ensure sufficient oxygen flow to our muscles, and I believe this aspect was one of the most valuable takeaways from our time here in Kakul. Visiting this iconic facility was truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience. The exceptional care and treatment we received added an extra layer of enjoyment and reward to this pre-season camp.”Wicketkeeper-batter Azam Khan said: “The rigorous training at higher altitudes has not only pushed us to our limits but has also markedly enhanced our overall fitness and strength. The picturesque location, steeped in history and achievements, served as a massive source of motivation for all of us, inspiring active participation in the drills and prompting us to make the most of this opportunity. My primary focus has been on enhancing my endurance, and the instructors have been incredibly supportive in this endeavor. While I understand that this is a gradual process, I feel well-prepared and equipped to assimilate all the learnings from this camp and continue working towards achieving the required standards. One of the most valuable aspects of this session has been the fostering of team bonding. We utilised this time to deepen our understanding of each other, drawing significant positive energy from these bonding exercises.”All-rounder Imad Wasim said: “Personally, I benefited tremendously as I was already focused on my rehabilitation and strength. These sessions and drills were markedly different from cricket-related training, but we dedicated extra hours that I'm confident will benefit us all in match situations. The time in Kakul was also crucial from a team bonding perspective. I've sensed, and I'm sure other players have too, that it was valuable to be here, spend time together, and grow closer to each other. This closeness will undoubtedly play a significant role in our performances.”Fast bowler Naseem Shah said: “After some time apart due to the HBL Pakistan Super League, it was truly gratifying to come together and recharge for the cricket challenges that lie ahead. Undoubtedly, there was a significant emphasis on physical fitness, as every athlete aspires to reach peak condition. In this regard, I believe we've successfully met our objectives, and I'll return as a fitter and more adept athlete. We wholeheartedly engaged in each drill, occasionally even competing against one another. This not only fostered camaraderie but also reinforced our unity and team spirit.”All-rounder Shadab Khan said: “It has been a new experience training at these marvelous facilities under the watchful eyes of the Pakistan Army trainers. Undoubtedly, all the cricketers will return with improved fitness levels and standards that will significantly contribute when they take the field in the upcoming challenges. The fitter our players are during the season, the greater our chances of success will be.”