Author: shahzad.malik

LAHORE: Fakhar Zaman has reportedly lodged an appeal against his two-match suspension in the ongoing Pakistan Super League (PSL) 11 over ball-tampering charges, sources confirmed on Wednesday.

The Lahore Qalandars opener was handed the ban earlier this week by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) after being found guilty of a Level 3 breach of the tournament’s Code of Conduct during their clash against Karachi Kings.

The controversy stems from an incident in the final stages of the match, where on-field umpires imposed a five-run penalty on Lahore Qalandars and ordered a ball change ahead of the last over of Karachi’s innings, a decision that proved decisive in the outcome of the contest.

Catch all the PSL 11 updates here!

Following the match, Fakhar was charged under Article 2.14 of the Code, which pertains to altering the condition of the ball in violation of the league’s playing conditions.

The charge was brought forward by umpires Shahid Saikat and Faisal Khan Aafreedi, along with TV umpire Asif Yaqoob and fourth umpire Tariq Rasheed.

The left-handed batter denied the allegations and opted for a full disciplinary hearing, which was conducted by match referee Roshan Mahanama.

Follow us on our Official WhatsApp channel

After reviewing the evidence and hearing the player’s defence, the referee upheld the charge and imposed the maximum penalty for a first Level 3 offence, a two-match suspension.

According to sources, Fakhar Zaman has now formally challenged the decision by submitting an appeal to the PSL Technical Committee, seeking a review of the sanction.

READ: Adam Zampa reveals why he opted for PSL instead of IPL

LAHORE: Emerging top-order batter Sameer Minhas has asserted that he is ready to play at any number for Islamabad United during the upcoming Pakistan Super League (PSL) season 11.

The 19-year-old, regarded as one of the most exciting young prospects in the country, was picked by Islamabad United for PKR 1.9 crore at the PSL’s first-ever players’ auction.

He was the standout performer in the ACC U19 Asia Cup 2025, playing a central role in Pakistan’s historic run to their maiden title.

During his brilliant campaign, he scored two centuries, including a 113-ball 172 against India in the final.

Earlier this year, he further underlined his credentials by scoring a 42-ball century in the U19 tri-series final against Zimbabwe, setting a new record for the fastest hundred in youth ODIs.

Now gearing up for his maiden PSL stint, Minhas believes the league offers a vital platform to break into the national side.

“PSL provides a great opportunity. If you perform here, you can make your way into the national team,” he said while speaking to the media in Lahore.

Follow us on our Official WhatsApp channel

“You get to play alongside domestic and foreign players, and you learn a lot from them. I am looking forward to learning from players like Devon Conway and Mark Chapman.”

Despite the expectations that come with his recent performances, Minhas insisted he feels no added pressure and remains focused on playing his natural game.

“There is no extra pressure on me; Allah has given me a lot of respect, and I will continue to play my natural game the way I always play,” he said.

Sameer Minhas also praised Islamabad United’s management for fostering a supportive environment for young players, reiterating his willingness to adapt to the team’s needs.

“Islamabad United is a very good franchise. They know I usually bat in the top order, and if I get that opportunity, I’ll do well there. But wherever the team needs me, I will give my 100 percent,” he said.

Islamabad United squad for PSL 11

Shadab Khan (c), Salman Irshad, Andries Gous, Devon Conway, Faheem Ashraf, Mehran Mumtaz, Max Bryant, Mark Chapman, Nisar Ahmed, Mir Hamza Sajjad, Sameen Gul, Sameer Minhas, Imad Wasim, Richard Gleeson, Haider Ali, Mohammad Hasnain, Dipendra Singh Airee, Mohammad Faiq and Mohammad Salman Mirza.

READ: Peshawar Zalmi rope in Brian Bennett for PSL 11

Quetta Gladiators captain Saud Shakeel has set his sights firmly on securing a place in Pakistan’s ODI World Cup 2027 squad, stating that the upcoming Pakistan Super League (PSL) season 11 presents a crucial opportunity to impress selectors.

Shakeel has been a mainstay in Pakistan’s Test team; however, he failed to cement a regular place in the ODI format.

He has represented Pakistan in 19 ODI games since his debut in 2021, featuring in the 2023 ODI World Cup and the 2025 Champions Trophy.

He has been out of the ODI team since the Champions Trophy match against arch-rivals India in February 2025.

Speaking ahead of the PSL 11, the left-handed batter made it clear that his performances in the league could play a defining role in shaping his international future.

“This season is very important for me. The ODI World Cup is coming up [next year], and I will aim to perform well to get the selectors’ attention,” Shakeel said.

Quetta Gladiators, who finished as runners-up in the previous edition after losing the final to Lahore Qalandars, will begin their campaign against Karachi Kings on March 27 in Lahore.

Under Shakeel’s leadership, the franchise will be looking to build on last season’s momentum while navigating a more competitive format.

Follow us on our Official WhatsApp channel

“We had a good performance in the last edition, but now we are starting afresh. Our effort will be to once again play a good brand of cricket,” he said.

Notably, preparations for the marquee event have taken a significant turn, with the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) revising its initial plans.

PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi, on Sunday, confirmed that the tournament will now be held across just two venues, Karachi and Lahore, and will be played behind closed doors without spectators.

Despite the absence of crowds, Shakeel remains optimistic about maintaining intensity and delivering quality cricket.

“Our passion and energy come from the fans. Unfortunately, they won’t be able to attend, but we would request them to watch from home and support us,” he said.

The upcoming edition marks a significant shift in the league’s structure, with eight teams participating for the first time, including debutants Hyderabad Kingsmen and Rawalpindiz.

“Our aim will be to play a strong brand of cricket again. The competition will be tougher this time with more teams, but we are ready for the challenge,” he added.

With a relatively new pace attack in place, the Gladiators’ skipper also emphasised the importance of finding the right combination early in the tournament.

Quetta Gladiators will begin their PSL 11 campaign against Karachi Kings on March 27 in Lahore, as they aim to go one step further this time and clinch the title.

Quetta Gladiators squad for PSL 11

Saud Shakeel (c), Usman Tariq, Hasan Nawaz, Shamyl Hussain, Alzarri Joseph, Rilee Rossouw, Ahmed Daniyal, Jahanzaib Sultan, Jahandad Khan, Khawaja Mohammad Nafay, Wasim Akram Jnr, Khan Zeb, Bismillah Khan, Saqib Khan, Brett Hampton, Sam Harper, Bevon Jacobs, Abrar Ahmed, Ben McDermott and Tom Curran.

READ: T20 World Cup 2026 smashed viewing figures: ICC

LAHORE: The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has announced a major overhaul to the upcoming Pakistan Super League (PSL) season 11, confirming that the tournament will now be staged at only two venues, Karachi and Lahore, with initial matches set to be played without spectators.

PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi revealed the decision during a press conference on Sunday, citing ongoing geopolitical tensions and an emerging oil crisis as key factors behind the move.

Originally, six cities, Karachi, Lahore, Multan, Rawalpindi, Faisalabad and Peshawar, were scheduled to host matches in the expanded eight-team edition.

However, the board has now reduced the number of venues to just two in order to streamline logistics and address security concerns.

“After consultations with the Prime Minister and security agencies, we have decided that the PSL will begin on March 26 as planned,” Naqvi stated.

“Initially, matches will be held without crowds, and this will continue depending on the global situation.”

Follow us on our Official WhatsApp channel

Mohsin Naqvi also confirmed that the opening ceremony of the tournament has been cancelled, with PSL 11 set to begin directly with the opening match on March 26.

“The opening ceremony of the league has been cancelled,” he said, adding, “The tournament will begin directly with the match.”

Defending champions Lahore Qalandars are scheduled to face Hyderabad Kingsmen at Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium in the curtain-raiser.

The PCB chief acknowledged the disappointment for fans, particularly in cities like Peshawar and Faisalabad, which were set to host PSL matches for the first time.

He expressed regret over the change in plans but emphasised that the board would aim to deliver high-quality coverage to ensure fans remain engaged.

Naqvi added that a revised schedule reflecting the updated venues will be released in due course.

Despite the changes, the tournament will continue to run until May 3, with the PCB opting to proceed with the league while adapting to the prevailing circumstances.

READ: PSL 11: Karachi Kings announce Johnson Charles replacement

LAHORE: The Pakistan Cricket Board has made a bold statement ahead of the Bangladesh tour, leaving out former captain Babar Azam from the 15-member ODI squad for the upcoming three-match series.

The series, scheduled from March 11 to 15, will see all matches played at the Shere Bangla National Cricket Stadium in Dhaka.

Alongside Babar, young opener Saim Ayub has also been excluded following underwhelming returns in recent white-ball outings.

Saim featured in eight ODIs in 2025, accumulating 236 runs at an average of 29.50, including two half-centuries.

Babar, meanwhile, scored 544 runs in 17 ODIs this year at an average of 34.00, registering one century and three fifties.

Veteran opener Fakhar Zaman, meanwhile, has been ruled out due to a hamstring injury and is currently undergoing rehabilitation.

Left-arm pacer Shaheen Shah Afridi will continue to lead the ODI side, with six uncapped players included in the squad.

The newcomers include Abdul Samad, Maaz Sadaqat, Muhammad Ghazi Ghori, Saad Masood, Sahibzada Farhan and Shamyl Hussain.

Notably, Abdul Samad, Maaz Sadaqat, Saad Masood and Shamyl Hussain were recently part of the Pakistan Shaheens squad that faced England Lions in Abu Dhabi.

Pakistan squad for Bangladesh ODIs

Shaheen Shah Afridi (c), Abdul Samad, Abrar Ahmed, Faheem Ashraf, Faisal Akram, Haris Rauf, Hussain Talat, Maaz Sadaqat, Mohammad Rizwan (wk), Mohammad Wasim Jnr, Muhammad Ghazi Ghori (wk), Saad Masood, Sahibzada Farhan, Salman Ali Agha and Shamyl Hussain

Series schedule:

March 8 – Pakistan arrival

March 10 – Practice

March 11 – First ODI at Shere Bangla National Cricket Stadium, Dhaka

March 13 – Second ODI at Shere Bangla National Cricket Stadium, Dhaka

March 15 – Third ODI at Shere Bangla National Cricket Stadium, Dhaka

READ: Sarfaraz Ahmed set to be appointed as Pakistan Test head coach: sources

LAHORE: The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is likely to appoint former captain Sarfaraz Ahmed as the Test head coach, with an official announcement expected in the coming days, ARY News reported on Wednesday, citing sources.

According to reports, Sarfaraz is likely to begin his tenure during Pakistan’s upcoming two-match Test series against Bangladesh in May.

The Test head coach position has remained vacant since the departure of Azhar Mahmood in October 2025.

Azhar had been appointed interim head coach in June 2025, with his contract initially set to run until March 2026.

He oversaw Pakistan’s home series against South Africa, which ended in a 1-1 draw against the reigning world Test champions.

However, with no red-ball assignments scheduled until the Bangladesh tour in 2026, both Azhar and the PCB mutually agreed to conclude his tenure earlier than planned.

Before stepping into the interim role, Azhar had served as an all-formats assistant coach since April 2024.

Follow us on our Official WhatsApp channel

Sarfaraz’s elevation comes on the back of his recent stint as mentor of Pakistan’s Under-19 side.

Under his guidance, Pakistan clinched the ACC U19 Asia Cup 2025 title after defeating India in the final, a triumph that significantly strengthened his credentials for a senior role.

However, the team fell short at the ICC U19 World Cup 2026, exiting at the Super Six stage without reaching the semi-finals.

Sources suggest the PCB views the leadership experience of Sarfaraz Ahmed as a key factor in entrusting him with the Test side.

Pakistan are scheduled to tour Bangladesh in May for a two-match Test series, with the first Test beginning on May 8 and the second on May 16.

A seasoned wicketkeeper-batter, the 38-year-old has been one of Pakistan’s reliable performers in the longer format. In 54 Tests, he has scored 3,031 runs at an average of 37.41, including four centuries and 21 half-centuries.

In One Day Internationals, Sarfaraz accumulated 2,315 runs in 117 matches at 33.55, registering two centuries and 11 fifties. He also represented Pakistan in 61 T20Is, scoring 818 runs at a strike rate of 125.26.

READ: Ali Tareen reacts to Multan Sultans’ return to PSL

LAHORE: The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has decided to impose a fine of Rs 5 million on each player following the national team’s disappointing campaign at the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026.

According to sources, the board has made it clear to the players that financial benefits will now be strictly tied to performance.

Pakistan failed to qualify for the semi-final as their campaign ended in the Super Eights stage of the tournament.

In their final match, the Green Shirts secured a narrow five-run victory over Sri Lanka but failed to progress as New Zealand advanced on the basis of a superior run rate.

Earlier, in the group stage, Pakistan won three out of their four matches. They opened their tournament with an unconvincing win against the Netherlands, following it up with a decisive victory over USA.

However, they were completely outplayed by their bitter rivals, India, by 61 runs.

They won their last fixture against Namibia to advance to the Super Eights. But a washout against New Zealand and a subsequent defeat to England ultimately left their semi-final hopes hanging in the balance.

For those unaware, an A-category player receives a monthly salary of 4.5 million rupees plus 2.07 million rupees as a share from ICC revenue. Meanwhile, Match fees are separate.

B-category players receive 3 million rupees monthly and 1.5525 million rupees as ICC share.

C-category players get 1 million rupees monthly and 1.035 million rupees ICC share. D-category players earn 750,000 rupees monthly and 517,500 rupees ICC share.

Notably, under the current central contracts (July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2026), no player has been placed in the A category.

READ: Slot makes candid admission about Premier League

Tariq Bugti has stepped down as President of the Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF), while national men’s team captain Ammad Shakeel Butt has been handed a two-year ban by the federation.

Bugti submitted his resignation to Shehbaz Sharif and defended his performance in a farewell statement, pointing to an improvement in Pakistan’s global standing.

“Our world ranking was 18th, and now it stands at 13th. This is our accomplishment,” he said, adding that he had “tried utmost for two years” to push the national team forward.

He also thanked the government for allocating Rs250 million to support hockey during his tenure.

“The Prime Minister allocated 250 million rupees for hockey and released the funds. I am primarily grateful to the Prime Minister for allowing me to serve for two years,” he added.

However, Bugti acknowledged persistent administrative hurdles, particularly during the national team’s recent tour of Australia.

He claimed the tour was marred by issues involving the Pakistan Sports Board (PSB), stressing that the federation lacked sufficient independent funds to manage operations smoothly.

Despite stepping aside, Bugti expressed optimism about the team’s future in the upcoming qualifiers and revealed that the schedule had already been submitted to the Sports Board by Rana Mujahid.

“The team will perform well in the upcoming qualifying round,” he predicted.

He also called for a high-level inquiry into recent incidents of what he termed “privilege indiscipline,” urging authorities to ensure accountability for any wrongdoing.

The resignation comes amid fallout from viral videos during the FIH Pro League leg in Australia, which showed Pakistan players living in substandard accommodation due to logistical and financial complications.

Initial hotel bookings were reportedly cancelled over non-payment, forcing team management to arrange alternative lodging with the help of the local community, often with four to five players sharing a single room and bookings falling short of covering the full stay.

On the field, Pakistan endured a disappointing campaign, remaining winless in Australia with defeats against Australia (3-2, 3-0) and Germany (5-2, 6-1).

Looking ahead, Pakistan are scheduled to continue their FIH Pro League campaign with matches against Belgium on June 13 and 20, Spain on June 14, followed by high-profile clashes with arch-rivals India on June 23 and 26, and England on June 24 and 27.

READ: Bangladesh’s new sports minister pushes for swift resolution with India

LAHORE: The meeting between the International Cricket Council (ICC) and Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) officials is currently underway here on Sunday to revive Pakistan-India clash in the T20 World Cup 2026.

According to sources privy to the matter, the outcome of the talks could prove pivotal for the tournament and the future handling of politically sensitive fixtures in international cricket.

The ICC delegation, led by Deputy Chairman Imran Khwaja, arrived in Lahore in the evening.

According to sources, the ICC has tasked Khwaja with persuading PCB leadership to reconsider Pakistan’s stance, with the governing body keen to reach a compromise that ensures the blockbuster encounter proceeds as scheduled.

Meanwhile, the Emirates Cricket Board (ECB) has also urged the PCB to reconsider the boycott decision ahead of the India clash, citing the game’s long-term interests.

Earlier, the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) president, Aminul Islam Bulbul, met with PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi.

Follow us on our Official WhatsApp channel

During the meeting, BCB president Aminul Islam expressed gratitude for the support of Bangladesh’s stance in the World Cup row against India.

PCB CEO Salman Naseer and advisor Amir Mir were also present in the meeting.

For those unaware, the meetings come on the back of the much-anticipated fixture between arch-rivals India and Pakistan, widely regarded as one of cricket’s most commercially significant contests, remains uncertain after the Government of Pakistan directed its national team not to take the field against India in Colombo.

The match is scheduled for February 15 and carries massive implications both financially and competitively.

The 20-team tournament has already been clouded by political tensions following Bangladesh’s refusal to play matches in India due to security concerns, a decision that led to their replacement by Scotland.

In response, the Pakistan government barred the national side from participating in the high-profile Group A encounter against co-hosts India.

Pakistan, who opened their campaign with a victory over the Netherlands on February 7, stand to lose two vital points and suffer a significant blow to their net run rate if they forfeit the contest.

READ: Paul Stirling joins Rohit Sharma in elite T20 World Cup list

LAHORE: A high-level International Cricket Council (ICC) delegation is set to meet the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman, Mohsin Naqvi, here today to resolve the ongoing deadlock over the India-Pakistan clash in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, sources revealed.

The much-anticipated fixture between arch-rivals India and Pakistan, widely regarded as one of cricket’s most commercially significant contests, remains uncertain after the Government of Pakistan directed its national team not to take the field against India in Colombo.

The match is scheduled for February 15 and carries massive implications both financially and competitively.

The 20-team tournament has already been clouded by political tensions following Bangladesh’s refusal to play matches in India due to security concerns, a decision that led to their replacement by Scotland.

In response, the Pakistan government barred the national side from participating in the high-profile Group A encounter against co-hosts India.

Pakistan, who opened their campaign with a victory over the Netherlands on February 7, stand to lose two vital points and suffer a significant blow to their net run rate if they forfeit the contest.

Follow us on our Official WhatsApp channel

According to sources, the ICC delegation, led by Deputy Chairman Imran Khwaja, is expected to arrive in Lahore around 4pm.

The delegation will hold discussions with PCB leadership and senior officials to explore a possible way forward.

Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) President Aminul Islam is also likely to join the meeting, reflecting the broader regional dimensions of the issue.

Sources further indicated that the ICC has tasked Khwaja with convincing PCB leadership to reconsider Pakistan’s stance, with the governing body keen to find a compromise that ensures the blockbuster encounter proceeds as scheduled.

The outcome of the talks could prove pivotal for the tournament and the future handling of politically sensitive fixtures in international cricket.

READ: Gulbadin Naib achieves major milestone during New Zealand clash