Author: shahzad.malik

Multan Sultans’ Director Nadeem Khan on Monday confirmed that the franchise supports the Pakistan Cricket Board’s (PCB) decision to reschedule two matches of PSL 10.

The PCB, on Sunday, announced that due to operational challenges and intense heat in parts of the country, the May 1 double-header between Multan Sultans and Karachi Kings would be moved from the Multan Cricket Stadium to Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore.

Additionally, the final Multan-leg fixture — originally scheduled against Quetta Gladiators — will now be played on the evening of May 11.

Speaking to the media, Nadeem Khan confirmed that the franchise was consulted ahead of the rescheduling.

“We have been consulted to shift the match. We were given three options that we accepted,” he said.

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While acknowledging the downside, he made it clear that the Sultans remain aligned with the PCB’s intent.

“The decision has caused us financial loss and fans have been deprived of cricket, but we stand by the PCB’s decision,” Nadeem added.

It’s worth noting that Multan Sultans, the finalists in every PSL edition since their 2021 title win, are surprisingly struggling in PSL 10. With just two points from six games, they sit at the bottom of the table.

When asked about the underperformance, Nadeem didn’t shy away from calling out the gap in execution, particularly from their high-profile foreign signings.

Catch all the PSL 10 updates here!

“Our overseas players haven’t performed the way we expected this time,” he admitted.

However, he was quick to acknowledge the efforts of local performers.

“Ubaid Shah has bowled really well in this tournament,” he noted. “Rizwan is our top scorer, and Kamran Ghulam has delivered whenever he’s been given an opportunity.”

Despite posting competitive totals in a few matches, Nadeem pointed out that the team has been leaking runs at crucial stages.

“We’ve put up good totals, but unfortunately, we haven’t been able to defend them — our bowling has been lacking,” he remarked.

READ: Kane Williamson reveals his favourite Pakistani food

Islamabad United’s opening batter, Andries Gous, praised Shadab Khan’s aggressive captaincy during the ongoing Pakistan Super League (PSL) season 10.

While addressing the media, Gous reflected on his experience in the tournament, stating that he is enjoying his time in the league while praising the leadership of Shadab Khan.

“I am really enjoying my time here, and everybody is so humble. He [Shadab] is a very good captain. I liked the fact that he is aggressive; he likes to take the game on with both bat and ball, and he’s playing under him, ” he said.

Gous praised the Islamabad United depth, emphasizing that there is no pressure to perform.

“We are just trying to keep it simple, and we are really balanced side. Every player knows their role, and there is no pressure on any player for performance,” he added.

Catch all the PSL 10 updates here!

Reflecting on the pitch conditions in the PSL, Gous said that pitches in Pakistan are always good for batters.

When asked about the challenges posed by the competition, Gous acknowledged the high level of competition in the league.

“Every team is world-class, and everyone is trying to do their best. It all comes down to how you perform on the day and momentum,” Gous said.

The right-hander also recalled the memorable day Pakistan lost to the USA team in the 2024 T20 World Cup, deeming it a significant turning point in his team’s cricketing journey.

“It was a special day, and we were really happy after defeating Pakistan. After that win, our cricket changed,” he said.

The South Africa-born cricketer expressed hope for more matches against full-member nations in the future.

“We look forward to playing matches against full members and hopefully winning against them too,” he concluded.

READ: Kane Williamson names THESE two Pakistani bowlers who impressed him most

LAHORE: Ali Tareen, the owner of Multan Sultans, has proposed forming a board to promote the future growth of the Pakistan Super League (PSL).

While speaking during the match between Multan Sultans and Lahore Qalandars, Ali proposed forming a board to foster the league’s growth.

“If we are stuck in one place, we will not grow. A formal board should be established after PSL Season 10 to draft a strategy to take the league to the next level,” he said.

“I’m not claiming that everything has failed or been destroyed, but we should revitalize so we can grow collectively,” he added.

Addressing ticketing concerns, Tareen pointed out that online tickets often show as sold out in Multan but become available just before matches.

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“Online tickets often show as sold out in Multan, but they become available just before the matches. There should be an investigation into this matter,” he said.

Ali Tareen expressed his commitment to Multan’s Sultans, saying he is not looking to sell the franchise despite incurring financial losses.

“We are not looking to sell; we have heavily invested in this team. Although we have faced, and are still facing significant financial loss, we aim to acquire the franchise next year at the same valuation,” said Ali Tareen.

He reiterated that he is not looking to leave the Multan Sultans, stating that they want to rebid next season.

“There is no chance we will leave Multan Sultans. We just want to rebid on the franchise at a fair valuation,” he concluded.

Catch all the PSL 10 updates here!

A few days earlier, Ali Tareen echoed similar sentiments, stating that they were reassessing their franchise agreement, but there are no immediate plans to exit.

“I never said I’m abandoning Multan Sultans,” Tareen said. “We are simply exploring options to re-evaluate our franchise agreement after the tenth edition of the HBL PSL.” he remarked.

READ: PSL 10: Sikandar, Mitchell power Lahore Qalandars to victory over Multan Sultans

LAHORE: Multan Sultans captain Mohammad Rizwan commented on the on-field altercation between Islamabad United’s top-order batter Colin Munro and his teammate Iftikhar Ahmed during the 13th match of the Pakistan Super League (PSL) season 10.

The incident occurred during the 10th over of Islamabad United’s run chase in Multan Cricket Stadium when left-handed batter Munro gestured towards the bowler Iftikhar Ahmed. In turn, Rizwan got involved in an argument with the batter.

While talking to the media, Mohammad Rizwan shed light on the incident, stating that it’s up to the umpire to judge a bowler’s action.

“It was discussed, and it’s up to the umpire and referee to handle the action and note it down,” he said.

Catch all the PSL 10 updates here!

Mohammad Rizwan reflected on Multan Sultans’ campaign in the ongoing PSL 10, expressing confidence that they can overcome mistakes in the upcoming matches.

“Things get tough when we lose. We will try to overcome our mistakes,” Mohammad Rizwan added.

Rizwan emphasized the team’s fielding errors while lamenting the absence of key players due to illness.

“We can’t afford to give any batter multiple chances here. Key players like Shai Hope and Aqif Javed were sidelined due to illness. We have to adjust the combination, especially with emerging players also getting a chance, ” he said.

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Rizwan noted that the team is not focused on their position in the points table, mentioning his own performance amid struggles with his strike rate.

“We are not concerned with the points table. We need to play good cricket and focus on upcoming matches. My strike rate has been good, but personally, I don’t focus on that.”

“I will do whatever the team demands, and we play according to the conditions. Sometimes, decisions are made based on the pitch,” Mohammad Rizwan concluded.

READ: Major blow for Karachi Kings as Adam Milne ruled out of PSL 10

LAHORE: Quetta Gladiators head coach Moin Khan has advocated for the inclusion of more teams in the Pakistan Super League to support cricket’s development in Pakistan.

While speaking to the media ahead of their clash against the Karachi Kings tomorrow, Moin Khan remained optimistic about the inclusion of new teams in PSL.

“More teams mean increased revenue, which can be invested back into cricket development. Plus, it gives young players more opportunities and a bigger platform to showcase their skills, ” he remarked.

“We’re in touch with the PCB and hopeful they’ll accommodate the new team. Their presence will have a real impact,” he added.

He expressed satisfaction with Quetta Gladiators’ progress, saying the side is growing stronger as the tournament progresses.

Catch all the PSL 10 updates here!

“We’re glad to have Mark Chapman onboard. His inclusion will definitely enhance the team’s performance,” Moin said.

He praised the overall standard of the PSL 10, highlighting that top players are participating in the event.

“The quality of the PSL is excellent. Top players are coming in, and franchises are giving chances to promising youngsters.”

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Moin highlighted that several young players are emerging from different franchises and said it’s a positive sign for Pakistan cricket.

“There’s good talent coming through. We’ve identified some of it, and the deserving players are getting opportunities,” he added.

Moin downplayed age concerns in T20 cricket, backing veteran all-rounder Shoaib Malik to shine despite criticism.

“An average age of 30 isn’t much. It brings experience,” he said while praising Shoaib Malik’s fitness and contributions to the side.

He also acknowledged the effect of dew in night matches and shed light on the playing conditions ahead of their crucial encounter against Karachi Kings.

“We’ve been practicing for the past three days. Dew becomes a big factor. If it continues, it’ll be a challenge. Chasing teams have a clear edge in such conditions,” he concluded.

READ: Pakistan’s Usman Wazeer knocks out India’s Eswaran in first round

LAHORE: ICC Women’s World Cup Qualifier participating teams visited the Wagah Border on Wednesday at the invitation of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman Mohsin Naqvi.

Both Pakistani and foreign women cricketers witnessed the thrilling flag-lowering ceremony and were deeply moved by the passionate display of patriotism.

The visiting foreign players, match officials, and umpires thoroughly enjoyed the event. They joined the Pakistani players in chanting “Pakistan Zindabad” and “Jeeway Jeeway Pakistan.”

The Rangers’ spectacular parade received loud applause from the women cricketers, who also took pictures with the personnel of the Pakistan Rangers Punjab.

Foreign players particularly admired and enjoyed the precision and spirit of the Rangers’ performance. Many players took selfies and praised the vibrant and energetic atmosphere of the ceremony.

“This was a unique and unforgettable experience for us. The enthusiasm of the Rangers and the crowd was simply amazing,” said the foreign women cricketers.

Pakistan Rangers Punjab also presented souvenirs to the team captains of participating teams as a token of goodwill.

It is pertinent to mention that the six-team ICC event, which includes Bangladesh, Ireland, Scotland, Thailand, and West Indies alongside hosts Pakistan, features a single-league round-robin format. The matches take place at the Gaddafi Stadium and LCCA ground in Lahore.

Catch all the PSL 10 updates here!

The tournament will decide the two qualifiers for the 2025 Women’s World Cup, which will be held later this year in India.

Pakistan team started the tournament well, winning three games and strengthening their chances of participating in the mega event. Green Shirts clinched victories against Scotland, Ireland, and the West Indies in a dominant display.

They will play Thailand tomorrow and the table-toppers Bangladesh on 19 April in a bid to qualify for the semi-final of the Women’s World Cup Qualifier.

READ: PSL 10: Multan Sultans win toss against Islamabad United

LAHORE: Pakistan team secured a comprehensive victory over Thailand by seven wickets in their first warm-up match of the ICC Women’s World Cup Qualifier here on Friday.

Pakistan women’s team chased down the meager total of 79 runs in 18.5 overs, losing only three wickets in the process.

The openers, Gull Feroza and Shawaal Zulfiqar, laid a solid foundation in pursuit of the total. Feroza remained the top scorer with her 28, while Shawaal was equally good with her knock of 16.

Muneeba Ali, the team’s vice-captain, was dismissed for one run, but Aliya Riaz and Sidra Amin remained unbeaten on 14 runs each, guiding Pakistan to victory.

Earlier, Pakistan bundled out Thailand for a modest 78 runs in 28.2 overs. Phannita Maya remained the top scorer with 26 runs in an otherwise disappointing batting display.

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For Pakistan, Nashra Sundhu wreaked havoc with the ball, taking four wickets for 11 runs. Diana Baig and Rameen Shamim took two wickets each to bowl out Thailand.

Pakistan will play their second warm-up match against West Indies women on 7 April.

The sixth edition of the Women’s Cricket World Cup Qualifier will kick off on 9 April in Lahore, featuring four full members – Pakistan, Bangladesh, West Indies, and Ireland – and associate members Scotland and Thailand.

ICC Women’s World Cup Qualifier warm-up matches schedule:

Match 1: Bangladesh Women vs. Scotland Women at 09:30 AM PKT​

Match 2: Pakistan Women vs. Thailand Women at 09:30 PM PKT​

Match 3: Ireland Women vs. West Indies Women at 09:30 PM PKT

Match 4: Bangladesh Women vs. Ireland Women at 09:30 AM PKT​

Match 5: Pakistan Women vs. West Indies Women at 09:30 PM PKT​

Match 6: Scotland Women vs. Thailand Women at 09:30 PM PKT

Pakistan squad for Women’s World Cup 2025 Qualifiers

Fatima Sana (captain), Muneeba Ali (vice-captain), Aliya Riaz, Diana Baig, Gull Feroza, Najiha Alvi (wicket-keeper), Nashra Sundhu, Natalia Parvaiz, Omaima Sohail, Rameen Shamim, Sadia Iqbal, Shawaal Zulfiqar, Sidra Amin, Sidra Nawaz (wicket-keeper) and Syeda Aroob Shah

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MOUNT MAUNGANUI: The Pakistan cricket team hit the ground running on Friday here at Bay Oval with their training session for the third ODI against New Zealand, set to be played on April 5.

The Green Shirts arrived in Mount Maunganui on Thursday, gearing up for the third and final ODI of the series against New Zealand. After a much-needed day of rest, the squad hit the nets today for an intense practice session.

However, persistent rain forced the team to move their training indoors at Bay Oval. Under the watchful eyes of the coaching staff, the players focused on refining their batting, bowling, and overall fitness through specialized drills.

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It’s worth noting that Pakistan’s tour of New Zealand has been anything but smooth. After a 4-1 drubbing in the T20I series, the Men in Green carried their poor form into the ODIs, losing the opener by 73 runs before conceding the series with an 84-run defeat in the second match earlier today.

With New Zealand already securing the series, the final ODI has been reduced to a dead rubber. Yet, for Pakistan, the match holds significance as an opportunity to salvage some pride after a tough tour.

Pakistan squad for ODI series against New Zealand

Mohammad Rizwan (c)(wk), Salman Ali Agha (vc), Abdullah Shafique, Abrar Ahmed, Akif Javed, Babar Azam, Faheem Ashraf, Imam-ul-Haq, Khushdil Shah, Mohammad Ali, Mohammad Wasim Jnr., Mohammad Irfan Khan, Naseem Shah, Sufiyan Muqeem, Tayyab Tahir, Haris Rauf, and Usman Khan.

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LAHORE: The warm-up matches for the highly anticipated ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup Qualifier will begin tomorrow in Lahore.

Pakistan’s squad, led by captain Fatima Sana, has reported to a local hotel along with the team management and coaching staff.

The Pakistan women’s cricket team will play its first warm-up match against Thailand on April 4 at Gaddafi stadium.

The sixth edition of the Women’s Cricket World Cup Qualifier will kick off on 9 April, featuring four full members – Pakistan, Bangladesh, West Indies, and Ireland – and associate members Scotland and Thailand.

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The newly renovated Gaddafi Stadium and Lahore Cricket Club Association (LCCA) will host 15 matches of the tournament. The event opener will kick off between hosts Pakistan and Ireland on April 9.

ICC Women’s World Cup Qualifier warm-up matches schedule:

Match 1: Bangladesh Women vs. Scotland Women at 09:30 AM PKT​

Match 2: Pakistan Women vs. Thailand Women at 09:30 PM PKT​

Match 3: Ireland Women vs. West Indies Women at 09:30 PM PKT

Match 4: Bangladesh Women vs. Ireland Women at 09:30 AM PKT​

Match 5: Pakistan Women vs. West Indies Women at 09:30 PM PKT​

Match 6: Scotland Women vs. Thailand Women at 09:30 PM PKT

Pakistan squad for Women’s World Cup 2025 Qualifiers

Fatima Sana (captain), Muneeba Ali (vice-captain), Aliya Riaz, Diana Baig, Gull Feroza, Najiha Alvi (wicket-keeper), Nashra Sundhu, Natalia Parvaiz, Omaima Sohail, Rameen Shamim, Sadia Iqbal, Shawaal Zulfiqar, Sidra Amin, Sidra Nawaz (wicket-keeper) and Syeda Aroob Shah

READ: Peshawar Zalmi add Luke Wood to PSL 10 squad

Pakistan women’s team captain Fatima Sana, alongside Sidra Nawaz, wished the entire Muslim community on the auspicious occasion of Eid-ul-Fitr.

In a video released on the official social media platforms by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), the Pakistani cricketers extended their wishes and gave important messages to the fans on Eid.

Sidra Nawaz wished Eid Mubarak to the entire Muslim community and requested her fans to remember them in their prayers for success in the ICC World Cup Qualifiers 2025.”

“I wish Eid Mubarak to the Muslims all over the world. May Allah accept our prayers, ” said Sidra.

It is pertinent to mention that the ICC Women’s World Cup 2025 Qualifiers will begin on 9 April in the Punjab capital, Lahore.

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The six-team tournament, which includes Bangladesh, Ireland, Scotland, Thailand and West Indies alongside hosts Pakistan, will feature a single-league round-robin format.

Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium and LCCA ground will host 15 matches of the event, with Pakistan playing Ireland in the opening match of the competition at the Gaddafi Stadium.

On 11 April, Pakistan will play Scotland at the LCCA ground in a day game, while the hosts will take on West Indies in a day-night fixture on 14 April at the Gaddafi Stadium.

Pakistan will face Thailand in their fourth fixture of the event scheduled on 17 April in a day-night fixture at Gaddafi Stadium, while their final group stage match will be against Bangladesh on 19 April at the LCCA ground, which will be a day match.

Pakistan squad for Women’s World Cup 2025 Qualifiers

Fatima Sana (captain), Muneeba Ali (vice-captain), Aliya Riaz, Diana Baig, Gull Feroza, Najiha Alvi (wicket-keeper), Nashra Sundhu, Natalia Parvaiz, Omaima Sohail, Rameen Shamim, Sadia Iqbal, Shawaal Zulfiqar, Sidra Amin, Sidra Nawaz (wicket-keeper) and Syeda Aroob Shah

Reserve players: Ghulam Fatima, Waheeda Akhtar and Umm-e-Hani

READ: Natalia Parvaiz confident as Pakistan women’s team gears up for World Cup Qualifiers