Author: shahzad.malik

LAHORE: Mohammad Rizwan, the captain of the Multan Sultans and the Pakistan ODI team, has expressed his views on the ongoing conflict between Pakistan and India amid calls to sever cricketing ties.

The tensions between the two Asian countries escalated in the aftermath of the recent Pahalgam attack in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK).

While speaking during the post-match conference, Rizwan expressed a diplomatic stance regarding the ongoing tensions between Pakistan and India.

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Mohammad Rizwan highlighted that when he meets top players like Virat Kohli, they interact like brothers. He also said that politics should not be involved in sports.

“Firstly, I don’t know what’s happening between the two countries because I don’t have time to use social media,” he said.

“Secondly, whenever I meet our cricketing family, which features top players like Virat Kohli, Steve Smith, and Joe Root, we meet like brothers and learn a lot from each other. I’ll just say that politics should not be brought into sport,” he added.

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A few days earlier, Rajeev Shukla, the Vice President of the BCCI, and former India captain Sourav Ganguly, called for cutting ties with Pakistan, stating that India should not play any bilateral cricket matches with Pakistan.

It is worth mentioning that India and Pakistan have not played any bilateral series since 2013. Meanwhile, both teams have frequently faced each other in the ICC and Asian Cricket Council (ACC) events.

Looking ahead, the next ICC event isn’t until the Women’s ODI World Cup in September-October 2025, which India is set to host.

The tournament will follow a round-robin format featuring eight teams — including Pakistan — meaning each team will play every other side, rendering group-based separation irrelevant.

Although India is hosting the tournament, the matches involving Pakistan will take place at a neutral venue. Currently, no decision has been made regarding the locations of Pakistan’s fixtures.

READ: Irfan Khan hails team combination after emphatic win over Multan Sultans

LAHORE: Multan Sultans captain Mohammad Rizwan has highlighted the team’s shortcomings after they were eliminated from the Pakistan Super League (PSL) 10.

Chasing a daunting 205-run target, Multan Sultans crumbled under the pressure and were bowled out for a mere 117 in 16.1 overs in the 20th match of PSL 10 here at Gaddafi Stadium.

The Sultans’ seventh loss in the season also ended their hopes of qualifying for the Playoffs.

While speaking during the post-match press conference, Rizwan reflected on the side’s struggles throughout the tournament, their misreading of conditions.

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“We picked our squad based on the conditions,” he explained. “But unfortunately, the conditions didn’t go in our favour.”

Mohammad Rizwan revealed that when they arrived at Gaddafi Stadium, they found more grass on the pitch than expected, which disrupted their plans.

“We’re not the only ones — other teams have also struggled here,” he added.

Despite the setbacks, Rizwan made it clear he wasn’t offering excuses.

“I don’t want to make any excuse for the defeat. We played badly and we’re out of the tournament today,” he said.

Despite the setback, Mohammad Rizwan remains optimistic that the two remaining matches could help the team regain some pride.

“We still have two games to correct our mistakes,” Rizwan remarked.

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Rizwan also stressed his belief in earning victories through performance alone.

“I like to win on the strength of our own game. Depending on others doesn’t feel right,” he said.

Reflecting on Multan Sultans’ journey in PSL 10, he reminded reporters that the same core team had performed consistently well over the last four seasons.

“Everyone knows what we’ve gone through this season,” he said, hinting at internal challenges. Our fielding hasn’t been good throughout the tournament,” he admitted.

READ: Nabi, Vince star as Karachi Kings knock Multan Sultans out of PSL 10

LAHORE: Quetta Gladiators fast bowler Mohammad Amir is not playing in the match against Lahore Qalandars, which is underway here at the Gaddafi Stadium on Thursday.

Mohammad Amir, who is in good form with the ball, is out of the match due to fever. Emerging fast bowler Mohammad Zeeshan has replaced him in the Quetta Gladiators team.

Mohammad Amir has taken seven wickets in six matches so far for Quetta Gladiators this season.

When this story was filed, Lahore Qalandar were 78/1 in 7.3 overs.

The iconic Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore will be a key venue, hosting 13 matches, including the Eliminators and the grand final, which promises to be a spectacular event.

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According to the PSL 10 schedule, the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium will heighten the excitement with 11 action-packed matches, including the crucial Qualifier 1 on May 13.

Meanwhile, the historic National Bank Stadium in Karachi and the vibrant Multan Cricket Stadium will each host five dynamic matches.

PLAYING XIs

Lahore Qalandars: Fakhar Zaman, Muhammad Naeem, Abdullah Shafique, Daryl Mitchell, Sam Billings (wk), Sikandar Raza, Asif Ali, Tom Curran, Shaheen Afridi (c), Haris Rauf, Asif Afridi

Quetta Gladiators: Saud Shakeel (c), Abrar Ahmed, Hassan Nawaz, Kusal Mendis (wk), Mark Chapman, Rilee Rossouw, Muhammad Zeeshan, Muhammad Wasim Jnr, Faheem Ashraf, Khurram Shahzad, Finn Allen

READ: PSL 10: Quetta Gladiators win toss against Lahore Qalandars

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.

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“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.

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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.

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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

READ: Former cricketer reveals reason behind Pakistan’s cricket downfall