Category: Cricket

LAHORE: Pakistan all-rounder Shadab Khan on Monday expressed confidence ahead of the T20I series against Australia and T20 World Cup 2026, set to begin on 7 February across Sri Lanka and India.

The national team is currently involved in a training camp ahead of three match T20I series against Australia.

Speaking after scenario based practice match, Shadab said he welcomes praise when he performs well but is aware of the criticism he often faces.

“When you do well, you get praise. I know there’s a lot of criticism directed at mem but I focus on my game,” Shadab told reporters.

Talking about conditions in Sri Lanka, he noted that the weather keeps changing but expressed confidence in the team’s approach while praising ace batter Babar Azam.

“Wherever we play, we aim to play good cricket.” “Babar Azam is our biggest player. I have seen him grow into the player he is today,” he added.

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“I am a bowler who can also contribute with the bat. There’s been talk that I focus too much on batting, but I balance both aspects of my game,” Shadab explained.

He admitted he had been away from cricket for some time but is now back and ready to contribute.

“Modern cricket demands that you adopt new strategies and adapt accordingly,” he said.

On conditions in Sri Lanka ahead of the T20 World Cup, he predicted that putting up a big score on the board will be a challenge.

“Big scores will be difficult to come by.”

“The upcoming series against Australia is the best preparation for the World Cup. Our spinners performed well in the Asia Cup, and I hope they continue to perform in the World Cup as well,” he concluded.

For those unaware, Australia are set to arrive in Pakistan on Wednesday, 28 January and will play just their second series in the format on Pakistan soil after a solitary T20I in April 2022 at Gaddafi Stadium.

Pakistan squad for Australia series

Salman Ali Agha (captain), Abrar Ahmed, Babar Azam, Faheem Ashraf, Fakhar Zaman, Khawaja Mohammad Nafay (wk), Mohammad Nawaz, Mohammad Salman Mirza, Mohammad Wasim Jnr, Naseem Shah, Sahibzada Farhan (wk), Saim Ayub, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Shadab Khan, Usman Khan (wk) and Usman Tariq

READ: West Indies reveal T20 World Cup 2026 squad

ANTIGUA: Cricket West Indies have named a strong 15 member squad for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, slated to begin on 7 February across Sri Lanka and India.

Shai Hope, who missed out on Afghanistan series due to SA20, will lead the 2016 and 2012 edition winners in the mega event with plenty of names to look out for.

With 11 players from the previous edition in 2024, the squad carries considerable depth.

The batting lineup will be bolstered by Rovman Powell, Shimron Hetmyer, Johnson Charles and Shai Hope whereas the all-round department features former captain Jason Holder and Sherfane Rutherford.

Shamar Joseph will lead the bowling attack alongside Jayden Seales and Quentin Sampson. Akeal Hosein and Gudakesh Motie will provide support to the fast bowlers with their spin bowling.

Among the notable exclusions are opener Evin Lewis and pacer Alzarri Joseph who were unable to recover from their injuries.

Ahead of the T20 World Cup, West Indies will play five T20Is against South Africa, which will begin tomorrow at Paarl.

It is worth mentioning that West Indies second string side suffered a 2-1 defeat in their recent T20I series against Afghanistan, which was held in the UAE, while most of their experienced players were engaged in SA20.

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West Indies are slotted in Group C alongside England, Nepal, Scotland and Italy.

They will begin their campaign on 7 February against Scotland at Eden Gardens, Kolkata. Their second match will be against England on 11 Feb at Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai.

The West Indies will play  their last matches against Nepal and Italy on 15 and 19 Feb at Eden Gardens and Wankhede Stadium respectively.

West Indies squad

Shai Hope (c), Shimron Hetmyer, Johnson Charles, Roston Chase, Matthew Forde, Jason Holder, Akeal Hosein, Shamar Joseph, Brandon King, Gudakesh Motie, Rovman Powell, Sherfane Rutherford, Quentin Sampson, Jayden Seales, Romario Shepherd

READ: Pakistan considering boycott of T20 World Cup clash against India: sources

Former all-rounder Mohammad Hafeez has suggested that Pakistan should participate in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, scheduled to commence on 7 February across India and Sri Lanka.

Hafeez opined on the decision in ‘X’ post amid the uncertainty regarding the team’s partcipation in the mega event.

“Pakistan should participate in World Cup 2026. @TheRealPCB,” former captain wrote.

Meanwhile, former Pakistan all-rounder Shahid Afridi has strongly criticised the International Cricket Council (ICC) for replacing Bangladesh with Scotland at the T20 World Cup 2026, calling the decision unfair and inconsistent.

Afridi voiced his disappointment through a post on his official X (formerly Twitter) account, questioning the ICC’s approach and accusing the governing body of applying double standards.

“As a former international cricketer who has played in Bangladesh and in ICC events, I’m deeply disappointed by today’s ICC’s inconsistency,” Afridi wrote.

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Meanwhile PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi has provided a timeline regarding the decision to play in the forthcoming event.

Naqvi took to his X handle, revealing the details regarding the decision following a ‘producitve meeting’ with the PM Shehbaz Sharif.

“Had a productive meeting with the Prime Minister Mian Muhammad Shahbaz Sharif. Briefed him on the ICC matter, and he directed that we resolve it while keeping all options on the table. It was agreed that the final decision will be taken either on Friday or next Monday,” he wrote.

The whole development comes in the wake of the International Cricket Council’s (ICC) decision to replace Bangladesh with Scotland after the former refused to travel to India for the tournament, citing security concerns.

The ICC on Saturday confirmed Bangladesh’s removal from the tournament after the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) refused to send its team to India, citing security concerns.

Despite several rounds of discussions, the ICC rejected Bangladesh’s request to shift their matches to Sri Lanka, eventually opting to replace them with Scotland.

For the unversed, The ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 is scheduled to begin on 7 February, with Pakistan originally set to open their campaign against the Netherlands.

READ: Pakistan considering boycott of T20 World Cup clash against India: sources

A decision on Pakistan participation in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, which is set to be held in India and Sri Lanka, is expected within days, PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi said on Monday.

Naqvi took to his X handle, revealing the details regarding the decision following a ‘producitve meeting’ with the PM Shehbaz Sharif.

“Had a productive meeting with the Prime Minister Mian Muhammad Shahbaz Sharif. Briefed him on the ICC matter, and he directed that we resolve it while keeping all options on the table. It was agreed that the final decision will be taken either on Friday or next Monday,” he wrote.

The development comes in the wake of the International Cricket Council’s (ICC) decision to replace Bangladesh with Scotland after the former refused to travel to India for the tournament, citing security concerns.

The ICC’s stance has triggered unease within the PCB, which has publicly backed Bangladesh during the dispute.

Speculation about Pakistan’s participation intensified after PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi confirmed on Saturday that the final call will be made by the federal government.

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The ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 is scheduled to begin on 7 February, with Pakistan originally set to open their campaign against the Netherlands.

Pakistan are drawn in Group A alongside India, the Netherlands, the USA and Namibia, with all of their group matches to be played in Sri Lanka under the hybrid model.

Pakistan are due to face the USA on 10 February, followed by the much-anticipated clash against India on 15 February, before concluding the group stage against Namibia on 18 February.

If Pakistan qualify for the semi-finals and final, both matches are slated to be played in Colombo. Otherwise, the knockout fixtures will take place in Kolkata and Ahmedabad.

READ: Pakistan considering boycott of T20 World Cup clash against India: sources

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is reportedly considering boycotting its high-profile group-stage match against arch-rivals India at the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, sources revealed on Monday.

The development comes in the wake of the International Cricket Council’s (ICC) decision to replace Bangladesh with Scotland after the former refused to travel to India for the tournament, citing security concerns.

The ICC’s stance has triggered unease within the PCB, which has publicly backed Bangladesh during the dispute.

Speculation about Pakistan’s participation intensified after PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi confirmed on Saturday that the final call will be made by the federal government.

According to insiders, the PCB is currently evaluating multiple protest options and intends to keep all avenues open, even if Pakistan ultimately take part in the tournament.

One of the scenarios under discussion is skipping the marquee clash against India. This move would cost Pakistan just two points in the group stage but could result in significant commercial and broadcast losses for the ICC.

Sources further revealed that Naqvi is scheduled to meet the national squad later today.

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The PCB chairman is expected to brief the players on the evolving situation, discuss team strategy and outline broader plans in light of the ongoing uncertainty surrounding the tournament.

Naqvi has previously made it clear that the PCB will adhere strictly to the government’s instructions, even if that results in Pakistan withdrawing from the event.

The ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 is scheduled to begin on 7 February, with Pakistan originally set to open their campaign against the Netherlands.

Pakistan are drawn in Group A alongside India, the Netherlands, the USA and Namibia, with all of their group matches to be played in Sri Lanka under the hybrid model.

Pakistan are due to face the USA on 10 February, followed by the much-anticipated clash against India on 15 February, before concluding the group stage against Namibia on 18 February.

If Pakistan qualify for the semi-finals and final, both matches are slated to be played in Colombo. Otherwise, the knockout fixtures will take place in Kolkata and Ahmedabad.

READ: Shahid Afridi slams ICC’s decision to replace Bangladesh at T20 World Cup

Former Pakistan captain Shahid Afridi has strongly criticised the International Cricket Council (ICC) for replacing Bangladesh with Scotland at the T20 World Cup 2026, calling the decision unfair and inconsistent.

The ICC on Saturday confirmed Bangladesh’s removal from the tournament after the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) refused to send its team to India, citing security concerns.

Despite several rounds of discussions, the ICC rejected Bangladesh’s request to shift their matches to Sri Lanka, eventually opting to replace them with Scotland.

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Afridi voiced his disappointment through a post on his official X (formerly Twitter) account, questioning the ICC’s approach and accusing the governing body of applying double standards.

“As a former international cricketer who has played in Bangladesh and in ICC events, I’m deeply disappointed by today’s ICC’s inconsistency,” Afridi wrote.

The former all-rounder drew a comparison with the ICC’s stance on India’s decision not to tour Pakistan in 2025, arguing that Bangladesh deserved similar consideration.

“It accepted India’s security concerns for not touring Pakistan in 2025, yet appears unwilling to apply the same understanding to Bangladesh,” Afridi added. “Consistency and fairness are the foundation of global cricket governance.”

Shahid Afridi further stressed that the decision goes beyond administrative matters and directly affects players and supporters.

“Bangladesh’s players and millions of its fans deserve respect – not mixed standards. The ICC should build bridges, not burn them,” he concluded.

READ: Pakistan could face major penalties over T20 World Cup boycott: report

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) could face serious financial and sporting repercussions if the national team withdraws from the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, according to reports in Indian media.

The speculation gathered pace after PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi confirmed on Saturday that the final decision on Pakistan’s participation will be taken by the federal government, following the ICC’s decision to replace Bangladesh with Scotland for the marquee event.

Naqvi made it clear that the board would follow government directives, even if it means pulling out of the tournament.

However, sources cited in Indian media believe Pakistan’s stance is being viewed within ICC circles as a pressure tactic rather than a concrete decision to withdraw.

Meanwhile, officials within ICC have reportedly warned that an actual pullout could trigger severe penalties.

According to a report by Hindustan Times, ICC officials have indicated that Pakistan’s withdrawal at this stage would amount to a breach of the event’s participation agreement, with immediate financial consequences for the PCB.

The report claims that PCB’s annual ICC revenue share, estimated at around $34.5 million, could be frozen. The amount forms part of the ICC’s $3.2 billion media rights cycle (2024–27), a bulk of which is driven by the Indian market.

“As a direct consequence, PCB’s share of ICC annual revenue would be withheld,” an ICC official was quoted as saying on condition of anonymity.

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Beyond the financial hit, the report suggests that Pakistan could also face restrictions on future bilateral series and a diminished role in upcoming ICC events if the withdrawal is seen as politically motivated rather than based on cricketing or security concerns.

According to the report, a boycott could also impact the Pakistan Super League (PSL), particularly in terms of foreign player availability.

The report further added that if the Green Shirts boycott the T20 World Cup “solely on government advice” despite no issue concerning the team, then ICC will see it as an attempt to “weaponise sport for politics.”

The ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 is scheduled to begin on 7 February, with Pakistan originally set to open their campaign against the Netherlands.

Pakistan are drawn in Group A alongside India, the Netherlands, USA and Namibia, with all of their group matches to be played in Sri Lanka under the hybrid model.

Pakistan are due to face the USA on 10 February, followed by the much-anticipated clash against India on 15 February, before concluding the group stage against Namibia on 18 February.

If Pakistan qualify for the semi-finals and final, both matches are slated to be played in Colombo. Otherwise, the knockout fixtures will take place in Kolkata and Ahmedabad.

READ: All you need to know about PSL 11 Player Auction

WINDHOEK: Dominant Australia sealed another win at the U19 World Cup as Charles Lachmund and Steven Hogan starred against South Africa, leading their side to a six wicket win here at the Namibia Cricket Ground on Sunday.

Put into bat first, South Africa were skittled for mere 118 in just 32.1 overs.

The Proteas were put into early trouble as opener Armaan Manack was trapped lbw for duck on the second ball of the first over.

After an early wicket, skipper Muhammed Bulbulia joined hands with Jorich Van Schalkwyk and added 27 for the second wicket partnership.

The stand was broken in the fifth over as Bulbulia was cleaned after scoring 19. The wicket triggered a mini collapse as both Jason Rowles and Daniel Bosman, were dismissed cheaply.

As a result, South Africa were 37-4 in 10 overs.

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The slide was briefly halted as Paul James and Jorich Van Schalkwyk put on a 30 run partnership. However, a total misunderstanding ended in Van Schalkwyk’s run out. He made 26 from 55 balls with the aid of three fours.

Following his wicket, South Africa innings quickly unraveled as Australia bowlers dominated the proceedings.

Paul James remained the top-scorer for South Africa with 34 to his name with the help of a four and a six.

For Australia, Charles Lachmund led the bowling attack with a three wicket haul to his name.

In reply, Australia reached the target without any major hiccups in 32.5 overs, losing four wickets.

South Africa snared an early wicket in the second over as Will Malajczuk  departed for four. Yet, Australia cruised in pursuit with a string of partnerships.

Steven Hogan remained the highest scorer for them as he managed 43 from 73 deliveries, striking five boundaries in the process.

For South Africa, JJ Basson shined with ball as he took three wickets in his quota of 10 overs.

With this win, Australia remained undefeated, winning three out of three games.

READ: PSL 11 auction: All you need to know about players, base prices and team purse

LAHORE: The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) on Sunday revealed key details regarding the Pakistan Super League (PSL) 11 player auction, including the base prices, team composition and the minimum purse of each franchise.

The details were  revealed following the conclusion of the PSL 11 auction workshop designed to familiarize the stakeholders with the process.

Among the key details, the base prices of players and the minimum incremental bids were confirmed, all in Pakistani Rupees. The top bracket base prices are PKR 4.2 crore, PKR 2.2 crore, PKR 1.1 crore, and PKR 60 lacs.

Minimum incremental bids are as follows:

• PKR 250,000 for bid amounts under PKR 1.1 crore
• PKR 500,000 for bid amounts under PKR 2.2 crore
• PKR 1,000,000 for bid amounts under PKR 4.2 crore
• PKR 1,500,000 for bid amounts above PKR 4.2 crore

According to the cricket board, the outfits are free to bid higher than the specified minimum increments.

 

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Additionally, each team will be required to have minimum of 16 and maximum 20 players in their roster, including five to seven foreign players, determined by the total squad size.

It is mandatory for each franchise to included a minimum of two uncapped U23 players in their squad, with one featuring  in the starting eleven.

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The picked or retained players in PSL 11 auction will be signed on two-year contracts, with each outfit allowed to retain a maximum of seven players for the 12th edition of the tournament.

After PSL 12, a grand auction will be held, allowing teams to retain up to five players, with any released player entering the player auction pool.

 

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As it was announced earlier, each team will also be allowed to directly sign one foreign player who did not feature in PSL X. Meanwhile the franchise team purse of PKR 45 crore could be increased to PKR 50.5 crore to accommodate directly signed foreign players.

The PCB will additionally support teams in signing top international players.

For those unaware, the expanded edition of the PSL 11 is scheduled to get underway on March 26, 2026.

READ: PCB reveals date for historic PSL 11 auction

LAHORE: The historic auction for the landmark Pakistan Super League (PSL)  11 edition will be held on Wednesday, 11 February, the PCB announced in a press release on Sunday.

The date was revealed during the PSL player auction workshop organized to familiarize stakeholders with the auction process.

During the workshop, star cricketers including Babar Azam and all the stakeholders of PSL were present.

“Workshop was presided by Chairman PCB Mohsin Naqvi and CEO PSL Salman Naseer and was attended by HBL PSL officials, all eight franchise representatives, members of Pakistan’s T20 World Cup squad, PCB officials and other capped players,” the board said in a press release statement.

On this occasion, Mohsin Naqvi praised the initiative and tipped the upcoming auction as a cornerstone for improving players growth.

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“I’m delighted that a consultative and productive session was held between the franchises, players and management today resulting in informed and strategic decisions which will pave the way for bright future for the HBL PSL,” he said.

“The Player Auction model is a landmark step for the HBL PSL, offering players better financial opportunities through an increased salary purse and a transparent acquisition process, while making the league more competitive and attractive, he added.

Meanwhile, PSL  Salman Naseer also shared his thoughts on this occasion, calling the auction a landmark event in tournament’s growth.

“The HBL PSL’s highly-anticipated New Era is finally here. The player auction system modernises player recruitment by promoting fairness, transparency, and market-driven value, strengthening the HBL PSL’s appeal for both players, franchises and most importantly meets the expectations of our loyal fans,” he said.

“Today’s workshop saw all views being taken into consideration and this rich feedback will be reflected in our execution of a successful player auction scheduled next month. More excitement is on the way,” he explained.

For the unversed, the expanded edition of the PSL Will get underway on March 26, 2026, and will mark Faisalabad’s first-ever stint as a host city. The venue will join Karachi, Lahore, Multan and Rawalpindi, expanding the league to five host cities.

READ: WATCH: Babar Azam among stars at PSL player auction workshop