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Former India pacer Varun Aaron has ignited a passionate debate in the cricketing world by stating that Jasprit Bumrah is superior to the legendary Pakistani fast bowler Wasim Akram.

Aaron made the remark after Bumrah’s sensational five-wicket haul against England in the Headingley Test, where the Indian speedster once again proved why he’s considered among the modern greats.

Bumrah finished with 5 for 83 in the first innings, dismissing Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Joe Root, Chris Woakes, and Josh Tongue.

“Calling him a genius would be an understatement,” Varun Aaron said in a recent interview.

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“He has now gone past Wasim Akram in terms of wickets taken in SENA countries. That says it all for me.

“Wasim was arguably the best fast bowler to walk the face of the earth, and Bumrah is pretty much the same, if not better.”

Aaron also pointed out that Bumrah reached the milestone in far fewer innings, further underlining his phenomenal consistency and impact in challenging conditions.

With his latest effort, Bumrah became the Asian bowler with the most Test wickets in SENA countries, South Africa, England, New Zealand, and Australia, overtaking Wasim Akram’s long-standing tally.

Most Test wickets by Asian bowlers in SENA:

Jasprit Bumrah – 150*

Wasim Akram – 146

Anil Kumble – 141

Ishant Sharma – 130

Muttiah Muralitharan – 125

READ: Indian legend criticises name order in Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy

DALLAS: Mitchell Owen’s brisk 60 and Mark Chapman’s unbeaten 45 knock guided Washington Freedom to a two-wicket win over MI New York in the MLC 2025 here at the Grand Prairie Stadium on Sunday.

Chasing a challenging 189-run target, Washington Freedom hit the winning runs on the second ball of the penultimate over with two wickets in hand. The victory marked their third consecutive win in the tournament.

Mitchell Owen and Rachin Ravindra provided Freedom a rollicking start, scoring 45 runs in just 2.5 overs. However, MI New York got a sigh of relief with Latters’ wicket as the left-handed batter departed for 10 runs.

Owen, meanwhile, paired with incoming Andries Gous and kept the impetus with brisk scoring. Gous, who scored 14 off 10 deliveries, departed on the final ball of the powerplay as the Washington Freedom scorecard read 74-2.

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Soon after, Mitchell Owen, who was well set, followed him as MI New York reduced Washington Freedom to 91-3 in 7.2 overs. Owen’s brisk 60 off 26 balls was laced with five boundaries and five sixes.

However, Mark Chapman and Jack Edwards formed a match-defining 41-run stand on the fourth wicket. The duo batted calmly, bringing the score to 132 in 13.1 overs.

Edwards was removed after scoring 30 off 23 balls with four boundaries. Nonetheless, Chapman held firm despite late hiccups created by MI New York bowlers as Washington sealed a win in the end.

Despite losing three wickets for 20 runs in the last few overs, Chapman, who remained unbeaten, 45*, featuring three fours and a six, guided his team to an emphatic victory.

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For MI New York, Naveen-ul-Haq, Trent Boult, and Sunny Patel bagged two wickets each.

Earlier, after being put into bat, MI New York posted 188 runs total for the loss of four wickets in their allocated 20 overs.

The openers, Monank Patel and Quinton de Kock, provided a solid opening start with a 70-run stand at the end of the powerplay. De Kock, who was the core aggressor, top-scored with 55 off 34 deliveries, hitting two sixes and seven fours.

Meanwhile, Michael Bracewell’s quick-fire 42* off 24 balls ensured that MI New York reached a strong total.

For Washington Freedom, Glenn Maxwell, Ian Holland Mithell Owen picked up a wicket each.

READ: Indian star batter signs with Nottinghamshire for County Championship stint

KUALA LUMPUR: Pakistan men’s hockey team captain Ammad Butt has called on the nation for prayers and support ahead of the FIH Nations Cup final against New Zealand, set to be played here on Saturday.

In a heartfelt video message, Ammad praised his team’s spirited semi-final performance and described their hard-fought victory over France as one to remember.

“The semi-final was memorable. And by the will of Almighty Allah, the way my team performed, I do not know in which words I should describe that,” said Butt.

The skipper took a moment to extend his congratulations to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, Chief of Army Staff General Asim Munir, and Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, acknowledging their support and contributions to the sport.

“I would like to congratulate Prime Minister of Pakistan Mian Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif, Field Marshal Asim Munir and Chief Minister Punjab Maryam Nawaz, who contributed a lot to our success,” he added.

“And I congratulate the entire nation that stood behind us and prayed for our success.”

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With a spot in the FIH Pro League on the line, Ammad Butt made a passionate appeal to the public.

“I request the entire nation to pray for tomorrow’s match as well so that my team win the Nations Cup and dedicate this victory to Pakistan and qualify for the Pro League,” he concluded.

Pakistan booked their place in the final after edging past France 3-2 in a nerve-racking penalty shootout, following a 3-3 stalemate in regulation time.

Goalkeeper Muneeb Ur-Rehman emerged as the hero of the night, saving three crucial French attempts, while Rana Waheed Ashraf, Hannan Shahid, and Afraz converted their penalties.

For the unversed, the Pakistan hockey team qualified for the semi-finals of the FIH Nations Hockey Cup due to a superior goal difference compared to the host nation, Malaysia.

Malaysia secured a 2-1 victory over Japan on Wednesday; however, they were eliminated because Pakistan scored nine goals in their three matches, while Malaysia scored eight.

WATCH: Pakistan hockey player Hannan Shahid bursts into tears after reaching the Nations Cup Final

KUALA LUMPUR: The Pakistan team defeated France on a penalty shootout in the semi-final of the FIH Hockey Nations Cup here at the National Stadium on Friday.

The thrilling match ended in a 3-2 victory for the Green Shirts, as France missed out on three chances to score in the shootout.

For Pakistan, Rana Waheed Ashraf, Hannan Shahid and Afraz scored goals to clinch a memorable win.

In the first quarter of the match, neither team managed to score a goal, despite putting in a strong effort to get the ball into the net. France had their chances, with numerous penalty corners in the beginning and towards the end of the quarter.

 

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The second quarter featured a similar situation with France and Pakistan looking to open their account in the all-important semi-final. However, France drew the first blood with Smenjaud Xavier giving his team the lead, deflecting the ball into the post.

As France entered the third quarter, the hopes for the Green Shirts qualifying looked grim. Charlet Victor pierced the nets with a flick, giving the French team a significant lead.

However, Afraz gave Pakistan a sigh of relief after scoring the first goal. In the crucial last minutes of the quarter, the Green Shirts scored back-to-back goals, taking the lead with a score of  3-2. Sufyan Khan and Hammadudin Muhammad both scored two crucial goals in the span of a minute.

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For the unversed, the Pakistan hockey team qualified for the semi-finals of the FIH Nations Hockey Cup due to a superior goal difference compared to the host nation, Malaysia.

Malaysia secured a 2-1 victory over Japan on Wednesday; however, they were eliminated because Pakistan scored nine goals in their three matches, while Malaysia scored eight.

On the same day, the New Zealand hockey team came from behind in a thrilling encounter to defeat Pakistan 4-3, sealing a semi-final spot.

Pakistan held a 3-1 lead for most of the third quarter, but New Zealand’s Scott Cosslett scored two goals to level the match.

The tension escalated in the final quarter as both teams aimed to secure a victory. In a decisive moment, Scott Cosslett found the back of the net again, delivering a thrilling win for New Zealand.

It’s worth noting that Pakistan began their Nations Hockey Cup campaign with a 3-3 draw against Malaysia, followed by a convincing victory over Japan.

READ: Pakistan hockey captain voices frustration amid allowance delay during Nations Cup

LAHORE: Pakistan’s dynamic wicketkeeper-batter, Mohammad Haris, has shared his thoughts after not being selected in the Big Bash League (BBL) 15 draft, held on Thursday in Melbourne.

Despite being among the 74 Pakistani players registered for the BBL 15 draft, Haris was not picked by any of the eight franchises.

The BBL 15 Draft saw six of the eight franchises show interest in Pakistan’s top players, with five national stars eventually earning contracts.

Meanwhile, star batter Babar Azam was pre-signed by the Sydney Sixers ahead of the BBL 15 draft.

Speaking to the media during the ongoing skills development camp at the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Lahore, Haris maintained a composed stance over the snub.

“The Big Bash League (BBL) is a prestigious tournament, and I wish the best to all the players participating,” Mohammad Haris said.

“But at the moment, my priority is national duty. These league opportunities come and go, and I’ll consider them only when I’m fully available and ready.”

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The 24-year-old remains part of the PCB’s current training camp aimed at addressing technical and tactical shortcomings across formats. He credited the camp for helping players recalibrate their game and focus on finer details.

“This camp is crucial for us because we’re working on the errors that the coaches identified. Today’s scenario match is part of that process—to iron out those mistakes in a match-like environment,” he explained.

Known for his aggressive batting style, Haris stressed the importance of evolving as a complete batter, especially in the modern game.

“I’ve always been known for my boundary-hitting, but now I’m focusing more on strike rotation because consistency is just as crucial,” he said.

“I’m also working hard to improve my defensive game, which is essential for all formats.”

He also highlighted his growing interest in red-ball cricket and a desire to break into Pakistan’s Test setup.

“I’ve enjoyed playing red-ball cricket in the domestic circuit, and now I’m determined to perform well enough to earn a place in the national Test squad,” he added.

READ: Mohammad Haris eyes red-ball spot, focused on fixing flaws

Pakistan One Day International (ODI) captain Mohammad Rizwan has shared his thoughts after joining Melbourne Renegades for the Big Bash League (BBL) 15.

Rizwan was selected by Melbourne with the third pick in the BBL overseas draft. The wicket-keeper batter shared his thoughts in a video message on the franchise’s official page.

“Assalam-u-alaikum and good morning, Australia. It’s a great honour to join the Melbourne Renegades,” said Mohammad Rizwan.

 

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“I have always admired how they play with heart. I’m very excited to wear the No.16 jersey, meet the passionate Melbourne fans and giving my very best. Inshallah. Thank you,” Mohammad Rizwan concluded.

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It is pertinent to mention that Pakistan’s gap in the ICC Future Tours Programme (FTP) from November to February provides their top cricketers a window of opportunity to participate in the BBL 15.

For the unversed, the BBL 15 Draft, held in Melbourne on Thursday, saw six of the eight franchises show interest in Pakistan’s top players, with five national stars eventually earning contracts.

Star batter Babar Azam was pre-signed by the Sydney Sixers ahead of the BBL 15 draft, while Shaheen’s selection as the No. 1 Platinum pick headlines a strong Pakistani presence in the league this season.

Speedster Haris Rauf, retained by Melbourne Stars, continues his association with the franchise he has served since 2019. Rauf is currently active in the MLC 2025 with San Francisco Unicorns.

Shadab Khan, drafted by the Sydney Thunder, marks his fourth BBL stint. The leg-spinner has already represented Brisbane Heat, Sydney Sixers, and Hobart Hurricanes, tallying 14 wickets in 12 matches at an economy of 7.50.

Hasan Ali, selected by Adelaide Strikers, will also make his BBL debut. The experienced right-arm pacer has previously featured in the LPL, CPL, and BPL.

READ: Hasan Ali opens up after Adelaide Strikers signing for BBL 15

Pakistan’s top T20 stars will be turning up the heat in Australia this summer, as Shaheen Shah Afridi, Mohammad Rizwan, and several others were picked in the Big Bash League (BBL) Season 15 draft held on Thursday.

Leading the charge is Shaheen Afridi, who was snapped up by Brisbane Heat with the first overall Platinum pick.

The left-arm pacer, one of the most sought-after names in world cricket, is set to feature for the entire season and will join the BBL 2023–24 champions in a formidable pace attack that includes Spencer Johnson and Xavier Bartlett.

Mohammad Rizwan, who’s keen to reclaim his place in Pakistan’s T20I setup ahead of next year’s T20 World Cup, has been drafted by Melbourne Renegades with the fourth pick.

The Renegades already had New Zealand’s Tim Seifert in their ranks but went for Rizwan’s class and consistency.

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Haris Rauf, a regular in the BBL, was retained by Melbourne Stars, the franchise where he has become a fan favourite over the years with his pace and aggression.

Shadab Khan will return to the BBL circuit as well, having been drafted by the Sydney Thunder. Meanwhile, in-form pace bowler Hasan Ali found a new home in Australia, picked by the Adelaide Strikers to bolster their bowling attack.

Babar Azam, Pakistan’s premier batter, had already been announced as a pre-signed player by the Sydney Sixers ahead of the draft.

He will make his BBL debut this season and line up alongside the likes of Steve Smith, forming one of the most exciting top orders in the tournament.

It’s worth noting that Pakistan’s gap in the ICC Future Tours Programme (FTP) from November to February provides their top cricketers a window of opportunity to participate in the BBL 15.

READ: Babar Azam opts out of PCB’s skills development camp after two days

KUALA LUMPUR: The Pakistan hockey team has qualified for the semi-finals of the FIH Nations Hockey Cup, despite the hosts, Malaysia, emerging victorious against Japan here on Wednesday.

Malaysia secured a 2-1 win against Japan but was eliminated from the tournament due to goal difference and points with Pakistan.

The Green Shirts reached the semi-finals with nine goals while Malaysia scored eight in their three matches of the tournament.

The semi-finals of the event will take place on June 20th, with Pakistan facing France and New Zealand playing Korea.

On day three of the tournament, Malaysia dominated the game against Japan, leading with two goals till the third quarter. Sumantri Norsyafiq opened the account, scoring the opening goal in the last stage of the first quarter.

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In the second quarter, Azrai Abu Kamal fired another goal as Malaysia took a 2-0 lead with an eye on the final four spot. Japan put in a strong effort in the third quarter and earned plenty corners. However, solid Malaysian defence kept them away from the nets.

However, Yamasaki Koji dashed Malaysian hopes of qualifying for the semi-final with a goal in the penultimate half of the match.

Earlier, the New Zealand hockey team came from behind in a thrilling encounter to defeat Pakistan 4-3, sealing a semi-final spot.

Pakistan had a 3-1 lead for most of the third quarter, but New Zealand’s Scott Cosslett struck two goals, which levelled the scores.

The match became tense in the last quarter of the game as both teams sought to score a goal, but for Blackstick, it was Scott Cosslett again who scored the decisive goal, giving his team a thrilling victory.

Pakistan defeated Japan comprehensively, while the match with Malaysia ended in a draw.

READ: Nations Hockey Cup: New Zealand come from behind to down Pakistan

T20I captain Salman Ali Agha is among the latest nominees from Pakistan, as Cricket Australia (CA) released the full list of overseas players for the upcoming Big Bash League (BBL) 15 draft.

A total of 74 Pakistani male cricketers and 11 female players have thrown their hats in the ring for the BBL and Women’s Big Bash League (WBBL) drafts, scheduled on June 19.

Along with Salman Ali Agha, explosive opener Mohammad Haris, and mystery spinner Abrar Ahmed have also signed up for the upcoming draft. All three players are eyeing a BBL stint after strong performances in recent domestic and international fixtures.

These new entries add to a group of Pakistani stars who had already registered for the BBL 15 Draft, including Shaheen Shah Afridi, Mohammad Rizwan, Shadab Khan, Haris Rauf, Usama Mir, and Mohammad Hasnain.

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Meanwhile, star batter Babar Azam has already been snapped up by the Sydney Sixers as one of the 15 pre-signed marquee players announced across both men’s and women’s competitions.

The BBL 15 draft pool features over 600 players from across the globe, making it one of the most competitive selections in recent years.

Players from England (178), West Indies (42), Sri Lanka (13), and even India (1) are part of the men’s draft, while the women’s pool sees strong representation from England (46), India (15), New Zealand (15), and Pakistan (11).

Brisbane Heat will hold the No. 1 pick in the men’s draft and will get first crack at assembling their overseas roster from this stacked talent pool.

READ: Tri-Series: Netherlands edge past Nepal in epic third super over clash

KUALA LUMPUR: The Pakistan hockey team defeated Japan 3-2 to register their first victory in the ongoing FIH Nations Cup 2025 here on Monday.

Pakistan took the lead in the first quarter when Ghazanfar Ali unleashed an electrifying strike that found the back of the net.

However, the response from Japan was swift and decisive; just a minute later, Kazumasa Matsumoto scored the equaliser.

Koji Yamasaki then deftly snatched the lead for Japan with a stunning goal, finishing the first quarter with a compelling score of 2-1 in their favour.

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Pakistan displayed tremendous grit and resilience in the second quarter, launching a series of aggressive attacks.

Despite their relentless efforts, breaking through Japan’s formidable defence proved to be a daunting task.

However, their perseverance finally bore fruit in the early moments of the third quarter, when Rana Waheed Ashraf found the net, igniting the hopes of the Pakistani team and levelling the score at 2-2.

Pakistan hockey team did not stop there as they continued their efforts to gain an advantage in the fourth quarter, and Sufyan Khan struck the match-winning goal for them eight minutes before the final whistle.

Pakistan squad for FIH Nations Cup

Ammad Butt (captain), Rana Waheed (vice captain), Muneer-ur-Rehman, Abdullah Ishtiaq, Mohammad Abdullah, Mohammad Sufyan Khan, Abdul Manan, Hamad Anjum, Arshad Liaquat, Moeen Shakeel, Zikriya Hayat, Ghazanfar Ali, Salman Razaq, Junaid Manzoor, Afraz Khan, Abdul Rehman, Ahmed Nadeem and Mohibullah.

READ: Sam Billings hails Babar Azam as ‘king’ ahead of BBL debut