Category: Featured

DUBAI: The International Cricket Council (ICC), on Monday, reprimanded the Pakistan men’s cricket team for maintaining a slow over-rate during the third ODI against New Zealand.

According to the ICC, match referee Jeff Crowe from the Elite Panel imposed the sanction after Pakistan fell one short of the required target, even after considering time allowances.

Under Article 2.2 of the ICC Code of Conduct, which deals with minimum over-rate offences, players are fined five per cent of their match fee for each over their side fails to complete in the stipulated time.

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Given that Pakistan was one over behind, the team has been handed a 5 per cent deduction from their match fee.

Pakistan’s captain, Mohammad Rizwan, accepted the charges and penalties, eliminating the need for a formal hearing.

It is pertinent to mention that this is the third consecutive time the Pakistan team has been fined. The Green Shirts could not complete their overs in the first and second ODIs as well.

The Pakistan team was fined 10 per cent and 5 percent respectively, in the opening two matches against New Zealand.

For the context, this marks the fourth successive instance that Pakistan has been docked for maintaining a slow-over rate against New Zealand.

The Pakistan team was also fined for a slow over-rate in the opening match of the 2025 Champions Trophy, which was also against the Black Caps.

READ:Former pacer set to join Bangladesh as bowling coach ahead of Pakistan tour

LAHORE: The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) on Sunday announced a star-studded commentary panel for the Pakistan Super League (PSL) season 10.

It’s worth noting that PSL 10 is set to commence on April 11, 2025. The opening match will see defending champions Islamabad United take on two-time winners Lahore Qalandars at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium.

The tournament, featuring six teams and 34 matches, will run from April 11 to May 18. Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium is set to host 13 matches, including both Eliminators and the grand final.

“Former England Test captain Sir Alastair Cook is all set to make his HBL PSL debut behind the mic for HBL PSL X, ” the cricket board stated in a press release.

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“Cook will be joined by former MCC President Mark Nicholas – a renowned voice in cricket commentary since retiring from competitive cricket in 1995.”

The English panel comprising 20 commentators will also include Dominic Cork, Mark Butcher, Jean-Paul Duminy, Mike Haysman and Mark Nicholas.

Additonally, Bangladesh’s Athar Ali Khan,New Zealand’s former Test cricketer Martin Guptill, and Australia’s two-time ICC Women’s World Cup winner Lisa Sthalekar are also featuring in the marquee event’s commentary panel.

From Pakistan, Aamir Sohail, Ramiz Raja, Waqar Younis, Wasim Akram, Sikaner Bakht, Bazid Khan and Urooj Mumtaz will lead the commentary panel.

The Pakistan Super League (PSL) will also feature full-match Urdu commentary for the first time in the tournament’s history.

Ali Younis, Aqeel Samar, Marina Iqbal, Salman Butt and Tariq Saeed, will be joined by the above mentioned Pakistan’s commentators for selected segments for Urdu commentary

Following the announcement, PSL Chief Executive Officer Salman Naseer expressed his excitement about the names included in the panel.

“We are excited to welcome a star-studded commentary team, featuring some of the most iconic names in the cricketing world — including legendary former Test captains and top-tier broadcasters, ” he said.

“Their involvement not only enhances the quality of our coverage but also highlights the global stature of the HBL PSL, ” he added.

READ: Pakistan squad heads home after New Zealand tour

LAHORE: The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) announced on Saturday that the upcoming season 10 of the Pakistan Super League (PSL) will feature full-match Urdu commentary for the first time in the tournament’s history.

It’s worth noting that PSL 10 is set to commence on April 11, 2025. The opening match will see defending champions Islamabad United take on two-time winners Lahore Qalandars at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium.

The tournament, featuring six teams and 34 matches, will run from April 11 to May 18. Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium is set to host 13 matches, including both Eliminators and the grand final.

“The Pakistan Cricket Board is pleased to announce that for the first time in HBL Pakistan Super League (PSL) history, fans will be able to enjoy full-match Urdu commentary throughout the tournament,” the cricket board stated in a press release.

“Fans can now choose to tune into live broadcasts in Urdu, allowing them to experience the action and excitement of the league matches in Pakistan’s national language.

“This step is set to deepen engagement with millions of cricket fans and enhance their experience.

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“The broadcast details, including commentary panels for both English and Urdu will be shared in due course.”

Salman Naseer, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the PSL, described it as a landmark moment for the tournament and emphasized that providing commentary in Urdu for an entire game will strengthen the league’s connection with the masses across the country.

“This is a landmark moment for the HBL PSL and its ever-growing fanbase,” said Naseer.

“Cricket is a unifying force in Pakistan and by offering commentary in Urdu for a full game, we are bringing the excitement and energy of the HBL PSL closer to the hearts of fans in every corner of the country.

“The introduction of the seperate Urdu commentary feed is something that has been eagerly anticipated and we are excited to deliver it.

“This move not only strengthens our connection with the community but also ensures that the excitement of HBL PSL is more accessible to a wider audience.”

READ: PCB introduces Match Officials’ Technology for PSL 10

DUBAI: The International Cricket Council (ICC), on Thursday, reprimanded the Pakistan men’s cricket team for maintaining a slow over-rate during the second ODI of their three-match series against New Zealand.

According to the ICC, match referee Jeff Crowe from the Elite Panel imposed the sanction after Pakistan fell one short of the required target, even after considering time allowances.

Under Article 2.2 of the ICC Code of Conduct, which deals with minimum over-rate offences, players are fined five per cent of their match fee for each over their side fails to complete in the stipulated time.

Given that Pakistan was one over behind, the team has been handed a 5 per cent match fee deduction.

Pakistan’s captain, Mohammad Rizwan, accepted the charges and penalties, eliminating the need for a formal hearing.

This comes on the back of another over-rate issue during the first ODI, where the team was penalized with a 10 per cent fine of their match fee for being two overs short of the required target.

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It is pertinent to mention that after a 4-1 drubbing in the T20I series, the Men in Green carried their poor form into the ODIs, losing the opening matchfirst ODI by 73 runs before conceding the series with an 84-run defeat in the second match on Wednesday.

The loss handed New Zealand an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match series.

Chasing 293, Pakistan crumbled to 208 all out, with only Faheem Ashraf (73 off 80) and Naseem (51 off 44) offering resistance.

The duo stitched a crucial 60-run stand for the ninth wicket, briefly giving Pakistan a glimmer of hope.

With Pakistan already trailing 2-0 in the series, they now face the daunting task of avoiding a clean sweep in the final ODI, scheduled in Mount Maunganui on April 5.

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.

READ: Tickets for PSL 10 go on sale

The much-anticipated anthem for Pakistan Super League (PSL) Season 10, titled X Dekho, featuring Ali Zafar, Talha Anjum, Natasha Baig, and Abrar-ul-Haq, was released on Wednesday.

The anthem premiered across PSL’s social media platforms, accompanied by the caption: “The wait is over! Presenting to you the Official #HBLPSLX Anthem.”

While Zafar and Anjum have previously contributed to PSL anthems, this marks the first time Baig and Haq have lent their voices to the league’s official soundtrack.

PSL Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Salman Naseer emphasized that the vision behind this anthem is to celebrate a decade of PSL’s success and its impact on Pakistan’s cricketing landscape.

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“The vision for this year’s anthem is to celebrate a milestone – ten years of Pakistan Super League,” said Naseer. “The anthem is thus named “X Dekho”, representing pride over the achievements and the hurdles overcome by the HBL PSL over the last decade.”

“The four artists from different backgrounds, genres, and vocal ranges reflect the diversity of Pakistan’s talent. This year, the idea was to create a song that is fresh, yet familiar and resonates across fans globally.”

It’s worth noting that PSL 10 is set to commence on April 11, 2025. The opening match will see defending champions Islamabad United take on two-time winners Lahore Qalandars at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium.

The tournament, featuring six teams and 34 matches, will run from April 11 to May 18. Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium is set to host 13 matches, including both Eliminators and the grand final.

READ: Naseem Shah creates history in second ODI against New Zealand

LAHORE: The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), on Tuesday, officially announced that the much-anticipated anthem for the Pakistan Super League (PSL) season 10, titled ‘X Dekho’, will be released on April 2.

According to the details, the anthem is set to premiere at 5 PM (Pakistan Standard Time) on the official PSL YouTube channel.

Bringing together a star-studded lineup, X Dekho will feature vocals from Ali Zafar, Talha Anjum, Natasha Baig, and Abrar-ul-Haq.

While Zafar and Anjum have previously been part of PSL anthem projects, this will mark the first time Baig and Haq lend their voices to the league’s official soundtrack.

PSL Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Salman Naseer emphasized that the vision behind this anthem is to celebrate a decade of PSL’s success and its impact on Pakistan’s cricketing landscape.

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“The vision for this year’s anthem is to celebrate a milestone – ten years of Pakistan Super League,” said Naseer. “The anthem is thus named “X Dekho”, representing pride over the achievements and the hurdles overcome by the HBL PSL over the last decade.”

“The four artists from different backgrounds, genres, and vocal ranges reflect the diversity of Pakistan’s talent. This year, the idea was to create a song that is fresh, yet familiar and resonates across fans globally.”

It’s worth noting that PSL 10 is set to commence on April 11, 2025. The opening match will see defending champions Islamabad United take on two-time winners Lahore Qalandars at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium.

The tournament, featuring six teams and 34 matches, will run from April 11 to May 18. Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium is set to host 13 matches, including both Eliminators and the grand final.

READ: Erling Haaland sidelined by injury in major Manchester City blow

HAMILTON: Pakistan cricketers, including Mohammad Rizwan, Salman Ali Agha, Haris Rauf, and others, extended their heartfelt wishes to 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 nation on Eid.

The national team is currently in New Zealand for a three-match ODI series.

During the practice session at Hamilton ahead of the second ODI, Pakistani skipper Mohammad Rizwan wished the whole Muslim community on the joyous occasion of Eid-ul-fitr.

“A very happy to eid to the whole Muslim community,” said Rizwan.

Besides Rizwan, vice-captain Salman Ali Agha, opening batter Imam-ul-Haq, and ace pacer Haris Rauf also wished ‘Eid Mubarak’ to all the Muslims around the world, praying for peace, prosperity, and happiness for everyone.

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It is pertinent to mention that Pakistan lost the first ODI of the three-match series against New Zealand by 73 runs.

Chasing a daunting 345-run target, Pakistan faltered under the pressure of New Zealand’s pace attack, folding for 271 in 44.1 overs.

Pakistan’s chase began on a promising note as debutant Usman Khan and Abdullah Shafique put together a brisk 83-run opening stand.

Both batters looked aggressive, setting a solid platform before Nathan Smith broke the partnership in the 13th over, removing Usman for 39. Skipper Michael Bracewell then dismissed Abdullah for 36 in the 16th over, reducing Pakistan to 88-2.

Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan attempted to rebuild with a 76-run partnership, keeping hopes alive. However, debutant Muhammad Abbas struck in the 29th over to dismiss Rizwan for 30, leaving Pakistan at 164-3.

Babar, showing his trademark composure, anchored the innings with Salman Ali Agha in an 89-run stand.

The former captain reached his 36th ODI fifty, scoring a fluent 78, but his dismissal in the 39th over to Will O’Rourke tilted the momentum firmly in New Zealand’s favor.

Pakistan’s collapse began soon after as Tayyab Tahir was run out in the 40th over, followed by a golden duck for Irfan Khan Niazi.

Smith then returned to clean up the tail, dismissing Naseem Shah and Haris Rauf in the 43rd over.

READ: ‘Always dreamed of debuting against Pakistan,’ says Muhammad Abbas

HAMILTON: Pakistan opener Usman Khan was ruled out of the second One Day International (ODI) against New Zealand due to a hamstring injury.

The right-handed batter suffered the injury while fielding in the first ODI against New Zealand at McLean Park in Napier on Friday.

According to the details, an MRI scan revealed a low-grade tear, ruling Usman Khan out of the second ODI at Seddon Park, Hamilton.

The 29-year-old batter made his ODI debut in the first match against the Black Caps. He scored 39 off 33 deliveries, laced with two sixes and four fours.

Usman Khan was roped in the series opener after the opening batter Imam Ul Haq was unavailable for selection due to injury.

In a statement released by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), it was confirmed that Imam sustained a soft tissue injury to his right big toe during a practice session.

“Imam-ul-Haq will not be available for the first ODI against New Zealand due to a soft tissue injury to his right big toe sustained during yesterday’s practice session. He is under medical management, and further updates will be provided in due course,” the PCB stated.

Pakistan lost the first ODI of the three-match series against New Zealand by 73 runs

Chasing a daunting 345-run target, Pakistan faltered under the pressure of New Zealand’s pace attack, folding for 271 in 44.1 overs.

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Pakistan’s chase began on a promising note as debutant Usman Khan and Abdullah Shafique put together a brisk 83-run opening stand.

Both batters looked aggressive, setting a solid platform before Nathan Smith broke the partnership in the 13th over, removing Usman for 39. Skipper Michael Bracewell then dismissed Abdullah for 36 in the 16th over, reducing Pakistan to 88-2.

Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan attempted to rebuild with a 76-run partnership, keeping hopes alive. However, debutant Muhammad Abbas struck in the 29th over to dismiss Rizwan for 30, leaving Pakistan at 164-3.

Babar, showing his trademark composure, anchored the innings with Salman Ali Agha in an 89-run stand.

The former captain reached his 36th ODI fifty, scoring a fluent 78, but his dismissal in the 39th over to Will O’Rourke tilted the momentum firmly in New Zealand’s favor.

Pakistan’s collapse began soon after as Tayyab Tahir was run out in the 40th over, followed by a golden duck for Irfan Khan Niazi.

Smith then returned to clean up the tail, dismissing Naseem Shah and Haris Rauf in the 43rd over.

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

LAHORE: The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) on Saturday confirmed the postponement of the Pakistan Super League (PSL) Season 10 exhibition match between Peshawar Zalmi and Quetta Gladiators at the Arbab Niaz Cricket Stadium.

The highly anticipated contest was originally scheduled for April 8, 2025, marking an important step in reviving top-tier cricket in the region.

However, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has decided to reschedule the match, and a new date will be announced soon.

“PSL X exhibition match scheduled between Peshawar Zalmi and Quetta Gladiators at the Arbab Niaz Stadium in Peshawar on 8 April will be rescheduled, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) confirmed today,” the cricket board stated in a press release.

“The revised date of the match will be announced in due course.

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“The PCB remains committed to hosting matches at the international stadium in Peshawar and will continue to provide all support to the provincial government to make the venue operational.”

This initiative is part of PCB’s efforts to bring elite-level cricket back to Peshawar, engaging fans who have long awaited the return of PSL action to their city.

This isn’t the first time PCB has hosted an exhibition match as a prelude to PSL. Back in 2023, a similar game in Quetta generated immense excitement, setting the stage for the league’s successful campaign that year.

Meanwhile, the 10th edition of the PSL is set to commence on April 11, 2025. The opening match will see defending champions Islamabad United take on two-time winners Lahore Qalandars at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium.

The tournament, featuring six teams and 34 matches, will run from April 11 to May 18. Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium is set to host 13 matches, including both Eliminators and the grand final.

READ: Russell Domingo named Lahore Qalandars’ head coach for PSL 10

Former England cricketer Ravi Bopara has been appointed as the head coach of Karachi Kings for Pakistan Super League (PSL) season 10.

Ravi Bopara takes over from the former West Indies cricketer Phil Simmons, who was the King’s head coach since December 2023.

The decision came after Phil Simmons’ contract was extended as Bangladesh’s head coach for the next two years, up until the end of the 2027 ODI World Cup.

The BCB offered him a longer contract after initially appointing him as interim coach until the conclusion of the 2025 Champions Trophy.

Ravi Bopara, who represented England in 38 T20Is, was the Karachi Kings’ assistant batting coach for the past three seasons.

The former all-rounder also played and captained the Karachi Kings in earlier editions of the PSL and was named Player of the Tournament in HBL Pakistan Super League (PSL) Season 1.

The Karachi Kings’ social media account posted an animated poster announcing his appointment as head coach.

Additionally, Muhammad Masroor was named the Assistant Coach and high-performance Coach of the Kings.

Karachi Kings’ owner, Salman Iqbal, stated: “We are delighted to welcome Ravi Bopara as our Head Coach for HBL PSL 10. His journey with Karachi Kings—from player and then as part of our coaching staff—reflects his deep commitment to the franchise.”

“We are confident that his leadership will bring fresh energy to the squad. Additionally, Muhammad Masroor’s promotion as High Performance Coach is a testament to his hard work and dedication over the years. Together, they form a strong coaching unit that will drive Karachi Kings toward success.”

The PSL 10 will begin from Friday, 11 April with defending champions Islamabad United taking on two times champions Lahore Qalandars at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium.

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The six-team tournament will see 34 matches from 11 April to 18 May, with Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium set to host 13 matches, including two Eliminators and the final.

Also, the upcoming edition will feature an exhibition match, which will be played on 8 April in Peshawar.

According to the schedule, Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium will host 11 matches, including Qualifier 1 on 13 May. Karachi’s National Bank Stadium and Multan Cricket Stadium will host five matches each.

The marquee event will also feature three double-headers, with two matches on weekends (Saturday) and one on a national holiday (Labour Day).

READ: Former cricketer highlights gap between Pakistan and top cricket nations