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RAWALPINDI: Pakistan Test team vice-captain Saud Shakeel has heaped praise on debutant Asif Afridi, who struck twice in the final session to halt South Africa’s progress in the second Test.

Speaking at the end of the day’s play, Saud said that they are a bit concerned about losing wickets in heave.

Pakistan were cruising on day two morning just like Lahore Test; however, once Salman Ali Agha fell, the home side lost their way and slumped from 316-6 to 333 all out.

Saud made 66 from 147 balls, striking four boundaries, which lifted Pakistan out of trouble.

“Wickets in quick succession are a concern, and we will try to work on it,” he told reporters in the post-day press conference.

Saud praised 38-year-old debutant Asif Afridi and highlighted his bowling spell, which put Pakistan on top at Stumps.

South Africa were afloat with a 113-run stand between Tony de Zorzi and Tristan Stubbs. However, Asif took two quick wickets in the final session, which gave the home side an edge at Stumps.

“I’m really happy for Asif bhai. His debut came quite late, but it’s well-deserved. I’ve faced him several times in domestic cricket and always found him difficult to handle.

He’s very experienced, and you could see that in his spell today — giving away only 19 runs in 10 overs while maintaining great control,” he continued.

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He also mentioned Pakistan’s plan to go with three spinners and emphasized Noman Ali’s bowling.

“I don’t think playing three spinners is a problem. Nauman bhai usually bowls long spells, but even he can get tired. Asif gave us two crucial breakthroughs late in the day, so it’s working well. The match is evenly poised, and tomorrow’s first session will be very important,” he explained.

Looking ahead to the next day, Saud stressed the importance of an early strike in the morning session, which could turn the match on its head.

“The plan is simple — to get them out as early as possible. The first half hour will be crucial. If we manage early breakthroughs, we’ll be right on top of the game.”

“It’s a good pitch — both fast bowlers and spinners are in play. Batters who take their time can also score runs. This is the kind of pitch Test cricket needs,” he concluded.

READ: West Indies create ODI history with all-spin attack

West Indies have become the first ODI team in history to bowl all 50 overs with spin during the second ODI against Bangladesh in Mirpur.

The former world champions delivered a spin masterclass on Tuesday, bowling all 300 deliveries of spin, and conceded just 207 runs, and claimed seven wickets at the Shere Bangla Stadium.

Remarkably, their only pace option, Justin Greaves, was not used at all.

Previously, the most number of overs or balls bowled in an ODI was by Sri Lanka, who had bowled 44 overs of spin out of 50.

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They achieved the same feat thrice, against West Indies in 1996, New Zealand in 1998, and Australia in 2004.

Soumya Sarkar top-scored for Bangladesh with 45 but it was Rishad’s last-gasp effort that gave a decent score on a difficult pitch.

He made an unbeaten 39 off 14 balls with three sixes and as many fours, all of which came in the last 2.1 overs.

He added 50 runs for the unbroken eighth wicket stand with captain Mehidy Hasan Miraz, who was unbeaten on 32 off 58 balls.

Playing XIs

Bangladesh XI: 1 Soumya Sarkar, 2 Saif Hassan, 3 Najmul Hossain Shanto, 4 Towhid Hridoy, 5 Mehidy Hasan Miraz (capt), 6 Mahidul Islam Ankon, 7 Nurul Hasan (wk), 8 Rishad Hossain, 9 Nasum Ahmed, 10 Tanvir Islam, 11 Mustafizur Rahman

West Indies XI: 1 Brandon King, 2 Alick Athanaze, 3 Keacy Carty, 4 Shai Hope (capt & wk), 5 Sherfane Rutherford, 6 Ackeem Auguste, 7 Roston Chase, 8 Justin Greaves, 9 Gudakesh Motie, 10 Khary Pierre, 11 Akeal Hosein

READ: Asif Afridi strikes twice to keep Pakistan on top at Stumps

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has officially written to Asian Cricket Council (ACC) President Mohsin Naqvi, seeking the handover of the Asia Cup 2025 trophy nearly a month after the conclusion of the tournament, sources confirmed.

According to insiders, the ACC has responded to the Indian board’s request and proposed that the trophy presentation take place in Dubai during the first week of November.

“If you want the trophy, we can hold a ceremony where you can receive it,” the ACC reportedly told the BCCI.

The unusual situation stems from India’s decision not to collect their winners’ medals and trophy following their triumph in the Asia Cup 2025 final against Pakistan on September 29 at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium.

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The stand-off reportedly began after members of the Indian team declined to accept the silverware from ACC President Mohsin Naqvi, who also serves as the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman.

Despite India’s stance, the ACC has maintained its position, with sources suggesting that President Naqvi is unwilling to make any exceptions or alter standard presentation protocols.

India had defeated Pakistan by five wickets in the final, chasing down a 147-run target in 19.4 overs after bowling out the Men in Green for 146 runs in 19.1 overs.

READ: Abbas Afridi to lead Pakistan in Hong Kong Cricket Sixes 2025

Pakistan all-rounder Abbas Afridi has been appointed captain of the national squad for the upcoming Hong Kong Cricket Sixes 2025, scheduled to take place from November 7 to 9.

Pakistan will depart for Hong Kong on November 5 to take part in the 21st edition of the fast-paced tournament, which will feature 12 teams divided into four pools.

The Men in Green are placed in Pool C alongside India and Kuwait, with both group-stage matches set to be played on Friday, November 7.

The tournament promises high-octane entertainment as teams compete in six-a-side contests over three action-packed days.

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Defending champions Sri Lanka will look to retain their crown, while Pakistan, the most successful team in the competition’s history with five titles, will aim to add another trophy to their storied record.

Pakistan’s squad features a blend of young talent and experience, with Abbas Afridi (captain) joined by Abdul Samad, Khawaja Mohammad Nafay, Maaz Sadaqat, Mohammad Shahzad, Saad Masood, and Shahid Aziz. Danish Aziz and Mohammad Faiq have been named as non-travelling reserves.

Known for its fast-paced, fan-friendly format, the Hong Kong Cricket Sixes has long been regarded as one of the most entertaining events in world cricket.

This year’s edition is expected to draw large crowds and international attention as the format returns after recent global disruptions.

Pakistan squad for Hong Kong Sixes

Abbas Afridi (captain), Abdul Samad, Khawaja Mohammad Nafay, Maaz Sadaqat, Mohammad Shahzad, Saad Masood, and Shahid Aziz.

Non-travelling reserves: Danish Aziz and Mohammad Faiq.

READ: Major shake-up expected in Pakistan women’s coaching staff

LAHORE: The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has reportedly been considering shaking the women’s team’s coaching setup amid their underwhelming performance in the ongoing World Cup 2025.

According to insiders, the board is considering a comprehensive overhaul of the women’s coaching staff following the team’s disappointing run in Sri Lanka, where they remain winless after five matches.

Head coach Mohammad Wasim is likely to be replaced after the tournament, with discussions already underway regarding potential candidates.

The PCB is also expected to appoint foreign strength and conditioning coaches to enhance the team’s physical and technical standards.

In addition, efforts are being made to expand the player pool and increase international exposure through more frequent overseas tours for both the senior and U19 women’s teams.

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Sources further indicated that the board aims to strengthen ties with other cricket boards to secure more opportunities for Pakistani women cricketers in foreign leagues, a move seen as vital for bridging the competitive gap at the global level.

Pakistan currently sit at the bottom of the Women’s World Cup points table with just two points from five matches.

Their only bright moment came in a rain-hit encounter against England, where they restricted the defending champions to 133-9 in a 31-over contest and made a promising start in reply before the match was washed out.

The Women in Green now face an uphill battle, needing victories in both of their remaining fixtures against South Africa and hosts Sri Lanka, along with favourable results from other matches, to keep their faint semifinal hopes alive.

READ: Shaheen Afridi replaces Mohammad Rizwan as Pakistan’s ODI captain

The chess world has been plunged into mourning following the sudden death of prominent US grandmaster Daniel Naroditsky, aged 29.

The governing body, the International Chess Federation (FIDE), remembered Naroditsky, who was also a chess commentator and streamer, as someone “whose influence extended far beyond the chessboard”.

Fellow grandmaster and world number two Hikaru Nakamura wrote on social media: “I’m devastated. This is a massive loss for the world of chess.”

The news of his death was announced by his club, Charlotte Chess Centre, on Monday.

“It is with great sadness that we share the unexpected passing of Daniel Naroditsky,” they stated. “Daniel was a talented chess player, commentator and educator, and a cherished member of the chess community.”

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It said he was “admired and respected by fans and players around the world”. However, it did not say how he died.

FIDE said that Naroditsky “played a pivotal role in popularizing chess content online, bridging the gap between professional and amateur chess”.

“There are not many people in the world who manage to achieve so much before turning 30.”

Naroditsky was ranked number one in his native United States when he was just nine years old, The New York Times said.

He went on to became a grandmaster, the highest title in chess aside from World Chess Champion, at the age of 18.

READ: Keshav Maharaj stars as South Africa book Pakistan for 333 in second Test

RAWALPINDI: South Africa middle-order batters Tristan Stubbs and Tony de Zorzi frustrated Pakistan with a century stand, but debutant Asif Afridi struck twice in the final session to put the home side on top at Stumps.

South Africa were 185-4 at the end of the second day’s play here at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium.

Tristan Stubbs remained unbeaten on 68 from 184 balls while Kyle Verreynne was not out on 10 from 25 deliveries. The Proteas are still trailing by 148 runs, Pakistan’s first innings total.

Following the tea break, Tristan Stubbs and Tony de Zorzi continued on their merry way, notching up half-centuries which kept the visitors afloat.

They added another 81 runs, bringing the total above the 150-run mark. However, Asif trapped De Zorzi lbw to break the 114-run stand.

The left-hander departed after scoring 55 from 93 balls with the help of two fours and a maximum. The long-awaited breakthrough opened the door for Pakistan in the fading light at the Pindi stadium.

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Soon after, Asif removed Dewald Brevis for a duck to put his side on top in the Test match.

Besides, Asif Afridi, Shaheen Afridi, and Sajid Khan picked one wicket each.

At Tea, South Africa had scored 86 runs for the loss of two wickets, with Tristan Stubbs on 23 runs and Tony de Zorzi on 13 runs at the crease.

During the second session, Shaheen Afridi made an early breakthrough by dismissing Ryan Rickelton for 14 runs off 26 balls, leaving South Africa at 22-1.

Meanwhile, Aiden Markram kept the scoreboard moving with regular boundaries before falling to Sajid Khan after making 32 runs off 62 balls. His innings included four boundaries and a six.

Following Markram’s dismissal, Tony de Zorzi and Tristan Stubbs partnered effectively to prevent any further damage until Tea.

Earlier, Pakistan resumed the day at 259-5. Their lower order added just 74 runs as Maharaj ran riot, exploiting the surface with turn and flight to tear through the batting lineup.

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Salman Ali Agha and Saud Shakeel provided early resistance, adding a valuable 70-run stand that steadied Pakistan’s innings.

Shakeel compiled a patient 66 off 147 balls, his ninth Test fifty, while Agha contributed 45 from 76 deliveries with five boundaries.

However, once Maharaj broke their partnership, Pakistan’s resistance quickly faded. The left-arm spinner struck twice in quick succession, dismissing Agha and Shakeel in back-to-back overs before cleaning up the tail.

Shaheen Shah Afridi fell for a duck, Sajid Khan managed just five, and debutant Asif Afridi was the last to go.

Maharaj finished with outstanding figures of 7 wickets, marking one of his finest performances away from home and ensuring South Africa stayed alive in the contest.

Earlier, Pakistan had built a solid platform on day one through skipper Shan Masood’s 87 and Abdullah Shafique’s 57. The duo shared a crucial 111-run stand for the second wicket before South Africa’s spinners began to claw their way back.

READ: Mohammad Amir reacts to Shaheen Afridi’s appointment as captain

Sri Lanka snatched victory from the jaws of defeat to record their first win of the Women’s Cricket World Cup, edging out Bangladesh by seven runs in a nerve jangling finish in Navi Mumbai on Monday.

With Bangladesh cruising and only nine needed off the final over with five wickets in hand, having mustered just three runs off the penultimate over, Sri Lanka skipper Chamari Athapaththu took the ball herself and turned the game on its head.

Four wickets tumbled in four balls as Bangladesh collapsed, losing five wickets for just two runs.

Athapaththu, calm amid the storm, finished with career-best figures of 4-42.

The drama began with Rabeya Khan trapped leg-before off the first ball, followed by a run-out next delivery.

Then, Bangladesh’s hopes sank when their captain Nigar Sultana danced down the track only to find long-off lurking.

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When Marufa Akter was adjudged lbw next ball, Athapaththu had conjured the unthinkable, defending nine with a single run conceded in the over.

For once, fortune favoured Sri Lanka, whose campaign had been marred by rain, missed chances and misfiring batters.

Hasini Perera, who struck her maiden ODI half-century, made 85 off 99 balls, peppered with 13 fours and a six.

She was the backbone of Sri Lanka’s 202 all out as she reached the milestone of 1,000 runs in ODIs.

A 74-run partnership with Nilakshika de Silva gave Sri Lanka a solid launch pad, before another collapse saw six wickets fall for 28 run.

Even so, the Sri Lankans held their nerve in the death overs to seal the win and climb to sixth in the standings.

With four points, they are level with New Zealand and India, although will need results to go in their favour to grab the last semi-final spot.

Australia, South Africa and England have already booked their places in the last four.

READ: Mohammad Amir reacts to Shaheen Afridi’s appointment as captain

Former Pakistan fast bowler Mohammad Amir has slammed the decision to appoint Shaheen Afridi as the One Day International (ODI) captain of national cricket team.

Shaheen replaced wicket-keeper batter Mohammad Rizwan as captain of national ODI team.

The left-arm pacer’s first assignment will be the forthcoming three-match series against South Africa, which will begin on November 4 at Faisalabad Cricket Stadium.

The decision to appoint Shaheen as captain was taken at a meeting held in Islamabad. The meeting was attended by head coach Mike Hesson, director of high performance Aqib Javed and members of the selection committee.

Following the decision, Amir believed this is not a good decision under the circumstances.

“I don’t think Mohammad Rizwan has been treated fairly. Rizwan was not a bad one-day captain,” he remarked via a video on his social media handle.

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He led Pakistan to series wins in South Africa and Australia — something even some of our biggest captains couldn’t achieve. We should not have forgotten that,” Amir continued.

The 33-year-old stressed long-term planning and rued himself alongside former cricketers for destablization in Pakistan cricket while lavishing praise on Rizwan’s captaincy.

“Captaincy should not depend on just one good or bad series. We are all responsible for this — former cricketers and analysts included. We don’t allow stability in our cricket,” he added.

“Captains are not made overnight; it takes two to three years to build one. But here, one bad series is enough to replace a captain. I don’t think this is the right call. Rizwan is a smart captain and he has that knack of captaincy.”

He suggested that if Shaheen was to be handed the reins of the national team, he should have first been made vice-captain.

“If Shaheen had to be made captain, he could have first been appointed as vice-captain, and his performance judged accordingly — especially considering his fitness,” he concluded.

READ: Shaheen Afridi replaces Mohammad Rizwan as Pakistan’s ODI captain

LAHORE: Shaheen Shah Afridi has been appointed as Pakisan new ODI captain, replacing wicket-keeper batter Mohammad Rizwan following a leadership review by team management.

Shaheen will captain Pakistan in the three-match ODI series against South Africa, set to begin on November 4.

The decision to appoint Shaheen Shah Afridi was taken at a meeting held in Islamabad. The meeting was attended by head coach Mike Hesson, director of high performance Aqib Javed and members of the selection committee.

The move also came following Pakistan’s string of disappointing ODI performances this year.

The Men in Green failed to advance beyond the first round of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, before suffering a 3-0 whitewash at the hands of New Zealand and a 2-1 series defeat to the West Indies.

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Meanwhile, Shaheen Afridi has enjoyed remarkable success as captain of the Lahore Qalandars in the Pakistan Super League (PSL), leading them to three title wins.

Interestingly, this would not be Shaheen’s first stint as national captain. He previously led Pakistan in the T20I format but was replaced after just one series.

During Shaheen Afridi captaincy in January 2024, Pakistan lost five-match series 4-1 against Zealand.

The defeat resulted in captaincy change as he was replaced in the role by star batter Babar Azam, who led the side until the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024 played in USA and West Indies.

Mohammad Rizwan, who was appointed Pakistan white-ball captain on October 27, 2024, delivered some impressive results during his breif tenure, including memorable ODI series wins in Australia and South Africa.

However, his tenure in the T20I format ended soon after Men in Green lost all four T20Is under his leadership.

Overall, Rizwan captained Pakistan in 20 ODIs, winning nine and losing 11, finishing with a winning percentage of 45.

READ: Confident Rameen targets semi-final berth despite odds against Pakistan