Mohammad Yousuf Archives

Salman Ali Agha breaks world record, surpasses Dravid, Yousuf, Dhoni

RAWALPINDI: Pakistan T20I captain Salman Ali Agha has surpassed legends like Rahul Dravid, MS Dhoni, and Mohammad Yousuf to set a world record for playing the most international matches in a single calendar year.

Agha achieved the milestone during Pakistan’s 69-run victory over Zimbabwe in the T20I tri-series at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium on Sunday.

Pakistan have played a total of 54 international matches in 2025 so far, the most by any team this year, with the West Indies being next–best with 45 matches.

Agha, who is Pakistan’s mainstay across formats, is the only player to feature in all of these games this year.

Follow us on our Official WhatsApp channel

Remarkably, this tally also equals Pakistan’s record for most matches in a calendar year, first set in 2013.

Agha, by featuring in 54 matches, eclipsed the previous joint record of 53 appearances held by Dravid (1999), Yousuf (2000), and Dhoni (2007).

The feat of surpassing 50 international matches in a single year is rare, first achieved by Sachin Tendulkar in 1997, and more recently by New Zealand’s Daryl Mitchell, who played 51 games in 2023.

Most international matches in a calendar year

Salman Ali Agha (Pakistan) – 54, 2025
Rahul Dravid (India) – 53, 1999
Mohammad Yousuf (Pakistan) – 53, 2000
MS Dhoni (India/Asia XI) – 53, 2007
Lance Klusener (South Africa) – 52, 2000
Paul Collingwood (England) – 52, 2007
Angelo Mathews (Sri Lanka) – 52, 2014
Sachin Tendulkar (India) – 51, 1997
Daryl Mitchell (New Zealand) – 51, 2023

READ: PSB quashes lifetime ban on Arshad Nadeem’s coach Salman Butt

Mohammad Yousuf steps down as Pakistan’s batting coach

Former batting maestro Mohammad Yousuf has resigned as the batting coach of the Pakistan cricket team.

According to sources, Yousuf, who was serving as a batting coach under the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), reportedly submitted his resignation to the board.

Mohammad Yousuf was also part of the team management during Pakistan’s tour of New Zealand.

He was named the batting coach of the national men’s team on 4 March ahead of the tour of New Zealand, replacing Shahid Aslam.

Follow us on our Official WhatsApp channel

It is pertinent to mention that last year, Mohammad Yousuf also resigned from the selection committee, citing “personal reasons”.

Yousuf had announced his resignation in a post on the social media platform X.

“Serving this incredible team has been a profound privilege, and I am proud to have contributed to the growth and success of Pakistan cricket,” he wrote.

“I have immense faith in the talent and spirit of our players, and wish our team all the best as they continue to strive for greatness.”

At that time, the PCB confirmed Yousuf’s resignation, stating that he wanted to focus on other key responsibilities within the cricket board.

“The PCB expresses its sincere gratitude to Mohammad Yousuf for his invaluable contributions during his tenure as a selection committee member,” the cricket board said.

For the unversed, Mohammad Yousuf was also the head coach of the Pakistan U-19 side that finished third in the ICC U-19 Men’s Cricket World Cup 2024 in South Africa.

READ: Pat Cummins shatters multiple records with six-fer in WTC final

Shahid Afridi backs Shoaib Malik’s inclusion in PSL 10 amid criticism

Former Pakistan captain Shahid Afridi has supported Shoaib Malik’s continued participation in the Pakistan Super League (PSL) despite criticism from former cricketers.

The 43-year-old Malik, currently representing Quetta Gladiators in PSL 10, has been in the spotlight after former batters Mohammad Yousuf and Basit Ali highlighted his inclusion in the team.

Shoaib Malik has played for four franchises since the inception of the Pakistan Super League (PSL).

The all-rounder has featured in 557 T20 matches, scoring 13571 runs and achieving 83 half-centuries. He currently ranks only behind West Indies’ Chris Gayle and England’s Alex Hales in the T20 runs tally.

Catch all the PSL 10 updates here!

Malik struggled to score against Lahore Qalandars, making only 14 runs off 15 balls while chasing a challenging total of 220. Furthermore, he went wicketless in the match, conceding 16 runs in just one over.

While speaking during a PSL show, Yousuf stated that a line should be drawn on allowing players of Malik’s age to participate in the league.

Follow us on our Official WhatsApp channel

“The board needs to draw a line regarding Shoaib Malik playing the PSL. If you ask me to play, even I’ll play,” he remarked.

Former cricketer Basit Ali also commented on the all-rounder’s inclusion in the playing XI during a TV show. He stated that young talent such as Khawaja Nafay was warming the bench due to Shoaib Malik

“If Shoaib Malik is playing, then Moeen Khan and Viv Richards should also play,” he said.

However, Shahid Afridi echoed contrasting sentiments to Yousuf and Basit, stating that Malik could play as he wanted to.

“He can play for as long as he wants to. Shoaib Malik can play some matches, but he should also skip a few games so that youngsters get their chance, as they have performed well to reach this stage,” Afridi said.

READ: Schedule for India’s white-ball tour to Bangladesh announced

Former Pakistan captains question Lahore Qalandars’ selection of Mohammad Naeem

Former Pakistan captains Mohammad Yousuf and Shahid Afridi have publicly raised concerns over Lahore Qalandars’ selection strategy in the Pakistan Super League (PSL) 10, particularly the decision to field an inexperienced opener, Mohammad Naeem, ahead of more seasoned domestic performers.

Speaking on a local sports show, Yousuf didn’t mince his words while reacting to Naeem’s inclusion in the Qalandars’ playing XI.

“I’ve heard Mohammad Naeem’s name for the first time. Has he even played first-class cricket?” Yousuf questioned bluntly.

Catch all the PSL 10 updates here!

“I’ve only seen him face 10 or 11 balls. They have Mohammad Akhlaq – an experienced first-class cricketer and a solid performer. How do you justify playing someone so raw over a proven domestic player?”

Mohammad Naeem, who had featured in just five T20 matches before making his PSL debut, was given the responsibility to open the innings alongside Fakhar Zaman.

The 22-year-old’s numbers don’t back his selection either – he had scored just 85 runs in those five games prior to the PSL and has managed only 8 and 10 in his first two PSL outings, totaling a modest 18 runs so far.

Follow us on our Official WhatsApp channel

Shahid Afridi also took a subtle jab at Lahore’s tendency to pick untested players under the banner of talent discovery. “Credit bhi to lena hai,” he said, alluding to the franchise’s reputation for backing unknown names.

It’s worth noting that Lahore Qalandars lost their tournament opener to Islamabad United but bounced back in a high-scoring win over Quetta Gladiators.

They now gear up for a crucial clash against arch-rivals Karachi Kings later today at the National Bank Stadium in Karachi.

READ: Luka Modric becomes co-owner of Championship club Swansea

Mohammad Yousuf backs young batters to shine in challenging New Zealand conditions

Pakistan batting coach Mohammad Yousuf has backed the young batters to shine against New Zealand in the crucial third T20I match despite their struggles in the first two matches.

The Men in Green’s batting performance in the two opening matches was dismal. Their top order failed against a disciplined Black Caps bowling attack, resulting in losses by a big margin.

Pakistan handed debut caps to young batters Hasan Nawaz and Abdul Samad in the series opener, but both failed to impress. However, Yousuf has backed the youngsters to shine, emphasizing challenging conditions in New Zealand.

“This is a tough tour for young batters. The first match was especially difficult due to extra bounce and swing,” he said.

“It is encouraging that the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has given opportunities to these players. They are the future of Pakistan cricket, and we must support them,” Yousuf stated.

Mohammad Yousuf said that the coaching staff and management are working closely with the players to help them adapt to the conditions.

Follow us on our Official WhatsApp channel

“Coaching staff and management are working closely with the players to help them adapt to the conditions.”

“The key is to stay mentally strong in high-pressure situations. Players must learn how to handle different pitch conditions and play to their strengths,” said Yousuf.

The 50-year-old coach highlighted the learning experience from the previous match, mentioning the improvement in the team’s performance.

“The team showed improvement in the last match, scoring 135-136 runs in 15 overs.”

“A few crucial overs swung the game in New Zealand’s favour, but overall, the performance was promising. If the players continue learning and improving, results will follow,” he concluded.

READ: Aqib Javed confident of Pakistan’s comeback in must-win third T20I against New Zealand

Mohammad Yousuf confirms availability for New Zealand tour after daughter’s recovery

Pakistan’s batting coach Mohammad Yousuf on Tuesday confirmed his availability for the New Zealand tour after reporting improvement in his daughter’s health, ARY News reported.

The development came hours after it was reported that the former captain withdrew from the Pakistan cricket team’s tour to New Zealand due to the deteriorating health of his daughter.

The report said that the national side would be without a batting coach after Mohammad Yousuf had notified the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) of his decision.

However, the former Pakistan captain has now reversed his decision on the back of an improvement in his daughter’s health.

Follow us on our Official WhatsApp channel

Explaining his decision, Mohammad Yousuf said that doctors have informed the family about improvement in his daughter’s health.

“Touring with the Pakistan cricket team is a national duty and I am going to discharge it,” he said in a statement.

It is noted here that Pakistan’s white-ball tour of New Zealand will kick off with the first T20I in Christchurch on 16 March.

The Pakistan cricket team will then travel to Dunedin to play the second game on 18 March.

The third match will be played in Auckland on 21 March, while the subsequent games are scheduled in Mount Maunganui and Wellington on March 23 and 26, respectively.

Following the conclusion of the T20I series, the two sides will face off in Napier in the first ODI, scheduled for 29 March.

The second ODI will be played on 2 April in Hamilton, while Mount Maunganui will host the third and final ODI on 5 April.

Read: Australia, England to play historic 150th anniversary Test under lights

Batting coach Mohammad Yousuf withdraws from Pakistan’s tour of New Zealand

Pakistan’s newly appointed batting coach of the national men’s team, Mohammad Yousuf, has withdrawn from the upcoming tour of New Zealand.

Yousaf, appointed as the Pakistan team’s coach on March 4, withdrew from the tour due to his daughter’s illness.

The former cricketer has officially notified the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) of his decision.

Even though Yousuf is unavailable, the cricket board has not announced a replacement for the batting consultant position.

The T20I series between Pakistan and New Zealand will kick off in Christchurch on 16 March, while the second match is scheduled to be played in Dunedin on 18 March.

Follow us on our Official WhatsApp channel

The third match will be played in Auckland on 21 March, while the subsequent games are scheduled in Mount Maunganui and Wellington on 23 and 26 March, respectively.

Following the T20I series, the teams will travel to Napier for the first ODI, scheduled for 29 March. The second ODI will be played on 2 April in Hamilton, while Mount Maunganui will host the final ODI on 5 April.

Pakistan squads for New Zealand tour

ODIs: 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.

T20Is: Salman Ali Agha (c), Shadab Khan (vc), Abdul Samad, Abrar Ahmed, Haris Rauf, Hasan Nawaz, Jahandad Khan, Khushdil Shah, Mohammad Abbas Afridi, Mohammad Haris (wk), Mohammad Ali, Muhammad Irfan Khan, Omair Bin Yousuf, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Sufiyan Muqeem, Usman Khan (wk)

Read: New Zealand unveil squad for home T20I series against Pakistan

Mohammad Yousuf appointed as Pakistan’s batting coach ahead of New Zealand tour

LAHORE: Former Pakistan captain Mohammad Yousuf was appointed as the batting coach of the national men’s team on Tuesday ahead of the upcoming tour of New Zealand.

The series between Pakistan and New Zealand will run from 16 March 16 to 5 April, featuring five T20Is and three ODIs.

Yousuf has replaced Shahid Aslam as the batting coach, while Aqib Javed will continue as interim head coach for the New Zealand tour.

It’s worth noting that Aqib’s original term was until the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, but he has been asked to extend his tenure while the search for a permanent head coach begins.

Follow us on our Official WhatsApp channel

The T20I series between Pakistan and New Zealand will kick off in Christchurch on 16 March, while the second match is scheduled to be played in Dunedin on 18 March.

The third match will be played in Auckland on 21 March, while the subsequent games are scheduled in Mount Maunganui and Wellington on 23 and 26 March, respectively.

Pakistan squads for New Zealand tour

Player Support Personnel: Naveed Akram Cheema (team manager), Aqib Javed (interim head coach), Azhar Mahmood (assistant coach), Mohammad Yousuf (batting coach), Mohammad Masroor (fielding coach), Cliffe Deacon (physiotherapist), Drikus Saiman (strength and conditioning coach), Talha Butt (analyst), Irtiza Komail (security manager), Dr Wajid Ali Rafai (team doctor), Syed Naeem Ahmad (media and digital manager) and Sergio Basil Mullins (masseur).

READ: New T20I captain named as Pakistan announce white-ball squads for New Zealand tour

Mohammad Yousuf picks THESE teams as favorites for Champions Trophy 2025

Former Pakistan captain Mohammad Yousuf has recently revealed his favorites for the upcoming ICC Men’s Champions Trophy 2025, scheduled to be held in Pakistan and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) from 19 February.

According to Yousuf, New Zealand and India are the most balanced teams in the tournament, with all bases covered in their squads.

“It’s tough to pick a favorite. It’s a big tournament, and momentum can shift at any time. For me, New Zealand looks like the most balanced side,” Yousuf said.

“They have a well-rounded squad suited for subcontinent conditions. Their lineup includes three quality fast bowlers, good spinners, and a solid top six in batting.

“Their wicketkeeper is an all-rounder, and they have two spin-bowling all-rounders as well. India also has a balanced squad.”

Follow us on our Official WhatsApp channel

He recognized that Pakistan would have the distinct advantage of playing on home soil in the Champions Trophy 2025. They can benefit from it if they approach the tournament with strategic intent, harnessing the energy of local support to elevate their performance.

“Pakistan has the edge because they are familiar with the conditions. However, they must play calculated cricket throughout the tournament,” he stated.

Mohammad Yousuf also shared a piece of important advice for the Pakistan team, emphasising the importance of rotating the strike and minimising dot balls.

“We have played on turning wickets recently, so we need to find the gaps against spinners, rotate the strike, and minimize dot balls,” he added.

“In the tri-series final against New Zealand, we struggled to dominate their spinners in the middle overs. With five fielders inside the 30-yard circle, there are always scoring opportunities.”

READ: Former cricketers pick highest run-scorer for Champions Trophy

Mohammad Yousuf steps down as Pakistan’s selection committee member

Former Pakistan batter Mohammad Yousuf resigned from his role as a member of the national selection committee on Sunday, as confirmed by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB).

The 50-year-old took to social media on Sunday to share the news, citing personal reasons for his decision.

“I announce my resignation as a selector for the Pakistan cricket team due to personal reasons. Serving this incredible team has been a profound privilege, and I am proud to have contributed to the growth and success of Pakistan Cricket,” Mohammad Yousuf said in his post on X.

“I have immense faith in the talent and spirit of our players, and wish our team all the best as they continue to strive for greatness,” he added.

Follow us on our Official WhatsApp channel

The cricket board later confirmed Yousuf’s resignation through a press release on their website.

“The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) today announced that Mohammad Yousuf has voluntarily stepped down from his role as a member of the national selection committee to focus on other key responsibilities within the cricket board,” the PCB’s press release stated.

“The PCB expresses its sincere gratitude to Mohammad Yousuf for his invaluable contributions during his tenure as a selection committee member. Yousuf will continue to play a pivotal role at the PCB, sharing his extensive knowledge and experience as the batting coach at the High-Performance Centre.”

Yousuf was the head coach of the Pakistan U19 side that finished third in the ICC U19 Men’s Cricket World Cup 2024 in South Africa.

The former legend, who represented Pakistan in 90 Test matches, 288 ODIs, and three T20Is during his illustrious career, was appointed as selector in March 2024. He played a key role in selecting the Pakistani squad for the T20 World Cup 2024.

READ: Scotland crush Pakistan in Women’s T20 World Cup warm-up match