Tag: PCB

LAHORE: The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) on Tuesday announced the appointment of former Test fast bowler Aqib Javed as the Director High-Performance.

Javed recently served as Pakistan’s interim head coach for all formats until the tour of New Zealand in April.

He was initially appointed as the interim head coach for white-ball formats, but was also given responsibilities for the red-ball side during the tour of South Africa.

“To strengthen our cricket infrastructure, we are pleased to welcome Aqib Javed as the Director of High Performance,” said PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi.

“His appointment, alongside Mike Hesson as the white-ball Head Coach, marks a significant step forward in our strategic vision for Pakistan Cricket.

“Together, their expertise and leadership will play a pivotal role in the development, evolution and success of our national setup.”

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It’s worth noting that Aqib Javed represented Pakistan in 22 Tests and 163 ODIs from 1988 to 1998.

In addition to his recent role as the interim head coach of the Pakistan men’s cricket team, he previously served as the bowling coach during Pakistan’s successful campaign in the ICC T20 World Cup in 2009.

Last year, he worked with the Sri Lanka men’s team as their bowling coach.

Before that, he oversaw the United Arab Emirates (UAE) as they earned ODI status and qualified for the ICC World Cup 2015 in Australia during his tenure as head coach.

Furthermore, he was the coach of Pakistan’s Under-19 team when they won the U19 World Cup in 2004.

READ: Mike Hesson appointed as white-ball head coach of Pakistan

The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has been engaged in active discussions with the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) for Bangladesh’s upcoming white-ball tour of Pakistan later this month.

The tensions between India and Pakistan reached fever-pitch following an attack last month in the Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK) town of Pahalgam that killed 26 tourists.

However, the situation returned to normal after an immediate ceasefire on Saturday, following days of deadly jet fighter, missile, drone and artillery attacks.

In a statement, the Bangladesh Cricket Board emphasized the safety and security of its players as the board’s foremost priority.

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“The BCB wishes to reiterate that the safety and security of its players and support staff remain the Board’s highest priority,” the board said in an official statement on Saturday.

“All decisions concerning the tour will be made with careful consideration of the current situation in Pakistan, ensuring they align with the best interests of the team and Bangladesh cricket,” it added.

It is pertinent to mention that Bangladesh are scheduled to head to Pakistan on 21 May for a five-match T20I series. However, the tensions between India and Pakistan have cast doubt on this tour.

Bangladesh will play across two venues in Pakistan, Faisalabad and Lahore. Iqbal Stadium in Faisalabad will stage the first and second T20Is of the series, scheduled.

The Bangladesh team is set to travel to Dubai later this week for a two-match T20I series.

Nahid Rana and Rishad Hossain, both part of PSL 10, returned home on Friday after the league’s indefinite postponement.

Both players will leave for the UAE with the rest of the Bangladesh squad on Wednesday.

However, Rishad and Nahid will be unavailable if the PSL resumes, mainly due to Bangladesh’s international commitments.

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LAHORE: The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) on Friday announced the relocation of the remaining matches of the Pakistan Super League (PSL) 10 to the United Arab Emirates (UAE), citing rising tensions between Pakistan and India.

In a statement, the cricket board confirmed that the remaining eight matches of PSL 10 including playoffs and the final, have been moved to the UAE. The details regarding dates and venues will be announced later.

“The PCB today confirms that the remaining fixtures of the HBL PSL X have been shifted to the UAE. As such, the last eight fixtures, which were previously scheduled in Rawalpindi, Multan and Lahore will now be staged in the UAE,” the PCB said in a statement.

Catch all the PSL 10 updates here!

“The exact schedule of matches, outlining the dates and venues, will be shared in due course,” it added.

PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi stated that the board’s decision to shift matches was driven by the escalating tensions between Pakistan and India, which raised serious concerns.

PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi explained that the board’s decision to relocate the remaining PSL 10 matches was driven by the escalating tensions between Pakistan and India.

“The PCB has always stood by the position that politics and sports need to be kept apart.

“However, in view of the extremely irresponsible and dangerous Indian act of targeting the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, which was manifestly done to disrupt the ongoing HBL Pakistan Super League X, the PCB has decided to shift the remaining matches to UAE.

This is so that the domestic as well as foreign cricketers, who are our precious guests, can be saved from the possible reckless targeting by India,” he said.

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Mohsin Naqvi emphasized the well-being of all players participating in the marquee event.

“As a responsible organisation that has overcome adversities repeatedly and ensured that the game of cricket flourishes, it was important for us to ensure the mental well-being of all players participating in the HBL PSL,” said Mohsin Naqvi.

“Like in the past, we hope that our stakeholders will rally with us to further the best interests of the tournament, our players and the fans. We are committed to ensuring that the league continues to thrive,” he concluded.

Remaining Fixtures of PSL 10

• Karachi Kings v Peshawar Zalmi
• Peshawar Zalmi v Lahore Qalandars
• Islamabad United v Karachi Kings
• Multan Sultans v Quetta Gladiators
• Qualifier
• Eliminator 1
• Eliminator 2
• Final

READ: Cricket West Indies monitoring player safety amid escalating Pakistan-India tensions

RAWALPINDI: The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), on Thursday, confirmed that the Pakistan Super League (PSL) season 10 clash between Peshawar Zalmi and Karachi Kings has been postponed.

The decision was made due to rising tensions between Pakistan and India. Details indicate that the new date for the match will be announced soon, and it is likely to be rescheduled in Karachi.

“The Pakistan Cricket Board, in consultation with all the stakeholders, has decided to reschedule tonight’s HBL PSL X match between Peshawar Zalmi and Karachi Kings,” the cricket board stated in a press release.

Catch all the PSL 10 updates here!

“The PCB will announce the revised date in due course.

“Moreover, VIP Gallery and enclosures ticket holders can obtain refunds from TCS Express Centres for tonight’s match, while tickets bought online for tonight’s encounter will be automatically reimbursed in the accounts used at the time of booking.”

The decision was finalised during an emergency meeting on Wednesday, attended by PSL franchise owners and representatives from law enforcement agencies.

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The high-level huddle was convened to ensure the safety and continuity of the PSL 10, which had reached a critical phase.

Due to increasing concerns about security risks, the PCB, after consulting with all stakeholders, has decided to relocate the remainder of the league to Karachi.

However, recent reports indicate that the tournament may be moved out of the country to either Doha or Dubai.

While this logistical pivot presents challenges, officials believe it is the most practical move to safeguard the remainder of the PSL 10 and maintain momentum heading into the international calendar.

Further updates regarding revised fixtures and match timings are expected to be released by the PCB soon.

READ: MS Dhoni breaks silence on his retirement plans

LAHORE: The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has rescheduled two matches of the Pakistan Super League (PSL) 10 due to logistical challenges and extreme weather conditions.

The game between Multan Sultans and Karachi Kings, scheduled to start on May 1 at Multan Cricket Stadium, will now be played in Lahore.

“The afternoon game on 1 May between Multan Sultans and Karachi Kings, originally scheduled for the Multan Cricket Stadium, will now take place at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore, with the first ball bowled at 3 p.m.,” PCB said in a statement.

“Due to rescheduling, Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium will now host a doubleheader on 1 May, which is also a public holiday (Labour Day),” the statement added.

In the evening, Gaddafi Stadium will host the fixture between the Lahore Qalandars and Quetta Gladiators, as per the original schedule, which is set to begin at 8 p.m.

Furthermore, the last of the Multan-leg match, scheduled for the afternoon of 10 May between Multan Sultans and Quetta Gladiators, will now take place on the evening of 11 May, with the first ball bowled at 8 p.m. at the Multan Cricket Stadium.

Catch all the PSL 10 updates here!

According to the cricket board, the decision was made for operational ease, considering the heat waves in certain parts of the country.

Furthermore, PCB has stated that tickets bought online for the May 1 encounter will be automatically reimbursed in the accounts used at the time of booking.

However, tickets purchased from express centres will need to be physically refunded to fans at TCS outlets. The inconvenience caused to fans in this regard is regretted. The fans who have already purchased tickets for the 10 May fixture can use them for the next day (11 May).

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LAHORE: The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has responded to the claims made by former head coach Jason Gillespie about the non-payment of his dues.

In a recent interview, Gillespie claimed that he was still awaiting payment for his nine-month stint with the PCB.

“Without going into the details, obviously still waiting on some remuneration from work that has been done. So just navigate through that in due course,” he said.

The former coach of the Pakistan cricket team was hoping that issue would be resolved in the near future.

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“Admittedly, that has been a little bit disappointing but look, hopefully that can get sorted sooner rather than later,” he added.

The PCB rejected Jason Gillespie’s claims, stating that he left the position without serving his notice period.

“The former head coach abruptly left his position without giving a four month notice period, which was a clear breach of the contractual terms,” a spokesperson for the PCB said in a statement.

“The coaching contract explicitly mentioned a notice period applicable to both parties, and the coach was fully aware of it,” it added.

It is worth mentioning that the former Australian pacer was appointed as Pakistan’s Test coach in April last year on a two-year contract.

However, he resigned from the post in December the same year, less than eight months into the job, just before the Pakistan cricket team’s Test series against South Africa.

Months after resigning from the post, Jason Gillespie accused Aqib Javed of campaigning for a coaching role across all formats.

“This is hilarious. Aaqib was clearly undermining Gary and I behind the scenes campaigning to be the coach in all formats. He is a clown,” Gillespie wrote in a social media post.

READ: PSL 10 shatters live streaming record

Former Pakistan captain Shahid Afridi has rejected the idea of becoming the chairman of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), stating that he could have held the position if he had used his contacts.

While speaking to the media in Gilgit-Baltistan, Afridi emphasized the PCB chairman’s role, noting that the Pakistan team had many match winners.

“It wouldn’t suit me if I went to the PCB and asked them to make me the next Chairman. I don’t even need a contract from the PCB. If I ever join, it will be for Pakistan and the players, because I want to work at the grassroots level,” he said.

“If I had influence, I’d be the PCB chairman today. During our time, the national team had many match-winners — now, there aren’t as many,” he added.

Catch all the PSL 10 updates here!

The former all-rounder highlighted the need for development at the grassroots level for the betterment of cricket.

“In Under-16, 17, and 19 teams, players need to be taught. We need capable people at the lower levels to train these players properly,” said Afridi.

Shahid Afridi also addressed the local talent in Gilgit-Baltistan, urging the need for facilities to nurture talent.

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“If we want to attract talent from Gilgit Baltistan, we need to create more oppurtunities and establish grounds, ” he concluded.

Shahid Afridi was appointed as the interim chief selector of Pakistan in December 2022, under Najam Sethi’s temporary management structure.

This change was part of a significant overhaul of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), which occurred when a 14-member management committee took charge following the dismissal of Ramiz Raja as chairman.

The 45-year-old, however, did not choose to extend his tenure after the home series against New Zealand, citing concerns over structural issues within the board.

READ: ‘Best option we have’: Pakistan all-rounder backs Mohammad Rizwan as ODI captain

LAHORE: ICC Women’s World Cup Qualifier participating teams visited the Wagah Border on Wednesday at the invitation of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman Mohsin Naqvi.

Both Pakistani and foreign women cricketers witnessed the thrilling flag-lowering ceremony and were deeply moved by the passionate display of patriotism.

The visiting foreign players, match officials, and umpires thoroughly enjoyed the event. They joined the Pakistani players in chanting “Pakistan Zindabad” and “Jeeway Jeeway Pakistan.”

The Rangers’ spectacular parade received loud applause from the women cricketers, who also took pictures with the personnel of the Pakistan Rangers Punjab.

Foreign players particularly admired and enjoyed the precision and spirit of the Rangers’ performance. Many players took selfies and praised the vibrant and energetic atmosphere of the ceremony.

“This was a unique and unforgettable experience for us. The enthusiasm of the Rangers and the crowd was simply amazing,” said the foreign women cricketers.

Pakistan Rangers Punjab also presented souvenirs to the team captains of participating teams as a token of goodwill.

It is pertinent to mention that the six-team ICC event, which includes Bangladesh, Ireland, Scotland, Thailand, and West Indies alongside hosts Pakistan, features a single-league round-robin format. The matches take place at the Gaddafi Stadium and LCCA ground in Lahore.

Catch all the PSL 10 updates here!

The tournament will decide the two qualifiers for the 2025 Women’s World Cup, which will be held later this year in India.

Pakistan team started the tournament well, winning three games and strengthening their chances of participating in the mega event. Green Shirts clinched victories against Scotland, Ireland, and the West Indies in a dominant display.

They will play Thailand tomorrow and the table-toppers Bangladesh on 19 April in a bid to qualify for the semi-final of the Women’s World Cup Qualifier.

READ: PSL 10: Multan Sultans win toss against Islamabad United

LAHORE: Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi, hosted players and officials from six international women’s cricket teams participating in the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup Qualifier in a grand ceremony held at the historic Lahore Fort on Sunday.

The Women cricketers were treated like royalty at the majestic event, receiving a royal welcome and traditional hospitality with ceremonial guards and attendants offering regal courtesies.

The event was attended by women’s World Cup Qualifier teams, including Pakistan, Bangladesh, West Indies, Ireland, Scotland, and Thailand, along with their coaching and management staff.

Chairman PCB Mohsin Naqvi personally welcomed all teams and officials at the Alamgiri Gate and was introduced to the players and staff. A group photo was also taken with all teams at the iconic gate.

Speaking on the occasion, the chairman of the PCB welcomed all teams and called Pakistan a peaceful, safe, and cricket-loving country.

“We welcome all teams to the vibrant city of Lahore. You are our special guests,” said Mohsin Naqvi.

“Pakistan is a peaceful, safe, and cricket-loving country. We hope your stay here is pleasant and memorable,” he said.

The visiting women players and match officials were taken on a guided tour of Lahore’s heritage, including the Lahore Fort, Badshahi Mosque, Iqbal’s Mausoleum, and Hazuri Bagh. They also enjoyed a colorful ride on the traditional “Rangila Rikshaw.”

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The event featured a spectacular cultural show by Dholchi performers, with foreign players joining the festive dancing.

In the Diwan-e-Khas, royal attendants dressed in Mughal-era costumes welcomed the guests with traditional courtesies.

The arrival of the symbolic “King” was followed by an elegant Kathak dance performance, which enthralled the foreign guests and received hearty applause. The soulful flute melodies also cast a magical spell on the attendees.

Guests were also given a tour of Diwan-e-Aam, Barood Khana, and Sheesh Mahal, where they learned about the rich history of the Lahore Fort. Many foreign players and officials expressed deep interest in the fort’s historical significance.

A special dinner was also hosted in honor of the international guests.

The foreign women players expressed gratitude for organizing the event and thanked PCB.

“This event was truly memorable. Thank you, PCB. We are delighted to see such historic sites and will carry fond memories of Lahore with us,” they stated.

U.S. Consul General Ms. Kristin K. Hawkins, Chief Operating Officer (COO) Sameer Ahmed, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Javed Murtaza, Head of Women’s Cricket Rafia Haider, Director of International Cricket Usman Wahla, Director of Domestic Cricket Abdullah Khurram Niazi, Director of HR Faisal Malik, and other senior officials were also present at the event.

READ: PSL 10: Quetta Gladiators win toss against Lahore Qalandars

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