Tag: Shahid Afridi

The star-studded panel featuring former Indian and Pakistani batters Yuvraj Singh, Navjot Singh Sidhu, Inzamam-ul-Haq, and Shahid Afridi have revealed their picks for leading run-scorer and wicket-taker for the India-Pakistan match in the highly anticipated ICC Champions Trophy 2025.

The ninth edition of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 will kick off on 19 February, with the host and defending champions Pakistan taking on New Zealand in the curtain-raiser in Karachi’s National Bank Stadium.

The eight-team tournament will consist of 15 matches over 19 days and will take place in Pakistan and Dubai.

Yuvraj Singh and Navjot Singh Sidhu and former Pakistan captains Inzamam-ul-Haq and Shahid Afridi were put together by the well-known Indian sports channel in the run-up to the highly anticipated match between Pakistan and India.

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The star cricketers addressed six questions about the marquee tournament’s biggest match between India and Pakistan.

1. Who will be the highest run-scorer?
Yuvraj Singh: Shubman Gill
Navjot Singh Sidhu: Rohit Sharma
Shahid Afridi: Babar Azam
Inzamam-ul-Haq: Babar Azam

2. Who will be the leading wicket-taker?
Yuvraj Singh: Mohammed Shami
Navjot Singh Sidhu: An Indian spinner
Shahid Afridi: Shaheen Shah Afridi
Inzamam-ul-Haq: Haris Rauf

3. Which player will have a match-defining moment?
Yuvraj Singh: Hardik Pandya
Navjot Singh Sidhu: Rishabh Pant
Shahid Afridi: Mohammad Rizwan
Inzamam-ul-Haq: Fakhar Zaman

4. One young player to watch out for?
Yuvraj Singh: Shubman Gill
Navjot Singh Sidhu: Varun Chakravarthy
Shahid Afridi: Saud Shakeel
Inzamam-ul-Haq: Saud Shakeel

5. Who will have a bigger impact: Shami or Shaheen?
Shahid Afridi: Both know how to use the new ball, so let’s see.
Inzamam-ul-Haq: Shaheen Shah Afridi

6. Which team has the upper hand in the India-Pakistan match?

While answering the question, Yuvraj Singh believed that Pakistan holds an advantage in Dubai conditions, likely due to its familiarity with the climate and pitch.

In contrast, Navjot Singh Sidhu argued that India is a much better-balanced team, suggesting that their overall skill set could give them the edge.

Meanwhile, Inzamam-ul-Haq took a more neutral stance, stating that both teams are equal and that the outcome may hinge on their body language and performance on the day of the match.

Additionally, Shahid Afridi emphasized that attitude and body language will play a crucial role in determining the winner of a match.

He reflected on the 2011 World Cup semifinal, noting that the team’s confidence is essential in overcoming opponents.

“We thought we had won. But after our first wicket fell, and seeing India’s body language in the field, I sensed from the dugout that we might struggle to chase the target. It’s all about confidence and how you overpower the other team,” he said.

READ: Michael Clarke reveals his favorites for Champions Trophy 2025

Former Pakistan captain Shahid Afridi revealed an interesting story from his playing days about feeling sorry for Harbhajan Singh during a match between Pakistan and India.

Afridi, known for his explosive batting, disclosed that Harbhajan pleading eyes on him during a game in Kanpur, India, in April 2005 was the turning point for him.

Afridi said during an interview that he was batting on 96 in Kanpur, when he gently pushed the ball towards mid-on, resulting in a four which brought up his century.

The former captain expressed regret, saying that rather than attempting to defend the next ball of Harbhajan, he ought to have hit it for a six.

After scoring a century, he was cleaned bowled by Harbhajan, resulting in his crucial wicket for the team.

Shahid Afridi jokingly said that he should not have felt sorry for Harbhajan Singh, who had looked at him with ‘desperate’ eyes after the century.

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For the unversed, Afridi was named the Player of the Match for his wonderful century in the fifth ODI played between the arch-rivals. Following the match, Pakistan also took an unaccessible ODI series lead of 3-2 courtesy of Afridi’s great knock.

Earlier in June 2024, Harbhajan Singh opened up on how Shahid Afridi used to threaten the opposition with his batting including India

While discussing the impact and aggressive nature of Afridi’s batting, the former spinner said that the former Pakistan captain had that knack that could snatch the game from the opposition in a short period.

“It doesn’t matter how much time he spent on the wicket, but he added the duration of our team meeting. I can remember the 2007 World Cup match. If Shahid Afridi is still to bat, there would be fear in the opposition,” Singh said.

According to the Indian spin bowler, the explosive batter could change the course of the match even if he played only 15 balls due to his style of batting.

“He had the ability to take the game deep” concluded Harbhajan.

Singh also disclosed that the Indian team was concerned regarding Afridi’s major role during the final between Pakistan and India in T20 World Cup 2007.

READ: Former cricketer gives shocking statement about Babar Azam playing as opener

Former Pakistan captain Azhar Ali recently stated that Babar Azam is the most celebrated cricketer in the country since the iconic all-rounder Shahid Afridi, whose charisma and playing style won the hearts of fans worldwide.

Azhar, who is currently serving as a member of Pakistan’s selection committee, acknowledged that while he has often criticized Babar’s captaincy, he firmly believes that there should be no doubt regarding his batting.

“I have criticized Babar Azam a lot for his captaincy,” Azhar Ali said. “I still believe that after captaining for such a long time, he should have built another team during this period. But when it comes to his batting, I say, please stop.”

Azhar Ali defended Babar against those critics, who undermined his batting capabilities due to recent struggles.

He underscored the inevitable highs and lows that all players experience and insisted that Babar’s consistent performances have greatly enhanced Pakistan’s standing on the international cricketing stage.

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“He is the only player from Pakistan who has made a name for the country through his batting,” Azhar said.

“Even if he doesn’t perform well in some tournaments, that doesn’t take away from his achievements.”

Drawing vivid comparisons to Shahid Afridi, Azhar fondly depicted Babar Azam as one of those exceptional conventional batsmen who can truly electrify a crowd.

He reminisced about Afridi’s explosive batting style that endeared him to fans and noted that Babar has similarly won admiration through his graceful and elegant batting.

“Babar is the first player after Shahid bhai who has captured the attention of the world, including in India. A conventional batter getting such applause is rare,” he further added.

READ: Former Pakistan batter suggests resting Babar Azam for second West Indies Test

Former Pakistan captain Shahid Afridi on Thursday provided an update regarding the participation of young batter Saim Ayub in the upcoming ICC Men’s Champions Trophy 2025.

Saim sustained a fractured ankle on the opening day of the Cape Town Test against South Africa, ruling him out for an initial six weeks. He is currently in London for treatment and a thorough evaluation of his injury.

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has not yet announced the squad for the Champions Trophy 2025, as they are carefully monitoring Saim’s recovery before making a final decision about his participation.

Shahid Afridi recently revealed in an interview that Saim will miss the upcoming tournament. He mentioned that he advised Saim not to rush his return, as doing so could prolong his injury.

“I talked to Saim Ayub last night. He told me that he needs three weeks, and only after that will his rehab begin,” Afridi said.

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“I advised him not to rush the process. Even the slightest injury, if not allowed to heal properly, can turn into a prolonged issue.

“You’re young and have a lot of cricket ahead of you, so take your time recovering.”

It’s worth noting that Mohsin Naqvi, chairman of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), has previously ensured that Saim Ayub will get the best treatment and expressed hope that the young star will get fit in time for the Champions Trophy.

“Saim Ayub is a valuable asset for Pakistan cricket,” Naqvi stated. “We will provide every possible resource for his treatment and recovery. I am praying for his complete health and will continue to monitor his condition closely.”

“We hope that he will make a full recovery before the ICC Champions Trophy.”

READ: Former cricketer wants Sarfaraz Ahmed to mentor Pakistan in Champions Trophy

Pakistan’s star batter Babar Azam is set to surpass former captain Shahid Afridi in the list of batters with the most sixes during the second T20I against South Africa, which is scheduled to be played today in Centurion.

Babar has smashed 72 sixes in T20I cricket so far and is ranked fifth on the list of Pakistani batters with the most sixes in the format. He is just one shy of Afridi, who struck 73 sixes during his career.

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Most sixes for Pakistan in T20I cricket

Mohammad Rizwan — 95 sixes
Fakhar Zaman — 76 sixes
Mohammad Hafeez — 76 sixes
Shahid Afridi — 73 sixes
Babar Azam — 72 sixes

It’s worth noting that Pakistan will be looking to bounce back in the second T20I after suffering a narrow 11-run defeat in the series opener. Meanwhile, the final T20I is scheduled to be played in Johannesburg tomorrow.

After wrapping up the T20I series, Pakistan and South Africa will play a three-match ODI series.

Watch Pakistan vs South Africa Live on ARY ZAP

The opening ODI will take place on December 17 in Paarl, while the second and third ODIs will be played in Cape Town and Johannesburg on December 19 and 22 respectively.

Pakistan and South Africa will then engage in a two-match Test series, which will kick off in Centurion on December 26, meanwhile, the second Test will start from January 3 in Cape Town.

Pakistan Playing XI: Mohammad Rizwan (c)(wk), Saim Ayub, Babar Azam, Usman Khan, Tayyab Tahir, Muhammad Irfan Khan, Abbas Afridi, Shaheen Afridi, Jahandad Khan, Haris Rauf, Abrar Ahmed.

READ: Pakistan make one change to Playing XI for second T20I against South Africa

Former Pakistan cricket captain Shahid Afridi has voiced his strong support for the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) as it stands firm on its decision to host the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 entirely within Pakistan despite India’s demand for adopting a hybrid model.

The ninth edition of the Champions Trophy is slated to take place in the February-March window of 2025, but India’s participation remains shrouded in uncertainty.

The International Cricket Council (ICC) on November 10 communicated to the PCB that the Indian government is currently unwilling to permit their cricket team to travel to Pakistan for the tournament.

In response, the PCB took proactive measures by sending a formal letter to the ICC, reflecting the concerns of the Pakistani government regarding India’s withdrawal.

Furthermore, the PCB has decisively rejected the notion of a hybrid model for the Champions Trophy 2025. They reaffirmed their unwavering resolve to host the entire tournament within Pakistan as planned.

The PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi on Thursday once again reiterated the cricket board’s stance against the hybrid model.

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“We’re still clear in our stance that it’s not acceptable that we play cricket in India, and they don’t play cricket here. Whatever will happen, will happen on the basis of equality. We’ve told the ICC very clearly, and what happens next we’ll let you know,” Naqvi stated.

Shahid Afridi took to his official X (formerly Twitter) account and backed Naqvi’s stance in hosting the tournament completely in Pakistan. Meanwhile, he also urged the ICC to assert its authority against India.

“By intertwining politics with sports, the BCCI has placed international cricket in a precarious position,” Afridi posted.

“Fully support the PCB’s stance against the hybrid model – especially since Pakistan (despite security concerns) has toured India five times, including a bilateral white-ball series, post-26/11. It’s time for the ICC and its Board of Directors to uphold fairness and assert their authority.”

For the unversed, the International Cricket Council (ICC) has scheduled a crucial board meeting for November 29.

The primary agenda will be to explore the future of the Champions Trophy 2025, which is slated to take place in Pakistan during the February-March window next year.

The board members will weigh various options, including the possibility of implementing a hybrid model, relocating the event entirely to a neutral venue, or postponing the tournament.

READ: It’s unacceptable that Pakistan visit India but they don’t: Mohsin Naqvi

Former Pakistan all-rounder Shahid Afridi delivered a subtle message to the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), urging them to “put differences aside” for the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy 2025.

This appeal came in the wake of reports of BCCI declining to send their team to Pakistan for the eight-team tournament.

The ninth edition of the Champions Trophy is scheduled to take place in Pakistan in the February- March window in 2025, however, India’s participation in the tournament is uncertain.

Previously, reports emerged in Indian media, citing a source from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), that Team India will not be visiting Pakistan for the tournament citing security concerns.

Additionally, on Sunday, sources confirmed that the International Cricket Council (ICC) informed the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) that the Indian government is not ready to allow their cricket team to travel to Pakistan.

The announcement of India’s refusal sparked a significant backlash among several former cricketers, who expressed their disappointment and frustration. Among them, Shahid Afridi has emerged as the latest voice to comment on the situation.

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Afridi took to his official X (formerly Twitter) account to urge all cricketing nations to come together and visit Pakistan for the tournament. He referenced the Olympics as an example, where many countries participated together despite their historical and political issues.

“Cricket is at a crucial crossroads, facing perhaps one of its greatest challenges since the late 1970s. Now is the time to put differences aside and let the game unite us,” Afridi posted.

“If countries once divided by history can come together in the Olympic spirit, why can’t we do the same for cricket – and for the Champions Trophy?”

He subtly criticized the BCCI and urged them not to let egos interfere with sports.

“As stewards of this game, we owe it to cricket to keep egos in check and focus on its growth and spirit,” he added.

“I hope to see every team in Pakistan for CT25, to experience our warmth and hospitality, and to leave with unforgettable memories that transcend the field.”

READ: Mohammad Amir calls to ‘keep India out’ of Champions Trophy 2025

Former Pakistan captain Shahid Afridi has lauded the national white-ball captain Mohammad Rizwan for his inspirational leadership during the second ODI against Australia.

Rizwan-led Pakistan thumped Australia by nine wickets in the second ODI and levelled the three-match series 1-1.

Pakistan pacers proved Rizwan’s decision to bowl first right as they wreaked havoc and bundled Australia for a meagre 163, with Haris Rauf leading the pack with his five-wicket haul.

Meanwhile, Mohammad Rizwan equalled the record for the most catches by a wicket-keeper in an ODI match. He assisted his pacers by executing six dismissals behind the stumps.

On the other hand, Saim Ayub (82) and Abdullah Shafique (64*) batted brilliantly to help Pakistan chase the modest target in 26.3 overs at the loss of one wicket only.

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Following the remarkable victory, Shahid Afridi took to his official X (formerly Twitter) account and credited Rizwan for team’s success.

“When a captain inspires, the team fires. What a phenomenal comeback performance by Pakistan in Adelaide – securing our first-ever nine-wicket win over world champions Australia on their home turf,” Afridi posted.

The former all-rounder also praised Haris, Saim, Abdullah and Shaheen Afridi for their performances.

“This victory is a huge confidence booster for the ODIs ahead. The word ‘marvelous’ barely does justice to today’s stellar display from Rizwan, Haris, Shaheen, Saim, and Abdullah,” he added.

“Lads, keep believing in yourselves and inshallah even more successes are just around the corner.”

READ: India not to travel to Pakistan for Champions Trophy: reports

Former Pakistan captain Shahid Afridi came out in support of left-handed opener Fakhar Zaman, stating it is crucial to engage with him and leverage his abilities.

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) on Sunday, announced the central contracts for the 2024-25 international season, along with the squads for the tours to Australia and Zimbabwe.

However, Fakhar’s name was missing from the central contract list and squads for the upcoming tours.

Meanwhile, Shahid Afridi, without mentioning the cricketing body, offered a piece of advice to them regarding Fakhar Zaman, emphasizing the need to maximise the potential of the “talented match-winner”.

“Regarding Fakhar Zaman, let’s ensure we maximise the potential of this talented match-winner,” wrote Afridi on X, formerly Twitter.

” It’s crucial to engage with him and leverage his abilities at this prime stage of his career. He has the power to lead us to victory in matches, series and tournaments,” he added.

The former all-rounder also lauded the PCB for entrusting wicketkeeper batter Mohammad Rizwan to lead the team. He expressed confidence in Rizwan’s ability to steer the white-ball side to new heights.

“If you’re searching for a captain who embodies strategy, fearlessness, positivity, energy and passion, look no further than Rizwan,” wrote Afridi on X, formerly Twitter.

“I’m thrilled that @TheRealPCB has entrusted him with this important responsibility. I have full confidence that he will propel this white-ball team forward and meet the high expectations of those who want to see Pakistan cricket thrive and succeed,” he added.

Rizwan on Sunday, replaced Babar Azam as Pakistan’s white-ball captain after the latter stepped down from the role earlier this month, in a bid to focus more on his role as a player.

Rizwan’s first assignment as captain will be the white-ball series in Australia, starting on 4 November.

READ: Mohammad Rizwan reveals his vision as Pakistan captain

Former Pakistan captain and all-rounder Shahid Afridi backed the Pakistan Cricket Board’s (PCB) decision to appoint Mohammad Rizwan as white-ball captain of the national men’s team.

Rizwan on Sunday, replaced Babar Azam as Pakistan’s white-ball captain after the latter stepped down from the role earlier this month, in a bid to focus more on his role as a player.

Rizwan’s first assignment as captain will be the white-ball series in Australia, starting on 4 November.

Rizwan, who debuted in white-ball cricket in 2015, has played 74 ODIs and 102 T20Is to date, scoring 5,401 runs with four centuries and accounting for 143 dismissals behind the stumps.

As he leads the team in the opening ODI against Australia in Melbourne on 4 November, Rizwan will become Pakistan’s 31st captain. For the first T20I in Brisbane on 14 November, he will be the 12th to captain Pakistan in the format.

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Meanwhile, legendary all-rounder Shahid Afridi was thrilled that PCB entrusted wicketkeeper batter Mohammad Rizwan to lead the team. He expressed confidence in Rizwan’s ability to steer the white-ball side to new heights.

“If you’re searching for a captain who embodies strategy, fearlessness, positivity, energy and passion, look no further than Rizwan,” wrote Afridi on X, formerly Twitter.

“I’m thrilled that @TheRealPCB has entrusted him with this important responsibility. I have full confidence that he will propel this white-ball team forward and meet the high expectations of those who want to see Pakistan cricket thrive and succeed,” he added.

The 32-year-old wicket-keeper will kick off his captaincy tenure during the Australia matches and Zimbabwe ODIs but will be rested from the Zimbabwe T20Is.

In his absence, vice-captain Salman Ali Agha will lead Pakistan in the T20I series against Zimbabwe.

READ: Pakistan pacer comes out in support of Fakhar Zaman