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Mickey Arthur Sides with Jason Gillespie in Coaching Controversy; Islamabad United Part Ways with Azhar Mahmood

Khashif Sarfraz
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Mickey Arthur Sides with Jason Gillespie in Coaching Controversy; Islamabad United Part Ways with Azhar Mahmood

Mickey Arthur Weighs in on Pakistan Cricket’s Coaching Drama

The Pakistan cricket coaching saga has taken another turn, with former head coach Mickey Arthur siding with Jason Gillespie after his fiery exchange with Aqib Javed.

The controversy started when Aqib Javed slammed Pakistan’s frequent coaching changes, stating:

“We have changed nearly 16 coaches and 26 selectors in the last two years. No team can function like this.”

However, former Pakistan red-ball coach Jason Gillespie hit back, accusing Javed of lobbying for a full-time coaching role and even calling him a “clown” on social media.

Arthur supported Gillespie’s stance, criticizing Pakistan cricket’s chaotic management:

“Pakistan cricket keeps shooting itself in the foot. There are so many talented players, yet chaos always takes over. The machine that operates in Pakistan cricket pushed agendas and manipulated media narratives,” Arthur said.

The ongoing coaching instability continues to cast a shadow over Pakistan cricket, despite the presence of world-class coaching talent like Gary Kirsten and Gillespie.

Islamabad United Appoint Ian Butler as New Bowling Coach for PSL 10

In a separate development, Islamabad United, the most successful Pakistan Super League (PSL) franchise, has parted ways with Azhar Mahmood ahead of PSL 10.

Mahmood, who was part of Islamabad United’s PSL 1 title win in 2016 and served as assistant coach in PSL 2024, has been replaced by former New Zealand pacer Ian Butler.

Butler, who played 8 Tests, 26 ODIs, and 19 T20Is for New Zealand, expressed excitement about his first coaching stint in Pakistan:

“Islamabad United has a fantastic legacy, and I’m looking forward to working with the bowling group to push for another title,” Butler said.

With PSL 10 approaching, Islamabad United aims to continue its dominance in the league with a fresh coaching setup.

Pakistan Super League (PSL) Plans Expansion to Eight Teams After 2025

Khashif Sarfraz
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Pakistan Super League (PSL) Plans Expansion to Eight Teams After 2025

PSL to Expand from Six to Eight Teams After 2025 Season

The Pakistan Super League (PSL) is set to undergo major expansion as it plans to increase the number of teams from six to eight after the 2025 season, confirmed PSL CEO Salman Naseer on Thursday.

Launched in 2016 in the UAE due to security concerns, the PSL has since become one of the biggest T20 leagues, with all matches now held in Pakistan. The move to expand beyond its current cities aligns with the league’s commercial growth strategy and increasing competitiveness.

Key Highlights of PSL’s Expansion Plan

✅ New Teams by 2026 – The PSL aims to finalize two additional franchises by the end of 2025.

✅ New Cities in PSL 2026 – Peshawar will host its first exhibition match, with hopes of securing full PSL matches in the future.

✅ Nationwide Trophy Tour – The PSL trophy will embark on a nationwide tour, bringing the league closer to fans in non-host cities.

✅ New Media and Sponsorship Deals – With media and sponsorship rights up for valuation, PSL’s expansion aims to increase its market value and global appeal.

✅ Competition with Global Leagues – PSL’s traditional January-February window now clashes with SA20 (South Africa) and ILT20 (UAE), making expansion crucial to maintaining its commercial and audience engagement.

Future of PSL

“The challenge was to bring cricket back to Pakistan, and now that we’ve successfully done that, the next step is expanding beyond the traditional four cities (Lahore, Karachi, Rawalpindi, and Multan),” said Naseer.

The 2025 PSL season kicks off on April 11, and defending champions Islamabad United will be looking to extend their record three title wins.

PCB Announces Free Entry for Eight Matches of National T20 Cup 2025

Khashif Sarfraz
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PCB Announces Free Entry for Eight Matches of National T20 Cup 2025

PCB Offers Free Entry for National T20 Cup 2025 Matches in Faisalabad

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has announced free entry for eight matches of the National T20 Cup 2025, scheduled from March 14 to 20 at Faisalabad’s Iqbal Stadium. Cricket fans will have the opportunity to witness top domestic action without any ticket costs during this period.

For matches from March 21 to 27, including the quarter-finals, semi-finals, and final, ticket details will be announced later by the PCB.

Tournament Overview

The National T20 Cup 2025 will run from March 15 to 27, featuring 18 teams from 16 regions. Matches will be played across three venues:

  • Iqbal Stadium, Faisalabad (23 matches, including all knockout games)
  • Multan Cricket Stadium (8 matches)
  • Gaddafi Stadium & LCCA Cricket Ground, Lahore (8 matches)

Group Breakdown & Tournament Format

The participating teams are divided into four groups:

Group A:

  • Karachi Region (Blues)
  • Lahore Region (Whites)
  • Larkana Region
  • Peshawar Region
  • Quetta Region

Group B:

  • Karachi Region (Whites) (Defending Champions)
  • Bahawalpur Region
  • Dera Murad Jamali Region
  • Islamabad Region
  • Lahore Region (Blues)

Group C:

  • Abbottabad Region
  • Faisalabad Region
  • Hyderabad Region
  • Rawalpindi Region

Group D:

  • AJK Region
  • FATA Region
  • Multan Region
  • Sialkot Region

The top two teams from each group will advance to the quarter-finals, scheduled for March 23 and 24 in Faisalabad. The tournament will culminate with the final at Iqbal Stadium on March 27.

Shane Bond Warns of Career-Threatening Injury Risk for Jasprit Bumrah

Khashif Sarfraz
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Shane Bond Warns of Career-Threatening Injury Risk for Jasprit Bumrah

Shane Bond Expresses Concern Over Jasprit Bumrah’s Future Amid Injury Woes

Former New Zealand fast bowler Shane Bond has raised serious concerns about the future of India’s pace spearhead, Jasprit Bumrah, warning that another injury in the same area could potentially end his career.

Bumrah, who played a pivotal role in India’s ICC Men’s T20 World Cup victory last year, has been struggling with a recurring back injury. He missed the recently concluded Champions Trophy after sustaining the injury during India’s five-match Test series against Australia.

The 30-year-old pacer is currently undergoing rehabilitation at BCCI’s Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru, and his participation in the IPL 2025 remains uncertain.

Bond’s Warning: “Another Injury Could Be a Career-Ender”

Bond, whose own career was cut short due to frequent back injuries, stressed the importance of workload management for Bumrah.

“When he went off for scans in Sydney, there was some messaging around that he had sprains and stuff like that. I worried that it wasn’t going to be a sprain, but rather a bony injury around that area,” Bond said.

With a packed international schedule ahead, Bond highlighted the danger periods for Bumrah’s fitness.

“Looking at the tours and schedule going forward, where are the opportunities to give him a break? But more importantly, where are the danger periods? Often, the transition from the IPL to the World Test Championship is a risk.”

IPL, England Tour, and Future Uncertainty

Bumrah’s return to full fitness will be crucial for India, especially with an important English summer and multiple ICC tournaments on the horizon.

Bond added:

“If we can get him through the English summer and he’s fit, we can probably then go with some confidence that we can carry him across the rest of the formats.”

However, he also issued a stark warning:

“If he has another injury in the same spot, that could be a career-ender. I’m not sure you can have surgery on that spot again.”

Bumrah’s Road to Recovery

With Bumrah’s rehabilitation ongoing, the BCCI’s medical staff faces a crucial decision—whether to risk playing him in the IPL or prioritize his long-term fitness for Test and international commitments.

India will need to carefully manage his workload to ensure that their premier fast bowler can continue performing at the highest level without further setbacks.

Harry Brook Banned from IPL Until 2028 After Late Withdrawal

Khashif Sarfraz
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Harry Brook Banned from IPL Until 2028 After Late Withdrawal

Harry Brook Faces Two-Year IPL Ban Following Delhi Capitals Withdrawal

England batter Harry Brook has been banned from participating in the Indian Premier League (IPL) until 2028 following his late-notice withdrawal from the 2025 season, Indian media reported on Thursday.

Brook, who was set to play for Delhi Capitals, announced his decision to withdraw last Sunday, citing the need to “recharge” and focus on his international commitments. This marks the second consecutive IPL season he has opted out of.

Brook’s Statement on IPL Withdrawal

In a statement shared on social media, Brook expressed his regret over the decision:

“I apologise unreservedly to the Delhi Capitals and their supporters. I love cricket. Ever since I was a young boy, I have dreamt of playing for my country, and I am extremely thankful to have the opportunity to play the game I love at this level.”

He further explained:

“With the guidance of people I trust, I have taken the time to seriously consider this decision. It is a really important time for England cricket, and I want to fully commit to preparing for the upcoming series. In order to do this, I need time to recharge after the busiest period in my career to date.”

Brook was purchased by Delhi Capitals in the IPL 2024 auction but will now be unable to participate in the league for the next three seasons (2025-2028).

BCCI’s Strict Enforcement of Late Withdrawal Policy

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has officially informed both Brook and the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) about the two-year ban.

A BCCI spokesperson reportedly stated:

“An official communication has been sent to ECB and Brook about BCCI banning him for two years as per its policy, which was informed to each player before they registered for the IPL auction last year. It’s a policy set by the board, and each player has to oblige to it.”

This decision aligns with the IPL’s policy to prevent late withdrawals by overseas players, ensuring franchises are not left in limbo after investing in high-profile signings.

BCCI’s New Policy for Overseas Players

Ahead of the IPL 2024 auction, the BCCI informed franchises that:

  • Any player who registers for the auction but withdraws before the start of the season would face a two-year ban.
  • The ban applies to both direct team signings and future IPL auctions.

Brook’s withdrawal has now resulted in the first formal enforcement of this rule.

National T20 Cup 2025 Set to Begin in Faisalabad on March 14

Khashif Sarfraz
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National T20 Cup 2025 Set to Begin in Faisalabad on March 14

National T20 Cup 2025: Tournament Details, Schedule & Prize Money

The highly anticipated National T20 Cup 2025 is set to commence on Friday, March 14, at Iqbal Stadium, Faisalabad. Defending champions Karachi Region Whites will open the tournament against Islamabad Region, followed by Bahawalpur Region vs. Dera Murad Jamali Region at the same venue.

This year’s edition will feature 18 teams from 16 regions, competing in a group-stage format before progressing to the knockout rounds.

Tournament Venues & Schedule

  • Venues: Matches will be played in Faisalabad, Lahore (Gaddafi Stadium, LCCA Ground), and Multan Cricket Stadium.
  • Group Stage: The top two teams from each group will qualify for the quarterfinals.
  • Quarterfinals: March 23-24 at Iqbal Stadium, Faisalabad.
  • Semifinals: March 26 at Iqbal Stadium, Faisalabad.
  • Final: March 27 at Iqbal Stadium, Faisalabad.

Prize Money

  • Winner: PKR 5 million
  • Runner-up: PKR 2.5 million

Match Timings

  • Faisalabad (Iqbal Stadium): 7:00 PM PKT
  • Lahore & Multan: 4:30 PM PKT

Live Broadcast & Tickets

  • TV Broadcast: Geo Super (Iqbal Stadium matches).
  • Live Streaming: Available on Tapmad (Pakistan).
  • Free Entry: March 14-20 at Iqbal Stadium, Faisalabad.
  • Ticket Sales (March 21-27 matches): Available at TCS express centers (details to be announced).

PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi Ensures No Match Fee Reduction for Domestic Players

In response to concerns over match fee reductions, PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi has assured that players’ earnings will remain unchanged. He has directed Abdullah Khurram Niazi, Director of Domestic Cricket, to take immediate action to prevent any cuts.

Stay tuned as the National T20 Cup 2025 promises thrilling cricket action, with top regional talent battling for supremacy! 🏏🔥

Shoaib Malik’s Inclusion in National T20 Cup Sparks Controversy

Khashif Sarfraz
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Shoaib Malik’s Inclusion in National T20 Cup Sparks Controversy

Shoaib Malik’s Selection in National T20 Cup Criticized for Blocking Young Talent

Veteran all-rounder Shoaib Malik’s inclusion in Sialkot’s squad for the upcoming National T20 Cup has triggered backlash from fans and experts, who believe his selection has come at the expense of emerging talent.

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) announced the squads earlier this week for the March 15-27 tournament, but Malik’s participation has particularly drawn criticism, especially with young players like Azan Awais, Ali Shafique, Awais Ali, Ayaz Tasawar, and Shahzaib Bhatti being relegated to the reserves.

Fan Outrage Over Azan Awais’ Omission

Social media erupted with disappointment over the exclusion of Azan Awais, a top performer in domestic cricket. One viral post highlighted his remarkable 2024-25 season, where he scored 1,422 runs at an average of 56.9.

“Instead of investing in young talent, PCB has picked a 43-year-old Shoaib Malik while ignoring a player who has an U19 century against India.”

Cricket analysts also questioned the logic behind Malik’s inclusion in a tournament meant to develop future stars. Former Pakistan cricketer Salman Butt expressed frustration:

“This National T20 is a stepping stone for youngsters. There should be some logic behind Shoaib Malik playing in this tournament, but I don’t see that logic.”

Veterans Initially Named Mentors, Now Players

Shoaib Malik was originally appointed as a mentor alongside Wahab Riaz and Sarfaraz Ahmed, but all three were later added to the playing squads of Sialkot, Karachi, and Lahore, respectively.

Following backlash, Wahab Riaz and Sarfaraz Ahmed withdrew from their teams, but Malik remains part of Sialkot’s lineup.

Pakistan’s Struggles and PCB’s Selection Policies

The PCB’s preference for senior players over younger prospects has fueled frustration among fans, especially after Pakistan’s disappointing performances in recent ICC tournaments, including two World Cups and the Champions Trophy.

With the National T20 Cup 2025 featuring 18 teams across Lahore, Faisalabad, and Multan, fans hope it will still serve as a platform for young cricketers—despite the ongoing debate over veteran selections.

Babar Azam, Naseem Shah Withdraw from National T20 Cup

Khashif Sarfraz
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Babar Azam, Naseem Shah Withdraw from National T20 Cup

Babar Azam & Naseem Shah Skip National T20 Cup Amid Busy Schedule

Pakistan’s Babar Azam and Naseem Shah have withdrawn from the National T20 Cup, opting out of the domestic tournament amid a hectic schedule. Initially expected to participate, both players have reportedly reversed their decision, shifting their focus to upcoming international fixtures.

The National T20 Cup was seen as a crucial opportunity for the duo to regain their spots in Pakistan’s T20I squad after being dropped for the recent New Zealand series. However, their withdrawal suggests a strategic move to focus on Pakistan’s upcoming ODI series against New Zealand and the Pakistan Super League (PSL), which begins next month.

Babar & Naseem Under Scrutiny

  • Babar Azam, despite being one of Pakistan’s top T20I scorers last year, was omitted from the New Zealand series due to concerns over his strike rate.
  • Naseem Shah, returning from injury, was also left out of the T20I squad as selectors took a cautious approach to his comeback.
  • Both players faced increased scrutiny after Pakistan’s disappointing Champions Trophy campaign, where their performances were below expectations.

Mohammad Rizwan Also Absent from National T20 Cup

In another significant development, Mohammad Rizwan, who was also dropped from the T20I squad and replaced as vice-captain by Agha Salman, will not feature in the National T20 Cup.

Initially expected to participate, Rizwan’s name was missing from the final list, ruling out a chance for him, Babar, and Naseem to gain valuable match practice ahead of the PSL and international fixtures.

Looking Ahead: New Zealand Series & PSL

Despite their absence from the domestic tournament, Babar, Naseem, and Rizwan remain part of Pakistan’s ODI squad for the New Zealand series, offering them a chance to reaffirm their place in the national setup.

With the Pakistan Super League around the corner, all three players will aim to prove their form and fitness before Pakistan’s next major white-ball assignments.

Mohammad Yousuf Joins Pakistan Squad for New Zealand Tour

Khashif Sarfraz
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Mohammad Yousuf Joins Pakistan Squad for New Zealand Tour

Mohammad Yousuf Rejoins Pakistan Squad for New Zealand Tour

Former Pakistan batting great Mohammad Yousuf will travel with the national team for their white-ball tour of New Zealand, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) confirmed on Tuesday. Yousuf, who serves as the team’s batting consultant, had initially withdrawn from the tour due to his daughter’s illness but later reversed his decision after receiving positive updates on her health.

“Doctors told me that my daughter’s health is better now, so I’m going with the team. Going with the team is a national duty that I have decided to fulfil.” – Mohammad Yousuf

Pakistan’s squad will depart for New Zealand on Wednesday ahead of their five-match T20I series and three-match ODI series, scheduled from March 16 to April 5.

The last T20I series between the two sides, played in April 2024, ended in a 2-2 draw after the first match was washed out in Rawalpindi.

Pakistan Squad for the New Zealand Tour

ODI Squad

  • Mohammad Rizwan (captain)
  • Salman Ali Agha (vice-captain)
  • Abdullah Shafique
  • Abrar Ahmed
  • Akif Javed
  • Babar Azam
  • Faheem Ashraf
  • Imam-ul-Haq
  • Khushdil Shah
  • Mohammad Ali
  • Mohammad Wasim Jnr
  • Muhammad Irfan Khan
  • Naseem Shah
  • Sufyan Moqim
  • Tayyab Tahir

T20I Squad

  • Salman Ali Agha (captain)
  • Shadab Khan (vice-captain)
  • Abdul Samad
  • Abrar Ahmed
  • Haris Rauf
  • Hasan Nawaz
  • Jahandad Khan
  • Khushdil Shah
  • Mohammad Abbas Afridi
  • Mohammad Ali
  • Mohammad Haris
  • Muhammad Irfan Khan
  • Omair Bin Yousaf
  • Shaheen Shah Afridi
  • Sufyan Moqim
  • Usman Khan

Pakistan’s Tour of New Zealand Schedule

Match Date Venue
1st T20I March 16 Hagley Oval, Christchurch
2nd T20I March 18 University Oval, Dunedin
3rd T20I March 21 Eden Park, Auckland
4th T20I March 23 Bay Oval, Mount Maunganui
5th T20I March 26 Sky Stadium, Wellington
1st ODI March 29 McLean Park, Napier
2nd ODI April 2 Seddon Park, Hamilton
3rd ODI April 5 Bay Oval, Mount Maunganui

With Mohammad Yousuf rejoining the squad, Pakistan’s batting lineup will benefit from his guidance as they prepare for a crucial away series. The tour will also serve as vital preparation for the upcoming ICC T20 World Cup and other international assignments.

New Zealand Announces Squad for T20I Series Against Pakistan

Khashif Sarfraz
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New Zealand Announces Squad for T20I Series Against Pakistan

Michael Bracewell to Lead New Zealand in T20I Series Against Pakistan

New Zealand has announced a fresh-look squad for their upcoming five-match T20I series against Pakistan, with Michael Bracewell appointed as captain in the absence of regular skipper Mitch Santner.

The series kicks off on March 16 in Christchurch and will serve as an important platform for evaluating players ahead of the ICC T20 World Cup 2026 in India and Sri Lanka.

Bracewell, who captained New Zealand during their white-ball tour of Pakistan last year, expressed his excitement about leading the team on home soil for the first time.

“I really enjoyed leading the side in Pakistan last year, and it’s great to have many players from that squad back in the team. I’ll be working to build on Mitch Santner’s great leadership and create a positive environment for the team.” – Michael Bracewell

Squad Highlights and Key Inclusions

The squad features six players from New Zealand’s Champions Trophy campaign, alongside returning bowlers Ish Sodhi and Ben Sears. Kyle Jamieson and Will O’Rourke will be available for the first three matches, while Matt Henry, the top wicket-taker at the Champions Trophy, is set to join for the final two games, pending a fitness assessment.

Selectors have also named promising talent Zak Foulkes, who will be available for the last two matches.

With an eye on the T20 World Cup preparations, several experienced players—including Devon Conway, Lockie Ferguson, and Glenn Phillips—are unavailable due to other commitments. Selector Sam Wells emphasized that the squad reflects the need for players to commit to the long-term plan leading up to the global event.

New Zealand Squad for the T20I Series

  • Michael Bracewell (captain)
  • Finn Allen
  • Mark Chapman
  • Jacob Duffy
  • Zak Foulkes (matches 4-5)
  • Mitch Hay
  • Matt Henry (matches 4-5)
  • Kyle Jamieson (matches 1-3)
  • Daryl Mitchell
  • Jimmy Neesham
  • Will O’Rourke (matches 1-3)
  • Tim Robinson
  • Ben Sears
  • Tim Seifert
  • Ish Sodhi

T20I Series Schedule

Match Date Venue
1st T20I Sunday, 16 March Hagley Oval, Christchurch
2nd T20I Tuesday, 18 March University of Otago Oval, Dunedin
3rd T20I Friday, 21 March Eden Park, Auckland
4th T20I Sunday, 23 March Bay Oval, Tauranga
5th T20I Wednesday, 25 March Sky Stadium, Wellington

New Zealand will be hoping to fine-tune their squad and test their depth in key positions as they prepare for bigger international challenges ahead. The series promises an exciting clash against Pakistan, who will be looking to assert their dominance ahead of their ICC T20 World Cup preparations.

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