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ICC Men’s Test Team of the Year 2024 Announced: No Pakistani or South African Players Included

Khashif Sarfraz
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ICC Men’s Test Team of the Year 2024 Announced: No Pakistani or South African Players Included

The ICC has unveiled its Men’s Test Team of the Year 2024, led by Australia’s Pat Cummins. Despite featuring some of the best-performing players from around the world, the lineup noticeably excludes any representation from Pakistan or South Africa, signaling struggles in the Test format for both nations over the past year.

Key Exclusions

Surprisingly, no players from South Africa, who reached the ICC Men’s Test Championship final, or Pakistan made the cut. The omission of global stars like Babar Azam, Virat Kohli, and Rohit Sharma further highlights the challenges faced by some of the sport’s biggest names in adapting to the demands of Test cricket in 2024.

Notable Performers in the Lineup

  • Yashasvi Jaiswal (India): With a stellar 1,478 runs in 29 innings, Jaiswal cemented his place as one of the most exciting young openers.
  • Ben Duckett (England): Scoring 1,149 runs in 32 innings, Duckett’s adaptability and consistency stood out.
  • Joe Root (England): Root once again proved his class, racking up over 1,500 runs in 31 innings and continuing to anchor England’s batting lineup.
  • Kane Williamson (New Zealand): Despite a tough year for New Zealand, Williamson’s 1,013 runs in 18 innings were crucial to his team’s performances.
  • Harry Brook (England): Brook dazzled with his aggressive batting, scoring 1,100 runs in just 20 innings.

Star All-Rounders and Bowlers

  • Ravindra Jadeja (India): Jadeja’s 48 wickets and 527 runs in 12 matches underline his incredible all-round impact.
  • Pat Cummins (Australia, Captain): Cummins took 37 wickets in 9 matches while contributing 306 runs, leading his team to dominance.
  • Jasprit Bumrah (India): Bumrah’s phenomenal 71 wickets in 13 matches made him the year’s standout bowler.
  • Matt Henry (New Zealand): With 48 wickets in 9 matches, Henry’s precision proved instrumental for New Zealand.

Complete ICC Men’s Test Team of the Year 2024

  1. Yashasvi Jaiswal (India)
  2. Ben Duckett (England)
  3. Kane Williamson (New Zealand)
  4. Joe Root (England)
  5. Harry Brook (England)
  6. Kamindu Mendis (Sri Lanka)
  7. Jamie Smith (wk, England)
  8. Ravindra Jadeja (India)
  9. Pat Cummins (c, Australia)
  10. Matt Henry (New Zealand)
  11. Jasprit Bumrah (India)

Reflection on Pakistan and South Africa

The exclusion of Pakistani and South African players is a wake-up call for both teams to improve their Test performances. While Pakistan struggled to gain momentum throughout the year, South Africa’s omission is surprising, considering their qualification for the Test Championship final.

This year’s lineup underscores the dominance of England, India, and New Zealand, whose players consistently delivered standout performances across formats.

Ahmed Shehzad Reflects on the Challenges of Being “Good-Looking” in Cricket

Khashif Sarfraz
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Ahmed Shehzad Reflects on the Challenges of Being “Good-Looking” in Cricket

Former Pakistani cricketer Ahmed Shehzad has shed light on an unusual challenge he faced during his cricketing career: being perceived as “good-looking.” In a candid conversation on Ahmed Ali Butt’s podcast, Shehzad revealed that his appearance and popularity often became sources of jealousy and criticism within the cricketing community.

The Struggles of Perception

Shehzad explained how his well-groomed appearance, confidence, and fan following sometimes led to resentment from teammates and senior players. He remarked:

“In our field, if you look good, know how to dress, and speak well, some people start to resent you.”

The 33-year-old highlighted how this jealousy affected his experience with the national team.

“I’ve been a target within the Pakistani team for this. If your fan following grows and people appreciate you, it’s hard for some senior players to accept.”

A Journey of Personal Growth

Coming from a humble background in Anarkali, Lahore, Shehzad emphasized the effort he put into improving his personality and appearance as his career progressed. While he took pride in representing Pakistan and grooming himself, he acknowledged the scrutiny and challenges that came with it.

“We come from small areas. I lived in Anarkali, Lahore, and when I gained recognition, I worked on grooming myself and improving my personality. But this has also caused significant problems within Pakistan,” he shared.

Career Highlights and Setbacks

Shehzad last played for Pakistan in 2017 (ODIs) and 2019 (T20Is). Despite his talent, his career faced setbacks, including not being picked in the Pakistan Super League (PSL) drafts last year, which he described as a “deliberate effort” to sideline him.

Earlier this year, Shehzad criticized the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) for including him in the PSL 10 draft despite his retirement from the league in 2023.

Looking Back

Ahmed Shehzad’s story highlights the challenges of navigating success, popularity, and team dynamics in a highly competitive environment. His journey serves as a reminder of the personal struggles that often accompany fame in professional sports.

ICC Men’s ODI Team of the Year 2024: Key Highlights and Players

Khashif Sarfraz
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ICC Men’s ODI Team of the Year 2024: Key Highlights and Players

The International Cricket Council (ICC) has announced the Men’s ODI Team of the Year 2024, celebrating players who delivered standout performances in the past year. The team features players from Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Afghanistan, and the West Indies, showcasing a mix of experience, emerging talent, and consistent match-winning performances.

Top Order Dominance

  • Saim Ayub (Pakistan):
    A breakout year for Saim, with 515 runs in just 9 matches at a strike rate of 105.53. His three centuries, including back-to-back tons in South Africa, established him as a formidable opener.
  • Rahmanullah Gurbaz (Afghanistan):
    Gurbaz excelled with 531 runs at an average of 48.2, including three centuries. His dynamic starts were instrumental in Afghanistan’s series wins.
  • Pathum Nissanka (Sri Lanka):
    With 694 runs at an impressive average of 63.1, Nissanka stood out, especially with his unbeaten 210 against Afghanistan, one of the highest ODI scores in history.

Middle Order Anchors

  • Kusal Mendis (Sri Lanka):
    The leading ODI run-scorer of 2024 with 742 runs. His match-winning 143 against New Zealand solidified his place as a dependable middle-order batter.
  • Charith Asalanka (Sri Lanka) [Captain]:
    The captain of the team, Asalanka scored 605 runs and contributed with key wickets, showcasing his value as an all-rounder.
  • Sherfane Rutherford (West Indies):
    An explosive debut year saw him score 425 runs at a strike rate of 120.1, including five consecutive 50-plus scores.
  • Azmatullah Omarzai (Afghanistan):
    A true all-rounder, Omarzai’s 417 runs and 17 wickets included game-changing performances like his 70* and 4/37 against Bangladesh.

Bowling Attack

  • Wanindu Hasaranga (Sri Lanka):
    The spin wizard claimed 26 wickets, with a stunning 7/19 against Zimbabwe, the fifth-best ODI figures ever.
  • Shaheen Shah Afridi (Pakistan):
    Despite playing only 6 matches, Shaheen took 15 wickets, proving his consistency as one of the world’s premier pacers.
  • Haris Rauf (Pakistan):
    Rauf delivered impactful performances, including a five-wicket haul against Australia in Adelaide.
  • AM Ghazanfar (Afghanistan):
    At just 18, Ghazanfar impressed with 21 wickets in 11 matches, including a standout 6/26 against Bangladesh.

ICC Awards 2024 Schedule

The ICC Awards continue this week, celebrating cricketing excellence across formats. Highlights of the announcement schedule include:

  • 24 January: Men’s ODI Team, Women’s ODI Team, and Men’s Test Team of the Year.
  • 25 January: T20I Teams of the Year and T20I Cricketers of the Year.
  • 27 January: ODI Cricketers of the Year.
  • 28 January: The Sir Garfield Sobers Trophy and Rachael Heyhoe Flint Trophy for the ICC Cricketers of the Year.

Established in 2004, the ICC Awards celebrate exceptional cricketing performances, and the 2024 edition, marking 20 years, concludes on 28 January 2025.

Pakistan’s Possible Squad and Updates for Champions Trophy 2025

Khashif Sarfraz
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Pakistan’s Possible Squad and Updates for Champions Trophy 2025

With the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 just around the corner, Pakistan is yet to officially announce its squad. However, media reports suggest that some significant changes may be on the cards. Here’s what we know so far:

Key Updates and Speculated Changes

  • Babar Azam Opening with Fakhar Zaman:
    Reports suggest Babar Azam could open the batting alongside Fakhar Zaman, who is set to return after Saim Ayub’s ankle injury. This move may shake up the usual order as Babar’s most successful ODI performances have been at numbers 3 and 4.
  • Kamran Ghulam in Top Order:
    If Babar opens, Kamran Ghulam might take up the crucial number 3 position, adding depth to the batting lineup. Backup options for the opening slots include Imam-ul-Haq and Shan Masood.
  • Exclusion of Abdullah Shafique:
    Abdullah Shafique, who struggled with form throughout 2024, is expected to be left out of the squad, with selectors banking on Babar’s consistency at the top.

Middle Order Boost

  • Khushdil Shah Returns:
    All-rounder Khushdil Shah, known for his hard-hitting ability, is likely to make a comeback, strengthening Pakistan’s middle order, which has been a weak link recently.
  • Core Players:
    The squad will feature stalwarts like Mohammad Rizwan, Salman Agha, Tayyab Tahir, and Irfan Khan, ensuring a mix of experience and youth in the batting lineup.

Bowling Strength

Pakistan’s pace attack remains a formidable force:

  • Main Pacers: Shaheen Afridi, Naseem Shah, Haris Rauf, and Mohammad Hasnain.
  • Spin Options: Leg-spinner Abrar Ahmed, Kamran Ghulam, and young Sufiyan Muqeem are expected to provide spin options.

Tournament Details

The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 will run from February 19 to March 9, hosted at three venues in Pakistan and Dubai.

Group Divisions:

  • Group A: Pakistan, India, New Zealand, Bangladesh.
  • Group B: Afghanistan, South Africa, England, Australia.

Pakistan will open the tournament against New Zealand on February 19 in Karachi, followed by the highly anticipated clash against India on February 23 in Dubai.

Final Squad Announcement

Pakistan must confirm its final squad by February 11, just before the tri-series begins on February 8. Fans eagerly await the official announcement as the team prepares for one of the biggest tournaments of the year.

The Champions Trophy presents a golden opportunity for Pakistan to shine on home soil and showcase their talent on the global stage.

Gaddafi Stadium Leads ICC Champions Trophy Preparations with Modern Upgrades

Khashif Sarfraz
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Gaddafi Stadium Leads ICC Champions Trophy Preparations with Modern Upgrades

Preparations are in full swing for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, as Pakistan gets ready to host its first global cricket event in nearly three decades. Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore has taken center stage with state-of-the-art upgrades, promising an unparalleled experience for fans and players alike.

Gaddafi Stadium Upgrades

The iconic Gaddafi Stadium has undergone extensive renovations to meet international standards. Key upgrades include:

  1. LED Floodlights and Spectacular Light Shows:
    • New LED lights have been installed on all six floodlight towers, ensuring enhanced visibility for players and a captivating experience for spectators.
    • Fans attending key matches will witness dazzling light shows, adding a festive and modern touch to the cricketing action.
  2. Expanded Seating Capacity:
    • The stadium’s capacity has been increased to 35,000, making it Pakistan’s largest cricket venue.
    • New hospitality areas have been constructed to accommodate more spectators in comfort.
  3. Modernized Facilities:
    • The upgrades aim to transform Gaddafi Stadium into a world-class venue, setting a benchmark for future international cricket events in Pakistan.

Tournament Highlights

The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 is set to kick off on February 19 at Karachi’s National Stadium with Pakistan taking on New Zealand. The final is scheduled to take place in Lahore, though a neutral venue will be used if India qualifies due to ongoing political tensions.

Other stadiums, including Karachi and Rawalpindi, are also undergoing renovations to ensure top-notch facilities for the eight-team tournament.

A Milestone for Pakistan Cricket

The Champions Trophy marks a significant moment in Pakistan’s cricketing history, as the nation hosts its first global event since 1996. Successful hosting of the tournament could pave the way for more international competitions, reaffirming Pakistan’s place on the global cricket map.

“We are on track to complete the renovations and upgrades at Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore,” said PCB spokesperson Sami Ul Hasan. “The venue will be ready to host the Champions Trophy match between Australia and England on February 22.”

Beyond Cricket

The ICC Champions Trophy is not just a cricketing event; it’s a celebration of Pakistan’s resilience and passion for the sport. With upgraded venues, enhanced fan experiences, and world-class hospitality, the tournament promises to be a landmark event in cricketing history.

Gaddafi Stadium Gets a Modern Makeover for ICC Champions Trophy 2025

Khashif Sarfraz
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Gaddafi Stadium Gets a Modern Makeover for ICC Champions Trophy 2025

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has unveiled an exciting glimpse into the ongoing renovations at Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore, as preparations ramp up for the ICC Men’s Champions Trophy 2025. The PCB, under the dynamic leadership of Chairman Mohsin Naqvi, has committed to completing the extensive refurbishment within a tight five-month timeline.

Key Upgrades and Features

A recently released video showcases the transformative upgrades taking place at the iconic stadium:

  1. Modern Seating and Comfort:
    Newly installed seats promise enhanced comfort and a vibrant atmosphere for cricket fans.
  2. Advanced Floodlights:
    The floodlight towers have been equipped with state-of-the-art bulbs, ensuring superior illumination for day-night matches.
  3. Digital Screens:
    Two large digital screens are being added, one of which has already been completed, to elevate the spectator experience with high-definition visuals.
  4. Renovated Stands:
    Finishing touches are being applied to the stands, enhancing the overall ambiance and aligning the stadium with global cricketing standards.

Setting New Standards

These upgrades aim to place Gaddafi Stadium among the world’s leading cricket venues, offering a top-tier experience for fans, players, media, and officials alike. The PCB’s commitment to excellence is evident in every detail, from improved seating arrangements to upgraded facilities for matches.

Upcoming Events

The revamped Gaddafi Stadium will host a tri-nation series featuring Pakistan, New Zealand, and South Africa before the ICC Champions Trophy begins on February 19, 2025.

The Champions Trophy opener at the stadium will feature a thrilling encounter between England and Australia on February 22, setting the stage for an unforgettable tournament.

With these renovations, Gaddafi Stadium is poised to shine brightly on the global cricketing stage, offering fans an unparalleled experience as they witness historic matches in Lahore.

PCB Renames National Bank Stadium Enclosures to Honour Cricket Legends

Khashif Sarfraz
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PCB Renames National Bank Stadium Enclosures to Honour Cricket Legends

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has announced a significant renaming of enclosures at the National Bank Stadium in Karachi to pay tribute to former cricket captains and legends.

Renamed Enclosures:

  • Quaid Enclosure → Shahid Afridi Enclosure
  • Majid Khan Enclosure → Younis Khan Enclosure
  • Zaheer Abbas Enclosure → Nazar Mohammad Enclosure

Each enclosure, with a seating capacity of 1,050, reflects the PCB’s initiative to honour individuals who have contributed immensely to Pakistan cricket.

Planned Upgrades:

The PCB is making further adjustments to the Hanif Mohammad and Fazal Mahmood enclosures and introducing two VIP enclosures in the newly reconstructed stadium building to enhance the matchday experience for spectators.

Stadium Construction Progress:

Significant advancements have been made in the reconstruction of the National Bank Stadium, with:

  • Three floors of the far-end building completed, while partition work continues on the top floor.
  • The Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) nearing completion with final cleaning underway.
  • Preparations for two VVIP stands at ground level progressing smoothly.
    Project director Bilal Chohan has confirmed that construction will be finalized by January 31, 2025.

Upcoming Eight-Team Tournament:

The much-awaited eight-team Champions Trophy is set to take place from February 19 to March 9, 2025, across three venues in Pakistan—Karachi, Lahore, and Rawalpindi—and in Dubai.

Group Divisions:

  • Group A: Pakistan, India, New Zealand, Bangladesh
  • Group B: Afghanistan, South Africa, England, Australia

Key Matches:

  • Opening Match: Pakistan vs. New Zealand on February 19 in Karachi.
  • Pakistan vs. India: The highly anticipated clash on February 23 in Dubai.

The PCB’s efforts to honour cricket legends while upgrading facilities reflect its commitment to preserving the sport’s heritage and improving the fan experience.

Rohit Sharma’s Participation in Captains’ Event in Pakistan Remains Uncertain

Khashif Sarfraz
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Rohit Sharma’s Participation in Captains’ Event in Pakistan Remains Uncertain

The participation of Indian cricket team captain Rohit Sharma in the upcoming Captains’ Event in Pakistan remains unclear, sparking widespread speculation. According to a cricket website, no official statement has been made regarding whether Sharma will attend the event in Karachi, expected to take place on February 16 or 17, 2025.

Uncertainty Surrounding Sharma’s Visit

Devajit Saikia, Secretary of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), clarified that discussions regarding Sharma’s travel to Pakistan have not been initiated. “The matter is not currently on the agenda,” Saikia stated, leaving fans and analysts guessing whether government approval would be required for the visit.

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has emphasized to the International Cricket Council (ICC) that the event should adhere to established traditions and policies, but the uncertainty around Sharma’s attendance continues to overshadow the build-up to the event.

BCCI to Follow ICC Uniform Guidelines

In a separate development, the BCCI has confirmed its commitment to following the ICC’s uniform guidelines for the 2025 Champions Trophy. Responding to reports suggesting India’s objection to including Pakistan’s name on their kits, BCCI Secretary Saikia dismissed such claims as inaccurate.

Saikia assured that India would adhere to all ICC regulations, including the mandatory display of the tournament logo and the host nation’s name on team uniforms.

“BCCI will follow every uniform-related ICC rule during the Champions Trophy,” Saikia stated, as quoted by PTI. “Whatever the other teams did regarding the logo and dress code, we were going to follow in true letter and spirit.”

ICC Dress Code Regulations

As per ICC regulations, all participating teams must include the official tournament logo on their kits. In this case, the name of Pakistan, as the host nation, will feature prominently. Saikia’s statement reaffirms that India will comply with these requirements, aligning with international standards and maintaining the tournament’s decorum.

Conclusion

As the cricketing world awaits the Captains’ Event in Karachi, the uncertainty surrounding Rohit Sharma’s participation highlights the complexities of international cricket diplomacy. Meanwhile, the BCCI’s commitment to ICC regulations ensures a unified approach to the upcoming Champions Trophy 2025.

PSL Faces Challenges as ECB’s NOC Policy Restricts English Players

Khashif Sarfraz
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PSL Faces Challenges as ECB’s NOC Policy Restricts English Players

PCB Prioritizes Relations with ECB Amid Controversy

The Pakistan Super League (PSL), a marquee event in Pakistan’s cricketing calendar, is facing hurdles due to the England and Wales Cricket Board’s (ECB) restrictive No Objection Certificate (NOC) policy. The policy prevents English red-ball cricketers from participating in the PSL during the domestic season, while allowing them to join the Indian Premier League (IPL) during the same period.

In a significant move, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has decided to prioritize its relations with the ECB, avoiding potential disputes despite the frustration expressed by English players and PSL franchises.

ECB’s Double Standards Highlighted

Notable players such as Jonny Bairstow, Chris Woakes, Adil Rashid, and Ben Duckett were eager to participate in PSL Season 10. However, they were denied NOCs by the ECB, forcing franchises to reconsider their draft picks. Sources revealed that some players were even prepared to confront the ECB or take drastic steps, such as retiring from international cricket, to participate in the league.

James Vince, who stepped down as Hampshire’s captain and quit first-class cricket, has openly criticized the ECB’s policy. Vince emphasized the policy’s limitations, stating it could push players away from red-ball cricket and restrict opportunities.

In an interview, Vince noted:

  • “The initial feeling was that it was going to drive people away from red-ball cricket.”
  • He questioned the ECB’s reasoning, suggesting, “It’s got to be something to do with relationships between the ECB, PCB, and BCCI.”

Vince also highlighted the shorter nature of the PSL compared to the IPL, pointing out that it would result in fewer domestic cricket disruptions for players.

PCB’s Strategic Response

Recognizing the potential long-term impact on their relationship with the ECB, the PCB decided not to escalate the issue. Officials believe the situation may improve when the PSL returns to its traditional February-March window, eliminating scheduling conflicts with England’s domestic season.

Salman Naseer, the new PSL chief, had recently traveled to England in an attempt to resolve the matter but was unable to convince the ECB to revise its stance.

PSL Season 10 Adjustments

The PSL 10 is scheduled to take place in the April-May window, meaning several prominent English stars will be absent this season. Despite this setback, the PCB remains optimistic about future collaborations and is committed to preserving the league’s reputation as a global cricketing spectacle.

Jos Buttler Opposes Boycott of Afghanistan Match in Champions Trophy 2025

Khashif Sarfraz
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Jos Buttler Opposes Boycott of Afghanistan Match in Champions Trophy 2025

England Captain Stresses Unity Over Political Boycotts

England captain Jos Buttler has stated that a boycott of the scheduled match against Afghanistan in the Champions Trophy 2025 is not the appropriate course of action. The match, set for February 26 in Lahore, has drawn political scrutiny due to the Taliban regime’s treatment of women in Afghanistan.

Political Pressure and England’s Response

The controversy began with a letter from Labour MP Tonia Antoniazzi to ECB Chief Executive Richard Gould, signed by over 160 British politicians. The letter condemned the Taliban’s ban on women participating in sports and urged England to boycott the game to make a statement against these abuses.

However, Gould rejected the call, advocating for a “coordinated, ICC-led response” instead of unilateral actions by individual teams. His stance was supported by UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Lisa Nandy, the Secretary of State for Digital, Culture, Media, and Sport, who warned against counterproductive measures.

Buttler’s Take on the Situation

Speaking ahead of England’s T20I against India, Buttler highlighted that players are staying informed about the political situation but prefer leaving such decisions to experts.

  • Buttler said, “Political situations like this, as a player, you’re trying to be as informed as you can be. The experts know a lot more about it.”
  • “I don’t think a boycott is the way to go about it,” he added, drawing parallels to England’s forfeit against Zimbabwe in the 2003 World Cup.

While Buttler admitted that players are consulting with officials like Rob Key, he emphasized that they hope the match proceeds as planned, without political pressures interfering with the sport.

England Squad for Champions Trophy 2025

England Squad:
Jos Buttler (c), Jofra Archer, Gus Atkinson, Jacob Bethell, Harry Brook, Brydon Carse, Ben Duckett, Jamie Overton, Jamie Smith, Liam Livingstone, Adil Rashid, Joe Root, Saqib Mahmood, Phil Salt, Mark Wood.

England’s Champions Trophy Schedule

  • 22 February: Australia v England, Lahore
  • 26 February: Afghanistan v England, Lahore
  • 1 March: South Africa v England, Karachi

England will look to focus on their preparations for the tournament while navigating the political discussions surrounding their fixture against Afghanistan.

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