Saturday, March 15, 2025
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Is Babar Azam Losing His “King” Status in Cricket?

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Once hailed as the “king” of cricket, Babar Azam dazzled fans with his meteoric rise since his debut in 2016. Consistent centuries and match-winning performances cemented his reputation as a batting maestro. However, recent performances and a series of underwhelming showings in major tournaments have led many to question whether the “king” title was bestowed prematurely.

Early Success and Captaincy Boost

Babar’s rise to fame was swift, with his consistent run-scoring and ability to anchor Pakistan’s innings. His elevation to captaincy in 2019 seemed to ignite his drive, leading to even more prolific batting performances. Yet, critics argue that many of his successes came against lower-ranked teams, and his statistics against top-tier opponents reveal a different story.

Declining Century Count

Babar’s most recent international century in ODIs came against Nepal in 2023. His last Test century dates back to 2022 against New Zealand in Karachi, and his last T20I century was in April 2023 against a weakened New Zealand side. His lack of centuries against elite teams and in challenging conditions is a growing concern.

In Test cricket, his current average stands at 42.77—a decent number but one that falls short of the expectations for someone touted as a generational talent. Notably, Babar has managed just one Test century in SENA countries (South Africa, England, New Zealand, and Australia), scored against Australia in 2019.

Struggles in ICC Events

Babar’s performance in major ICC events has been underwhelming:

  • 2024 World Cup: Scored 122 runs at a strike rate of 101.66.
  • 2023 ODI World Cup: Managed 320 runs at an average of 40, despite batting-friendly conditions.
  • 2023 Asia Cup and 2022 T20 World Cup: His contributions failed to make an impact, raising concerns about his ability to deliver under pressure.

While he shone in the 2021 T20 World Cup and the 2019 ODI World Cup, his performances in subsequent tournaments failed to meet expectations, leaving fans disappointed.

Public Rejection of the “King” Title

In 2021, Babar proudly embraced the “king” title with the hashtag #KINGBABAR. However, with mounting criticism, he has recently asked fans to stop calling him the “king,” signaling a shift in his public stance.

A Great, but Not the Greatest?

Although Babar remains one of Pakistan’s most celebrated cricketers of this generation, his numbers fall short compared to legends like Younis Khan, whose Test performances set a high benchmark. Babar’s inability to consistently dominate in SENA countries and his struggles in high-stakes matches have cast a shadow over his legacy.

Final Thoughts: Overhyped or Mismanaged?

Was Babar Azam overhyped too early, or has Pakistan’s cricketing system failed to help him reach his true potential? While his talent is undeniable, the weight of expectations and the “king” narrative may have done more harm than good.

Babar Azam remains a vital player for Pakistan, but his legacy will depend on how he bounces back from this challenging phase in his career. The future will tell whether he can reclaim his throne or if his reign was fleeting.

Babar Azam Joins Elite 6,000-Run Club in ODIs

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Pakistan’s cricket sensation, Babar Azam, achieved yet another milestone on Friday during the final of the Tri-Nation Series against New Zealand at the National Bank Stadium in Karachi. The star batter became the 11th Pakistani cricketer to surpass the 6,000-run mark in One Day Internationals (ODIs), joining an elite club of legends.

Fastest to 6,000 ODI Runs

Babar’s extraordinary consistency and dominance in the format were further highlighted as he equaled Hashim Amla’s record for being the joint-fastest player to reach 6,000 ODI runs, achieving the milestone in just 123 innings.

Fastest to 6,000 ODI Runs:

  1. Babar Azam (Pakistan): 123 innings
  2. Hashim Amla (South Africa): 123 innings
  3. Virat Kohli (India): 136 innings
  4. Kane Williamson (New Zealand): 139 innings
  5. David Warner (Australia): 139 innings

This accomplishment adds to Babar’s illustrious career, where he also holds the record for being the fastest player to 5,000 ODI runs, reaching the mark in just 97 innings.

Babar Azam’s ODI Achievements

At just 30 years old, Babar has amassed 34 half-centuries and 19 centuries, showcasing unparalleled consistency in his career.

He is now just one century away from equaling Saeed Anwar’s record for the most ODI centuries by a Pakistani batter.

Most ODI Centuries for Pakistan:

  1. Saeed Anwar: 20 centuries
  2. Babar Azam: 19 centuries
  3. Mohammad Yousuf: 15 centuries
  4. Fakhar Zaman: 11 centuries
  5. Mohammad Hafeez: 11 centuries

Pakistani Legends with Over 6,000 ODI Runs

Babar Azam now stands alongside Pakistan’s greatest ODI players. The list is led by Inzamam-ul-Haq, with an astounding 11,701 runs, followed by Mohammad Yousuf (9,554 runs) and Saeed Anwar (8,824 runs).

Continuing to Break Records

Earlier in 2024, Babar overtook Virat Kohli to become the second-highest run-scorer in T20 Internationals, solidifying his place among the modern greats of cricket.

As Babar Azam continues to rewrite history, his achievements serve as a testament to his skill, determination, and leadership. Pakistan’s cricket fans eagerly await his next century, which will place him at the pinnacle of ODI batting records for the country.

Pakistan Set 243-Run Target for New Zealand in Tri-Nation Series Final

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Pakistan posted a target of 243 runs in the final match of the Tri-Nation Series against New Zealand at the National Bank Stadium in Karachi on Friday. Battling early setbacks and consistent pressure from New Zealand’s bowlers, Pakistan managed to score 242 runs in 49.3 overs before being bowled out.

Pakistan’s Innings: A Battle for Stability

Opting to bat first, Pakistan faced trouble early on. Fakhar Zaman was dismissed in the fourth over for 16 runs, caught off Will O’Rourke, leaving Pakistan at 19/1.

A brief partnership between Babar Azam and Saud Shakeel added 30 runs, but both batters fell in quick succession. Shakeel contributed 8 runs off 14 balls, while Babar top-scored in the early stages with 29 runs off 34 balls, including five boundaries and a six. Their departures left Pakistan struggling at 54/3 in 11.5 overs.

Rizwan and Salman Anchor the Innings

Mohammad Rizwan and Salman Ali Agha steadied the ship with a crucial 88-run partnership. Rizwan top-scored for Pakistan with 46 runs off 76 balls, hitting four boundaries and a six. Salman played a steady hand with 45 runs from 65 balls, hitting one four and one six.

Rizwan’s dismissal in the 32nd over, followed by Salman’s departure five overs later, left Pakistan at 161/5, creating pressure for the lower middle order.

Late Contributions from Tayyab Tahir and the Tail

Tayyab Tahir provided some resistance, scoring a quick 38 runs off 33 balls, including five boundaries and a six. He formed a brief partnership with Khushdil Shah, but both fell in quick succession.

In the final overs, Faheem Ashraf and Naseem Shah added a valuable 39-run partnership for the ninth wicket. Faheem scored 22 off 21 balls, while Naseem chipped in with 19 runs. However, Pakistan’s innings came to an end on the first ball of the final over, with Will O’Rourke dismissing Faheem.

New Zealand’s Bowling Performance

New Zealand’s bowlers showcased an exceptional performance, with Will O’Rourke leading the attack, claiming 4 wickets for 43 runs in 9.3 overs. Michael Bracewell and skipper Mitchell Santner supported with 2 wickets each, ensuring constant pressure on Pakistan’s batting lineup.

Playing XIs

Pakistan: Fakhar Zaman, Babar Azam, Saud Shakeel, Mohammad Rizwan, Tayyab Tahir, Salman Ali Agha, Faheem Ashraf, Khushdil Shah, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Naseem Shah, Abrar Ahmed.

New Zealand: Will Young, Devon Conway, Kane Williamson, Daryl Mitchell, Tom Latham, Glenn Phillips, Michael Bracewell, Mitchell Santner (c), Nathan Smith, Jacob Duffy, William O’Rourke.

Injury Updates on Rachin Ravindra and Lockie Ferguson Ahead of Champions Trophy

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Rachin Ravindra’s Recovery Progress
New Zealand head coach Gary Stead has shared an update on star batter Rachin Ravindra, who remains sidelined following an injury during the opening match against Pakistan in the ongoing tri-nation series. Ravindra suffered a blow to the forehead while attempting a catch in the 38th over and experienced lingering headaches for several days.

Though Ravindra returned to the nets on Thursday night, he is yet to be deemed fit for selection. “The pleasing thing is that he’s progressing well,” Stead said. “We’re following head injury assessment protocols. His headaches are subsiding, and he hit a few balls tonight, which is encouraging, but there are still steps to clear before he can play.”

The injury ruled Ravindra out of New Zealand’s crucial win against South Africa, which secured their spot in the tri-nation series final.

Lockie Ferguson’s Recovery on Track
Stead also provided updates on Lockie Ferguson, who sustained a hamstring injury during the ILT20 tournament. Ferguson has been gradually increasing his bowling workload since joining the team. “Lockie’s had a couple of bowling sessions and increased the intensity tonight. We’re pleased with his progress,” Stead remarked.

The team remains cautious with Ferguson, aiming to avoid unnecessary risks ahead of the ICC Champions Trophy, set to begin on February 19. Stead hinted at Ferguson’s potential participation in one of the remaining games, ensuring his fitness for the upcoming tournament.

New Zealand’s Tri-Nation Series Performance
New Zealand has secured its place in the tri-nation series final with consecutive victories over Pakistan and South Africa. The team’s strong performance sets an optimistic tone for their Champions Trophy campaign.

Pakistan’s Comeback Victory
Meanwhile, Pakistan bounced back with an impressive six-wicket victory over South Africa, chasing down a daunting target of 352 runs. The win was anchored by stunning centuries from Mohammad Rizwan and Salman Ali Agha, bolstering Pakistan’s momentum as they head into the Champions Trophy.

What’s Next?
After the tri-nation series concludes, New Zealand will play a warm-up match against Afghanistan in Karachi on Sunday, ahead of their Champions Trophy opener against hosts Pakistan on February 19.

Pakistan Prepares to Host ICC Champions Trophy 2025 with Grand Opening Ceremony

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Historic Return of International Cricket
Pakistan is set to host the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, marking its first major multi-country cricket tournament in nearly 30 years. The event will see the participation of the top eight cricket teams from around the world: Australia, Afghanistan, Bangladesh, England, India, New Zealand, Pakistan, and South Africa. The tournament kicks off on February 19 with the opening match between Pakistan and New Zealand in Karachi and concludes with the final on March 9.

Grand Opening Ceremony in Karachi
The National Bank Stadium in Karachi will host the opening ceremony, which promises to be a grand affair. Reports indicate that the Pakistan Air Force (PAF) will perform a breathtaking aerobatic display featuring their JF-17 Thunder and F-16 jets. The daring maneuvers will be executed by the renowned ‘Sherdil’ team, known for their precision and expertise.

Rehearsals for the aerial stunts have already begun, ensuring a spectacular performance that will thrill fans worldwide.

Prize Pool Details Announced by ICC
The International Cricket Council (ICC) has announced a significant increase in the prize money for the tournament, raising the total prize pool by 53% compared to the previous edition.

  • Winners: $2.24 million (over Rs620 million)
  • Runners-up: $1.12 million (over Rs31 crore)
  • Semi-final losers: $560,000 each (over Rs15.5 crore)
  • Group stage win bonus: $34,000 per match
  • 5th and 6th place: $350,000 each
  • 7th place: $140,000
  • Participation bonus: $125,000 for all teams

Pakistan’s Journey to Hosting
This tournament marks Pakistan’s return as a host of major international events since the 1996 Cricket World Cup. Previous attempts, such as hosting the ICC Champions Trophy in 2009, were thwarted due to security concerns. The successful hosting of this event symbolizes Pakistan’s growing stature as a safe and thriving hub for international cricket.

Pakistan has a proud history of hosting notable sporting events, including the Hockey World Cup (1990), Hockey Champions Trophy (1994), and the World Amateur Snooker Championship (1993).

What to Expect
The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 promises to deliver thrilling cricket, coupled with spectacular off-field entertainment, including a grand opening ceremony and world-class facilities. Fans are eager to witness Pakistan’s ability to shine as the global cricketing spotlight returns to the country.

Pakistan Bat First in Tri-Nation Series Final Against New Zealand

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Pakistan Wins Toss, Opts to Set a Target
Pakistan has elected to bat first in the final of the tri-nation series against New Zealand at the National Bank Stadium in Karachi on Friday. Both teams made one change to their playing XIs, aiming for the perfect combination in this much-anticipated clash.

Team Updates

  • Pakistan replaced Mohammad Hasnain with all-rounder Faheem Ashraf, reinforcing their bowling and lower-order batting.
  • New Zealand brought in pacer Lockie Ferguson for opener Rachin Ravindra, focusing on early breakthroughs with the ball.

Captain’s Outlook
Mitchell Santner, the New Zealand skipper, emphasized the importance of taking early wickets to disrupt Pakistan’s plans. On the other hand, Pakistan captain Babar Azam expressed confidence in batting first, hoping to utilize the home advantage to set a challenging total.

Pakistan’s Path to the Final
Pakistan booked their spot in the final after an incredible six-wicket victory over South Africa earlier in the series. Key highlights from that match include:

  • Salman Ali Agha’s career-best 134 off 103 balls, including 16 fours and two sixes.
  • Mohammad Rizwan’s unbeaten 122 off 128 deliveries, laced with nine boundaries and three sixes.

The duo forged a record-breaking 260-run partnership for the fourth wicket, rescuing Pakistan from 91/3 during their chase of 353 runs. Despite early setbacks, including the dismissals of Babar Azam (23), Fakhar Zaman (41), and Saud Shakeel (15), the team’s middle order displayed remarkable resilience.

Playing XIs for the Final
Pakistan: Fakhar Zaman, Babar Azam, Saud Shakeel, Mohammad Rizwan, Tayyab Tahir, Salman Ali Agha, Faheem Ashraf, Khushdil Shah, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Naseem Shah, Abrar Ahmed.

New Zealand: Will Young, Devon Conway, Kane Williamson, Daryl Mitchell, Tom Latham, Glenn Phillips, Michael Bracewell, Mitchell Santner (c), Nathan Smith, Jacob Duffy, William O’Rourke.

Match Preview
With Pakistan aiming to capitalize on their batting strength and New Zealand focusing on early breakthroughs, this final promises an exciting showdown. Salman Agha and Mohammad Rizwan, coming off stellar performances, will be key to Pakistan’s batting. Meanwhile, New Zealand’s experienced pace attack, bolstered by Lockie Ferguson, will look to unsettle the hosts early.

Who will claim the tri-nation series title? Stay tuned for updates from Karachi!

Key Takeaways for Pakistan Ahead of Tri-Series Final Against New Zealand

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As Pakistan prepares to face New Zealand in the Tri-Series Final, the team must tackle significant challenges to secure victory. While the campaign included an impressive win against South Africa, the heavy defeat to New Zealand exposed vulnerabilities. Here are the five critical areas Pakistan must address:


1. Death Bowling: A Persistent Problem

Pakistan’s bowling attack, especially in the death overs, has been underwhelming. In their first match against New Zealand, they leaked 98 runs in the final six overs, with Glenn Phillips wreaking havoc.

Even during the win against South Africa, Pakistan’s pacers conceded a hefty 206 runs, raising questions about their execution under pressure.

To counter New Zealand’s power hitters, Shaheen Afridi and Naseem Shah need to sharpen their yorkers. Pakistan may also consider integrating spinners into the death overs strategy to disrupt New Zealand’s rhythm.


2. Fakhar Zaman’s Form Needs Support

Fakhar Zaman has been the backbone of Pakistan’s top order, with scores like 84 off 69 against New Zealand and strong starts against South Africa.

However, with Babar Azam struggling—failing to convert his starts—Pakistan faces a dilemma. Should Babar continue opening or shift to his preferred No. 3 position?

A strong powerplay is essential to pressure New Zealand’s disciplined bowling attack, and Fakhar cannot carry the responsibility alone.


3. Middle-Order Stability: Rizwan and Salman Agha Lead the Way

Mohammad Rizwan and Salman Agha have been key to Pakistan’s middle-order success, with their 260-run partnership against South Africa standing out as a series highlight.

Their ability to rotate strike and find gaps will be critical against New Zealand’s disciplined bowlers. However, to avoid exposing the fragile lower order, the middle order must maintain composure and avoid collapses like those seen in the earlier loss.


4. Finding a Reliable Third Seamer

The absence of Haris Rauf has left a noticeable gap in Pakistan’s pace attack. The team must carefully choose between options like Hasan Ali and Mohammad Wasim Jr. to provide consistency in the middle overs.

Alternatively, Pakistan could lean on all-rounders such as Faheem Ashraf, who can contribute both with the ball and as a late-order batter. A well-balanced attack will be crucial to restricting New Zealand’s power-packed batting lineup.


5. Spin Strategy: Time to Rethink

New Zealand’s batters have been comfortable against Pakistan’s spinners, with Mitchell and Phillips dominating Salman Agha and Khushdil Shah in earlier matches.

To turn the tables, Pakistan could introduce Abrar Ahmed earlier or deploy Imad Wasim in tandem with seamers to break partnerships. A proactive spin strategy, rather than reactive measures, will be vital to keeping New Zealand’s aggressive approach in check.


Final Thoughts

Pakistan’s road to victory in the Tri-Series Final lies in fixing their death bowling woes, supporting Fakhar Zaman’s starts, ensuring middle-order stability, and managing their pace and spin attacks strategically.

While the team has shown flashes of brilliance, a complete, disciplined performance will be necessary to topple a strong New Zealand side and claim the title ahead of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025.

Pakistan Gears Up to Host ICC Champions Trophy 2025

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Pakistan is set to host its first major multi-nation cricket tournament in nearly three decades, the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, marking a significant milestone for the country’s cricketing history.


A Long Road Back

Since the tragic 2009 attack on the Sri Lankan cricket team in Lahore, international cricket largely avoided Pakistan. Over the years, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) worked tirelessly to rebuild trust, starting with hosting the Pakistan Super League (PSL) on home soil in 2017.

According to PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi, “The ICC Champions Trophy is the culmination of our efforts. A successful tournament will cement Pakistan’s position as a strong contender for future ICC events.”


Renewed Confidence

Naqvi emphasized that security concerns are no longer a barrier. “We’ve proven our ability to provide a safe, secure, and well-managed environment for international cricket,” he stated.

Since 2019, Pakistan has hosted all major Test-playing nations, except India, with multiple visits from teams like England and New Zealand. These tours, along with the growing presence of international players in the PSL, reflect global confidence in Pakistan’s readiness.


Challenges and Preparations

Hosting a multi-team event like the Champions Trophy is a monumental task, as Naqvi acknowledged.

“Our stadiums last underwent significant renovations for the 1996 World Cup, and the global cricket landscape has evolved since then. We’ve upgraded Karachi and Lahore’s main grounds in an 11th-hour facelift to meet world-class standards.”


A Vision for the Future

Naqvi hopes the Champions Trophy will pave the way for more global tournaments in Pakistan. “This event will further enhance Pakistan’s credentials and position us as a strong contender for more ICC events in the future.”


A Milestone for Pakistan Cricket

The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 is not just a cricket tournament; it’s a testament to Pakistan’s resilience and efforts to reclaim its place on the global cricketing stage.

Rizwan Credits Divine Help for Pakistan’s Historic Win Over South Africa

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Pakistan’s white-ball captain, Mohammad Rizwan, credited the team’s historic six-wicket win over South Africa in the Tri-Nation ODI Series to divine help, stating, “Records are made with Allah’s help.”


Team Strategy and Performance

Speaking at the post-match press conference in Karachi, Rizwan highlighted the team’s resilience and strategic planning during the match.

“Babar Azam and Fakhar Zaman gave us a great start, but as wickets fell, we had to regroup and plan carefully,” he said. Rizwan explained that the team adopted a five-over plan, which proved to be effective in chasing South Africa’s challenging total.

He revealed, “I wasn’t even looking at the screen until the 18th over; we had a clear plan, and it worked perfectly.”


Praise for Babar Azam

Rizwan spoke highly of Babar Azam, acknowledging the immense expectations placed on him. “Like the nation, I always expect Babar to score big runs. There is pressure on him, but I am hopeful that he will soon deliver a big score,” Rizwan added.

He also discussed the decision to send Babar to open the innings, emphasizing, “Babar is a very composed player, and that’s why we decided he should open.”


Impact of Saim Ayub’s Absence

Rizwan lamented the absence of Saim Ayub, calling it a significant loss for the team. “Not having Saim Ayub is a big loss for us. His absence has made a noticeable difference,” he said.


Cultural Challenges and Consistency

Reflecting on Pakistan’s cricket culture, Rizwan admitted the team struggles with consistency. “In our culture, inconsistency is part of the game. We never know what will happen tomorrow. We play against Zimbabwe the same way we play against Australia,” Rizwan remarked.


Match Highlights

The match saw exceptional performances from Salman Ali Agha and Mohammad Rizwan, both scoring centuries to guide Pakistan to their highest-ever chase in ODIs. Their partnership secured a spot in the Tri-Nation ODI Series Final at the National Bank Stadium in Karachi.

Pakistan Cricketers Penalized for ICC Code of Conduct Breaches

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Three Pakistani cricket players, including Shaheen Shah Afridi, Saud Shakeel, and Kamran Ghulam, have been penalized for breaching Level 1 of the ICC Code of Conduct during their tri-nation series match against South Africa, the ICC announced.


Shaheen Afridi Penalized for Physical Contact

Pacer Shaheen Shah Afridi was fined 25% of his match fee for violating Article 2.12 of the ICC Code of Conduct, which prohibits “inappropriate physical contact” during an international match.

The incident took place in the 28th over of South Africa’s innings when Shaheen deliberately obstructed batter Matthew Breetzke as he attempted a single. The inappropriate contact led to an argument between the two players.


Saud Shakeel and Kamran Ghulam’s Breaches

Meanwhile, batter Saud Shakeel and substitute fielder Kamran Ghulam were fined 10% of their match fees for violating Article 2.5 of the Code, which prohibits actions that may provoke an aggressive reaction from a dismissed batter.

The violation occurred in the 29th over, as the duo celebrated too close to batter Temba Bavuma after his dismissal via a run-out, which was deemed inappropriate by match officials.


Demerit Points Added

In addition to the fines, all three players received one demerit point each on their disciplinary records. Notably, this is the first offence for all three players in the last 24 months.

The players admitted to their offences and accepted the sanctions proposed by David Boon, a member of the Emirates ICC Elite Panel of Match Referees, avoiding the need for formal hearings.


Match Officials and Charges

The charges were leveled by on-field umpires Asif Yaqoob and Michael Gough, third umpire Richard Illingworth, and fourth umpire Faisal Afridi.


Pakistan’s Focus Ahead

Despite the penalties, Pakistan has performed strongly in the tri-nation series and will look to maintain their focus as they prepare for the ICC Champions Trophy.