Aamir Sohail today in an interview demanded that Javed Miandad to be immediately made coach of Pakistani coach. He said that Miandad is the best person to lead the young Pakistani team as a coach since he has the best cricketing mind. He mentioned that in 2004 Pakistani team was improving in Miandad's coaching but Woolmer was made a coach which was a huge mistake. He also said that the foreign coach experience for the Pakistani team has previously failed as well since Pakistani cricketers couldn’t speak English.
Its strange to see Aamir Sohail talking so highly of Javed Miandad since during his playing days, he didn’t have such a merry relationship with him, infect he was the Pakistan Captain in Miandad's last match in Pakistan colors against India during the world cup 1996 when he demoted Miandad to no. six position while batting effectively ensuring that he doesn’t play any role in Pakistan's recovery during the match. The match was eventually lost by 39 runs because of that mistake while Miandad was the last recognized batsman out trying to salvage some pride.
Thursday, May 31, 2007
New code of conduct for players; what about officials though?
According to some news reports PCB, through its director operations Zakir Khan, has made it clear that in future no player, including the captain, is allowed to talk to media unless authorized by PCB. This news has come at a time when Pakistan is in the middle of a complete revamp of the its team. According to Zakir Khan, PCB is establishing a strict code of conduct that was included in the recent short term contracts given to the players before the start of Abu Dhabi series, under which no player is allowed to speak to media, without any exceptions, unless authorized by the PCB or team manager within three months of the completion of the series. Zakir Khan went on to say that action will be taken against the players who went against this code of conduct after Abu Dhabi series. According to some inside sources PCB is also considering a suggestion that in future no player is allowed to be contracted with a media outlet without prior permission from the PCB.
I think its about time that PCB does something about such issues since in recent months almost every player has been eagerly talking to media about various issues including the issues of coaching and captaincy. Although at certain times, the media is to blame when it comes down to asking every player about their intentions to be captain and then sometimes quoting them out of context, it is also important for the players to understand that when they speak to journalist, they will be reported in the media. Pakistani players can't be naïve enough to not understand the implications of such interviews, especially when they have been playing international cricket for an extended period of time while traveling throughout the world and interacting with people including media personnel around the world.
While PCB is right to devise a code of conduct for players, it might not be a bad idea to make a code of conduct for its own officials so that they are held accountable if they are unable to perform their functions properly. The primary function of every PCB official should be to promote and develop the game of cricket in Pakistan, which should ultimately result in developing an infrastructure that produces not only great players but also great teams. As it is now, most of the Pakistani players are a product of great individual talent and skill that without any benefit from any of the measures PCB has taken over the years. They come into the national team directly from gali and mohalla cricket with very little input from the domestic infrastructure, while earning great accolade for the nation and a lot of money for PCB. Like what happened to Inzamam, after giving their golden years to the nation, their honor is dragged in the streets upon their retirement while the officials always escape unscathed. Looking at such results and considering the remunerations paid to various PCB officials, the time has come for these officials to also sign a code of conduct that should result in disciplinary action, their possible immediate removal as well as some form of financial penalty, if they fail to achieve their goals within a specified period of time.
I think its about time that PCB does something about such issues since in recent months almost every player has been eagerly talking to media about various issues including the issues of coaching and captaincy. Although at certain times, the media is to blame when it comes down to asking every player about their intentions to be captain and then sometimes quoting them out of context, it is also important for the players to understand that when they speak to journalist, they will be reported in the media. Pakistani players can't be naïve enough to not understand the implications of such interviews, especially when they have been playing international cricket for an extended period of time while traveling throughout the world and interacting with people including media personnel around the world.
While PCB is right to devise a code of conduct for players, it might not be a bad idea to make a code of conduct for its own officials so that they are held accountable if they are unable to perform their functions properly. The primary function of every PCB official should be to promote and develop the game of cricket in Pakistan, which should ultimately result in developing an infrastructure that produces not only great players but also great teams. As it is now, most of the Pakistani players are a product of great individual talent and skill that without any benefit from any of the measures PCB has taken over the years. They come into the national team directly from gali and mohalla cricket with very little input from the domestic infrastructure, while earning great accolade for the nation and a lot of money for PCB. Like what happened to Inzamam, after giving their golden years to the nation, their honor is dragged in the streets upon their retirement while the officials always escape unscathed. Looking at such results and considering the remunerations paid to various PCB officials, the time has come for these officials to also sign a code of conduct that should result in disciplinary action, their possible immediate removal as well as some form of financial penalty, if they fail to achieve their goals within a specified period of time.
Venues wouldn’t change during Pakistan's India tour despite Pakistani concerns
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has promised to arrange special flights to cart the players around if the schedule is tight during the visit by Pakistan later this year, but maintained the venues of the matches would be decided by its own rotation system. “We have played in small centres in Pakistan without hesitation. If necessary we will arrange for special flights but we will go by our rotation system in deciding the venues for the matches,” BCCI secretary Niranjan Shah told an Indian website on Wednesday.
Shah was reacting to reports that the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) was expecting its team to play a majority of its matches at big venues. The tour is slated from early November, but sources said the PCB had already requested the BCCI not to schedule matches at venues that require a lot of travelling as was the case during the 2005 tour. The Pakistani players and officials had complained of fatigue due to extensive travelling on their last tour which the Indian Board defended as a necessary evil as it had to rotate international matches among its affiliated units.
A PCB official said more deliberations on the make up of the itinerary was likely to be held on the sidelines of the joint 2011 World Cup committee meeting next month in the summer resort of Bhurban. “When the Indians are here obviously we will have discussions with them on the proposed venues and dates for the tour and perhaps even on the number of one-dayers to be included in the memorandum of understanding for the tour,” he said.
Shah was reacting to reports that the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) was expecting its team to play a majority of its matches at big venues. The tour is slated from early November, but sources said the PCB had already requested the BCCI not to schedule matches at venues that require a lot of travelling as was the case during the 2005 tour. The Pakistani players and officials had complained of fatigue due to extensive travelling on their last tour which the Indian Board defended as a necessary evil as it had to rotate international matches among its affiliated units.
A PCB official said more deliberations on the make up of the itinerary was likely to be held on the sidelines of the joint 2011 World Cup committee meeting next month in the summer resort of Bhurban. “When the Indians are here obviously we will have discussions with them on the proposed venues and dates for the tour and perhaps even on the number of one-dayers to be included in the memorandum of understanding for the tour,” he said.
Wednesday, May 30, 2007
Akram proposes fast-bowling fund
Wasim Akram has proposed setting up a fast-bowling fund as a way of continuing to contribute to Pakistan's fast-bowling future. Akram, along with Aaqib Javed and Mudassar Nazar, is currently overseeing a PCB-organised camp for the country's most promising fast bowlers and opening batsmen at Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore.
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Read More @ cricinfo
Shahryar denies making Inzamam a dictator
Shahryar Khan, former chairman of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), has denied reports that he made Inzamam-ul-Haq a dictator while expressing disagreement over the findings by the Performance Evaluation Committee (PEC).
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Read More @ cricinfo
Steve Rixon Cautious about Pakistan Role
Although Steve Rixon, the former Australia wicketkeeper and New Zealand coach, has been sounded out as a potential coach of Pakistan but he said that the still unexplained death of Bob Woolmer has left him in doubt whether he wants the job.
Tuesday, May 29, 2007
Bollywood director to bring Woolmer death to screen
A leading Bollywood director has decided to make a film based on the mystery surrounding the death of cricket coach Bob Woolmer at this year's World Cup, an Indian newspaper reported on Monday.
Whatmore Remains top of Pakistan's wishlist but he is more inclined to India Job
Dav Whatmore remains top of Pakistan's coaching wishlist as the search to replace the late Bob Woolmer enters its final stages. A three-man board committee has shortlisted 13 names from the many who applied. The names will be discussed at the next ad-hoc committee meeting of the board in mid-June and a final decision is still likely to be made by July 1.
Thursday, May 24, 2007
Pakistan: Latest test and one day ranking
Pakistan, after winning the Abu Dhabi limited overs series against Sri Lanka on Tuesday, has attained fourth position in the International Cricket Council (ICC) ODI team ranking. Even more satisfying was the fact for them was that their name was at the third spot in the ICC Test team rankings. Pakistan having 108 points was at third place after Australia (1) and England (2).
Meanwhile in the top Test batsmen list, Pakistan’s Mohammad Yousuf is at the second spot after Ricky Ponting with 915 points. Younis Khan is present at the ninth position while Inzamam-ul-Haq is struggling at the 11th spot with 735 points.
In the bowlers’ list, Mohammad Asif is the only Pakistani bowler who succeeded in making his place in the top-ten club. Asif is at 8th spot having 710 points while other Pakistani bowlers making good progress in the rankings include Shoaib Akhtar (11), Danish Kaneria (13) and Umar Gul (17).
Meanwhile in the top Test batsmen list, Pakistan’s Mohammad Yousuf is at the second spot after Ricky Ponting with 915 points. Younis Khan is present at the ninth position while Inzamam-ul-Haq is struggling at the 11th spot with 735 points.
In the bowlers’ list, Mohammad Asif is the only Pakistani bowler who succeeded in making his place in the top-ten club. Asif is at 8th spot having 710 points while other Pakistani bowlers making good progress in the rankings include Shoaib Akhtar (11), Danish Kaneria (13) and Umar Gul (17).
Shoaib reminds me of Salim Malik, says Rashid Latif
By Mirza Iqbal Baig
KARACHI: Former Pakistan cricket captain Rashid Latif has said that seeing Shoaib Malik in action reminds him of former captain Salim Malik who was a shrewd captain and a great batsman. In an exclusive chat with Daily Times here Wednesday, Rashid, who led Pakistan in 6 Tests and 25 one-day internationals, said Shoaib played a classical innings in the third ODI against Sri Lanka in Abu Dhabi. “Shoaib batted just like Salim. And I hope he is going to get the same fame and respect that Salim achieved as a batsman and captain in international cricket.”
Rashid, who played 37 Tests and 166 ODIs in his career spanning over 11 years, said cricket lovers did not take too much interest in the Abu Dhabi series. “In my opinion only 20 percent of people watched the three ODI’s.”
He said the national team played brilliantly in the first two ODIs but the team’s below par performance in the last contest had put a question mark in the minds of cricket lovers.
The former captain was all praise for the national selection committee and said that things went according to the plan of the selectors. “Salman Butt and Yasir Hameed performed well on their return to the team. Now the selectors will have some more time to chalk out future plans for the youngsters,” he said. Rashid suggested that seeing the disappointing performance of Kamran Akmal the selectors should give chance to young wicketkeepers like Sarfaraz Ahmad and Mohammad Salman in the camp so they can be groomed for the future assignments. “We should not waste talented Kamran by playing him in every series and every tournament. He needs some rest from international cricket and in this way he can focus on himself.”
Replying to a question, Rashid said during the off-season the PCB should work on the players for improving their fielding standard. “The board should hire the services of Pakistan’s best fielders of domestic and international cricket.” He said that Wajahat Ullah Wasti, Ejaz Ahmad Junior and Mohammad Nawaz’s services can be hired as these players were the outstanding slip fielders in their playing days. And to improve ground fielding, former cricketers Shoaib Mohammad and Sajid Ali are the best choices to coach the youngsters,” he concluded.
Source: Daily Times
KARACHI: Former Pakistan cricket captain Rashid Latif has said that seeing Shoaib Malik in action reminds him of former captain Salim Malik who was a shrewd captain and a great batsman. In an exclusive chat with Daily Times here Wednesday, Rashid, who led Pakistan in 6 Tests and 25 one-day internationals, said Shoaib played a classical innings in the third ODI against Sri Lanka in Abu Dhabi. “Shoaib batted just like Salim. And I hope he is going to get the same fame and respect that Salim achieved as a batsman and captain in international cricket.”
Rashid, who played 37 Tests and 166 ODIs in his career spanning over 11 years, said cricket lovers did not take too much interest in the Abu Dhabi series. “In my opinion only 20 percent of people watched the three ODI’s.”
He said the national team played brilliantly in the first two ODIs but the team’s below par performance in the last contest had put a question mark in the minds of cricket lovers.
The former captain was all praise for the national selection committee and said that things went according to the plan of the selectors. “Salman Butt and Yasir Hameed performed well on their return to the team. Now the selectors will have some more time to chalk out future plans for the youngsters,” he said. Rashid suggested that seeing the disappointing performance of Kamran Akmal the selectors should give chance to young wicketkeepers like Sarfaraz Ahmad and Mohammad Salman in the camp so they can be groomed for the future assignments. “We should not waste talented Kamran by playing him in every series and every tournament. He needs some rest from international cricket and in this way he can focus on himself.”
Replying to a question, Rashid said during the off-season the PCB should work on the players for improving their fielding standard. “The board should hire the services of Pakistan’s best fielders of domestic and international cricket.” He said that Wajahat Ullah Wasti, Ejaz Ahmad Junior and Mohammad Nawaz’s services can be hired as these players were the outstanding slip fielders in their playing days. And to improve ground fielding, former cricketers Shoaib Mohammad and Sajid Ali are the best choices to coach the youngsters,” he concluded.
Source: Daily Times
Series win a turning point: Talat Ali
ABU DHABI, United Arab Emirates: Pakistan assistant coach and team manager Talat Ali said their 2-1 one-day series triumph over World Cup finalists Sri Lanka here will be a turning point in Pakistan cricket.
The former Test batsman, who is at the helm of team in absence of a full-time coach, said, “Winning the first two matches and series here against Sri Lanka is a turning point and for the good of Pakistan cricket.”
After the disastrous show of Pakistan in the World Cup, he believes captain Shoaib Malik and company has done hard work to achieve positive result here.
“The team had under-performed and was down. However, the boys have been working very, very hard, both during the short camp as well as here on the tour,” Talat told Gulf News.
Pakistan won the first One-day International (ODI) by five wickets, series-clinching second by 98 runs while Sri Lanka won the third match by 115 runs.
Source: Gulf News, The News
The former Test batsman, who is at the helm of team in absence of a full-time coach, said, “Winning the first two matches and series here against Sri Lanka is a turning point and for the good of Pakistan cricket.”
After the disastrous show of Pakistan in the World Cup, he believes captain Shoaib Malik and company has done hard work to achieve positive result here.
“The team had under-performed and was down. However, the boys have been working very, very hard, both during the short camp as well as here on the tour,” Talat told Gulf News.
Pakistan won the first One-day International (ODI) by five wickets, series-clinching second by 98 runs while Sri Lanka won the third match by 115 runs.
Source: Gulf News, The News
We Don't Need A Coach At All, Says Pakistan All-Rounder Shahid Afridi
Fresh from a series-clinching win against World Cup finalists Sri Lanka in Abu Dhabi, dashing Pakistan all-rounder Shahid Afridi thinks Pakistan doesn't need a coach at all as it is time to perform and not learn the basics of cricket now.
"We don’t need a coach at all," he said bluntly.
"At international level, you need to perform and win matches.There is no time to tinker with the techniques of the players."
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"We don’t need a coach at all," he said bluntly.
"At international level, you need to perform and win matches.There is no time to tinker with the techniques of the players."
Read More
Wednesday, May 23, 2007
The future looks bright
Khaleej Times reported after Pakistan's triumph in the second match of the three match Warid Cup, that Pakistan's Chief Selector Salahuddin Salu praised Shoaib Malik's captaincy citing his dynamic leadership in the series against Sri Lanka. He claimed that he and his team of selectors' took a bold step to appoint young Malik as the skipper which was the right decision.
''Malik proved that he was the right choice to lead Pakistan as he lead from the front. Hats off to him and the team for their brilliant performance. All the credit goes to them only.'' ''He himself bowled splendidly and used his players well.'' Salahuddin was also happy with the fact that the 25-year-old all-rounder has received full support from the senior players of the team.
Well, I would love to see what Mr. Salu had to say after the final match where all the old frailties were fully exposed by a ruthless but under strength Sri Lankan team. While there is no doubt that Shoaib Malik has been instrumental in Pakistan's recent successes, the recent series primarily belonged to Afridi's allround performances in the first two matches. Its important for Pakistan not to look at this one off victory as an ultimate achievement but just a step in the right direction. Its also important for them to sit down and analyze these three matches in order to pin point the shortcomings that have plagued their team for a long time. While there are some positives that could be taken from the series including the return of Salman Butt and Yasir Hameed at the top of the order that has helped restore some sanity in the batting order, the gaping holes left because of the absence of Inzy and Younis are too big to fill. Mohammad Yousaf looked a shadow of last year and Abdul Razzaq scratched around for a few runs before getting out in the second game. Shoaib Malik's captaincy also didn’t come under pressure too often in this series, and when it did in the second and third game, he appeared to come up slightly short, especially in setting up the batting order and bringing in bowling changes at the right intervals.
Shoaib definitely needs a good coach to guide him through this tough first year of his captaincy when Pakistan is scheduled to play some tough series against India, South Africa and Australia. That said, it was reassuring to see that as far as fast bowling is concerned Pakistan has been building good bench strength even in the absence of some top names. Najaf Shah has been the latest addition to this long list of prospects and he looked quite impressive in his first outing for the national side. He was also greatly praised by Waqar Younis as a very talented young prospect who with persistent hard work could one day fill Wasim Akram's shoes.
''Malik proved that he was the right choice to lead Pakistan as he lead from the front. Hats off to him and the team for their brilliant performance. All the credit goes to them only.'' ''He himself bowled splendidly and used his players well.'' Salahuddin was also happy with the fact that the 25-year-old all-rounder has received full support from the senior players of the team.
Well, I would love to see what Mr. Salu had to say after the final match where all the old frailties were fully exposed by a ruthless but under strength Sri Lankan team. While there is no doubt that Shoaib Malik has been instrumental in Pakistan's recent successes, the recent series primarily belonged to Afridi's allround performances in the first two matches. Its important for Pakistan not to look at this one off victory as an ultimate achievement but just a step in the right direction. Its also important for them to sit down and analyze these three matches in order to pin point the shortcomings that have plagued their team for a long time. While there are some positives that could be taken from the series including the return of Salman Butt and Yasir Hameed at the top of the order that has helped restore some sanity in the batting order, the gaping holes left because of the absence of Inzy and Younis are too big to fill. Mohammad Yousaf looked a shadow of last year and Abdul Razzaq scratched around for a few runs before getting out in the second game. Shoaib Malik's captaincy also didn’t come under pressure too often in this series, and when it did in the second and third game, he appeared to come up slightly short, especially in setting up the batting order and bringing in bowling changes at the right intervals.
Shoaib definitely needs a good coach to guide him through this tough first year of his captaincy when Pakistan is scheduled to play some tough series against India, South Africa and Australia. That said, it was reassuring to see that as far as fast bowling is concerned Pakistan has been building good bench strength even in the absence of some top names. Najaf Shah has been the latest addition to this long list of prospects and he looked quite impressive in his first outing for the national side. He was also greatly praised by Waqar Younis as a very talented young prospect who with persistent hard work could one day fill Wasim Akram's shoes.
Don't take on officials, rivals, says Inzy
Karachi: Concerned about Pakistani players getting frequent reprimands for their on-field conduct, former skipper Inzamam-ul Haq has advised his teammates to avoid getting into skirmishes with match officials and rival cricketers. Inzamam was quoted by press trust of India after Mohammad Asif was reprimanded by Match Refree Javagal Srinath when he rushed at Sri Lankan skipper Mahela Jayawardane after bowling him out in the second match of the just-concluded Wahid Cup series on Sunday.
Referring to the reprimand issued to pacer Mohammad Asif during the recent One-Day series against Sri Lanka in Abu Dhabi, Inzamam said players should be very cautious in their behaviour on the field.
"Nowadays the ICC is very strict about enforcing its code of conduct. And players, specially the senior ones, should avoid getting into minor skirmishes on the field as if they are suspended or banned it hurts them in future matches," Inzamam said.
"We suffered because of this in the World Cup when Shahid Afridi was unavailable for two crucial games. I myself have been banned a number of times in the past and it didn't do the team any good. The players must show patience and tolerance on the field," he added.
Inzamam himself was suspended for four matches for bringing the game into disrepute when he refused to lead his team onto the field during the Oval Test against England in August 2006.
"I myself have faced this problem and it doesn't help anyone," he said.
Inzamam also criticised the penalties for slow over-rates in which the captain bears the brunt if his team is behind the given time to complete their overs.
"I don't understand this rule. But then if you are bowling slowly it also means your openers have less time to rest and go out to bat. I used to lay a lot of stress on rushing the fielders between overs," he added.
The Pakistan team could face more penalties as they were at least four to five overs behind the given time in the third One-Dayer played on Tuesday.
Inzamam, who retired from ODIs after the World Cup and relinquished the captaincy, also lashed out at critics and former players who felt there was no need for a coach in the team.
"I don't bother about such people. They don't realise that cricket has changed in the last 10 to 15 years and now there is a lot off planning involved in everything. The captain does not have time to concentrate on these things. This is the job of the coach," he explained.
"All the teams who have done well in recent times have had good coaches. We definitely need to appoint a qualified coach who can help out Malik and the other players and introduce a method of playing the game within the team," Inzamam added.
Referring to the reprimand issued to pacer Mohammad Asif during the recent One-Day series against Sri Lanka in Abu Dhabi, Inzamam said players should be very cautious in their behaviour on the field.
"Nowadays the ICC is very strict about enforcing its code of conduct. And players, specially the senior ones, should avoid getting into minor skirmishes on the field as if they are suspended or banned it hurts them in future matches," Inzamam said.
"We suffered because of this in the World Cup when Shahid Afridi was unavailable for two crucial games. I myself have been banned a number of times in the past and it didn't do the team any good. The players must show patience and tolerance on the field," he added.
Inzamam himself was suspended for four matches for bringing the game into disrepute when he refused to lead his team onto the field during the Oval Test against England in August 2006.
"I myself have faced this problem and it doesn't help anyone," he said.
Inzamam also criticised the penalties for slow over-rates in which the captain bears the brunt if his team is behind the given time to complete their overs.
"I don't understand this rule. But then if you are bowling slowly it also means your openers have less time to rest and go out to bat. I used to lay a lot of stress on rushing the fielders between overs," he added.
The Pakistan team could face more penalties as they were at least four to five overs behind the given time in the third One-Dayer played on Tuesday.
Inzamam, who retired from ODIs after the World Cup and relinquished the captaincy, also lashed out at critics and former players who felt there was no need for a coach in the team.
"I don't bother about such people. They don't realise that cricket has changed in the last 10 to 15 years and now there is a lot off planning involved in everything. The captain does not have time to concentrate on these things. This is the job of the coach," he explained.
"All the teams who have done well in recent times have had good coaches. We definitely need to appoint a qualified coach who can help out Malik and the other players and introduce a method of playing the game within the team," Inzamam added.
Pak Journalist Sues BBC over Bob video footage
A Pakistani journalist has served a legal notice to BBC, seeking Rs 50 million in damages for showing video footages of him talking to Bob Woolmer, claiming that it created unnecessary suspicion against him.
Ehsan Qureshi, a correspondent with the Associated Press of Pakistan, has alleged the broadcast gave an impression as if he was one of the suspects.
The channel had shown still footage of two people standing with Woolmer in a show called Death at the World Cup recently.
"I have filed a Rs 50 million on BBC for defaming me. I was in a great state of mental trauma. The footage never mentioned the day and time, which was two days old. Now reports of Woolmer's natural death makes my case stronger. What was the purpose of showing that footage?" Ehsan told CNN-IBN over the phone.
Ehsan Qureshi, a correspondent with the Associated Press of Pakistan, has alleged the broadcast gave an impression as if he was one of the suspects.
The channel had shown still footage of two people standing with Woolmer in a show called Death at the World Cup recently.
"I have filed a Rs 50 million on BBC for defaming me. I was in a great state of mental trauma. The footage never mentioned the day and time, which was two days old. Now reports of Woolmer's natural death makes my case stronger. What was the purpose of showing that footage?" Ehsan told CNN-IBN over the phone.
England should be patient with Adil Rashid
By Younis Khan
After my first month of county cricket it’s nice to be able to say Yorkshire are top of the league and that I’m feeling in good form. I’m enjoying life very much.
Obviously the World Cup wasn’t a good time for me so it has been nice to have a change of scenery, start scoring runs and winning matches again. And I was married on March 30 so life is quite different now.
Read More @ bigstarcricket.com
After my first month of county cricket it’s nice to be able to say Yorkshire are top of the league and that I’m feeling in good form. I’m enjoying life very much.
Obviously the World Cup wasn’t a good time for me so it has been nice to have a change of scenery, start scoring runs and winning matches again. And I was married on March 30 so life is quite different now.
Read More @ bigstarcricket.com
I want to play against India in July
By Danish Kaneria
I may be a fair distance from my country and my Pakistan team-mates here at Essex but I was still delighted to see the boys beat Sri Lanka in Abu Dhabi.
I want to congratulate the team for doing so well in the Emirates and also congratulate the new skipper Shoaib Malik for leading the team to victory in his first series as captain. The selectors seem to have got things right with his selection.
Read More @ bigstarcricket.com
I may be a fair distance from my country and my Pakistan team-mates here at Essex but I was still delighted to see the boys beat Sri Lanka in Abu Dhabi.
I want to congratulate the team for doing so well in the Emirates and also congratulate the new skipper Shoaib Malik for leading the team to victory in his first series as captain. The selectors seem to have got things right with his selection.
Read More @ bigstarcricket.com
A better beginning than expected
A clean sweep of this series would have been an unimaginable result--and so it turned out. Sri Lanka are a formidable one-day team even without their premier bowler. This series was a trip too far but today they roused themselves to give Tom Moody a happy send off.
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Read More @ cricinfo
Tuesday, May 22, 2007
Shoaib Akhtar dropped for Afro-Asia Cup
Shoaib Akhtar will miss next month's Afro-Asia Cup one-day series in India after selectors decided he was not fit enough to play. Shoaib had earlier opted out of the Afro-Asia Cup citing family commitments but than made himself available saying he had made a satisfactory recovery from injury. The 31-year-old Shoaib, has struggled with fitness problems since appearing in the Karachi test against India in February 2006. The selectors originally named Shoaib in a 14-member squad to be captained by Mahela Jayawardena of Sri Lanka, and include Pakistan's Mohammad Yousuf and Mohammad Asif. The three match series between representative sides from the two continents is scheduled to be played in Bangalore and Chennai starting from June 6.
The Asian Cricket Council (ACC) selector from Pakistan, Mohsin Hassan Khan, said Shoaib had not made a complete recovery from the knee injury that had restricted him to just one test and four one-day international appearances in the last 14 months. The Asian side has been picked by the ACC selection committee made up of nominees from all four Asian test-playing nations; India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh.
A Pakistan Cricket Board official said that Mohsin told the PCB that Shoaib would be replaced in the Asia squad.
"After a lot of consideration we felt Shoaib still needs time to regain full match fitness. So we didn't want to take a risk with him at this stage," Mohsin told newspapers on Tuesday.
The PCB official, Dr Ehsan Malik said, "We have some very important test series coming up and we want Shoaib to be fit in time for them. That is why the consensus is he should not be risked."
Pakistan plays South Africa in Sept-Oct and then tours India before hosting Australia for three tests early next year.
The Asian Cricket Council (ACC) selector from Pakistan, Mohsin Hassan Khan, said Shoaib had not made a complete recovery from the knee injury that had restricted him to just one test and four one-day international appearances in the last 14 months. The Asian side has been picked by the ACC selection committee made up of nominees from all four Asian test-playing nations; India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh.
A Pakistan Cricket Board official said that Mohsin told the PCB that Shoaib would be replaced in the Asia squad.
"After a lot of consideration we felt Shoaib still needs time to regain full match fitness. So we didn't want to take a risk with him at this stage," Mohsin told newspapers on Tuesday.
The PCB official, Dr Ehsan Malik said, "We have some very important test series coming up and we want Shoaib to be fit in time for them. That is why the consensus is he should not be risked."
Pakistan plays South Africa in Sept-Oct and then tours India before hosting Australia for three tests early next year.
Monday, May 21, 2007
Welcome back Team Pakistan
It might be the enthusiasm of youth. It might be a flash in the pan. It might be a false dawn. But when Shoaib Malik, Shahid Afridi, and Mohammad Asif gathered to discuss how to bowl and set a field to Mahela Jayawardene it struck me that this was a sight Pakistan cricket has been missing. The team huddle is all well and good but the team think-tank is a far more valuable concept.
Read More @ cricinfo
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Friday, May 18, 2007
Younis Khan unlikely to play for Pakistan before Sep 2007
Younis Khan, said on Friday he was committed to Yorkshire until Sept 23 and was unlikely to represent his country in this period.
"I am not sure about my availability for Pakistan during this period. But after September I am always willing to play for my country," he told Reuters by telephone.
"After the World Cup I had stepped aside to get away from the mainstream of Pakistan cricket. Playing county cricket has allowed me to get back to normalcy," he said.
"I am not sure about my availability for Pakistan during this period. But after September I am always willing to play for my country," he told Reuters by telephone.
"After the World Cup I had stepped aside to get away from the mainstream of Pakistan cricket. Playing county cricket has allowed me to get back to normalcy," he said.
India & Pakistan to Play a charity One dayer in England
Prince issues cricket invitations
The Prince of Wales has invited India and Pakistan to play a one-day international cricket match this summer, Clarence House announced.
The event - the Friendship Cup - is expected to raise more than £2.5 million for charities in Bangladesh, India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka and the UK.
It is taking place at the Citylets Titwood, Beaton Road, in Glasgow on Tuesday July 3.
Read More
The Prince of Wales has invited India and Pakistan to play a one-day international cricket match this summer, Clarence House announced.
The event - the Friendship Cup - is expected to raise more than £2.5 million for charities in Bangladesh, India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka and the UK.
It is taking place at the Citylets Titwood, Beaton Road, in Glasgow on Tuesday July 3.
Read More
Inzamam slams panel findings on World Cup failure
Former Pakistan captain Inzamam-ul-Haq has hit back at accusations that his "autocratic" leadership was responsible for his team's poor performance at the World Cup in the Caribbean.
On Thursday, Inzamam was described as a poor leader and unfit to play one-day cricket by a three-member probe committee that was formed by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) to look into the causes behind the side's mediocre display.
The 37-year-old batsman, dismissed the criticism of his leadership.
"All the gentlemen on this probe committee are my elders and I respect them, but the truth is that none of them have any experience of captaincy," Inzamam told Reuters on Friday.
"Why was I not branded a dictator and autocratic when Pakistan was winning matches under my leadership?
"Unfortunately in Pakistan cricket, after every defeat these sort of accusations are made."
Inzamam, who has played 119 tests and 378 one-dayers was captain from November 2003 to the World Cup, is keen to continue playing in tests.
"That is my decision. It is up to the selectors to decide about my form and fitness. I still feel I have a lot to give to Pakistan cricket," Inzamam said.
Inzamam said he had never pushed for a player without merit and always had to convince the selectors he was right.
"We had proper debates and discussions. I never imposed myself on anyone," he added.
Inzamam also questioned why Altaf, who was working for the PCB when he was captain, had never accused him of being autocratic before.
"The irony is that I was always known as a soft spoken and easy man. I was criticised for not being a more assertive captain by former players. Now they say I was a dictator," he said.
"I am sad that after serving Pakistan cricket for so long the committee has heaped all the blame on me for the poor World Cup showing."
On Thursday, Inzamam was described as a poor leader and unfit to play one-day cricket by a three-member probe committee that was formed by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) to look into the causes behind the side's mediocre display.
The 37-year-old batsman, dismissed the criticism of his leadership.
"All the gentlemen on this probe committee are my elders and I respect them, but the truth is that none of them have any experience of captaincy," Inzamam told Reuters on Friday.
"Why was I not branded a dictator and autocratic when Pakistan was winning matches under my leadership?
"Unfortunately in Pakistan cricket, after every defeat these sort of accusations are made."
Inzamam, who has played 119 tests and 378 one-dayers was captain from November 2003 to the World Cup, is keen to continue playing in tests.
"That is my decision. It is up to the selectors to decide about my form and fitness. I still feel I have a lot to give to Pakistan cricket," Inzamam said.
Inzamam said he had never pushed for a player without merit and always had to convince the selectors he was right.
"We had proper debates and discussions. I never imposed myself on anyone," he added.
Inzamam also questioned why Altaf, who was working for the PCB when he was captain, had never accused him of being autocratic before.
"The irony is that I was always known as a soft spoken and easy man. I was criticised for not being a more assertive captain by former players. Now they say I was a dictator," he said.
"I am sad that after serving Pakistan cricket for so long the committee has heaped all the blame on me for the poor World Cup showing."
Pakistan probe critical of Inzamam's Cup leadership
A committee probing Pakistan's embarassing first round exit at the cricket World Cup has cited "poor leadership" from captain Inzamam-ul-Haq as one of the causes.
The Pakistan Cricket Board set up the committee after the team returned from the West Indies having lost to hosts West Indies and minnows Ireland in the group phase.
Pakistan coach Bob Woolmer died on March 18, a day after the loss to Ireland, and his death is still being investigated by Jamaican police.
The committee, headed by former test player Ejaz Butt, delivered scathing criticism of Inzamam's captaincy in its report.
"Inzamam became an autocratic and introvert captain after the Oval fiasco last year and his refusal to go on the field was overlooked by then PCB Chairman Shaharyar Khan," the committee said in its findings.
In the fourth test against England at the Oval last August, Inzamam refused to lead his team out following the tea interval on the fourth day after Pakistan were docked five runs by umpires who decided they had tampered with the ball.
Inzamam stepped down as captain and retired from one-day internationals after the World Cup.
The panel said Inzamam should have been removed from the captaincy after last August's Oval test ball-tampering row and that he ignored the selection committee when picking some players.
The committee added that the absence through injury of fast bowlers Shoaib Akhtar and Mohammad Asif, and all rounder Abdul Razzaq had contributed to Pakistan's poor show.
"The poor performance in the World Cup reflects an overall failure of management at all levels and the entire cricket system needs to be overhauled," the report said.
The committee also recommended that the board should abolish the seniority system for paying players and that only the captain and vice captain should receive additional benefits.
Butt also said the committee had found no evidence of match-fixing by the Pakistan team at the World Cup.
"We heard several allegations but they were nothing more than that. We found nothing to suggest the team had fixed any games,' said Butt.
The Pakistan Cricket Board set up the committee after the team returned from the West Indies having lost to hosts West Indies and minnows Ireland in the group phase.
Pakistan coach Bob Woolmer died on March 18, a day after the loss to Ireland, and his death is still being investigated by Jamaican police.
The committee, headed by former test player Ejaz Butt, delivered scathing criticism of Inzamam's captaincy in its report.
"Inzamam became an autocratic and introvert captain after the Oval fiasco last year and his refusal to go on the field was overlooked by then PCB Chairman Shaharyar Khan," the committee said in its findings.
In the fourth test against England at the Oval last August, Inzamam refused to lead his team out following the tea interval on the fourth day after Pakistan were docked five runs by umpires who decided they had tampered with the ball.
Inzamam stepped down as captain and retired from one-day internationals after the World Cup.
The panel said Inzamam should have been removed from the captaincy after last August's Oval test ball-tampering row and that he ignored the selection committee when picking some players.
The committee added that the absence through injury of fast bowlers Shoaib Akhtar and Mohammad Asif, and all rounder Abdul Razzaq had contributed to Pakistan's poor show.
"The poor performance in the World Cup reflects an overall failure of management at all levels and the entire cricket system needs to be overhauled," the report said.
The committee also recommended that the board should abolish the seniority system for paying players and that only the captain and vice captain should receive additional benefits.
Butt also said the committee had found no evidence of match-fixing by the Pakistan team at the World Cup.
"We heard several allegations but they were nothing more than that. We found nothing to suggest the team had fixed any games,' said Butt.
Wednesday, May 16, 2007
2008 Asia Cup to be held in Pakistan
Next Asia Cup is scheduled to be held in Pakistan from April 17 to May 3 next year after a gap of two years as announced by Asian Cricket Council. The tournament was scheduled to be held in 2006 but was postponed due to an already-packed international schedule for the four Test playing nations.
the time to squeeze in the tourney," said Ashraful Huq, chief executive of the ACC.
the time to squeeze in the tourney," said Ashraful Huq, chief executive of the ACC.
'I am not nervous at all' - Malik
Shoaib Malik, Pakistan captain, denied he would be nervous as he tries to rebuild his beleaguered side after a disastrous World Cup.
Malik spoke ahead of Pakistan's departure on Wednesday night for Abu Dhabi for a three-match one-day international series against Sri Lanka.
Read More @ Cricinfo
Malik spoke ahead of Pakistan's departure on Wednesday night for Abu Dhabi for a three-match one-day international series against Sri Lanka.
Read More @ Cricinfo
Thursday, May 10, 2007
Pakistan discuss coaching post with Whatmore
Pakistan are talking to Bangladesh coach Dav Whatmore about their national coaching post left vacant following Bob Woolmer's death at the World Cup.
"We are in talks with Whatmore as we are interested in hiring him," Zakir Khan, the Pakistan Cricket Board's Director of Cricket Operations, told Reuters on Thursday.
Australian Whatmore led Sri Lanka to the 1996 World Cup and guided Bangladesh to the Super Eights of the 2007 tournament in which they beat India and South Africa. Whatmore's contract with Bangladesh ends after the home one-day and test series against India which started this week.
Board sources said the 53-year-old Whatmore had not yet formally applied for the post, but Zakir said that would not be a problem if the talks proved successful.
"The thing is we have to see if he is ready to accept any final offer we make to him," Zakir added.
Whatmore, who led Sri Lanka to series wins over Pakistan in 1995 and 2000, has previously said he was keen to work with the Indian team.
Zakir said a number of foreign coaches had sent applications for the Pakistan coaching position but would not reveal their names.
"We have got applications from England, West Indies and Australia," he said.
"We are in talks with Whatmore as we are interested in hiring him," Zakir Khan, the Pakistan Cricket Board's Director of Cricket Operations, told Reuters on Thursday.
Australian Whatmore led Sri Lanka to the 1996 World Cup and guided Bangladesh to the Super Eights of the 2007 tournament in which they beat India and South Africa. Whatmore's contract with Bangladesh ends after the home one-day and test series against India which started this week.
Board sources said the 53-year-old Whatmore had not yet formally applied for the post, but Zakir said that would not be a problem if the talks proved successful.
"The thing is we have to see if he is ready to accept any final offer we make to him," Zakir added.
Whatmore, who led Sri Lanka to series wins over Pakistan in 1995 and 2000, has previously said he was keen to work with the Indian team.
Zakir said a number of foreign coaches had sent applications for the Pakistan coaching position but would not reveal their names.
"We have got applications from England, West Indies and Australia," he said.
Tuesday, May 8, 2007
Imran Farhat Saga
In a stinging revelation, new chief selector Salahuddin Salu has revealed that Imran Farhat is back to his old habits of threatening the selectors through his father in law ex test cricketer M. Ilyas, after selection committee left him out for the 3 match Abu Dhabi series. This is not exactly something new because prior to today the same two people have also been involved in similar incidents with the previous selection committee. Its interesting to note that it is coming from a butter fingers player who has been a cause of many losses for the country so far while his all too well know father in law himself doesn’t have a great record to boost either.
I think its about time that PCB impose strict restrictions on such players ensuring that these incidents don’t happen again. At the same time an affective way should be devised to address the grievances of the players who genuinely feel aggrieved at being left out of the team.
I think its about time that PCB impose strict restrictions on such players ensuring that these incidents don’t happen again. At the same time an affective way should be devised to address the grievances of the players who genuinely feel aggrieved at being left out of the team.
Monday, May 7, 2007
Team announced for Abu Dhabi series with just two new faces
As widely touted in the media for last few days, Mohammad Asif has been named vice-captain of a Pakistan squad which includes just two new faces primarily as a result of Inzamam's retirement and Younis's unavailability. Fawad Alam, the young Karachi allrounder, who had such an outstanding domestic season, has been selected along with Najaf Shah, the young left-arm fast medium bowler from Rawalpindi, who has also been selected on the back of an impressive domestic season as well as good performance in the warm up matches.
This is the first team announced by the new paid selection committee, which has been constituted after the World Cup debacle and the subsequent resignation of the old selection committee. Salman Butt and Yasir Hameed made a return to the team along with the injured Asif and Razaq. Talat Ali, who has been named as manager for next two years, will also be the acting coach for the series while PCB continue their search for the new coach.
The most interesting selection has been for the post of vice captain which has gone to Asif, who doesn’t even have much captaincy experience even at the domestic level. It is a very interesting decision in a sense that although Asif has the ability to bowl with a good line and length regardless of the surface or the conditions but he doesn’t have any other credentials to prove himself as a future leader. This looks like a very ambitious decision by PCB which could backfire if Asif's bowling suffers because of added pressure due to the additional responsibility.
Team
Shoaib Malik (capt), Salman Butt, Imran Nazir, Mohammad Hafeez, Yasir Hameed, Mohammad Yousuf, Shahid Afridi, Fawad Alam, Kamran Akmal (wk), Abdul Razzaq, Mohammad Asif, Mohammad Sami, Umar Gul, Rao Iftikhar, Najaf Shah.
This is the first team announced by the new paid selection committee, which has been constituted after the World Cup debacle and the subsequent resignation of the old selection committee. Salman Butt and Yasir Hameed made a return to the team along with the injured Asif and Razaq. Talat Ali, who has been named as manager for next two years, will also be the acting coach for the series while PCB continue their search for the new coach.
The most interesting selection has been for the post of vice captain which has gone to Asif, who doesn’t even have much captaincy experience even at the domestic level. It is a very interesting decision in a sense that although Asif has the ability to bowl with a good line and length regardless of the surface or the conditions but he doesn’t have any other credentials to prove himself as a future leader. This looks like a very ambitious decision by PCB which could backfire if Asif's bowling suffers because of added pressure due to the additional responsibility.
Team
Shoaib Malik (capt), Salman Butt, Imran Nazir, Mohammad Hafeez, Yasir Hameed, Mohammad Yousuf, Shahid Afridi, Fawad Alam, Kamran Akmal (wk), Abdul Razzaq, Mohammad Asif, Mohammad Sami, Umar Gul, Rao Iftikhar, Najaf Shah.
Friday, May 4, 2007
What Prompted Younis to decline Captaincy
Although Younis Khan clearly stated the reasons for him not taking up Pakistani Captaincy after the World Cup debacle and Inzamam's eventual retirement from one day cricket, citing "I am still hurt and upset at the sort of hostile reception we have got since returning from the World Cup. I have always given 100 percent for my country. But when your family gets threatening calls and our effigies are burnt and our pictures put on donkeys, then I can't lead the team in such circumstances", a lot of rumors have still been circulating at what really transpired behind closed doors which led to Younis's refusal and eventual mentioning of the fact that he might consider retiring from one day cricket all together. These rumors are especially fuelled by the fact that this is not the first time Younis has hastily refused captaincy under similarly mysterious circumstances but citing different reasons.
The latest rumors are that Younis's current decision actually stems from his earlier refusal before the start of Champions Trophy last year. Some unnamed PCB officials have been privately saying that Younis have been really unhappy with a group of players within current Pakistani team who have not even been at speaking terms with him since before last years champions trophy primarily because the way he handled the team in the absence of Inzamam during his tenure as Pakistan's vice captain. This is the reason why Younis initially asked for full powers from PCB before his last appointment as Captain for ICC Champions Trophy citing that he didn’t want to become a dummy captain. Same officials also confirmed that PCB wanted Younis to take over captaincy this time and ensured him full support but he refused. They further disclosed that PCB even tried using Imran Khan to convince Younis but Imran refused to speak to him saying "he was upset with the way Younis had surrendered". Imran openly criticized Younis's decision in the media mentioning that “It is useless trying to convince Younis to lead the team if he does not want to do it. But what he did was wrong." Amid all the speculations PCB finally appointed Shoaib Malik as the new captain effectively putting an end to their efforts of convincing Younis to reconsider.
There is no doubt that Younis has been one of the most hard working cricketers in the current Pakistan side who never gets satisfied with his performance and always strives to improve. Initially a batsman of limited ability his sheer determination and commitment to the cause has seen him through some tough phases of his career. Whenever he has been dropped, he has always come back stronger. In fact Younis didn’t become a regular player in the Pakistan team until his return to the side during the home series against Sri Lanka in October 2004. He was the top run getter during the disastrous series in Australia and the defining movement of his career came on the tour of India when he was appointed vice captain of the side and he repaid the faith by scoring a century in the second test and a match winning double century in the final test. Since then he has become one of the most consistent batsmen for Pakistan scoring centuries in different conditions and different surfaces. In between this short span of time Younis had to deal with not one but at least three huge family tragedies including the deaths of his father and his two brothers one elder and one younger than him. Looking at how he was dealing with these difficult times all the while scoring hugely for Pakistan tells you a thing or two about his mental toughness. This makes his current decision of declining to Captain the Pakistani side look all more perplexing and mind-boggling.
There is no doubt that Younis's current decision doesn’t stem from Pakistan sudden defeat in the World Cup but it is more because of the loss of Bob Woolmer. Looking at Bob Woolmer's coaching stints with South Africa and Pakistan, it becomes obvious that Woolmer played a huge role in helping lesser players become major contributors and critical component of their sides. Players like Hansie Cronje, Lance Klusener, Shoaib Malik, Shahid Afridi and up to a certain extent Younis Khan have Woolmer's foot prints all over their careers. In fact Woolmer had tremendous respect for Younis Khan, who he used to call "Little Hansie" for his energy and impact on the team. Woolmer had no doubts about the abilities of Younis Khan and that was the reason why he felt at a loss of words to explain his disappointment when Younis initially declined to Captain Pakistan during the ICC champions trophy late last year. Considering Pakistan's dreadful performance since then and Dr. Nasim Ashraf's revelation after Woolmer's death that Woolmer didn’t want to continue with Pakistan after his current contract expired, it becomes increasingly clear that something was not quite right with the Pakistani Cricket. Was it the administrators or some members of the playing squad, its all open to speculations but it is certainly something very serious that Younis didn’t want to indulge with, hence his decision to stay away from the top job.
This is not the first time that some one in the Pakistani team has taken such a bold step. People like Rashid Latif and Basit Ali effectively ruined their careers by letting emotions getting the better of them. This is increasingly looking like the same case. All throughout his playing career Younis has been close to Rashid Latif, who he also regards as one of his best friends. This tells us how he might have caught the Rashid Latif bug of letting emotions take over the mind.
It is a time tested formula that you are not going to become great until you earn greatness through your deeds. Sadly for Pakistani cricket and all those cricket lovers out there, Younis had the opportunity to earn this greatness by taking over the challenge instead he decided to run away from it. He effectively let his mind be taken over by his heart. At a critical juncture for his country Younis has decided not to show up. He could have overcome the adversity, like he always did during his career, by using his skills and sheer determination, Instead, he has backed out without a nerve to fight, a trait everyone expected of him. There is not a shade of doubt in my mind that if he showed the same determination and toughness he has shown all throughout his career, things would have eventually fallen in place and he could have become a great captain along with being a great player.
The latest rumors are that Younis's current decision actually stems from his earlier refusal before the start of Champions Trophy last year. Some unnamed PCB officials have been privately saying that Younis have been really unhappy with a group of players within current Pakistani team who have not even been at speaking terms with him since before last years champions trophy primarily because the way he handled the team in the absence of Inzamam during his tenure as Pakistan's vice captain. This is the reason why Younis initially asked for full powers from PCB before his last appointment as Captain for ICC Champions Trophy citing that he didn’t want to become a dummy captain. Same officials also confirmed that PCB wanted Younis to take over captaincy this time and ensured him full support but he refused. They further disclosed that PCB even tried using Imran Khan to convince Younis but Imran refused to speak to him saying "he was upset with the way Younis had surrendered". Imran openly criticized Younis's decision in the media mentioning that “It is useless trying to convince Younis to lead the team if he does not want to do it. But what he did was wrong." Amid all the speculations PCB finally appointed Shoaib Malik as the new captain effectively putting an end to their efforts of convincing Younis to reconsider.
There is no doubt that Younis has been one of the most hard working cricketers in the current Pakistan side who never gets satisfied with his performance and always strives to improve. Initially a batsman of limited ability his sheer determination and commitment to the cause has seen him through some tough phases of his career. Whenever he has been dropped, he has always come back stronger. In fact Younis didn’t become a regular player in the Pakistan team until his return to the side during the home series against Sri Lanka in October 2004. He was the top run getter during the disastrous series in Australia and the defining movement of his career came on the tour of India when he was appointed vice captain of the side and he repaid the faith by scoring a century in the second test and a match winning double century in the final test. Since then he has become one of the most consistent batsmen for Pakistan scoring centuries in different conditions and different surfaces. In between this short span of time Younis had to deal with not one but at least three huge family tragedies including the deaths of his father and his two brothers one elder and one younger than him. Looking at how he was dealing with these difficult times all the while scoring hugely for Pakistan tells you a thing or two about his mental toughness. This makes his current decision of declining to Captain the Pakistani side look all more perplexing and mind-boggling.
There is no doubt that Younis's current decision doesn’t stem from Pakistan sudden defeat in the World Cup but it is more because of the loss of Bob Woolmer. Looking at Bob Woolmer's coaching stints with South Africa and Pakistan, it becomes obvious that Woolmer played a huge role in helping lesser players become major contributors and critical component of their sides. Players like Hansie Cronje, Lance Klusener, Shoaib Malik, Shahid Afridi and up to a certain extent Younis Khan have Woolmer's foot prints all over their careers. In fact Woolmer had tremendous respect for Younis Khan, who he used to call "Little Hansie" for his energy and impact on the team. Woolmer had no doubts about the abilities of Younis Khan and that was the reason why he felt at a loss of words to explain his disappointment when Younis initially declined to Captain Pakistan during the ICC champions trophy late last year. Considering Pakistan's dreadful performance since then and Dr. Nasim Ashraf's revelation after Woolmer's death that Woolmer didn’t want to continue with Pakistan after his current contract expired, it becomes increasingly clear that something was not quite right with the Pakistani Cricket. Was it the administrators or some members of the playing squad, its all open to speculations but it is certainly something very serious that Younis didn’t want to indulge with, hence his decision to stay away from the top job.
This is not the first time that some one in the Pakistani team has taken such a bold step. People like Rashid Latif and Basit Ali effectively ruined their careers by letting emotions getting the better of them. This is increasingly looking like the same case. All throughout his playing career Younis has been close to Rashid Latif, who he also regards as one of his best friends. This tells us how he might have caught the Rashid Latif bug of letting emotions take over the mind.
It is a time tested formula that you are not going to become great until you earn greatness through your deeds. Sadly for Pakistani cricket and all those cricket lovers out there, Younis had the opportunity to earn this greatness by taking over the challenge instead he decided to run away from it. He effectively let his mind be taken over by his heart. At a critical juncture for his country Younis has decided not to show up. He could have overcome the adversity, like he always did during his career, by using his skills and sheer determination, Instead, he has backed out without a nerve to fight, a trait everyone expected of him. There is not a shade of doubt in my mind that if he showed the same determination and toughness he has shown all throughout his career, things would have eventually fallen in place and he could have become a great captain along with being a great player.
Fawad’s selection chances get a boost as Faisal, Kamal ruled out
By Khalid Hussain
KARACHI: Prominent middle-order batsmen Faisal Iqbal and Asim Kamal are almost out of the race to replace former captain Inzamam-ul-Haq in Pakistan’s One-day International (ODI) squad for a three-match series against Sri Lanka in Abu Dhabi because of illness.
Faisal, 25, is suffering from an eye ulcer that has forced him to miss training sessions at a preparatory camp that concluded in Lahore on Thursday. Asim Kamal was also forced to remain away from the action because of malaria.
Read More @ The News
KARACHI: Prominent middle-order batsmen Faisal Iqbal and Asim Kamal are almost out of the race to replace former captain Inzamam-ul-Haq in Pakistan’s One-day International (ODI) squad for a three-match series against Sri Lanka in Abu Dhabi because of illness.
Faisal, 25, is suffering from an eye ulcer that has forced him to miss training sessions at a preparatory camp that concluded in Lahore on Thursday. Asim Kamal was also forced to remain away from the action because of malaria.
Read More @ The News
All you need is pace : Shoaib Akhtar
Osman Samiuddin
Whatever else is true of Shoaib Akhtar, this much cannot be denied that he has a way. It is the global way of celebrities; the look at you which isn't really at you, sunglasses indoors, looking tired and refreshed, the slow, deliberate, tilted walk; the conversation littered with arbitrary pauses, sentences that often droop away. Animals are devouring one another on the box before he switches to the 37th President of the US. "Nixon," he breathes, randomly.
Read More @ Cricinfo
Whatever else is true of Shoaib Akhtar, this much cannot be denied that he has a way. It is the global way of celebrities; the look at you which isn't really at you, sunglasses indoors, looking tired and refreshed, the slow, deliberate, tilted walk; the conversation littered with arbitrary pauses, sentences that often droop away. Animals are devouring one another on the box before he switches to the 37th President of the US. "Nixon," he breathes, randomly.
Read More @ Cricinfo
Thursday, May 3, 2007
What are you trying to prove Mr Younis Khan?
by Muhammad Shahbaz Zahid
Team Pakistan needs a soothsayer. Although Pakistan cricket team's future, one can work out, seems to be a predictable one but what we need is a person who can let us know what sort of circumstances our national cricket team is to face in the coming months so that we can prepare ourselves to see the team facing yet another crisis situation.
Read More @ Geo Super
Team Pakistan needs a soothsayer. Although Pakistan cricket team's future, one can work out, seems to be a predictable one but what we need is a person who can let us know what sort of circumstances our national cricket team is to face in the coming months so that we can prepare ourselves to see the team facing yet another crisis situation.
Read More @ Geo Super
'There was too much pressure' - Kaneria
Danish Kaneria says there "was too much pressure" on him and his Pakistan team-mates in the aftermath of the World Cup. Pakistan's early exit at the hands of Ireland prompted an investigation in which Inzamam-ul-Haq was called to explain the players' performance.
Read More @ Cricinfo
Read More @ Cricinfo
Aaqib Javed offered Bangladesh post
Aaqib Javed, former Pakistan fast-bowler and chief coach of the National Cricket Academy (NCA), has been offered the bowling coach's position for the Bangladesh national team. The offer was made during Pakistan Academy's tour of Bangladesh on which, Aaqib served as the coach.
Read More at cricinfo
Read More at cricinfo
Tuesday, May 1, 2007
Shoaib toughens up for international cricket
Shoaib toughens up for international cricket
Osman Samiuddin
May 1, 2007
Shoaib Akhtar will use Pakistan's relatively light international schedule over the coming months to "invest time in himself" and come back fitter and tougher than before.
Shoaib, who has played only a handful of ODIs and a solitary day of Test cricket in the last year, missed Pakistan's brief World Cup campaign and will not be travelling for the forthcoming ODI series against Sri Lanka in Abu Dhabi either. But he will, he says, make full use of the gap.
Read More at Cricinfo
Osman Samiuddin
May 1, 2007
Shoaib Akhtar will use Pakistan's relatively light international schedule over the coming months to "invest time in himself" and come back fitter and tougher than before.
Shoaib, who has played only a handful of ODIs and a solitary day of Test cricket in the last year, missed Pakistan's brief World Cup campaign and will not be travelling for the forthcoming ODI series against Sri Lanka in Abu Dhabi either. But he will, he says, make full use of the gap.
Read More at Cricinfo
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