The final date for naming the provisional squads for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 is January 12, and teams are racing against time to finalize their line-ups. The tournament, starting February 19, will be hosted in a hybrid model, with Pakistan as the primary host and India’s matches played in the UAE due to political tensions between the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). This ?unique arrangement has added intrigue to what promises to be a competitive tournament.

Pakistan’s preparation for the Champions Trophy

The ninth edition of the ICC Champions Trophy is of paramount importance for Pakistan. They will enter the tournament as the defending champions, having clinched the title in 2017 in England, defeating India in the final. With their new white-ball captain, Mohammad Rizwan, leading the side, Pakistan has displayed impressive form, recently whitewashing both Australia and South Africa in ODI series. However, injury concerns ?to some key players could impact their campaign on home soil. Pakista?n will look to capitalize on the flat batting tracks at home, but their success depends on fielding a fit and balanced squad.

Here’s predicted Pakistan’s squad for the Champions Trophy 2025

1. Saim Ayub (Top Order Batter)

One of the standout players for Pakistan in recent months, Saim Ayub, faces an uncertain road to the Champions Trophy. The young left-hander, who has taken the cricketing world by storm with his phenomenal form in ODIs, suffered a f??ractu??red ankle during the second Test against South Africa. This injury has ruled him out for a minimum of six weeks, casting doubt over his participation.

Ayub’s ODI Performances

• Matches Played: 9
• Centuries: 3
• Fifties: 1
• Recent Contributions: Saim was instrumental in Pakistan’s series win against South Africa, scoring 235 runs in his last three ODIs.

If Saim remains unfit, Pakistan might lose a key player who has proven his mettle on flat batting tracks. Even if he regains fitness just before the tournament, a lack of match practice could limit his effectiveness. In his absence, Imam-ul-Haq or Fakhar Zaman expected to step in as an opener alongside Abdullah Shafique.
2. Abdullah Shafique (Top-Order Batter)

Shafique is known for his composed batting technique and ability to anchor the innings. With solid perf?ormances in Test and ODI cricket, he is a reliable option at the top of the order. His adaptability to different conditio?ns will be vital on flat and spin-friendly tracks. Shafique’s role will be crucial in providing Pakistan with steady starts in the Champions Trophy.

3. Mohammad Rizwan (Captain and Wicketkeeper)

Mohammad Rizwan’s consistency and leadership make him a key figure for Pakistan. As the new white-ball captain, Rizwan has excelled in guiding the team and maintaining his form with the bat. His wicketkeeping skills ad??d an edge, making him a complete package. Rizwan’s ability to stabilize the innings under pressure will be invaluable in high-stake??s matches.

4. Babar Azam (Top-Order Batter)

Babar Azam, one of the world’s best batters, will carry the weight of Pakistan’s batting hopes. His exquisite stroke ?play and consistency make him the backbone of the batting lineup. Babar thrives in ODI cricket, and his performances in ICC events have always been noteworthy. His experience and calm demeanor will ??be crucial in navigating tough situations.

5. Irfan Khan (Top-Order Batter)

Irfan Khan, a promising talent, adds depth to Pakistan’s top order. With a strong domestic record, he has shown the ability to play long innings and handle pressure. His elegant batting style and knack for building partnerships make him a valuable asset. Irfan’s inclusion offers Pakistan flexibility in shaping their batting st??rategy.

Also READ: Pakistan’s Fakhar Zaman predicts his four semifinalist???s of Champions Trophy 2025

6. Tayyab Tahir (Middle-Order Batter)

Tayyab Tahir is an aggressive?? middle-order batter with a reputation for finishing games. Known for his ability to counterattack, he can shift the momentum in Pakistan’s favor during the middle overs. His adaptability to different situations and spin-hitting prowess are key strengths. Tahir’s role will be vital in accelerating the run rate when required.

7. Usman Khan (Middle-Order Batter)

Usman Khan brings explosiveness to Pakistan’s mid?dle order with his attacking batting style. His ability to clear boundaries and handle high-pressure situations is a significant asset. Usman’s recent ??performances in limited-overs cricket have solidified his position in the squad. He is expected to play the role of a game-changer in crunch moments.

8. Salman Agha (All-Rounder)

Salman Agha offers a balanced combination of solid ?batting and off-spin bowling. His versatility allows Pakistan to maintain flexibility in team composition. Salman’s ability to play crucial innings in the lower-middle order and bowl economical overs makes him a key asset. His per??formance in the Champions Trophy could provide the team with vital breakthroughs.

9. Kamran Ghulam (Middle-Order Batter)

Kamran Ghulam is a dependable batter who brings stability to the lower middle order. His ability to rotate the strike and accelerate when needed adds depth to the? lineup. Kamran’s consistent domestic performances make him a player to watch. He could play a pivotal role in building partnerships and finishing games.

10. Mohammad Hasnain (Fast Bowler)

Mohammad Hasnain’s raw pace and ability to extract bounce make him a threat on any surface. His knack for taking early wickets will be crucial in Pakistan’s bowling attack. Hasnain’s recent improvements in control and variations add to his effectiveness. He will play a key role in unsettling opposition batte?rs with his fie?ry spells.

11. Sufiyan Muqeem (Left-Arm Wrist Spinner)

Sufiyan Muqeem is a young and talented left-arm wrist spinner who has impressed with his accuracy. His ability to contain? runs and pick up wickets in the middle overs will be vital on spin-friendl?y tracks. Muqeem’s variation and control make him a valuable addition to the squad. His performance in the Champions Trophy could establish him as a rising star.

12. Haris Rauf (Fast Bowler)

Haris Rauf is Pakistan’s go-to bowler for pace and aggression. His ability to bowl at high speeds and deliver accurate yorkers makes him lethal at the death. Rauf’s knack for picking up crucial wickets under pressure has been a h??allmark of his career. His role in leading the pace attack alongside Shaheen Afridi will be pivotal.

13. Usama Mir (Leg-Spinner)

Usama Mir is an attacking leg-spinner who brings a wicket-taking option to the middle overs. His ability to deceive batters with flight and sharp turn mak??es him a key player. Usama’s recent performances have showcased his match-winning potential in white-ball cricket. He will play a crucial role in breaking partnerships during the Champions Trophy.

14. Naseem Shah (Fast Bowler)

Naseem Shah’s lethal pace and swing make him a formidable bowler with the new ball. His a?bility to bowl consistent lines and lengths adds control to Pakistan’s attack. Naseem has emerged as a dependable bowler in ICC events and pressure situations. His partnership with Shaheen Afridi will be crucial in dismantling opposition top orders.

15. Shaheen Afridi (Fast Bowler)

Shaheen Afridi, Pakistan’s spearhead, is known for his ability to strike early with the new ball. His deadly inswingers and pinpoint yorkers make him a match-winner in ODIs. Shaheen’s performances in ICC tour?naments have consistently been top-notch. As a senior bowler, his role will be instrumental in leading the pace attack.

Also READ: Champions Trophy 2025: Pakistan le?gend appointed as mentor for the Afg??hanistan team

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The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has unveiled their 2024-25 central contracts, recognizing both seasoned players and emerging talent within a 25-player pool. Following their successful Test series against England, the PCB’s new contracts highlight some notable adjustments, with the primary focus on rewarding consistent performance, fitness, and positive behavior. Among the changes, five young cricketers have received their first central contracts, underscoring PCB’s dedication to developing future stars.

Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan retain top spots

Former captain Babar Azam and wicketkeeper-batter Mohammad Rizwan continue to hold Category A contracts, representing the core of Pakistan’s batting lineup. Both have been consistent in their performances and will play a pivotal role, particularly in white-ball formats. Rizwan will now lead the Pakistan’s T20I and ODI teams after being named as skipper in the limited-over formats, while Babar’s retention reflects his importance as an experienced batter and tactical asset.

Key promotions, demotions, and omissions: Fakhar Zaman and Iman-ul-Haq

The new contract list features both promotions and demotions. Shaheen Afridi has moved down to Category B, joined by Naseem Shah and Shan Masood (who moved up from Category D), indicating a reward for Shan’s recent consistent displays. Haris Rauf was shifted from Category B to Category C, while long-time players like Fakhar Zaman and Imam-ul-Haq faced omissions due to fitness concerns, marking a significant step by PCB towards prioritizing physical standards. Notably, Fakhar’s exclusion came after failing two fitness tests, with ongoing knee rehabilitation limiting his participation??.

Also READ: Gary Kirst?en steps down as Pakistan’s white-ball coac??h

Emerging players awarded central contracts for the first time

For the first time, five emerging players have been awarded Category D contracts. These players – Khurram Shahzad, Mohammad Abbas Afridi, Mohammad Ali, Muhammad Irfan Khan, and Usman Khan – have displayed consistent potential at the domestic level. PCB’s inclusion of young talents aligns with their strategy to foster and incentivize emerging players, ensuring a pipeline for Pakistan’s future squads.

PCB’s emphasis on fitness and discipline

The PCB’s central contract decisions this year reveal a clear emphasis on fitness standards and behavioral expectations. Several players, including Hasan Ali, Iftikhar Ahmed, and Sarfaraz Ahmed, were omitted from the list following evaluations of their performance, fitness, and discipline. PCB sources emphasized that Fakhar’s omission was based on fitness standards rather than any recent disciplinary matters. Additionally, the board delayed the contracts by nearly three months to ensure all players were assessed thoroughly, with fitness proving decisive for selection.

Pakistan Men’s Cricket: Central Contract Categories 2024-25

• Category A (2): Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan
• Category B (3): Naseem Shah, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Shan Masood
• Category C (9): Abdullah Shafique, Abrar Ahmed, Haris Rauf, Noman Ali, Saim Ayub, Sajid Khan, Salman Ali Agha, Saud Shakeel, Shadab Khan
• Category D (11): Aamir Jamal, Haseebullah, Kamran Ghulam, Khurram Shahzad, Mir Hamza, Mohammad Abbas Afridi, Mohammad Ali, Mohammad Hurraira, Muhammad Irfan Khan, Usman Khan, Mohammad Wasim Jr.

Also READ: Nathan Ellis, Spencer Johnson return as Australia unveil T20I squad ??for the home series against Pakistan

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In a gripping encounter during Eliminator 1 of the Champions One-Day Cup 2024, Ubaid Shah of the Stallions produced a moment of brilliance with a spectacular caught-and-bowled effort to dismiss the experienced Imam-ul-Haq. The game played between the Lions and the Stallions, saw high drama unfold as the Lions claimed a narrow 12-run vict??ory to advance to the next s?tage of the tournament.

Ubaid Shah’s magic moment

In the 10th over of the first innings, w??ith the Lions at 43/3, Ubaid delivered what would be one of the defining moments of the match. Bowling a good-length delivery aimed at the middle stump, Ubaid generated extra bounce that caught Imam off guard. Imam, attempting a defensive stroke, could only manage to spoon the ball into the air. Ubaid, quick to react, dived forward in his follow-through to complete a stunning low catch, sending Imam back to the pavilion. It was a moment of sheer athleticism that had the crowd on their feet and marked Ubaid’s third wicket of the innings.

Here is the video:

BIG BLOW for the Nurpur Lions! Captain Imam ul Haq walks back.#BahriaTownChampionsCup | #DiscoveringChampions | #AlliedBankStallionsvNurpurLions pic.twitter.com/K3PwgGGKsA

— Bahria Town Champions Cup (@championscuppcb) September 25, 2024

Though Ubaid’s performance was outstanding, he took 3 wickets in total, his heroics were not? enough to secure victory for the St??allions, as the Lions eventually outplayed them.

Also WATCH: Naseem Shah’s spec??tacular six off Saim Ayub steals the show in Champions One??-Day Cup 2024

Stallions fall short despite fighting effort

Batting first, the Lions posted a solid total of 263/9 in their allotted 50 overs. Their innings was anchored by Ahmed Daniyal, who played a crucial knock of 65 runs off 59 balls. His innings included two boundari??es and five towering sixes, providing the much-needed impetus for the Lions to reach a competitive score.

The Stallions’ bowlers kept chipping away at the Lions�?batting order, but none could stop the consistent flow of runs from Daniyal and his teammates. Ubaid ’s impressive spell was a highlight, but the Stallions’ efforts fell just short of restricting the Lions to a chaseable target.

Chasing 264 for victory, the Stallions found themselves in trouble as none of their batters managed to cross the 50-run mark. Opener Yasir Khan top-scored with 39 off 42 balls, but his dismissal, along with a string of wickets at regular intervals, left the Stallions struggli??ng to keep up with the required run rate.

The Lions’ bowling attack, led by Khushdil Shah, kept the pressure on the Stallions throughout their innings. Khushdil was the pick of the bowlers, claiming 3 wickets in his 10-over spell, stifling any momentum the Stallions tried to build. As the final overs approached, the Stallions were bowled out for 251, f??alling just 12 runs short of their target.

Lions’ victory secures spot in Eliminator 2

The Lions�?12??-run victory means they now advance to Eliminator 2, where they will face the Markhors in a bid to reach the final. The winner of that match will go on to play the Panthers in the tournament’s grand finale.

Daniyal, whose innings laid the foundation for the Lions�?competitive total, was rightfully named the Man of the Match for his match-winning performance. His crucial runs and leadership with the bat were instrumental in guiding the Lions to victory in this high-sta??kes encounter.

The Lions will now face the Markhors in a must-win Eliminator 2 clash, where both teams will be fighting for a spot in the final. The stage is set for an exciting finish to the tournament, with the Panthers waiting in the final for whoever emerges? victorious.

With the stakes rising and momentum on their side, the Lions will be hoping to? carry this winning form into t??he next round as they aim for the title.

Also WATCH: Babar Azam showcases his bowling skills in Champi?ons One-Day? Cup 2024

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In a dramatic turn of events at the Champions One-Day Cup 2024, Pakistani top-order batter Imam-ul-Haq experienced a surge of frustration after his dismissal at a pivotal moment in the match. The emotional outburst unfolded during the Lions�?second innings against the Panthers.

Imam-ul-Haq vents his frustration in the dressing room

After being dismissed, Imam-ul-Haq, visibly a??gitated by the situation, stormed into the dressing room where he was seen violently smashing his bat? and helmet in a moment of exasperation. His reaction underscored the immense pressure and disappointment he felt, as his team struggled to chase down a challenging target of 284 runs.

Here is the video:

pic.twitter.com/WTaLZBIzrB

— Cricket Cricket (@cricket543210) September 16, 2024

The left-handed opener was the standout performer for the Lions, scoring a gritty 60 off 62 balls, providing his team with the only glimpse of hope in an otherwise disappointing chase. Imam’s efforts were overshadowed by the ??Lions�???overall batting collapse. None of the other batters could managed to cross the 40-run mark.

Also WATCH: Comedy of errors during Panthers vs Lions counter in Champions One-Day Cup match 202?4

Lions stumble in their run chase

In the first innings, the Panthers got all-out for 283 in 46.5 overs, a total that looked challenging but achievable. However, the Lions struggled to build partnerships and maintain momentum throughout their chase. They were bowled out for 199 in just 36 overs, falling short by a massive margin 84 of runs. This marked the Lions’ second consecutive loss in the tournament, leaving them winless after two matches.

Currently, the Lions are placed fourth on the points table, having failed to secure a victory so far. Their next challenge comes against the Markhors, who are currently at the top?? of the standi??ngs. The upcoming match will be crucial for the Lions as they seek to turn their fortunes around and keep their hopes alive in the competition.

Also WATCH: 4,4,4?,4,4 �?Babar Azam brutally destroys Sh??ahnawaz Dahani in the Champions One-Day Cup 2024

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Imam-ul-Haq, the Pakistan batter, recently unveiled his all-time ODI?? XI for the Pakistan National Cricket Team. His sele??ction reflects a blend of iconic players spanning different eras of Pakistan cricket.

Opening prowess

For the opening pair, Imam chose Saeed Anwar and Babar Azam. Saeed, widely regarded as one of Pakistan’s best batters ever, earned his place at the top due to his prolific run-scoring and consistency. Babar, current captain of the team and one of the finest ODI batters globally, was selected to open alongside Anwar, primarily because of his outstanding performances over the past seven years.

“Since it was very difficult for me to set [him] in the middle order. So, I went for Babar Azam as the opener. The way he has performed in ODI cricket for the last seven years his performances for Pakistan are very good,” Imam was quoted as saying by A Sports.

Middle order dominance

Moving to the middle order, Imam picked Javed Miandad, Inzamam-ul-Haq and Mohammad Yousuf. These three stalwarts were pivotal in Pakistan’s success in ODIs, providing stability and match-winning performances throughout their careers.

Also REA?D: Champions Trophy 2??025: India vs Pakistan match set on March 1 in Lahore; BCCI yet to confirm

Captain Marvel

Imran Khan, the legendary all-rounder who led Pakistan to their maiden World Cup victory in 1992, was chosen as the captain of the team. Known for his exceptional leadership and all-round skills, Imran Khan’s influence on Pakistan cricket in the 80s and 90s was immense.

Safe hands and power with the bat

In the wicketkeeper-batter role, Imam opted for Kamran Akmal. Despite other options like Moin Khan and Sarfaraz Khan, Akmal’s ability to deliver match-winning innings in ODIs swayed Imam’s decision.

“I’ll go with Kamran Akmal as the wicketkeeper-batsman. It was a bit tricky for me. There were a lot of options like Moin bhai and Saifi bhai but I’ll go with Kamran Akmal because he has a lot of match-winning performances in ODIs,” Imam concluded.

Bowling arsenal

Turning to the bowling department, Imam selected Saqlain Mushtaq, Mohammad Asif, Wasim Akram and Waqar Younis. Saqlain, known for his mastery of spin bowling and invention of the “doosra,” provided variety to the attack. Asif, renowned for his accuracy and ability to trouble batter, complemented the lethal pace duo of Akram and Younis, who are considered among the most feared bowlers in cricket history.

The 12th Man

Shahid Afridi, a dynamic all-rounder known for his explosive batting and effective leg-spin bowling, was named as the 12th man in Imam’s XI, highlighting his impact despite not making the starting lineup. While his son-in-law and Pakistan’s current leader of pace attack, Shaheen Afridi failed to make his place in the roaster.

Also READ: Ahmed Shehzad reve??als his all time Pakistan XI; no place for Babar Azam, Shaheen Afridi

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Babar Azam has come under scrutiny following Pakistan‘s disappointing performance in the ongoing ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024. The Men in Green entered the 20-team global tournament with high expectations, hav??ing been runners-up in the ??previous edition.

However, their campaign started on a shaky note with a loss to co-hosts USA, followed by a defeat against arch-rivals India. Despite a win against Canada in their third match, these initial setbacks have jeopardized Pakistan’s chances of qualifying for the Super 8 stage.

Criticism mounts against Babar Azam’s captaincy and batting

Criticism has been directed at Babar for both his leadership and batting performance. The Lahore-born cricketer, known for his batting prowess, has managed only 90 runs in three games at an average of 30. Former Pakistan cricketers and pundits have voiced their disappointment with Babar’s on-field contributions.

Ahmed Shehzad’s controversial remarks spark debate

Recently, Ahmed Shehzad made headlines with his harsh critique of Babar. The former Pakistan opener slammed Babar’s figure in the ICC events and even reckoned that he is a ‘fake king�? Notably, Babar is often referred to ?as the ‘King�?by his admirers as he enjoys immense popularity and adoration among cricket fans around the?? world.

“You have a strike rate of 112. You have an average of 26 in ICC events. You have played 207 balls in the powerplay but haven’t hit a single six. I think my stats from eight years ago are better than yours. You are a fake King! We play to help win Pakistan tournaments but you are only making a fool of fans on social media with your stats,” Shehzad had said in in Geo News show ‘Haarna Mana Hai’.

Also READ: Ahmed Shehzad rips apart Babar Azam over his poor stats in T20Is; labels Pakistan captain as ‘fake king’

Imam-ul-Haq defends Babar Azam

Imam-ul-Haq, Pakistan’s Test opener and a close friend of Babar, countered Shehzad’s criticism during the same television show panel. While acknowledging Babar’s accountability for the team’s performance, Imam emphasized the importance of respecting Babar’s stature as captain and as a player.

“Everyone has the right to criticize the Pakistan team. But the respect element should never go away. He is your captain. The world has made him a King so it doesn’t make a difference if you consider him that or not. If you want to remove him as a captain then do it, but the respect element should never go away,” said Imam.

pic.twitter.com/JNa1SAn0Cm

— HASSAN (@HassABBASI) June 13, 2024

Also READ: Mitchell McClenaghan gives a befitting reply to Pakistan journo for his poor take on New Zealand’s loss to West Indies in T20 ??World Cup 2024

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Pakistan opener Imam-ul-Haq found himself embroiled in a heated exchange with fellow cricketer Ahmed Shehzad during an appearance on comedian Tabish Hashmi’s talk show “Haarna Mana Hay.” The show, which centred around Pakistan’s prospects in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2024, also featured retired cricketer Imran Nazir.

Ahmed Shehzad’s allegations over Pakistan skipper Babar Azam

The discussion took a contentious turn when Shehzad accused Babar Azam of favouritism in team selection, suggesting that Azam’s preferences were influencing the composition of the team. Shehzad claimed that this bias led to the exclusion of deserving players and perpetuated a culture where senior players consistently made the playing XI, thereby limiting opportunities for younger talents. He stressed the importance of performance in major tournaments, pointing out Pakistan’s lack of success in ICC events since their Champions Trophy win.

“Speaking of Babar Azam, there is friendship. Look, he is carrying players from a long run. The players are out of form for a long time. It doesn’t look good. If I count the number of matches, you’ll realize players don’t get that long run. If there was any other captain, he wouldn’t have carried players for 35-40 games. He should have thought about himself,” Shehzad was quoted a saying by the Sportskeeda.

“We don’t play cricket to win bilateral series but to win ICC events. Did we win any event in the last 4-5 years? If we didn’t win, I would say there are gangs, friendships, and tola with an agent, who has been manipulating cricket for the last 4-5 years,” the 32-year-old stated.

Furthermore, Shehzad questioned the reappointment of Babar Azam as captain over Shaheen Afridi, implying unfairness i??n the decision-making process.

“They [Sarfaraz Ahmed and Co.] produced the results, won the Champions Trophy. It justifies, you also win this event and justify. However, you’ve got a longer run, one captain doesn’t get five events. You were removed and then brought back. It’s wrong with Shaheen, you made him captain for two matches and then you removed him,” the Lahore-born cricketer stated.

Also WATCH: Pakist?an skipper Babar Azam mocks teammate Azam Khan’s physique during a training session

Imam ul Haq’s defense and Shahzad’s aggressive response

In response, Imam defended Babar’s captaincy, emphasizing that his reinstatement was a decision made by the cricket board rather than a personal choice by Babar. Imam refuted Shehzad’s claims by highlighting Pakistan’s commendable performances in recent T20 World Cups, which he argued demonstrated team cohesion and competence.

“Babar was removed without his consent and reinstated without his consent as well. The board re-appointed him as captain. In 2021, we reached the semifinals. Later in 2022, we played the final, which means there were performances. We didn’t win, that can be a debate. We didn’t click in the final. You can say Babar likes these lot of players but terming it as friendship is quite personal,” Imam said.

The debate escalated as Shehzad insinuated that Imam’s defense of Babar was influenced by contractual obligations. Imam countered by reminding Shehzad that concerns about team selection should have been addressed during his active playing career rather than post-retirement.

“We understand that Imam is in a central contract, he is young. We spoke the same when were at his age. I’m 34, sick and tired of things. We want things to be better. When you drag players for 4-5 years, you do wrong with those performing in domestic. Someone else takes their rights,” Shehzad replied.

Viral moment

The exchange reached its peak when Imam delivered a sharp retort, implying th??at unlike Shehzad??, he wouldn’t criticize the PCB years later. This remark was a clear reference to Shehzad’s past disagreements with the board. The clip of this heated exchange quickly went viral on social media, with fans applauding Imam ul Haq for his robust defense of Babar and his pointed rebuttal to Shehzad.

“I am in a central contract. I have been playing for the last 6-7 years but I promise you that when I’ll be 36, my stand will be the same. If someone has a problem, they can speak if they are 28 as well. Why don’t you say that?,” Imam concluded.

Best friend of Babar Azam, Imam U??l Haq owned Ahme??d Shehzad 🥹

Well Done Imam pic.twitter.com/6uFXbCRQZH

— Jalaad 🔥 حمزہ (@SaithHamzamir) June 4, 2024

Pakistan in the T20 World Cup 2024

As the debate continues to generate buzz, Babar and the Pakistan team are focused on their T20 World Cup campaign. They are currently in the United States of America (USA), preparing for their opening match against the co-hosts USA on June 6, followed by a highly anticipated clash against arch-rivals India on June 9 at the Nassau County Internat??ional Cricket Stadium in New York.

Also READ: Paki?stan T20 World Cup 2024 schedule and squad: Date, Match time, Team L?ist & Live Streaming details

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In a surprising turn of events, social media was set ablaze with controversy after Pakistan’s opener, Imam-ul-Haq, extended his heartfelt congratulations to Indian cricketer Sarfaraz Khan on earning his maiden call-up to the Indian Test te?am. The congratulatory tweet, seemingly innocent at first, triggered a wave of reactions from fans across borders, underlining the intense riv??alry that exists not only on the cricket field but also in the broader political spectrum.

Sarfaraz Khan’s well-deserved call-up

Sarfaraz, the Mumbai-based batter, had reason to celebrate as he received his first-ever call-up to the Indian Test team on Monday (January 29). The selection was a result of his consistent performances in the domestic circuit, particularly standing out during India A‘s clash against England Lions. His inclusion became even more special as it filled the void left by injuries to experienced players like Ravindra Jadeja and KL Rahul.

Fan jubilation and widespread recognition

Indian cricket fans, long awaiting Sarfaraz’s call-up, erupted in joy at the news. The elation was shared on social media platforms, with fans expressing their happiness and sending best wishes to the deserving cricketer. The joyous occasion, however, took an unexpected turn when Imam, a Pakistani cricketer, extended his congratulations through a tweet.

Imam-ul-Haq’s controversial tweet

Imam took to Twitter to convey his happiness for Sarfaraz’s achievement, writing, “Congratulations brother. So Happy for you,” accompanied by two heart??s and a picture of Sarfaraz. While this gesture might have seemed like a genuine display of sportsmanship, it quickly became the focal point of a heated social media debate.

Congratulations brother So Happy for you ❤️❤️ pic.twitter.com/TDmKXMZYjj

— Imam Ul Haq (@ImamUlHaq12) January 29, 2024

Also READ: Meet Maddi?e Hami??lton: The stunning girlfriend of Yashasvi Jaiswal

Mixed reactions and cross-border tensions

The tweet from Imam went viral, provoking mixed reactions from cricket fans on both sides of the India-Pakistan rivalry. Some lauded the sportsmanship displayed by the Pakistani cricketer, appreciating the camaraderie that transcends borders. However, a significant portion questioned the motives behind the tweet, s?peculating w??hether it was influenced by political undertones aimed at sparking tensions between the two nations.

Social media outrage

Many fans from Pakistan expressed outrage at Imam’s gesture, urging him to focus on his own form rather than extending goodwill to players from rival nations.

Here’s how netizens reacted

Stick to your own country Mr. Protein Shake. pic.twitter.com/OBXR8ND89y

— Johns (@JohnyBravo183) January 29, 2024

Why are these Pakistanis so fixated on Indians? He deliberately posted this to stir up hate against S??arfaraz.

— Vipin Tiwari (@Vipintiwari952_) January 29, 2024

For those who say he tweeted because they both have played in u19 wc in 2014 are proper dumb. Bhai iyer, kuldeep, avesh, deepak hooda, sanju. All these also played in the same year but he only tweeted about sarfu. We know what his intentions are . Bhadwa sala //t.co/NwiVjhtUnq

— Ayush Srivastava (@sriman_ayush) January 29, 2024

Iski zarort nhe thi wesy

— Urooj Jawed🇵🇰 (@uroojjawed12) January 29, 2024

Fitness nh ha performance to ha na, tm se to ab perform?? b nh ho raha

— Kainat 🌙 (@notyour_kainat3) January 29, 2024

Dropped from the team himself. Congratulating Indian player. Bhai tu apni fikar karo. The most boring player of all time. Bores fo?r nothing. When we need you to stay out there then pla?ys like if you gonna send the ball into space. Like coming out after Lyon.

— saadjan000@gmail.com (@saadjan000) January 29, 2024

Unlike Pakistan.. India is not a Parchi coun?try. In India players are ??selected on the basis of merits and not on the basis of bhatija,friends or religion.

Reply to the context of your tweet : We have many Muslim’s playing in Indian team currently like Shami, Siraj, Umran, Avesh //t.co/uVyaUrKlKl

— Rainbow Salt (@Rainbowsalts91) January 29, 2024

Only fools can't guess the intention //t.co/oGe6cfKsI2

— Rohit (@Viratdhonism) January 30, 2024

But Why this parchi tweeting for him.

I thought it's a parody. But, damn !!
It's him only 😱😱
Inke paas koi kaam dhandha nahi hai kya ??? #Cricket //t.co/OnTCpGFiMf

— Visheshta Jotwaniii (@vishhhiiiii) January 30, 2024

Dont try to play religious card over here.
keep this with ur team only //t.co/dM2XM5shJZ

— Anand Luhar (@anand_luhar) January 30, 2024

Also READ: Dinesh Karthik suggests a key adjustment that Rohit Sharma?? should make in 2nd Test against England

For latest cricket news & updates, visit betvisa68.com.

Pakistan Cricket team are at the center of trolling once again, owing to a lackluster fielding display that unfolded during the second Test of their tour to Australia. The team’s performance in the field have been a recurrent source of criticism, and this recent incident only added fuel to the fire. Surprisingly, their fielding woes reached a new low when a single delivery resulted in five runs conceded without a boundary or a no-ball.

Sloppy fielding by Shaheen Afridi

The incident occurred when Aamer Jamal bowled an in-swinger that Australian skipper Pat Cummins skillfully drove towards cover. After a brief run, fielder Hasan Ali retrieved the ball and promptly threw it towards the bowler’s end.

However, the situation took a turn for the worse as Shaheen Afridi, positioned to collect the throw, completely missed the ball. The red leather then raced towards the boundary. Sensing the urgency, Imam-ul-Haq m??ade a determined run and managed ?to halt the ball just before it reached the boundary rope.

But, for Pakistan, the damage had been done, allowing Cummins and his partner, Alex Carey, to complete five runs through swift running between the wickets comfortably. This fielding lapse not only cost the guests crucial runs but also became a focal point of criticism, emphasizing the pressing need for improvement in Pakistan’s fielding skills at the international level.

Here is the video:

Have you seen this before? An all-run FIVE (with help from overthrows, of course)! #AUSvPAK pic.twitter.com/gHxwJih45d

— cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) December 29, 2023

Also WATCH – AUS vs PAK: Pakistan captain Shan? Masood falls victim to Pat Cummins�?brilliance on Day 4 of MCG Test

Pakistan to chase 317 runs

Despite facing early challenges with their batting, Australia showcased resilience and determination to set a challenging target of 317 runs for Pakistan in the MCG Test. The innings were bolstered by outstanding performances from Mitchell Marsh, who fell just short of a century with a brilliant 96, and the ever-reliable Steve Smith, who contributed a solid 50 runs. Additionally, Alex Carey‘s noteworthy knock of 53 played a pivotal role in guiding the hosts to a formidable total. In pursuit of the target, the Shan Masood-led side a??re struggling at the scor?e of 162/5 after 46 overs.

Also READ – AUS vs PAK: Mitchell Marsh r??eflects on falling short of a ‘Boxing day�?Test hundred at MCG

For latest cricket news & updates, visit betvisa68.com.