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                        <title>The Express Tribune</title>
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			<title>Ahmed Shahzad slams 'record chasers' Babar, Rizwan after Pakistan's early exit from T20 World Cup</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2471845/ahmed-shahzad-slams-record-chasers-babar-rizwan-after-pakistans-early-exit-from-t20-world-cup</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2471845/ahmed-shahzad-slams-record-chasers-babar-rizwan-after-pakistans-early-exit-from-t20-world-cup#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Sat, 15 Jun 24 09:58:19 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Our Correspondent]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2471845</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA['They were busy making their own records and have destroyed the team,' the former opener accused]]>
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				<![CDATA[Pakistan&#39;s&nbsp;cricket team (PCT) was eliminated from the first round of the T20 World Cup 2024, and the team&#39;s former opener, Ahmed Shahzad, has now blamed the PCT&#39;s captain, Babar Azam, and wicketkeeper-batsman Muhammad Rizwan for the early exit.

Speaking to a local TV channel, Shahzad criticized Azam and Rizwan, saying,&nbsp;&quot;Babar Azam and Muhammad Rizwan are responsible for Pakistan&#39;s elimination from the first round of the T20 World Cup.&quot;

Shahzad accused the two senior players of being more focused on their individual performances and records rather than the team&#39;s success.

&quot;They were busy making their own records and have destroyed the team,&quot; he said.

The opener further criticized Azam&#39;s captaincy, stating,&nbsp;&quot;Appointing Babar Azam as the captain again was the biggest mistake. After every defeat, he gives the same statement that we are learning, but these cricketers are not capable of playing international cricket.&quot;

Shahzad had previously criticized Azam for not giving opportunities to domestic players and instead including his friends in the team.

&quot;[Babar Azam]He included his friends; whoever performed well, he made them a bowler, and whenever they didn&#39;t perform, he made them a fielder and included them in the playing XI,&quot; he alleged.

The opener also expressed his disappointment with Azam&#39;s performance in the World Cup, saying, &quot;Babar Azam&#39;s statistics in the World Cup are even worse than mine, but you [supporters] call him the &#39;king&#39;!&quot;

Pakistan&#39;s early exit from the T20 World Cup has sparked criticism and debate among cricket fans and experts, with many calling for changes in the team&#39;s leadership and selection policies.

Pakistan&#39;s cricket team was eliminated from the T20 World Cup 2024 after a washout in the match between the United States and Ireland at Lauderhill, Florida.

The game was called off due to a wet outfield last night, resulting in both teams receiving a point each.

This meant that the USA, with five points, advanced to the Super Eight knockout stage, while Pakistan, with only two points, was unable to qualify.

The team&#39;s early exit from the tournament was a result of their poor performance in the first two matches against the USA and India, which they lost.

Despite managing to win against Canada, Pakistan&#39;s chances of qualifying were ultimately dependent on the weather conditions, which did not favour them.]]>
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			<title>T20 World Cup 2024: This ex-Indian cricketer wants to see US in Super 8, not Pakistan</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2471679/t20-world-cup-2024-this-ex-indian-cricketer-wants-to-see-us-in-super-8-not-pakistan</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2471679/t20-world-cup-2024-this-ex-indian-cricketer-wants-to-see-us-in-super-8-not-pakistan#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Fri, 14 Jun 24 10:40:34 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[news.desk]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2471679</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Pakistan’s turnaround now would be nothing short of a miracle, says Sreesanth]]>
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				<![CDATA[Former Indian cricketer S Sreesanth, during a discussion on Indian media, revealed his preference for seeing the United States team over Pakistan in the Super 8 round of the T20 World Cup 2024.

In the T20 World Cup 2024, Pakistan&#39;s performance has been underwhelming. They lost their first two matches against the US and India but managed a dominant victory over Canada in New York. Despite this win, their path to the Super 8 remains challenging.

Sreesanth criticised Pakistan&#39;s cricketing system, echoing sentiments previously expressed by cricket legends like Wasim Akram and Waqar Younis. He pointed out that Pakistan needs to overhaul its cricketing infrastructure, particularly its domestic leagues, to improve its international performance.

&quot;Pakistan&#39;s cricket system needs a major overhaul. A turnaround now would be nothing short of a miracle,&quot; remarked Sreesanth.

He further added: &ldquo;The US team prevailed because of their planning and execution in the past two years and they have worked hard. I want the US team to play in the Top 8 because they deserve it.&quot;

For Pakistan to advance to the Super 8s in the T20 World Cup 2024, they will need a combination of favourable outcomes from the remaining Group A matches. The specific results needed are as follows:


	
	June 14: USA vs Ireland &ndash; Pakistan will need Ireland to win this match.
	
	
	June 15: Canada vs India &ndash; Pakistan will need India to secure a victory.
	
	
	June 16: Ireland vs Pakistan &ndash; Pakistan must win this match against Ireland.
	


These results would improve Pakistan&#39;s chances of making it to the Super 8 stage, though the path remains challenging

&nbsp;]]>
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			<title>Did Babar and team cry after India defeat in T20 World Cup 2024?</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2471405/did-babar-and-team-cry-after-india-defeat-in-t20-world-cup-2024</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2471405/did-babar-and-team-cry-after-india-defeat-in-t20-world-cup-2024#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Thu, 13 Jun 24 06:10:15 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[news.desk]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Sports]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2471405</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Sources say only fast bowler Naseem Shah was notably emotional after the match]]>
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				<![CDATA[Following their recent victory over Canada in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2024, the Pakistan cricket team has managed to regain some composure. Aware that their fate is no longer entirely within their control, the players have adopted a more relaxed attitude.

Head Coach Gary Kirsten held individual meetings with several players on Wednesday to discuss strategy for the upcoming match against Ireland. Kirsten emphasised that the past cannot be changed and urged the team to focus on future games.

Despite rumours circulating on social media, team sources have denied reports that captain Babar Azam and other players were in tears and skipped dinner after their defeat by India.








While the players were indeed disappointed, they said, there was no atmosphere of mourning. Only fast bowler Naseem Shah was notably emotional after the match. These rumours are believed to be spread by the players&#39; social media teams to manipulate public perception.

The Pakistani team arrived in Florida on Tuesday, greeted by persistent rain that continued into Wednesday, preventing any practice sessions. The team plans to practice on Thursday, weather permitting, though the forecast predicts further rain throughout the week, potentially affecting their preparation.

The rain also led to the cancellation of the match between Sri Lanka and Nepal on Tuesday. Continuous rain in Florida could further impact Pakistan&rsquo;s prospects, particularly in the crucial USA versus Ireland match on June 14, which has a 91% chance of rain.

Pakistan needs Ireland to win; otherwise, a washout would grant the USA a point, securing their qualification and eliminating Pakistan from the tournament.]]>
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			<title>Rain threat looms over Pakistan's T20 World Cup hopes</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2471210/rain-threat-looms-over-pakistans-t20-world-cup-hopes</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2471210/rain-threat-looms-over-pakistans-t20-world-cup-hopes#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Wed, 12 Jun 24 07:36:52 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[News Desk]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2471210</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[If the game on June 14 is abandoned, USA would earn a point and secure qualification, eliminating Pakistan]]>
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				<![CDATA[Pakistan&#39;s hopes of reaching the Super 8 stage of the T20 World Cup 2024 hangs by a thread as heavy rainfall is predicted in Florida, where their crucial final group match against Ireland is scheduled on June 16.

The Babar Azam-led side has managed just one win from three matches so far, beating Canada after losses to the United States and India.

The national team now need to beat Ireland and have other results go their way to advance. However, the weather in Lauderhill, Florida could play spoilsport.

The Sri Lanka vs Nepal match on June 11 was washed out without a ball bowled due to heavy rain. More thunderstorms are forecast over the next week, with a 91% chance of rain during the USA vs Ireland match on June 14.

If that game is abandoned, the USA would earn a point and secure qualification, eliminating Pakistan.

There is also a 47% chance of rain for the Pakistan vs Ireland clash two days later. Pakistan&rsquo;s path to the Super 8 requires the following outcomes:

June 12: USA to lose to India
June 14: Ireland to beat USA
June 15: India to beat Canada
June 16: Pakistan to beat Ireland

Even then, Pakistan and USA could be tied on four points, making net run rate the deciding factor.

Pakistan would likely need to beat Ireland by a huge margin while hoping the USA loses heavily to India and Ireland.

After shock losses to the USA and India, Pakistan kept their campaign alive by beating Canada on June 11. But the weather in Florida threatens to halt their progress, in what would be a major disappointment for the 2009 champions.]]>
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			<title>'Mauka Mauka' was never about political jingoism, says writer post Pakistan victory</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2326284/mauka-mauka-was-never-about-political-jingoism-says-writer-post-pakistan-victory</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2326284/mauka-mauka-was-never-about-political-jingoism-says-writer-post-pakistan-victory#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Mon, 25 Oct 21 08:30:45 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Entertainment Desk]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Gossip]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2326284</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[One Indian fan shared how popular ad has been exaggerated by the Indian media, for 'amplifying tensions']]>
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				<![CDATA[The year is 1992. We see a hopeful Pakistani fan bringing out the fireworks as the team faces arch-rivals, India, in a world cup match. Moments later, we see the disgruntled fan placing the fireworks back after an upsetting loss. This goes on for another five clashes and Mauka Mauka becomes the unofficial anthem for the Indian fans for an India-Pakistan face-off in World Cup. The ad was first aired in 2015.

Following the six-year-old tradition, Indian cricket fans revamped the anthem once again as they hoped for a clear win against Pakistan. However, this time around, things changed dramatically.





After Pakistan&#39;s impressive 10 wickets first-ever win against India, Pakistani fans hit back at Indian cricket enthusiasts with the very same ad. One Indian fan, however, shared how Mauka Mauka has been exaggerated by the Indian media, verging it on how the said ad for &quot;amplifying tensions between the countries.&quot;

&quot;The more we hype up an ordinary cricket match, the more we amplify the sociopolitical divide and historical tension between two nations,&quot; a user penned, adding, &quot;It&#39;s just a game, projecting it to be any more than that is playing into the hands of those who use sport as a &quot;mauka&quot;.&quot;



The more we hype up an ordinary cricket match, the more we amplify the sociopolitical divide and historical tension between two nations. It&#39;s just a game, projecting it to be any more than that is playing into the hands of those who use sport as a &quot;mauka&quot;.
&mdash; Rahul Desai (@ReelReptile) October 24, 2021


Mustafa Rangwala, the original writer of the song, shared his two cents on the criticism. &quot;Having written the original, Mauka Mauka ad in 2015, I am indeed aghast at how the tone of this idea has taken a distinctly crass turn.&quot; He added, &quot;It was meant to be a celebration of this rivalry. Not a mockery.&quot;



Having written the original, #MaukaMauka ad in 2015, I am indeed aghast at how the tone of this idea has taken a distinctly crass turn. It was meant to be a celebration of this rivalry. Not a mockery. https://t.co/XoJ9Y7GqKu
&mdash; Mustafa Rangwala (@Mustimasti) October 24, 2021


Rangwala further tweeted his original thought behind the clip. Sharing his storyboard for the popular ad, Rangwala remarked, &quot;Had presented the Mauka Mauka ad on Jan 31, 2015. The match was on the Feb 14. Given only seven days to make the film. Suresh Triveni took over and worked his magic. The phrase &quot;mauka mauka&quot; wasn&#39;t in the script but his idea. This is the scratch edit he made before the shoot.&quot;



Had presented the #maukamauka on Jan 31 2015. The match was on the 14th of Feb. Given only 7 days to make the film Suresh Triveni took over and worked his magic. The phrase &quot;mauka mauka&quot; wasn&#39;t in the script but his idea. This is the scratch edit he made before the shoot. https://t.co/ICJgdOMa0n pic.twitter.com/addu8m9nsX
&mdash; Mustafa Rangwala (@Mustimasti) October 24, 2021


On this, one user commented, &quot;I am sorry but the original ad was mocking the other team. In the culture of jingoism we live in, I fail to see how one could not have known that it would be used for ultra-nationalism.&quot;



I am sorry but the original ad was mocking the other team. In the culture of jingoism we live, I fail to see how one could not have known that it would be used for ultra nationalism.
&mdash; FHR (@Bullitfhr) October 24, 2021


Rangwala then shared the entire Mauka series where we see India facing different teams in the World Cup. &quot;See the entire series,&quot; he shared, adding, &quot;The second film in the series which was for the match against South Africa was a joke on India. Also, we kept away from jingoistic dialogue and macho displays of fandom.&quot;



See the entire series. The second film in the series which was for the match against South Africa was a joke on India. Also, we kept away from jingoistic dialogue and macho displays of fandom. https://t.co/qQsSMZoeWu
&mdash; Mustafa Rangwala (@Mustimasti) October 24, 2021


&quot;In 2015, Star Sports India had a Mauka Mauka film ready to congratulate Pakistan if they won. It wasn&#39;t required to be aired. Wonder if they are similarly well prepared this time,&quot; he revealed.



In 2015, @StarSportsIndia had a #MaukaMauka film ready to congratulate Pakistan if they won. It wasn&#39;t required to be aired. Wonder if they are similarly well prepared this time.
&mdash; Mustafa Rangwala (@Mustimasti) October 25, 2021


However, many rejoiced how it&#39;s finally time to bid Mauka ad farewell.

&quot;It&#39;s a humiliating defeat,&quot; a user penned, adding, &quot;From team selection to less preparation there are numerous reasons. But a stellar performance from our Pakistan team. Let&#39;s concentrate on the remaining matches.&quot; He concluded with, &quot;Finally, it&#39;s goodbye to Mauka Mauka s**t ads.&quot;



It&#39;s a humiliating defeat. From team selection to less preparation there are numerous reasons. But a stellar performance from our Pakistan team. Let&#39;s concentrate on the remaining matches.

Finally it&#39;s goodbye to mauka mauka shit ads. pic.twitter.com/XJe3AoWomX
&mdash; KARTHIK (@get2karthik) October 24, 2021


Another added, &quot;Star Sports ad agency realising they won&#39;t be able to do Mauka Mauka again.&quot;



Star Sports ad agency realising they won&#39;t be able to do #MaukaMauka again pic.twitter.com/nRfGlBsvFB
&mdash; Sameer Allana (@HitmanCricket) October 24, 2021


&quot;Thoughts with that Mauka ad guy who is about to go jobless,&quot; joked another.



Thoughts with that Mauka ad guy who is about to go jobless
&mdash; absy (@absycric) October 24, 2021


The burning question is, are we to wait for the promised ad? It should certainly be fun this time around.

Have something to add to the story? Share it in the comments below.]]>
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			<title>World T20 drama to make Stokes a better cricketer, says Broad</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/1104812/world-t20-drama-to-make-stokes-a-better-cricketer-says-broad</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/1104812/world-t20-drama-to-make-stokes-a-better-cricketer-says-broad#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Tue, 17 May 16 08:55:01 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[reuters]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Sports]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=1104812</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Stokes was hit for four successive sixes by West Indies' Carlos Brathwaite in last over of T20 final]]>
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				<![CDATA[England all-rounder Ben Stokes will learn from his dreadful World T20 experience and come back a stronger player, team-mate Stuart Broad has said.

Stokes was hit for four successive sixes by West Indies' Carlos Brathwaite in the last over of the T20 final, the onslaught ending England's hopes of a second title.

Broad, the world's top-ranked test bowler, was famously blasted for six sixes by India's Yuvraj Singh in the 2007 tournament, but used the setback as motivation and has backed Stokes to follow suit.

Steven Finn fired up by T20 hurt

"I wouldn't be the bowler I am now without that experience," Broad told British media.

"You're dead right, people would have sat there thinking: 'Why did you go that way?'

"But you've got to go with what you feel is your strength, so as a player you'll always have things you are confident in. I prefer a player to get it wrong going for something they believe is their strength than going to something that isn't.

Broad eyes clean sweep against Pakistan, Sri Lanka

"Don't be surprised if Stokesy now performs at a really high level because he'll realise what went wrong and channel it the right way -- he has an amazing talent."

England kick off their three-match home test series against Sri Lanka at Headingley on Thursday, which will be followed by an ODI series.]]>
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			<title>England's Roy, Willey fined as emotions spill over at T20</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/1073794/englands-roy-willey-fined-as-emotions-spill-over-at-t20</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/1073794/englands-roy-willey-fined-as-emotions-spill-over-at-t20#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Sun, 27 Mar 16 11:07:36 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[afp]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Sports]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=1073794</guid>
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				<![CDATA[Both players admitted offences during a meeting with match referee Jeff Crowe]]>
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				<![CDATA[England opener Jason Roy and fast bowler David Willey have been fined at the World T20 after emotions spilled over during their win over Sri Lanka on Saturday.

Both players gave solid performances during England's nail-biting 10-run victory over Sri Lanka in New Delhi to secure a place in the semi-finals.

But Roy was fined 30 per cent of his match fee for swearing and then throwing his bat and helmet upon leaving the field, after being given out lbw for 42 off 39 balls.

England in semis, dump Sri Lanka out of World T20

The International Cricket Council (ICC) said on Sunday that Roy had shown "dissent at an umpire's decision during an international match".

Willey, meanwhile, who took 2-26, was fined 15 per cent of his fee after giving a colourful send-off to Milinda Siriwardana when the Sri Lankan was dismissed immediately after hitting the seamer for six.

The ICC said he breached the code of conduct for "actions or gestures which disparage or which could provoke an aggressive reaction" from a batsman on their dismissal.

Mathews urges patience after Sri Lanka World T20 exit

Both players admitted the offences during a meeting with match referee Jeff Crowe, the ICC said in a statement.

England are now likely to face New Zealand in a semi-final encounter in Delhi on Wednesday, with the West Indies having already qualified from their group.]]>
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			<title>SC judge lauds Pakistan women cricket team’s victory against India</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/1070511/sc-judge-lauds-pakistan-women-cricket-teams-victory-against-india</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/1070511/sc-judge-lauds-pakistan-women-cricket-teams-victory-against-india#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Tue, 22 Mar 16 11:14:27 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[our.correspondent]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=1070511</guid>
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				<![CDATA[Justice Azmat Saeed says women are not second-grade citizens and should not face discrimination in any sphere of life]]>
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				<![CDATA[A Supreme Court judge lauded on Tuesday the performance of Pakistan’s women team in World Twenty20 International, calling for an end to discrimination in all spheres of life.

The team demonstrated impressive performance in scintillating form against arch-rival India, beating them by two runs in the host capital New Delhi on Saturday.

Women's World T20: In scintillating form, Pakistan beat India

Justice Sheikh Azmat Saeed was hearing the federal government’s appeal against a promotion order for women officers issued by the Federal Service Tribunal last year.

Observing the performance, Justice Saeed said the green-shirts beat Indians on their home-ground and that it proved that Pakistani women are second to none.

The judge went on to say that Pakistani men were defeated in India in contrast to the victory that their women counterparts had earlier achieved, saying the latter brought good name to the country.

India repeat history, beat Pakistan in World T20

He also remarked that women are not second grade citizens, rather they are equal to men, and should not be discriminated in other sphere of life.

Meanwhile, dismissing the appeals, the apex court ordered promotion of nine women assistant sub-inspectors appointed to Federal Investigation Agency between 2002 and 2004.]]>
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			<title>Pakistan green-lights World T20 appearance</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/1064326/amid-indias-assurances-pakistan-green-lights-world-t20-appearance</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/1064326/amid-indias-assurances-pakistan-green-lights-world-t20-appearance#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Fri, 11 Mar 16 23:27:17 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[reuters]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category><category><![CDATA[Sports]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=1064326</guid>
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				<![CDATA[Male and female squads expected to fly to India via UAE on Saturday]]>
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				<![CDATA[Pakistan announced on Friday that it would allow its cricket squad to travel to India for the World Twenty20 after the hosts provided ‘solid assurances’ about the safety and security of the visiting team.


“The government of Pakistan has allowed Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) to go ahead with its visit to India to participate in the T-20 World Cup,” a spokesman for the interior ministry said, adding that key Indian officials had provided such assurances.

World T20 in India: Pakistan wants safety guarantees

“We received communication from the ICC (International Cricket Council) and BCCI (Board of Control for Cricket in India). We received a letter from the chief minister of Bengal and the police chief,” said PCB executive committee chairman Najam Sethi in Islamabad as he announced that Nisar had green-lighted the tour.

“Our High Commissioner Abdul Basit met the Indian [Interior] Secretary and the assurances were given.”



The Pakistan men’s and women’s teams had been due to fly out on Wednesday but the government put their departure on hold, citing the threat posed by Hindu extremists who disrupted a meeting between the heads of the two cricket boards held in India last year and more recently had threatened to dig up the pitch during the tournament.

The much-anticipated March 19 clash between the neighbours had earlier been shifted to Kolkata by the ICC following Pakistan’s security concerns over the original venue Dharamsala, Himachal Pradesh. But the move was not enough to sway Interior Minister Chaudhry Nisar Ali Khan who on Thursday subjected the team’s departure to a public guarantee from New Delhi on the safety of players.

Pakistan might leave for India early on Friday

Sethi, in his meeting with the interior minister, briefed him about the current situation and showed the correspondence between the PCB and the BCCI.

“The team is completely ready and hopefully they will fly to Dubai tonight and then from there will leave straight for India,” Sethi said, adding that the decision had been made on the “basis of solid assurances”.

In Lahore, where the men’s squad is camped, PCB Chairman Shaharyar Khan said the entire team said they wanted to play when asked about reservations and concerns on travelling to India.



“We told all the players that if anyone wants to pull out on security grounds then we can take special permission for him to be replaced but all the players are unanimously willing to go and give their best,” he said.

Pakistani male cricketers are scheduled to take an early morning flight on Saturday to Abu Dhabi from where they will take another flight to Kolkata. The women’s team is expected to fly to Dubai from where they will take a flight to Chennai.

The team’s late departure means they will have to forego their first warm-up match -- against a local West Bengal team -- on Saturday and instead take on Sri Lanka in the second practice match in Kolkata on Monday.

Pakistan-India match shifted to Kolkata, Shaharyar demands security assurance

Pakistan’s first match of the tournament will be held at the Eden Gardens on March 16 against a qualifier team, followed by a clash against arch-rival India at the same venue three days later.

Adequate security

Senior Indian officials on Friday assured Islamabad that the team will be safe in India.

“We are providing security to everyone and Pakistan will be given adequate security. They should not be worried about security,” said BCCI Secretary Anurag Thakur on Friday.

Indian Home Minister Rajnath Singh also sought to allay Pakistan’s sec urity fears.

“Why only Pakistan? Whoever comes here, India provides them security. There is no reason to be worried about security here.”

&nbsp;

Published in The Express Tribune, March 12th, 2016.]]>
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			<title>Security concerns: Pakistan-India T20 tie shifted  to Kolkata</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/1063071/security-concerns-pakistan-india-t20-tie-shifted-to-kolkata</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/1063071/security-concerns-pakistan-india-t20-tie-shifted-to-kolkata#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Wed, 09 Mar 16 22:41:56 +0500</pubDate>
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			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
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			<description>
				<![CDATA[PCB seeks written assurance before sending team]]>
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				<![CDATA[The World Twenty20 match between arch rivals India and Pakistan has been shifted from the northern Indian hill town of Dharamsala at the last minute after Pakistan expressed security concerns, organisers said Wednesday.


International Cricket Council (ICC) Chief Executive David Richardson announced that the hotly awaited clash on March 19 would be shifted to Kolkata in eastern India, hosts of the World T20 which kicked off this week.

“The safety and security of the event is of paramount importance to the ICC and we have taken into consideration the concerns shared with us by our security advisers as well as the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB),” Richardson told a news conference in New Delhi.

But it was unclear whether Pakistan would travel to India to take part in the tournament even after the venue switch, with its cricket board saying it was still awaiting security assurances from the Indian government.

“The team’s departure – men and women – will remain pending until the Indian government gives assurances... Once we get assurances from India, we will ask our government for clearance,” PCB Chairman Shahryar Khan told a news conference in Lahore.

Khan said he has asked the Pakistani government to seek from Indian authorities a public declaration that the teams would be safe in India. Without the written assurances, he said, the teams will not travel.

Pakistan had delayed their departure for India earlier Wednesday citing concerns about threats from Hindu religious extremists against the team. Pakistan sent a security assessment team to India on Monday after voicing repeated concerns about arrangements for the month-long tournament.



Richardson said he was now ‘hopeful’ that Pakistan would take part.  “We have just conveyed our decision to Pakistan and we are very hopeful they will come,” he said.

Pakistan are due to play their opening match against a first-round qualifier in Kolkata on March 16. They had been set to meet India on March 19 in Dharamsala in Himachal Pradesh state, where extremists have threatened to sabotage the tie.

Last week state chief minister Virbhadra Singh caused a stir by refusing to provide security for the game, prompting the PCB to demand the match be shifted to a new venue.

Interestingly, after the venue switch by the ICC on Wednesday, Singh said the state authorities were always capable of providing security for the match. He went on to blame the Board of Cricket Control in India (BCCI) for deciding not to hold the match in Dharamsala.

“The state was capable enough to provide security for upcoming Indo-Pak match but it was up to the BCCI to decide whether to hold the match or not,” he said.

As per the ICC itinerary, Pakistan will set up camp in Kolkata where they will play two warm-up games – against Bangladesh on March 12 and Sri Lanka on March 14 – and one main round against Group A qualifier on March 16.

“Logistically and from the security point of view, Kolkata is the ideal place for the match as they would not have to travel to Dharamsala,” a BCCI official said on Wednesday.

“It’s feasible from broadcasting point of view as well since they would not have to incur the cost of transporting expensive broadcasting equipment to another venue,” the official added after BCCI had offered the venue.

Apart from Kolkata, other venues which were considered as alternatives included Mohali – where Pakistan is due to take on New Zealand on March 22 and Australia on March 25. Bengaluru was another venue which was considered.

The women’s team are scheduled to play their matches in Chennai and New Delhi starting from March 16.


Published in The Express Tribune, March 10th, 2016.]]>
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			<title>Last-minute changes: Haroon confident of team’s chances as squad finalised</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/1061074/last-minute-changes-haroon-confident-of-teams-chances-as-squad-finalised</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/1061074/last-minute-changes-haroon-confident-of-teams-chances-as-squad-finalised#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Mon, 07 Mar 16 18:24:04 +0500</pubDate>
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			<description>
				<![CDATA[Shahzad for Manzoor only change despite poor Asia Cup showing]]>
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				<![CDATA[Opener Ahmad Shahzad’s return to the international fold has been confirmed after the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) submitted his name to the International Cricket Council for their final World T20 squad. The 24-year-old comes in for Khurram Manzoor, who had a nightmare debut tournament in the recently concluded Asia Cup.


Ahmad was up against former skipper Salman Butt in the reckoning for the opener’s slot left vacant by Manzoor, but skipper Shahid Afridi was against the inclusion of Butt due to his role in the ‘spot-fixing’ scandal five years ago.

But since his return to competitive cricket, Butt had made headlines as he amassed 536 runs in seven National One-Day Cup matches to finish behind Kamran Akmal in the top-scorers list.

Ahmad Shahzad replaces Khurram Manzoor in World T20 squad

The selectors and head coach Waqar Younis were leaning towards Butt, but Afridi’s opinion swayed their decision in Shahzad’s favour. PCB chairman Shaharyar Khan has approved the 15-member squad at the recommendation of the national selection committee, headed by Haroon Rashid.

Haroon backed the bunch to do well in India and said only one slot needed to be filled despite the team’s collectively poor showing in the Asia Cup.

Google doodle marks World T20 kick off

“I still believe we’ve got a good bunch that will do well in the World T20,” Haroon told The Express Tribune. “We’ve got talented players in the team but it is about doing well in all aspects of the game — batting, bowling and fielding.”

The chief selector believes they have chosen the cream of the crop and the onus is now on the players to deliver. “These are Pakistan’s best players and they must take responsibility,” he said. “We made only one change; and that too because Manzoor just couldn’t perform while Shahzad was impressive in the Pakistan Super League.”

Pakistan’s performances were not up to the mark in Bangladesh, but poor pitches and below-par umpiring standards made life even more difficult.

For World T20: Shahzad for Manzoor only change so far

However, conditions in India, where pitches tend to be hard and flat, will be different and the outfield is likely to be quicker as well.

And Haroon remains upbeat about the team’s chances. “Obviously this team can do well,” he said. “All they need is self-belief. I believe in this unit and the players must back their ability too. There is no reason why Pakistan can’t put up a good display.”


Off to India


The final 15

1.   Shahid Afridi        (c)

2.   Sarfraz Ahmed    (wk)

3.   Shoaib Malik

4.   Mohammad Hafeez

5.   Umar Akmal

6.   Ahmad Shahzad

7.   Sharjeel Khan

8.   Mohammad Nawaz

9.   Imad Wasim

10. Anwar Ali

11. Mohammad Irfan

12. Mohammad Amir

13. Wahab Riaz

14. Mohammad Sami

15. Khalid Latif

Published in The Express Tribune, March 8th, 2016.

Like Sports on Facebook, follow @ETribuneSports on Twitter to stay informed and join in the conversation.]]>
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			<title>Pakistan drop Shehzad for Asia Cup, World Twenty20</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/1043748/rumman-nawaz-included-in-world-t20-squad</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/1043748/rumman-nawaz-included-in-world-t20-squad#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Wed, 10 Feb 16 08:02:13 +0500</pubDate>
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			<description>
				<![CDATA[PSL performances earn Nawaz, Rumman call-up]]>
			</description>
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				<![CDATA[Pakistan have made four changes to their squad for this month's Asia Cup followed by the World Twenty20 including the axing of struggling opener Ahmed Shehzad after a poor run of form.

The 24-year-old Shehzad managed just 33 runs in Pakistan's 2-1 Twenty20 series loss in New Zealand last month and is one of four changes selectors made from the last tour.

Also out are Sohaib Maqsood, paceman Umar Gul and wicket-keeper batsman Mohammad Rizwan as chief selector Haroon Rasheed said the squad was selected after considering the conditions in Asia Cup hosts Bangladesh and India, where the World Twenty20 will be staged.

"While picking the squad, the team management and skipper were consulted by the selectors, and all concerned gave their consent in this regard," said Rasheed.

"The T20 team has been selected keeping in mind the conditions and the recent performances of some players in domestic and A team tours. The team is a fine blend of experience and youth and the selectors believe that team will do well in both tournaments."

Shehzad's place goes to 29-year-old Khurram Manzoor who had played 16 Tests and seven one-day internationals for Pakistan but has never featured in a Twenty20 game.

World T20: Pakistan await govt’s approval to play in India
He scored 309 runs in Pakistan's Twenty20 tournament with a strike rate of 133 which earned him the place.

Left-arm paceman Rumman Raees and left-arm spinning all-rounder Mohammad Nawaz were also rewarded for their showings at domestic level.

Also returned to the squad is lanky paceman Mohammad Irfan, rested for the Twenty20 series in New Zealand, making a four-pronged pace attack with all left-handers, with the sole right arm bowler coming in the shape of medium pacer Anwar Ali.

The Asia Cup will be played from February 24-March 6 followed by the World Twenty20 from March 8-April 3.

Smith takes Australia captaincy for World T20

Squad: Shahid Afridi (capt), Mohammad Hafeez, Shoaib Malik, Umar Akmal, Sarfraz Ahmed, Babar Azam, Iftikhar Ahmed, Imad Wasim, Anwar Ali, Mohammad Irfan, Wahab Riaz, Mohammad Amir, Mohammad Nawaz, Khurram Manzoor, Rumman Raees]]>
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			<title>Smith takes Australia captaincy for World T20</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/1043187/smith-takes-australia-captaincy-for-world-twenty20</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/1043187/smith-takes-australia-captaincy-for-world-twenty20#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Tue, 09 Feb 16 08:57:47 +0500</pubDate>
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			<description>
				<![CDATA[Kangaroos will play their first match on March 18 against New Zealand in Dharamsala]]>
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				<![CDATA[Australian selectors Tuesday dumped Aaron Finch as captain in favour of Steve Smith for the World Twenty20 which begins next month in India, while Peter Nevill replaces Matthew Wade as wicketkeeper.

Finch has been skipper since October 2014 but with Smith already captain of both the Test and one-day teams, national selector Rod Marsh said it was the right time for him to now take over in the shorter format.

"Aaron Finch has done a very good job captaining Australia in T20 cricket. He will have benefited enormously from the leadership opportunity and will remain a highly-respected leader within the Australian squad," said Marsh.

Warner, Marsh ensure revenge for Australia

"However since he became T20 captain, there has been a broader leadership transition in Test and one-day international cricket with Michael Clarke retiring and Steve Smith assuming the captaincy in Test and one-day cricket.

"We think now is the right time for Steve to lead Australia in all three forms of the game as it offers us important continuity, not only ahead of the World T20, but beyond that tournament as well."

The World T20 gets underway on March 8 with Australia, who have never won the tournament, opening their campaign on March 18 against New Zealand in Dharamsala.

Smith said he was looking forward to the new challenge.

McCullum heads into ODI retirement with NZ victory

"It's a fast-paced game, you have to really think on your feet, be ahead of the game," he said of captaining a T20 team.

"The World Cup is going to be a big challenge for us. It is one of the trophies that has eluded this side.

"We're going to be playing in different conditions where we haven't had a lot of success. It's going to be a hard tour, but I'm really looking forward to it."

A key surprise in the 15-man squad was the inclusion of Nevill, who is yet to play limited-overs cricket for Australia, but he was preferred to Wade whose recent form with the gloves and bat prompted the change.

"We feel our batting depth in this squad is sufficient enough that we can have a specialist wicket-keeper in the squad," said Marsh.

"We want Australia's best wicket-keeper playing in this tournament and we consider Peter Nevill to be the best in the country right now."

Ashton Agar and Adam Zampa, both yet to play T20 cricket for Australia, claimed the spin spots ahead of Test stalwart Nathan Lyon and Cameron Boyce.

They will be complemented by the part-time off-spin of Glenn Maxwell while Josh Hazlewood spearheads the attack.

Finch (hamstring), Nathan Coulter-Nile (shoulder) and James Faulkner (hamstring) were all named in the squad subject to proving their fitness.

"Overall, we believe the squad we have selected is well-balanced and has the experience and talent required to be successful in India and help us win the World T20 title for the first time," said Marsh.

"We were able to look at a number of players during the Big Bash League and the recent T20 international series against India and have selected the best short-form players available for the conditions we will encounter."

Australian squad: Usman Khawaja, David Warner, Shane Watson, Steve Smith (capt), Glenn Maxwell, Mitch Marsh, James Faulkner, John Hastings, Peter Nevill, Adam Zampa, Josh Hazlewood, Aaron Finch, Nathan Coulter-Nile, Ashton Agar, Andrew Tye]]>
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			<title>New Zealand name spin trio for World T20</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/1038227/new-zealand-name-spin-trio-for-world-t20</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/1038227/new-zealand-name-spin-trio-for-world-t20#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Mon, 01 Feb 16 12:02:34 +0500</pubDate>
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			<description>
				<![CDATA[Veteran Nathan McCullum, Mitchell Santner and Ish Sodhi included in 15-man squad]]>
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				<![CDATA[New Zealand on Monday named three spinners in the Black Caps squad for the ICC World Twenty20 in India, anticipating a wealth of turning wickets.

Veteran Nathan McCullum, Mitchell Santner and Ish Sodhi were all included in the 15-man party, which will be captained by Kane Williamson with Brendon McCullum's retirement pending.

"With the Indian conditions in mind, the plan has always been to take three front-line spinners and all three bring something different," coach Mike Hesson said.

Black Caps' chance to avenge Aussie cup drubbing

"It's great to have Nathan available again and his experience in the foreign conditions will be invaluable -- both he and Mitch Santner have the ability to bowl in the first six overs, which gives Kane a number of options to work with."

Hesson said Tim Southee, Ross Taylor and Mitchell McClenaghan -- all currently injured -- were expected to return for the March 8-April 3 tournament.

Rookie Henry Nicholls was named as back-up wicketkeeper to Luke Ronchi, while quick Matt Henry was omitted from a four-pronged pace attack featuring Southee, McClenaghan, Trent Boult and Adam Milne.

Lehmann hopeful to join Test team in New Zealand

New Zealand have been drawn in Group 2 of the Super 10 stage in India where they will play alongside Australia, Pakistan, the hosts, and one of the qualifiers from the first round.

Squad:

Kane Williamson (captain), Corey Anderson, Trent Boult, Grant Elliott, Martin Guptill, Adam Milne, Mitchell McClenaghan, Colin Munro, Nathan McCullum, Henry Nicholls, Luke Ronchi, Mitchell Santner, Ish Sodhi, Tim Southee, Ross Taylor]]>
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			<title>Australia's Finch says he'll be fit for World T20</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/1038228/australias-finch-says-hell-be-fit-for-world-t20</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/1038228/australias-finch-says-hell-be-fit-for-world-t20#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Mon, 01 Feb 16 11:42:40 +0500</pubDate>
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			<description>
				<![CDATA[Tournament will be organised in India from March 8 to April 3]]>
			</description>
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				<![CDATA[Australia captain Aaron Finch on Monday predicted he would be fit for next month's ICC World Twenty20 competition, after officials said a hamstring injury would not require surgery.

The 29-year-old hurt his left leg running between wickets during a match against India on Friday, eventually limping off the field after being run out.

"Aaron had scans on his injured left hamstring that confirmed a moderate grade hamstring injury," sports medicine manager Alex Kountouris said.

Centurion Watson bids to open in World T20

"Although this current injury doesn't require surgery there is a period of rehabilitation required before he can resume playing."

Finch is set to miss the one-day series in New Zealand which begins on Wednesday, but Kountouris said it was not a recurrence of an old hamstring injury which needed surgery in 2015.

"We are aiming to have Aaron fit for the ICC World T20 in India but will have a better idea about his fitness for that tournament in the coming weeks once we see how he responds to treatment and a rehabilitation programme," he said.

India seals T20 series against Australia

The top-order batsman had little doubt, however, tweeting: "I'll be in."

India will host the World Twenty20 from March 8 to April 3, with Mumbai and New Delhi staging the semi-finals and Kolkata the final.]]>
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			<title>ICC World T20: Trophy to visit Pakistan on January 11-12</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/1008938/icc-world-t20-trophy-to-visit-pakistan-on-january-11-12</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/1008938/icc-world-t20-trophy-to-visit-pakistan-on-january-11-12#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Sat, 12 Dec 15 18:23:22 +0500</pubDate>
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				<![CDATA[press.release]]>
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			<description>
				<![CDATA[Coveted prize to make appearance in public places across 12 countries]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[Pakistan will be the ICC World T20 India 2016 trophy’s first stop-over in the subcontinent on January 11-12, 2016 as it embarks on a global journey on Sunday from Mumbai.

According to an official International Cricket Council (ICC) press release, the trophy will visit 12 countries taking part in the tournament, which will be staged in India from March 11 to April 3, 2016.

During its journey, the trophy will be on display at domestic and international matches, as well as at various public places, which will enable the fans to capture a very special moment with the most prestigious silverware in the shortest format of the world game.

Divided opinions: Question marks aplenty ahead of World T20

Details of the trophy’s public appearances will be announced by the host boards closer to the time.

After departing from Mumbai on December 13, Scotland will be the trophy’s first port of call, before it travels to Ireland, England and the Netherlands as part of its European leg.

The trophy’s African safari will be from January 2-7, during which it will make appearances in Harare (January 2-3) and Cape Town (January 5-7).

Pakistan's World T20 preparations have begun: Shahryar Khan

Next stop will be Pakistan in the trophy’s Asian voyage, followed by Bangladesh (January 14-15) and then Sri Lanka (January 17-18).

On the Trans-Tasman tour, the trophy will arrive in Wellington on January 21 and will then head to Australia on January 26 where it will be displayed in Adelaide, Melbourne and Sydney until January 31.

From Sydney, the trophy will return to New Delhi on February 1 and will then start its domestic tour by making appearances at each of the venues that will host the 2016 ICC World T20 matches.


Itinerary: The trophy’s journey


Date                    Venue

Dec 13-14       Scotland

Dec 16-17       Ireland

Dec 20-21      England

Dec 22-23      Netherlands

Jan 2-3          Zimbabwe

Jan 5-7          South Africa

Jan 11-12       Pakistan

Jan 14-15      Bangladesh

Jan 17-18      Sri Lanka

Jan 21-24      New Zealand

Jan 26-31      Australia

Feb 1              New Delhi

 

Published in The Express Tribune, December 13th, 2015.

Like Sports on Facebook, follow @ETribuneSports on Twitter to stay informed and join in the conversation.]]>
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			<title>Authorities demand explanation from Shahid Afridi to explain team's criticism</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/693296/authorities-demand-explanation-from-shahid-afridi-to-explain-teams-criticism</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/693296/authorities-demand-explanation-from-shahid-afridi-to-explain-teams-criticism#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Wed, 09 Apr 14 09:17:45 +0500</pubDate>
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			<description>
				<![CDATA[The cricket-star criticised team's 'negative' approach for their early exit from World Twenty20.]]>
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				<![CDATA[Cricket authorities on Wednesday demanded an explanation from star all-rounder Shahid Afridi after he criticised the team's "negative" approach for their early exit from the World Twenty20.

Pakistan failed to reach the semi-finals of the tournament for the first time in five editions, prompting Afridi to take a swipe at the team's batsmen who stumbled in their final match against the West Indies which they lost by 84 runs.

Sri Lanka had won the title by beating India in the final in Dhaka on April 6.

Subhan Ahmed, Pakistan Cricket Board's (PCB) chief operating officer, confirmed Afridi had been served a notice, which can lead to a fine or reprimand.

"Yes, the PCB had served him with a show cause notice on his interview," Ahmed told AFP.

The PCB had forbidden the players from speaking to the media without prior permission.

Afridi, who is known for his hard hitting and plain speaking, had blasted the top order after they were bundled out for 82 runs chasing 167.

"It wasn't a big total which couldn't be achieved but the game slipped out of our hands in the first six overs of our batting," Afridi told reporters on team's arrival last week.

"It was due to our negative approach in the first six overs, and that's the reason we lost the match."

A days after the team's return, Twenty20 captain Mohammad Hafeez stepped down from his role, taking responsibility for the team's failure.

Afridi, widely seen as the next Twenty20 captain, said he was ready to take the role.

"I am ready to accept any challenge for the Pakistan team. As a player and as a captain I have no issues, but things should improve," Afridi had said.

Sources close to Afridi told AFP that he had replied to the notice, saying he spoke from his heart at the team's failure.]]>
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			<title>Malinga over the moon with World Twenty20 success</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/692599/malinga-over-the-moon-with-world-twenty20-success</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/692599/malinga-over-the-moon-with-world-twenty20-success#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Mon, 07 Apr 14 19:10:37 +0500</pubDate>
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			<description>
				<![CDATA[Outgoing Sangakkara praises stand-in captain’s achievement.]]>
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				<![CDATA[Lasith Malinga found himself trusted with the Sri Lankan captaincy midway through the World Twenty20 and emerged with the trophy in his arms on Sunday, after three heady weeks in Bangladesh.


Having previously lost two finals, Sri Lanka entered the tournament under the leadership of 24-year-old Dinesh Chandimal, who was slapped with a one-match suspension after the team’s second slow over-rate offence in 12 months.



While Malinga stepped in as stand-in skipper, Chandimal’s replacement Lahiru Thirimanne grabbed his chance with both hands, prompting the selectors to continue with the arrangement even after the regular T20 skipper’s suspension ended.

Malinga’s leadership inexperience was more than offset by the presence of three former skippers – Mahela Jayawardene, Kumar Sangakkara and Tillakaratne Dilshan – and the current Test and 50-overs captain, Angelo Mathews, who were always willing to help him out.

“Before the tournament, I was not the captain,” Malinga told reporters after the team’s emotional victory.

“After that, Chandimal had to be dropped. He could not play the match because of [slow] overrate [suspension]. After that the selectors decided to give me the captaincy.

“I’ve played in this team for 10 years and I know every single player — their ability, what they can do. I think I really enjoyed my captaincy in the last three games.”

Sangakkara, man-of-the-match in the final for his unbeaten 52, said he was impressed by Malinga’s leadership.

“Our job is to support anyone who captains, it does not matter who he is,” said Sangakkara. “Lasith did a fantastic job; I think he was extremely impressive.”

Dhoni defends struggling Yuvraj

India captain MS Dhoni sprang to defend teammate Yuvraj Singh after the left-hander’s struggle with the bat in the World Twenty20 final loss to Sri Lanka on Sunday.

The left-hander used up 21 deliveries towards the end to score just 11 runs, failing to rotate strike and allow the set batsman and player-of-the-tournament, Virat Kohli (77), to launch a late assault.

Dhoni conceded the last four overs probably cost India the trophy, which would have completed a record limited overs treble for the 50-over World Cup and Champions Trophy holders.

He refused, however, to blame Yuvraj, who barring a half-century against Australia, had a poor tournament.

“He was trying and that’s the most you can do,” said Dhoni. “It happens to everyone, not just cricketers. Yuvraj tried his best, it was an off day for him.”

Asked why he did not promote himself ahead of Yuvraj, Dhoni said, “We wanted a left-right combination to make it slightly difficult for the bowlers to execute their plans. That was the reason why we had Yuvraj at number four.”

Published in The Express Tribune, April 8th, 2014.

Like Sports on Facebook, follow @ETribuneSports on Twitter to stay informed and join in the conversation.]]>
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			<title>Indians dominate ICC team of the World Twenty20</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/692434/indians-dominate-icc-team-of-the-world-twenty20</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/692434/indians-dominate-icc-team-of-the-world-twenty20#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Mon, 07 Apr 14 09:35:25 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[reuters]]>
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			<category><![CDATA[Sports]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=692434</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[No Pakistani players selected by the ICC for its team of the tournament.]]>
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				<![CDATA[Paceman Lasith Malinga was the only member of Sri Lanka's World Twenty20-winning side to earn a place in the International Cricket Council (ICC) team of the tournament, as vanquished Indian players dominated the selection. 

Sri Lanka broke a finals-losing jinx to lift a maiden World Twenty20 title on Sunday with a comfortable six-wicket victory over 2007 champions India.

However, only the blond-mopped Malinga, who led the side after Dinesh Chandimal opted to keep himself out of the starting lineup, made the ICC team named on Monday.

Four Indian players made the side, captained by wicket-keeper batsman Mahendra Singh Dhoni, with two from South Africa and West Indies, and one representative each from Australia and the Netherlands besides champions Sri Lanka.

"It was a very difficult task for the panel to pick a team of 11 from the exciting players who featured in this tournament," former Australia batsman David Boon, the chairman of the ICC selection panel, said in a statement.

"As the selection criteria for the team of the tournament are the performances of players in the conditions during the ICC World Twenty20 2014, some of the best players in world cricket had to be left out of the team.

"Bowlers, in particular, performed strongly throughout this tournament and the side we have selected includes three of the most impressive bowlers in Dale Steyn, Samuel Badree and Lasith Malinga."

Team:

Rohit Sharma (India), Stephan Myburgh (Netherlands), Virat Kohli (India), JP Duminy (South Africa), Glenn Maxwell (Australia), MS Dhoni (India - captain), Darren Sammy (West Indies), Ravichandran Ashwin (India), Dale Steyn (South Africa), Samuel Badree (West Indies), Lasith Malinga (Sri Lanka). 12th player: Krishmar Santokie (West Indies).]]>
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			<title>Pakistan was offered to be part of Big Four, claims Najam Sethi</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/692427/pakistan-was-offered-to-be-part-of-big-four-claims-najam-sethi</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/692427/pakistan-was-offered-to-be-part-of-big-four-claims-najam-sethi#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Mon, 07 Apr 14 09:01:06 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[web.desk]]>
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			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=692427</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Ex-PCB chief Zaka Ashraf refused the offer, which was detrimental to the country: PCB Chairman Najam Sethi.]]>
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				<![CDATA[Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Najam Sethi alleged that the Big Three of the International Cricket Council (ICC) had invited Pakistan to be part of a Big Four but the administration under former PCB chairman Zaka Ashraf refused the offer, to the detriment of the country, Express News reported on Monday.

Sethi was speaking to the media at the Lahore Airport before he departed for Dubai to attend an ICC executive board meeting.

On February 8, ICC board had passed a wide-ranging and controversial shake-up of its governance and structure, effectively placing India, England and Australia in charge of the game.

The dominant trio, or the ‘Big Three’, seemed to be the big winners after the proposals were approved by the necessary eight out of 10 full members at a hastily convened ICC board meeting in Singapore.

In the revamped ICC, India – which contributes 80% of global revenues – and fellow powerhouses England and Australia have permanent seats on a new, five-member executive committee.

Speaking to the media today, Sethi said that all international tours till 2020 were decided with various countries except with India.

He added that for the promotion of cricket in Pakistan and for better relations between India and Pakistan, it was necessary for bilateral series to take place between the two countries.

World Twenty20 defeat

Referring to the resignation of cricketer Mohammad Hafeez as the Twenty20 captain after Pakistan's recent defeat in the WorldTwenty20, Sethi said that Hafeez had set a good example.

Taking the blame of Pakistan’s below par performance in World Twenty20, Mohammad Hafeez had announced to step down as skipper in shortest format of the game. He had also relinquished the post of vice-captain in ODIs and Tests.

Team Pakistan had faced withering criticism after their appalling show in the mega event, underway in Bangladesh, where the team failed to make it to the semi-finals for the first time in the history of World Twenty20.

Sethi also said that he will overview domestic cricket for the next four months after which a new captain as well as coaching staff will be selected, adding that the selections will be made on merit.]]>
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			<title>World T20: Best of the rest outplay ‘Big Three’</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/692186/world-t20-best-of-the-rest-outplay-big-three</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/692186/world-t20-best-of-the-rest-outplay-big-three#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Sun, 06 Apr 14 22:07:48 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[agencies]]>
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			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
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			<description>
				<![CDATA[The victory gave Sri Lanka their first world title in 18 years since winning the World Cup (50 overs) crown in 1996.]]>
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				<![CDATA[The ‘Big Three’ of the cricketing world failed to impress in the ICC WorldTwenty20 as their ‘lesser’ rivals outplayed them in style at Sher-e-Bangla stadium on Sunday.

While India made it to the final, the two other members of the ‘privileged club’ couldn’t move past the group stage of the tournament, with England losing to minnows Holland and Australia losing all but one of its matches.

On Sunday, a spirited Sri Lanka outmaneuvered India in the final to clinch the WorldTwenty20 title. Kumar Sangakkara knocked an unbeaten 35-ball 52 in his last T20 of his career with six boundaries and a six to turn the tables on MS Dhoni’s men.

The victory gave Lasith Malinga’s side their first world title in 18 years since winning the World Cup (50 overs) crown in 1996.

“It’s been a long time coming, we’ve waited five finals,” said Sangakkara, who was captain in the 2009 WorldTwenty20 and 2011 World Cup.

Published in The Express Tribune, April 7th, 2014.]]>
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			<title>Sri Lanka roar to maiden World Twenty20 glory</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/692285/sri-lanka-roar-to-maiden-world-twenty20-glory</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/692285/sri-lanka-roar-to-maiden-world-twenty20-glory#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Sun, 06 Apr 14 20:47:37 +0500</pubDate>
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			<description>
				<![CDATA[Sangakkara leads team to victory with his last unbeaten 52-run stand against India in the final.]]>
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				<![CDATA[Kumar Sangakkara hit a memorable half-century to help Sri Lanka to a six-wicket victory over India in the World Twenty20 final in Dhaka on Sunday.


The veteran left-hander knocked a 35-ball 52 (not out) in his last T20 match and anchored the chase with six boundaries and a six in his unbeaten knock.



The victory gave Sri Lanka their first world title in 18 years since winning the World Cup (50 overs) crown in 1996 and also broke Sri Lanka’s jinx of losing the final of major world level events. The side had lost two World Cup (50 overs) finals (2007 and 2011) and were runners-up in as many World Twenty20 events in 2009 and 2012.

“It’s been a long time coming, we’ve waited five finals,” said Sangakkara, who was captain in the 2009 World Twenty20 and 2011 World Cup, but will now quit Twenty20 along with Mahela Jayawardene.

“I am pretty happy that I was able to do something for the team. It means a lot to all of us. We are very humbled by this.”

India won the inaugural edition in 2007 followed by Pakistan (2009), England (2010) and the West Indies (2012).



In contrast India were denied a chance to become the first team ever to hold three major cricketing titles at one time, after clinching the 2011 World Cup title and the Champions Trophy last year.

India captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni was full of praise for Sri Lanka.

“It was a perfect game for them,” said Dhoni. “In the middle overs our batsmen tried our best, but we couldn’t convert the good start.

“We were short of a few runs but Virat has been brilliant,” said Dhoni of Kohli, declared player of the tournament.

Earlier, after India were sent into bat in a match reduced by 40 minutes due to rain.

They were reduced to 130 for four by some tight Sri Lankan bowling despite a brilliant half-century by Kohli, whose 58-ball 77 was his eighth T20 half-century (and fourth of this tournament).

Kohli added 60 for the second wicket with Rohit Sharma (29) and another 55 for the third with Yuvraj Singh who slowed down the tempo with a snail-paced 11 off 21 balls.



Sharma hit three boundaries during his 26-ball knock before he was caught off Herath who finished with 1-23 in his four overs.

Meanwhile, Sri Lankan President Mahinda Rajapakse telephoned his team in Dhaka to congratulate them for their biggest cricket win since the 1996 World Cup, his office said.

“A short while ago, the president spoke to the team and officials and congratulated them,” said an official.

Sri Lanka went into the game with the offer of a million dollar bonus if they shed their reputation as chokers in the final against India.


FACT BOX


Highest Total

South Africa (196) v England

Highest Individual Score

Alex Hales, England (116*)

Most Sixes

Stephan Myburgh, Netherlands (13)

Most Wickets

Imran Tahir, South Africa (12)

Best Bowling Figures

Rangana Herath (5-3 in 3.3 overs)

Largest Victory

West Indies (84 runs) v Pakistan

Published in The Express Tribune, April 7th, 2014.

Like Sports on Facebook, follow @ETribuneSports on Twitter to stay informed and join in the conversation.]]>
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			<title>Fairytale swansong for Sangakkara, Sri Lanka new WorldT20 champions</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/692072/sri-lanka-to-field-against-india-in-world-t20-final</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/692072/sri-lanka-to-field-against-india-in-world-t20-final#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Sun, 06 Apr 14 14:05:13 +0500</pubDate>
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				<![CDATA[afp]]>
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			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
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			<description>
				<![CDATA[Sri Lanka restricts India to 130-4 after electing to field, then cruises past target with 13 deliveries to spare.]]>
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				<![CDATA[Sri Lanka defeated India by six wickets to lift their maiden World Twenty20 title in Dhaka on Sunday.

The Islanders restricted India to 130-4 after electing to field, and then cruised past the modest target with 13 deliveries to spare.

It was Sri Lanka's first victory in five finals over the past seven years, having lost twice in the 50-over World Cup finals in 2007 and 2011, and the World Twenty20 finals in 2009 and 2012.

Left-hander Kumar Sangakkara, who was declared man of the match, remained unbeaten on 52 off 35 balls to take Sri Lanka home after their bowlers restricted the 2007 champions to 130 for four wickets. Sri Lanka reached their target with 13 balls to spare. Virat Kohli top-scored for India with 77 off 58 balls.

Sri Lanka's stand-in captain Lasith Malinga won the toss in the World Twenty20 final in Dhaka on Sunday and sent India in to bat.

The start was delayed by 40 minutes due to rain, but was played over the full duration of 20-overs-a-side at the Sher-e-Bangla stadium.

Sri Lanka's T20 captain Dinesh Chandimal once again opted out of the game, as he had done in Thursday's semi-final against the West Indies, leaving Malinga to lead the Islanders.

India managed a below-par total of 130-4 against Sri Lanka despite a brilliant half-century by Virat Kohli in the final of World Twenty20 in Dhaka on Sunday.

Kohli scored a 58-ball 77 for his eighth Twenty20 half-century, his fourth in this tournament.

The rain spiced up the pitch for bowlers but Kohli was at his best when he came to the crease after India lost Ajinkya Rahane (three) in Angelo Mathews's second over of the innings.

Let off by Lasith Malinga at mid-wicket off left-arm spinner Rangana Herath's first delivery when 11, Kohli took full advantage of the laspe by hitting five boundaries and four sixes before he was run out off the final delivery.

But apart from Kohli, none of the Indian batsmen could score at a faster pace against a disciplined Sri Lankan bowling attack.

Kohli added 60 for the second wicket with Rohit Sharma (29) and another 55 for the third with Yuvraj Singh who slowed down the tempo with a snail-paced 11 off 21 balls.

Sharma hit three boundaries during his 26-ball knock before he was caught off Herath who finished with 1-23 in his four overs.

India remained unchanged from the side which beat South Africa in the semi-final while Sri Lanka brought in Thisara Perera for Seekkuge Prasanna from the line-up which beat the West Indies in the first pre-final.

Squads

India: Mahendra Singh Dhoni (capt), Rohit Sharma, Ajinkya Rahane, Virat Kohli, Yuvraj Singh, Suresh Raina, Ravindra Jadeja, Ravichandran Ashwin, Amit Mishra, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Mohit Sharma.

Sri Lanka: Lasith Malinga (capt), Kusal Perera, Tillakaratne Dilshan, Mahela Jayawardene, Kumar Sangakkara, Lahiru Thirimanne, Angelo Mathews, Thisara Perera, Nuwan Kulasekara, Sachithra Senanayake, Rangana Herath.

Umpires: Ian Gould (ENG) and Richard Kettleborough (ENG)

TV umpire: Rod Tucker (AUS)

Match referee: David Boon (AUS)]]>
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			<title>Kohli guides India to second World Twenty20 final</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/691488/kohli-guides-india-to-second-world-twenty20-final</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/691488/kohli-guides-india-to-second-world-twenty20-final#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Fri, 04 Apr 14 20:18:32 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
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			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=691488</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Batsman’s 72-run knock helps team sink stumbling South Africa .]]>
			</description>
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				<![CDATA[Virat Kohli hit an imperious half-century to help India upstage South Africa by six wickets in the second semi-final in Dhaka on Friday to cruise into the World Twenty20 final.


Chasing 173 to win, the former champions were led by a knock of 72 not out by Kohli as they strolled to the target with five balls to spare.

This becomes India’s second final in five World Twenty20s after they won the inaugural event held in South Africa in 2007. They meet Sri Lanka in the final in Dhaka on Sunday.



In contrast, South Africa yet again failed to reach any world level final since their readmission into cricket in 1991.

MS Dhoni, who will lead India to a triple crown if his team win the final with the 2011 World Cup (50 overs) and 2013 Champions Trophy in the bag, praised the run chase.

“Everybody saw that the wicket was better than those we have played on, and they believed they could chase this down,” said Dhoni.

“There are not many who are as consistent as Virat. It is great to have him at number three.”

South African captain Faf du Plessis praised India and Kohli.

“We put up a good total but the bad thing is, MS and his team know how to chase,” said Du Plessis. “They have done it many times and Virat played a great innings.”

Kohli smashed five boundaries and two sixes off 44 balls in a brilliant display of batting.

He hit paceman Dale Steyn for a boundary to seal the win much to the jubilation of a packed Shere Bangla stadium.

Leg-spinner Imran Tahir managed just one wicket for 30 runs in his four overs while pacer Dale Steyn went for 36 in 3.1 overs.

South Africa, who batted after winning the toss were helped to 172 for four with Du Plessis scoring a 41-ball 58 for his fifth Twenty20 fifty.

He added 71 for the third wicket with Jean-Paul Duminy who made an unbeaten 40-ball 45 to bolster the innings.

South Africa lost opener Quinton de Kock (six) in the first over before Hashim Amla and Du Plessis took the score to 44 in the fifth over.

But Ravichandran Ashwin, who took three for 22 in his four overs, put the brakes on South Africa’s progress, claiming Amla (22) and then dangerman AB de Villiers (ten) off a miscued pull shot which was smartly held by Rohit Sharma at long leg.

In between, Du Plessis and Duminy batted with guts to take South Africa to 115 before Ashwin bowled Du Plessis off a miscued sweep.

Published in The Express Tribune, April 5th, 2014.

Like Sports on Facebook, follow @ETribuneSports on Twitter to stay informed and join in the conversation.]]>
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			<title>A brave decision</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/691428/a-brave-decision</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/691428/a-brave-decision#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Fri, 04 Apr 14 18:51:10 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[editorial]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Sports]]></category><category><![CDATA[Editorial]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=691428</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Keeping the conspiracy theories aside, Hafeez’s decision to step down as T20 captain seems a brave one.]]>
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			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[Pakistan’s unceremonious exit from the WorldTwenty20, quote understandably so, did not go down well with fans and the experts of the game. Immediately after the 82-run defeat to the defending champions, West Indies, cricketing pundits called for an overhaul of the team. Following this, Mohammad Hafeez, the only captain to lead Pakistan in two editions of the biggest tournament of the shortest format of the game, decided to step down.

Hafeez has taken full responsibility for the failure of his team to reach the last four stage of the event for the first time. While many claim that he was forced to resign, Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Najam Sethi, who conducted a three-hour post-mortem of the defeat in company of the head coach, Moin Khan, and Hafeez, contradicted their claims.

Keeping the conspiracy theories aside, Hafeez’s decision seems a brave one — not many Pakistan captains of the past have relinquished the opportunity of being captain of the national team in even more adverse circumstances. He played an active part in the selection of the 15-man squad that represented the country in the tournament and has accepted that they failed to deliver. He has also said that he was disappointed at his own performance in the event as well (55 runs in four innings and a solitary wicket).

The next few months are barren for Pakistan cricket; most of the leading players are expected to take part in the Caribbean Premier League (CPL) that follows the Indian Premier League. Before the CPL, the players have two months free. The PCB is trying to organise a short series yet the PCB chief said that the Board was not in a hurry to announce a replacement for Hafeez. Sethi and Co. have to decide the future of the team management as well: the contracts of Moin, fielding coach Shoaib Mohammad and batting consultant Zaheer Abbas expired after the WorldT20. Hopefully the PCB will continue with the trio as sweeping changes in the management are not necessary and they deserve a proper run like their predecessors, Dav Whatmore and Julien Fountain, enjoyed.

Published in The Express Tribune, April 5th, 2014.

Like Opinion &amp; Editorial on Facebook, follow @ETOpEd on Twitter to receive all updates on all our daily pieces.]]>
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			<title>Stuttering South Africa face unbeaten India</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/691141/stuttering-south-africa-face-unbeaten-india</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/691141/stuttering-south-africa-face-unbeaten-india#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Thu, 03 Apr 14 19:34:55 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[news.desk]]>
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			<category><![CDATA[Sports]]></category>
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			<description>
				<![CDATA[Proteas to rely primarily on their fiery pacers in semi-final.]]>
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				<![CDATA[India, who remain unbeaten in this year’s World Twenty20 tournament, are set to face a dysfunctional South Africa in the second semi-final in Dhaka on April 4.

India, holders of the World Cup and Champions Trophy, will try to smother the South African pace attack with a twist of spin bowling as they vie to complete their set by winning this year’s World Twenty20 title.

On the other hand, South Africa have not really lived up to their ‘chokers’ taboo. They have had a pretty scrambled form throughout the tournament and are being labelled as ‘unpredictable’, similar to Asian teams such as Pakistan.

Ravichandran Ashwin, India’s premier spin bowler in the tournament said that South Africa’s poor form in the tournament will not let his side prepare any less when they face the Proteas.

“We are not looking at things like what happened in the past,” said Ashwin. “If they want to do it [make unpredictable changes], it’s their problem.”

Meanwhile, India has tamed every side they have faced in the tournament so far, keeping a check on their playing styles. They beat Pakistan with discipline in the opening match while restricting West Indies from hitting big. Later, they defeated hosts Bangladesh who seemed completely out of form throughout the tournament, and lastly a win over a demoralised Australia was the cherry on top as the Kangaroos were already pushed out of the tournament.

Earlier, Faf du Plessis pointed out that India will have an advantage while playing in Dhaka as they have played all their matches at the same venue.

“Obviously, the wicket in Dhaka is completely different to Chittagong,” said Du Plessis. “We played all our games there, and India has played all their games here. Definitely from a conditions point of view, they are more used to it than we are.”

Published in The Express Tribune, April 4th, 2014.

Like Sports on Facebook, follow @ETribuneSports on Twitter to stay informed and join in the conversation.]]>
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			<title>Sri Lanka weather West Indies storm</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/691137/sri-lanka-weather-west-indies-storm</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/691137/sri-lanka-weather-west-indies-storm#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Thu, 03 Apr 14 19:28:43 +0500</pubDate>
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				<![CDATA[afp]]>
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			<category><![CDATA[Sports]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=691137</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[2012 runners-up through to World Twenty20 final.]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[Sri Lanka reached the final of the World Twenty20 with a 27-run win over the West Indies, the defending champions, after their semi-final was ended by rain on Thursday.


Set a challenging 161-run target, the West Indies were well short on the Duckworth-Lewis method when a thunderstorm stopped play after 13.5 overs at the Shere Bangla stadium in Dhaka.

West Indies, who would have needed 108 to win on the D/L method, were 80 for four when play was halted.

The win was sweet revenge for Sri Lanka who lost the 2012 final to the West Indies in Colombo.

Sri Lanka will face the winners of the second semi-final between 2007 champions India and South Africa, also in Dhaka on Friday.

Dwayne Bravo hit a 19-ball 30 studded with three boundaries and a six to take the fight to the Sri Lankan bowlers who took three wickets in the space of nine runs after the West Indies had reached 25 for nought in the fifth over.

Spearhead Lasith Malinga, who was leading Sri Lanka after their captain Dinesh Chandimal opted out due to lack of form, dismissed danger man Chris Gayle (three) and Dwayne Smith (17) in his second over.

Leg-spinner Seekkuge Prasanna had Lendl Simmons lbw (four) to leave the West Indies struggling at 34 for three before Bravo and Marlon Samuels (18 not out) added 43 for the fourth wicket.

Bravo was smartly caught in the deep by Mahela Jayawardene off Nuwan Kulasekara and three balls later the rain arrived in the aftermath of strong winds.

When Sri Lanka batted after winning the toss, Lahiru Thirimanne top-scored with a career best 35-ball 44, Tillakaratne Dilshan made a run-a-ball 39 and Angelo Mathews a fiery 23-ball 40.

Mathews hit two sixes and three boundaries to give the innings much-needed impetus before he fell off the last delivery.

Thirimanne hit three boundaries and two sixes.

Sri Lanka had raced to 41 in the fourth over thanks to Dilshan and Kusal Perera (26), before they lost three wickets in the space of 15 balls.

Perera, who hit two fours and as many sixes off 12 balls, was bowled by Santokie before Jayawardene was run out without facing a delivery.

Published in The Express Tribune, April 4th, 2014.

Like Sports on Facebook, follow @ETribuneSports on Twitter to stay informed and join in the conversation.]]>
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			<title>Mohammad Hafeez steps down as T20 captain</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/690875/mohammad-hafeez-steps-down-as-t20-captain</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/690875/mohammad-hafeez-steps-down-as-t20-captain#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Thu, 03 Apr 14 12:00:09 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[news.desk]]>
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			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=690875</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Najam Sethi says resignation is sign of bravery.]]>
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				<![CDATA[Mohammad Hafeez has resigned as Pakistan’s Twenty20 captain after the team was sent packing from the tournament after a humiliating 82-run defeat against the West Indies on Tuesday.

After meeting the PCB Chairman Najam Sethi, Hafeez announced his decision at the Qaddafi stadium in Lahore.

“I accept the responsibility for the performance and have decided to step down. I want to thank the players, my family and the cricket board for their support throughout my tenure,” he said.

Hafeez is the only captain to have led Pakistan in two editions of the ICC WorldT20 tournament, after going down to the West Indies the 2009 champions failed to make it to the last four of the tournament for the first time in their history.

The all-rounder added that he was willing to play as a player under any captain. “I would offer my support to any captain. Previously too I have played under many captains and would offer my complete support to my replacement.”

Later in the day, Najam Sethi spoke to the media and said that Hafeez's resignation shows that he is taking responsibility for the team and that it is a sign of bravery.

…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
[embed width="628"]http://www.dailymotion.com/video/x1ll854[/embed]

Reaction

Basit Ali, former Pakistan captain and coach of Hafeez’s domestic team SNGPL, feels the resignation should not have been accepted by Sethi.

“It’s a bad decision which the chairman should not have accepted. I have a feeling that Hafeez was asked to step down and has been made a scapegoat for the disaster in Mirpur,” Ali told The Express Tribune.

He added that the PCB needs to invest in the future and should consider naming Ahmed Shehzad the new captain in the T20 format.

According to Ali, Younis Khan is the best choice to lead the team in the other two formats. “Shehzad should captain the T20 team; Younis has the potential and the experience to captain the team in the other two formats”.

While Ali thinks that he was hard done by, many former cricketers called for Hafeez’s ouster following the heavy defeat.

Hafeez also drew flak for choosing Kamran Akmal and Shoaib Malik in the squad that represented the team in Bangladesh as the two looked well past their prime during the matches.]]>
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			<title>Hafeez not happy with performance of self, team in World T20</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/690750/hafeez-not-happy-with-performance-of-self-team-in-world-t20</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/690750/hafeez-not-happy-with-performance-of-self-team-in-world-t20#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Wed, 02 Apr 14 22:15:17 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Ismail.sheikh]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Sports]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=690750</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Hafeez says he will present his report on the team's performance to PCB chairman at a meeting on Thursday.]]>
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				<![CDATA[On his return from Bangladesh after crashing out of the World Twenty20 Cup, a disappointed national team captain Mohammad Hafeez took little time to point out his dissatisfaction with performances of himself as an individual and of the team in the tournament, Express News reported.

Speaking to the media at the Allama Iqbal International Airport in Lahore shortly after his arrival early on Thursday, the T20 team captain said their performance was not up to nation’s expectations.

Hafeez said that he believes whenever a team displays poor performance it should be questioned.

In response to a question whether he is ready to face the music before Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Najam Sethi, Hafeez said that an inquiry would be held to determine the factors responsible for Pakistan’s defeat.

The captain said he will present all his reports to PCB chairman in a meeting scheduled for Thursday.

“West Indies played exceptionally well in last five overs of their innings and made over 80 runs, that changed the momentum of the game,” said Hafeez.

Hafeez refused to comment on a question that whether he would play under the captaincy of all-rounder Shahid Afridi, saying he is not aware of any such statement.

On question whether he wished to remain as the T20 captain, Hafeez said it is upto the PCB who they appoint as captain and they are the one who had selected him to lead the side. “If PCB thinks I am performing my duties as captain well then they would retain me otherwise whoever PCB chose as the captain, we all would respect him."

https://twitter.com/najamsethi/status/451274520008331265

https://twitter.com/najamsethi/status/451274881381179392]]>
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			<title>Australia ready to repeat history</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/690500/australia-ready-to-repeat-history</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/690500/australia-ready-to-repeat-history#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Wed, 02 Apr 14 20:27:54 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[news.desk]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Sports]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=690500</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[West Indies prepare to curb Kangaroos jinx.]]>
			</description>
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				<![CDATA[Australia will try to replicate history as they face West Indies Women in the first semi-final of the Women’s World Twenty20 on Thursday in Dhaka.

The match will be a repeat of the semi-final in Sri Lanka, which Australia won by 28 runs on their way to securing the trophy, and of the final of the 2013 World Cup, where they once again came out on top.

In the current tournament, Australia made a losing start to their title defence against New Zealand and then went on to snatch three victories to finish top of their group.

Meanwhile, the West Indies went the other way — winning their first three matches to ensure progress to the knockout stage before falling to a defeat against India.

Australia will be relying on Elyse Villani to strengthen their batting department while West Indies will be relying on the all-round performance of Deandra Dottin.

“Dottin is always very dangerous,” said Australia opener Meg Lanning.

Published in The Express Tribune, April 3rd, 2014.

Like Sports on Facebook, follow @ETribuneSports on Twitter to stay informed and join in the conversation.]]>
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			<title>West Indies ready to make history, says Sammy</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/690501/west-indies-ready-to-make-history-says-sammy</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/690501/west-indies-ready-to-make-history-says-sammy#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Wed, 02 Apr 14 20:18:35 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[agencies]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Sports]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=690501</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Caribbean team ready to face-off against Sri Lanka spinners.]]>
			</description>
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				<![CDATA[West Indies captain Darren Sammy was confident on Wednesday that his side can defend the title and achieve what no other team has done in the history of the World Twenty20.

Famous for playing a cavalier brand of cricket, the West Indies won the fourth edition of the World Twenty20 in Sri Lanka two years ago, and are now just two matches away from defending it as they meet Sri Lanka in the first of two semi-finals in Dhaka on Thursday.



“We left the Caribbean with that motivating factor for us,” said Sammy.

“It’s something which no team has done before and we are confident that we can do that if we play the brand of cricket we played in the last three games.”

This year, the West Indies lost their opening match to India before beating Bangladesh, Australia and Pakistan in Group 2 at the Super-10 stage.

Sammy said facing Sri Lanka spinner Rangan Herath, who took an astonishing five wickets for three runs against New Zealand in Chittagong to guide his side into the semis, would not be a problem.

“The make-up of our side allows guys like Dwayne Smith and Chris Gayle to go hard at the top, so we don’t mind the left-arm spinner and hopefully we won’t play him (Herath) like New Zealand did.”

Sammy said his spinners would also pose a challenge for the rival team.

“Just as spin-bowling will be a challenge for us, it will be a challenge for them as well. You are looking at the number one and two in West Indies’ bowling line up,” said Sammy of his spinners Samuel Badree and Sunil Narine, ranked one and two in international Twenty20 rankings.

Sri Lanka welcome ‘lovely’ spin headache

Sri Lanka coach Paul Farbrace said on Wednesday that left-arm spinner Rangana Herath’s magical spell against New Zealand have presented Sri Lanka with a ‘lovely headache’ ahead of the semi-final against the West Indies.

Picked ahead of spin colleague Ajantha Mendis who had proved expensive against England, Herath destroyed New Zealand in a 59-run romp in Chittagong on Monday. Farbrace conceded Herath had spun a selection dilemma after claiming five wickets for three runs in 21 balls to put Sri Lanka in the semi-finals.

“It’s a lovely headache to have,” said former Kent player at the Sher-e-Bangla National Stadium.

“We know we have got some very high-quality spin bowlers in the team. It gives us a really good headache to have. There’s been plenty discussion and there will be plenty more before the coin goes up tomorrow night I can assure you.”

Sri Lanka will have to quickly adjust to conditions in Mirpur but at least their spinners would be spared the heavy dew factor which made gripping the ball difficult in Chittagong.

“We know here the wicket will turn but again it’s about making sure we get the right pace,” said Farbrace.

“It’s not just about getting the ball to the other end. Spinners need to bowl the right pace on the right surface.”

Published in The Express Tribune, April 3rd, 2014.

Like Sports on Facebook, follow @ETribuneSports on Twitter to stay informed and join in the conversation.]]>
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			<title>Blame game and new promises</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/690499/blame-game-and-new-promises</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/690499/blame-game-and-new-promises#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Wed, 02 Apr 14 20:17:56 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[afp]]>
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			<category><![CDATA[Sports]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=690499</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Afridi expresses willingness to take captaincy amid turmoil.]]>
			</description>
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				<![CDATA[Like all past debacles, Pakistan’s embarrassing defeat to the West Indies that sent them packing early from the World Twenty20 has been followed with blame game and promises by the high ups to bring improvement and heavy flak.       


Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Najam Sethi, who was earlier predicting a semi-final berth for his team, announced arranging an inquiry after the nation’s hopes were dashed.



PCB’s chief cricket consultant Zaheer Abbas, who accompanied the team in Bangladesh as batting mentor, hinted at an overhaul.

“There is a meeting [on Thursday] and decisions will be taken after that,” said Abbas on his return.

“We will be doing a post-mortem in the coming days.”

Blame game in full swing

Victory has many fathers but failure is an orphan; something similar appears to be the case within team’s circles.

Rumours were doing the rounds about differences between captain Mohammad Hafeez and head coach Moin Khan on selection matters.

Meanwhile, an official close to the team management said Moin was not ready to take responsibility of the failure of experienced Shoaib Malik and Kamran Akmal.

“Moin is claiming that both were selected on Hafeez’s insistence,” said the official.

However, Salim Jaffar – part of the selection committee that finalised the squad – said all the stakeholders must take responsibility instead of pointing fingers.

“As a selector, I am ready to take responsibility,” said Jaffar. “But the whole team management including the captain are involved in selection as per our criteria.

“I still feel Malik was not a bad choice because he is a T20 specialist which is why foreign franchises often rope him in.”

Afridi ready to captain Pakistan

Upon his return from Dhaka, seasoned all-rounder Shahid Afridi provoked another debate by showing interest in reclaiming the captain’s band.

“I am ready to take any challenge in the team’s interest,” said Afridi when asked by a reporter at the airport about his willingness if asked to lead the side.

He blamed slow batting in the first six overs for defeat against the West Indies.

“Unlike our last game [against Bangladesh] and the match against Australia, we lacked aggression this time.”

Meanwhile, former batting great Javed Miandad termed the defeat insipid.

“Fans and former players can accept defeat but if you lose without putting up a good fight, like Pakistan did last night, it’s unacceptable,” said Miandad.

Former captain and one of Pakistan’s modern batting greats Mohammad Yousuf, blamed the inability to rotate the strike under pressure for the batting failure.

“Not a single batsman in the team has a proper technique to deal with the spinners and hitting fours and sixes is not the only way to bat,” he said.

Published in The Express Tribune, April 3rd, 2014.

Like Sports on Facebook, follow @ETribuneSports on Twitter to stay informed and join in the conversation.]]>
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			<title>Mercurial Pakistan at their worst</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/690521/mercurial-pakistan-at-their-worst</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/690521/mercurial-pakistan-at-their-worst#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Wed, 02 Apr 14 19:44:03 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[editorial]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Sports]]></category><category><![CDATA[Editorial]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=690521</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[It is time seniors called time and made way for young blood that has been sidelined for too long.]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[Pakistan crashed out of the 2014 World Twenty20 on April 1 after a tame defeat to the West Indies, marking the first time the team had failed to make it to the last-four at the mega event. After gaining control for most part of the West Indies innings, three death overs took the match away and sent Pakistan in a state of shock. The panic was visible when the batsmen came out to bat as, in pursuit of a more than competitive 167-run target, Pakistan’s wickets fell like ninepins, reminding fans of the side’s unpredictability. The 2009 champions seemed like a headless chicken and were eventually rolled over for 82, ending their see-saw run in the tournament.

Barely a few days after Pakistan had outclassed Australia and cruised past Bangladesh, the defeat against the West Indies was a classic reminder as to why fans would never be fully comfortable with the idea of placing confidence in their side. Post-defeat, there will be an analysis of the team’s performance with individuals being singled out for their shot-selection, poor form and even their attitude. Team selection will be criticised and the players’ commitment would be questioned as well. Demand for changes to the squad will be made but, honestly, there would be no logical explanation for Pakistan’s performance. Computers and gadgets would tell you what went wrong in the West Indies game and what could Pakistan have done to ensure victory.

No matter what reasons are laid out, one has to come to terms with what Pakistan cricket is. It is unpredictable in nature and bounces back when written off. Even once cards are in place and issues are in order, it would slide down to its lowest level for no apparent reason. However, if one really believed this and let nature run its course, the Pakistan Cricket Board would not have much to do. It is time seniors called time and made way for young blood that has been sidelined for too long.

Published in The Express Tribune, April 3rd, 2014.

Like Opinion &amp; Editorial on Facebook, follow @ETOpEd on Twitter to receive all updates on all our daily pieces.]]>
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			<title>Pakistan should have played match against West Indies with aggression, laments Afridi</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/690386/pakistan-should-have-played-match-against-west-indies-with-aggression-laments-afridi</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/690386/pakistan-should-have-played-match-against-west-indies-with-aggression-laments-afridi#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Wed, 02 Apr 14 14:42:01 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Ali Sidiki]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=690386</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[“After the sixth over, the match was out of our hands,” laments Afridi, saying time off will help team improve.]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[Shahid Afridi on Wednesday said that he thought that the cricket team performed very well overall during the World Twenty20 World Cup, Express News reported, before adding that they should have played the match with more aggression.

Speaking to the media at the Jinnah International Airport on Wednesday evening after returning from Bangladesh, Afridi said that the team should have played with aggression.

“We wanted to play well in the last match, but unfortunately we couldn’t,” he said.

Afridi tweeted on Wednesday evening applogising for not living up to the expectation of the nation on behalf of entire team.

He also thanked supporters for supporting the national team throughout the World Twenty20 Cup.

https://twitter.com/SAfridiOfficial/status/451398432192991233

Commenting on the team’s disappointing performance during their last match against West Indies, he said: “We should have played the match with aggression.”

Afridi said that for the first 16 overs in the first innings, Pakistan bowled well against West Indies, adding that their performance went downhill after the sixth over in the second innings.

“After the sixth over, the match was out of our hands.”

The all-rounder praised his team and said that they will improve during the time that they have off.

“The players that Pakistan has are good. These four-five months the team doesn’t play cricket, we can train and work towards improving our performance,” he said.]]>
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			<title>PCB chief promises accountability after Mirpur debacle</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/690347/pcb-chief-promises-accountability-after-mirpur-debacle</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/690347/pcb-chief-promises-accountability-after-mirpur-debacle#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Wed, 02 Apr 14 10:34:34 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[web.desk]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=690347</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA['Every single member of the team and the management will be appraised,' says PCB Chairperson Najam Sethi.]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[A day after Pakistan’s humiliating defeat to West Indies and subsequent exit from the ICC T20 World Cup, Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairperson Najam Sethi promised accountability to cricket fans on Wednesday, Express News reported.

Sethi promised to meet with both the team and the management to improve the team’s showing, which granted West Indies an 84-run win, their biggest ever margin of victory in T20 Internationals.

West Indies batted first and made an imposing total of 166-6 in their allotted 20 overs. Pakistan only managed to score 82 runs before being bowled out.

“Every single member of the team and the management will be appraised. We will identify each individual mistake and when it was made to ensure that the team works on them, and that they are not repeated,” Sethi said. At the same time, he managed to convey his faith in the team that had made it to the Asia Cup final just a few weeks ago.

https://twitter.com/najamsethi/status/451274520008331265

Despite the result, it was more the manner of the defeat that irked viewers. After 15 overs of the West Indian innings, Pakistan had limited their batsmen to 84-5. Darren Sammy and Dwayne Bravo went on almost double that score in the last 5 remaining overs.

Visibly shaken from the onslaught, Pakistan invited pressure upon themselves as Ahmed Shehzad was caught leg before on the first ball of Pakistan’s innings. Pakistan hit only one boundary in the first 10 overs, and posted a score of 13 in the powerplay, the lowest by a full member team in T20 International cricket.

Pakistan now has a 5-month break until their next series.]]>
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			<title>West Indies blew us away in five overs, says coach Moin Khan</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/690345/west-indies-blew-us-in-five-overs-says-coach-moin-khan</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/690345/west-indies-blew-us-in-five-overs-says-coach-moin-khan#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Wed, 02 Apr 14 08:40:07 +0500</pubDate>
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			<category><![CDATA[Sports]]></category>
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				<![CDATA[West Indies blasted 82 runs in the last five overs to recover from a struggling 84-5 in the 15th over.]]>
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				<![CDATA[Pakistan team coach Moin Khan Wednesday said his team were blown away in the last five overs by the West Indies, costing them a place in the World Twenty20 semi-finals.

The West Indies blasted 82 runs in the last five overs to recover from a struggling 84-5 in the 15th over to finish with a formidable 166-5 in their allotted 20.

Pakistan were bowled out for a paltry 82 in 17.5 overs to bow out of the event, failing to reach the semi-finals for the first time in five editions.

Khan said the West Indies, who are defending champions, were ruthless in the last five overs.

"They (West Indies) took away the game in the last five overs," Khan told AFP. "It wasn't a case of bad bowling but (Darren) Sammy and (Dwayne) Bravo batted superbly."

Bravo hit a 26-ball 46 with four sixes and two boundaries while Sammy scored a fiery 20-ball 42 not out with two sixes and five fours to give real impetus to the West Indian batting.

Off-spinner Saeed Ajmal went for 41 in his four overs, only the second time he conceded more than 40 in a Twenty20 match.

"Those 82 runs made the difference and credit to them because before that we were thinking of getting them under 140 but still it was a gettable total," said Moin.

Pakistan batting panicked after they lost opener Ahmed Shehzad - who hit a century in the previous match against Bangladesh - off the first delivery of their innings.

Spinners Samuel Badree (3-10) and Sunil Narine (3-16) then jolted Pakistan's batting as four batsmen were stumped by wicketkeeper Dinesh Ramdin.

"We could never recover from the loss of early wickets and no one could stay longer at the wicket," said Khan.

Khan said Pakistan must address its flaws in batting before their series against Australia in United Arab Emirates in October.

"We have a big five month gap in our next series so we need to improve on our batting in training camps," said Khan, who was appointed coach for the preceding Asia Cup and World Twenty20 only.

Khan said it would be up to the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) to decide about his future.

"I am available for the job but it would be up to the PCB to decide," said Khan.]]>
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			<title>Humiliation in Mirpur: Pakistan’s World T20 dream is over</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/690245/humiliation-in-mirpur-pakistans-world-t20-dream-is-over</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/690245/humiliation-in-mirpur-pakistans-world-t20-dream-is-over#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Tue, 01 Apr 14 22:07:13 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Emmad Hameed]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=690245</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[West Indies whirlwind pulverise four-time semi-finalists.]]>
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				<![CDATA[For 15 overs, the do-or-die group two game of the ICC WorldTwenty20 between Pakistan and the West Indies looked like one-way traffic – the men in green had reduced the dangerous batsmen from the Caribbean to a mere 84 runs. Half the side was back in the pavilion and it looked like Pakistan’s match!


The last five overs on the same wicket against the blazing bats of Dwayne Bravo and Darren Sammy blew the 2009 champions away. Zulfiqar Babar, Umar Gul, Saeed Ajmal and Sohail Tanvir had no answers and later their batting colleagues were equally clueless.

West Indies posted 166, recovering from 81 for five in the 14th over of the match; the momentum that Sammy’s men gained was so intense that Pakistan’s batsmen succumbed and their panic-ridden strokes and inability to read the spinners turned the game into a drab – no contest within overs.

So the dream is over! Pakistan’s proud record of making it to at least the semi-final stage of all World T20 events to date has been well and truly dusted away by the dancing, singing and joyous Calypso cricketers.

The 2009 winners looked stunned and shocked after the onslaught by Sammy and Bravo and had no fight left in them after spinner Samuel Badree ran through the top order in their reply.

After the match, Hafeez had little to say. The captain apologised to the nation for the embarrassing defeat (this is West Indies’ biggest win in the T20 format).

“This wasn’t the best of performance from Pakistan. We didn’t play well in the final four overs. The credit goes to West Indies,” said Hafeez. “In the first 16 overs, we bowled very well, but they got the momentum in the final four overs. We panicked a little bit early in the chase.”

But the captain and his ‘experienced’ batsmen have a lot to answer to – little panic is not what the fans saw! Pakistani batsmen, who have a reputation of playing spin bowling better than most, could not figure out which way Badree or Sunil Narine were turning the ball.

Kamran and Umar Akmal, Shoaib Malik and Sohaib Maqsood all perished attempting shots that were ungainly and ugly, to put it mildly.

Hafeez, who scored a painstaking 19 off 32 balls, also looked hopelessly out of touch and froze as the pressure mounted. Shahid Afridi and Sohail Tanvir cleared the boundary towards the end but their contributions only helped Pakistan get past their previous lowest T20 score of 74.  After bowing out abysmally, the team is expected to return home in a day or two and for the next few months, the cricketers have no international cricket scheduled.

But the selectors and the team management are not expected to get away easily from the harrowing loss, and there is no reason that they should. The selection of Kamran and Malik had raised many eyebrows before the team left and the so-called T20 specialists did very little in the four games they played.

Their insipid display might finally be their last in the shortest format of the game. Hopefully the rebuilding process would start now, hopefully the inconsistent selections would end and hopefully the batsmen would learn to absorb the pressure of a chase in a big match.

But maybe we are pinning too much on hope alone.


Published in The Express Tribune, April 2nd, 2014.]]>
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			<title>McCullum exhorts Black Caps to up their game</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/690070/mccullum-exhorts-black-caps-to-up-their-game</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/690070/mccullum-exhorts-black-caps-to-up-their-game#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Tue, 01 Apr 14 19:30:48 +0500</pubDate>
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			<category><![CDATA[Sports]]></category>
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			<description>
				<![CDATA[New Zealand captain clueless about 59-run defeat to Sri Lanka.]]>
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				<![CDATA[New Zealand captain Brendon McCullum Monday stressed his team must look for a turnaround soon if they want to win a major tournament, following their unceremonious exit from the World Twenty20.


The Black Caps were dealt a telling blow by Sri Lanka, who beat them by 59 runs in a low-scoring game in Chittagong.

With Sri Lanka dismissed for a paltry 119, the match was within New Zealand’s reach but left-arm spinner Rangana Herath demolished them with figures of five for three runs in 3.3 overs.

That bowled New Zealand out for their lowest Twenty20 total of 60 — overall third lowest in the shortest format.

New Zealand have only once reached the semi-final, way back in the inaugural edition — a trend McCullum wants to end.

“Something’s going to have to change at some stage,” said McCullum. “Otherwise, we’ll keep turning up at tournaments, winning a couple, losing a couple and never claiming any silverware.”

Chasing a modest target, New Zealand lost Martin Guptill to a silly run out and five balls later McCullum was stumped off Herath for nought.

He was lost for words on being all out for 60, with opener Kane Williamson contributing 42 of that low total.

“How do you get out for 60? I’m still trying to work that out as well — especially when one guy gets 40-odd.”

Giles terms defeat to Dutch ‘embarrassing’

England coach Ashley Giles Monday admitted their World Twenty20 defeat against minnows Netherlands was ‘embarrassing’ and said he shared the fans’ anger at their humiliating loss.

England went down to the Netherlands by 45 runs in their last group one match in the Super-10 stage, a repeat of their 2009 World Twenty20 defeat on home ground.

Giles said he understood and shared the anger of the fans.

“I share that anger absolutely,” he said. “There are a lot of emotions flying at the moment.

“We are human beings and when that’s your line of work you should be angry and I understand why the supporters are angry. All we can do is apologise to the people watching at home.”

Published in The Express Tribune, April 2nd, 2014.

Like Sports on Facebook, follow @ETribuneSports on Twitter to stay informed and join in the conversation.]]>
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			<title>Pakistan stumped out of World T20</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/690100/pakistan-stumped-out-of-world-t20</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/690100/pakistan-stumped-out-of-world-t20#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Tue, 01 Apr 14 19:30:13 +0500</pubDate>
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				<![CDATA[afp]]>
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			<description>
				<![CDATA[West Indies crush 2009 champions by 84 runs to reach semis.]]>
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				<![CDATA[Defending champions West Indies charged into the World Twenty20 semi-finals with a spectacular 84-run win over Pakistan in a key Super-10 match in Dhaka on Tuesday.


The West Indies recovered from a top-order meltdown to post 166 for six after electing to take first strike, before three wickets each by spin twins Samuel Badree and Sunil Narine skittled Pakistan for 82 in 17.5 overs.

The West Indies, who finished second behind unbeaten India in Group 2, will clash with Group 1 winners Sri Lanka in the first semi-final in Dhaka on Thursday. India, who won all their four league matches, meet South Africa at the same venue on Friday.

The final will take place in Dhaka on Sunday.

It was the first time Pakistan, finalists in the inaugural World Twenty20 in 2007 and champions in 2009, failed to reach the knock-out rounds in the five editions of the tournament.

The West Indies slumped to 81 for five before skipper Darren Sammy and Dwayne Bravo led a dramatic rescue act by adding 71 for the sixth wicket off just 32 balls.

Bravo smashed four sixes and two fours in a 26-ball 46, while Sammy remained unbeaten on 42 off 20 balls that contained five fours and two sixes.

The West Indies plundered 71 runs in the last four overs, taking 21 runs in the 18th bowled by seamer Umar Gul and 24 in the 19th by off-spinner Saeed Ajmal.

Pakistan never recovered after Ahmed Shehzad, who scored a century in the previous match against Bangladesh, was leg-before to Krishmar Santokie off the first ball of the innings.

Badree removed Kamran Akmal in the second over, Umar Akmal in the fourth and Shoaib Malik in the sixth to leave Pakistan tottering at 13 for four.

Skipper Mohammad Hafeez (19) and Sohaib Maqsood (18) fell in successive overs to make it 42 for six, before Narine removed Shahid Afridi and Sohail Tanvir in four balls to hasten the end.

“I didn’t expect it to be so easy as we have a bowling line-up that can defend any total but Pakistan had our batting in a bit of a bother earlier,” said Bravo, with a gleeful face after victory.

West Indies openers fail to make impression

Earlier, the West Indies lost both openers by the fourth over, with Chris Gayle stumped off Hafeez for five and Dwayne Smith caught behind off Tanvir for eight.

Lendl Simmons and Marlon Samuel added 39 for the third wicket when both batsmen fell in the 11th over to reduce the West Indies to 67 for four.

Lendl was run out for a 29-ball 31 while attempting a cheeky single, while Samuels was bowled by Shahid Afridi for 20 after striking a six off the previous delivery.

In the death, Sammy and Bravo stepped in to play what turned out to be match-winning knocks.

Earlier, Australia beat Bangladesh in their last group match but the match didn’t drive much attention as both teams were already knocked out of the tournament. 

..................................................................................................................................................

[embed width="620"]http://www.dailymotion.com/video/x1lb8kn_west-indies-crashed-pakistan-in-t20_sport[\embed]

Published in The Express Tribune, April 2nd, 2014.

Like Sports on Facebook, follow @ETribuneSports on Twitter to stay informed and join in the conversation.]]>
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			<title>Catch an early flight home: West Indies dump Pakistan out of World T20</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/689955/pakistan-vs-west-indies-live-updates-2</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/689955/pakistan-vs-west-indies-live-updates-2#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Tue, 01 Apr 14 13:02:06 +0500</pubDate>
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				<![CDATA[afp]]>
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			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=689955</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Pakistan bundled out for 82 runs all-out as West Indies win the quarter-final match by a mammoth 84 runs.]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[Defending champions West Indies charged into the World Twenty20 semi-finals with a spectacular 84-run win over Pakistan in a key Super-10 match in Dhaka on Tuesday.

The West Indies recovered from a top-order meltdown to post 166-6 after electing to take first strike, before three wickets each by spin twins Samuel Badree and Sunil Narine skittled Pakistan for 82 in 17.5 overs.

The West Indies, who finished second behind unbeaten India in group two, will clash with group one champions Sri Lanka in the first semi-final in Dhaka on Thursday.

It was the first time Pakistan, finalists in the inaugural World T20 in 2007 and champions in 2009, failed to reach the knock-out rounds in the five editions of the tournament.

The West Indies slumped to 81-5 before skipper Darren Sammy and Dwayne Bravo led a dramatic rescue act by adding 71 for the sixth wicket off just 32 balls.

Bravo smashed four sixes and two fours in a 26-ball 46, while Sammy remained unbeaten on 42 off 20 balls that contained five fours and two sixes.

The West Indies plundered 71 runs in the last four overs, taking 21 runs in the 18th bowled by seamer Umar Gul and 24 in the 19th by off-spinner Saeed Ajmal.

Pakistan never recovered after Ahmed Shehzad, who scored a century in the previous match against Bangladesh, was leg-before to Krishmar Santokie off the first ball of the innings.

Badree removed Kamran Akmal in the second over, Umar Akmal in the fourth and Shoaib Malik in the sixth to leave Pakistan tottering at 13-4.

Skipper Mohammad Hafeez (19) and Sohaib Maqsood (18) fell in successive overs to make it 42-6, before Narine removed Shahid Afridi and Sohail Tanvir in four balls to hasten the end.

Earlier, the West Indies lost both openers by the fourth over, with Chris Gayle stumped off Hafeez for five and Dwayne Smith caught behind off Tanvir for eight.

Lendl Simmons and Marlon Samuel add 39 for the third wicket when both batsmen fell in the 11th over to reduce the West Indies to 67 for four.

Lendl was run out for a 29-ball 31 while attempting a cheeky single, while Samuels was bowled by Shahid Afridi for 20 after striking a six off the previous delivery.

It soon became 81-5 as Denesh Ramdin holed out in the deep off left-arm spinner Zulfiqur Babar, but Sammy and Bravo stepped in to play what turned out to be match-winning knocks.



18th over: Pakistan 82-10

Umar Gul is caught by Symonds off Santokie as West Indies wrap this match up early and end Pakistan's misery.

………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

17th over: Pakistan 79-9

STUMPED! Ajmal leaves the pitch.

………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

16th over: Pakistan 75-8

Pakistan need 93 off 30 balls!

CATCH OUT! Sohail Tanvir goes.

AFRIDI OUT! All hope is gone.

https://twitter.com/AnasMallick/status/451030369232760832
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

15th over: Pakistan 74-6

FOUR! Tanvir hits Smith for a four through mid-wicket.

Afridi hits a SIX!

https://twitter.com/gibranp/status/451029072819531776

………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

14th over: Pakistan 63-6

………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

13th over: Pakistan 57-6

SIX! Afridi hits this over mid-wicket.

………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

https://twitter.com/IftikharFirdous/status/451026503351144448

12th over: Pakistan 48-6

Narine continues, Gayle stops a screaming Sohaib drive!

OUT! Sohaib goes down town and is forced to leave the pitch in the process.

Sohail Tanvir hits a SIX!

https://twitter.com/fursid/status/451026033270337537

………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

11th over: Pakistan 42-5

Pakistan survive the new ball!

Hafeez gets two runs off a straight drive.

OUT! Hafeez's misery is over.

Professor goes for 19 off 32 balls.

Maqsood hits a FOUR!

https://twitter.com/najamsethi/status/451026601460129792
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

Tenth over: Pakistan 35-4

The task gets slightly easier, Narine to bowl!

Sohaib Maqsood survives stumping appeal, BARELY!

Sohaib has no clue what way it is spinning!

………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

Ninth over: Pakistan 32-4

Pakistan being pulverised in Mirpur!

Badree ends with figures off three for 10 in 4 overs!

https://twitter.com/_aladd1n/status/451021550918320128

 ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

Eighth over: Pakistan 28-4

Badree continues to bamboozle, figures of three wickets for seven runs, his final over in progress.

………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

Seventh over: Pakistan 22-4

Sohaib Maqsood hits a SIX!

………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

https://twitter.com/monazzilla/status/451018515638943744

Sixth over: Pakistan 13-4

OUT! Shoaib Malik's stay is short lived.



………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

Fifth over: Pakistan 11-3

………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

Fourth over: Pakistan 9-3

Massive improvement in the run rate, hovering at 3 runs to the over!

Badree continues as Pakistan batsmen struggle to rotate strike.

STUMPED! Umar Akmal goes.



………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

Third over: Pakistan 8-2

A dive saves Hafeez on the striker's end.

Hafeez also ran the run short, so Pakistan get one run after all the effort!

………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

Second over: Pakistan 3-2

Shehzad's golden duck a huge setback for Pakistan.

OUT! Ducks for the opening duo.

Kamran Akmal falls to Badree, a tame hit to mid-off snapped by Bravo.

Kamran replaced by Umar Akmal.

[infogram url="https://infogr.am/infographic-11578" height="520"]
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

First over: Pakistan 1-1

Pakistan has a big task at hand!

Pakistan openers out in the middle.

OUT! First ball dismissal for Shehzad. Hafeez comes to bat.

Santokie strikes on the first ball Shehzad hit on the toe by a full-one.

&nbsp;



&nbsp;

20th over: West Indies 166-6

OUT! Bravo couldn't make it to the crease in time.

FOUR! Sammy still going strong.

SIX! Sammy on fire!

Another needless 2 runs given away.

The innings end with another 2 runs.

………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

19th over: West Indies 152-5

2 consecutive SIXES! Ajmal under pressure.

Another SIX! Sammt slogs the ball over long on

FOUR! Over the covers this time. Sammy on fire!

24 of the over.

………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

18th over: West Indies 128-5

SIX! Gul hit by Bravo straight down the ground.

SIX! Gul hit for another six over midwicket.

Gul being taken to the cleaners here.

FOUR! Gul hit over point.

Gul hit for 21 runs of the over.

………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

17th over: West Indies 107-5

FOUR! Sammy hits Ajmal for another boundary.

FOUR! The fielder couldn't keep the ball from hitting the boundary.

………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

16th over: West Indies 95-5

FOUR! Bravo hits Babar over covers.

FOUR! Sammy somehow manages to smash it through the leg side.

………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

15th over: West Indies 84-5

………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

14th over: West Indies 81-5

BOOM BOOM goes for 23 off his 4 overs, under six an over.



Kamran DIVES and catches the ball off the pad!

OUT! Ramdin goes!

[infogram url="https://infogr.am/pak-players-with-the-most-catches-in-t20is?src=web" height="420"]

………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

13th over: West Indies 78-4

Ramdin hopes to read the bowlers; starts tentatively.

………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

12th over: West Indies 74-4

Predictably West Indies struggling against the spinners.

………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

11th over: West Indies 69-4

OUT! Simmons goes.

Direct-hit sends Simmons(31) on the way.

ANOTHER ONE! Afridi hits the stumps!

………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

Tenth over: West Indies 61-2

Ajmal brought into the attack.

Pakistan maintaining a stranglehold over Simmons and Smith.

Ajmal tightening the screws, Simmons wants to break free.

&nbsp;



………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

Ninth over: West Indies 58-2

Some drama as Shehzad tried to run-out but ended up giving an overthrow.

………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

Eighth over: West Indies 51-2

Gul bowling the 8th over.

SIX by Simmons!

………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

Seventh over: West Indies 43-2

Afridi replaces Babar.

………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

Sixth over: West Indies 39-2

………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

Fifth over: West Indies 32-2

Hafeez introduces Zulfiqar Babar into the attack.

SIX! Simmons clubs Babar for a huge six over mid-wicket

[infogram url="https://infogr.am/how-wi-players-perform-against-pak-in-t20is" height="660"]

………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

Fourth over: West Indies 22-2

Gayle continues barren run against Pakistan.

OUT! Tanvir delivers and Simmons is gone!

Smith(8) goes, edges behind to Kamran Akmal

………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

https://twitter.com/hyzaidi/status/450992042890756096

Third over: West Indies  21-1

OUT! No Gayle force today! Hafeez gets Gayle with one that straightens.

FOUR! Simmons gets a four and another one!

………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

Second over: West Indies 10-0

FOUR! Gayle gets his first boundary through a glance

………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

First over: West Indies 4-0

Muhammad Hafeez comes into bowl first.  Dwayne Smith and Chris Gayle are at the crease.

FOUR by Dwayne Smith!



………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………



………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

6:22 pm: Teams come onto the field and sing their respective national anthems.

https://twitter.com/nadeemmalik/status/450986053948932096

………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

6:01 pm: West Indies win the toss and choose to bat.





https://twitter.com/sufisal/status/450986110966304768

https://twitter.com/DrBabarAwan/status/450966230674194433

Pakistan: Mohammad Hafeez (captain), Ahmed Shehzad, Bilawal Bhatti, Junaid Khan, Kamran Akmal (wicket keeper), Mohammad Talha, Saeed Ajmal, Shahid Afridi, Sharjeel Khan, Shoaib Malik, Sohaib Maqsood, Sohail Tanvir, Umar Akmal†, Umar Gul, Zulfiqar Babar

West Indies: Darren Sammy (captain), Samuel Badree, Dwayne Bravo, Johnson Charles, Sheldon Cottrell, Andre Fletcher, Chris Gayle, Sunil Narine, Denesh Ramdin, Ravi Rampaul, Andre Russell, Marlon Samuels, Krishmar Santokie, Lendl Simmons, Dwayne Smith.

&nbsp;]]>
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			<title>April Fools' prank: Pak-WI game washed out</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/689938/pak-wi-game-washed-out-wi-through-to-semis</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/689938/pak-wi-game-washed-out-wi-through-to-semis#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Tue, 01 Apr 14 10:39:54 +0500</pubDate>
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				<![CDATA[web.desk]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=689938</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[A higher net run rate of +1.223 means that West Indies are to go through to the semi-finals.]]>
			</description>
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				<![CDATA[Have a merry April Fools day!]]>
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			<title>Netherlands hammer hapless England</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/689630/netherlands-hammer-hapless-england</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/689630/netherlands-hammer-hapless-england#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Mon, 31 Mar 14 20:31:20 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[afp]]>
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			<category><![CDATA[Sports]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=689630</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Minnows overcome 2010 champions by 45 runs.]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[The Netherlands humiliated 2010 champions England by 45 runs at the World Twenty20 in Chittagong on Monday, rounding off a wretched winter for the English side that included a 5-0 Ashes series loss in Australia.

Paceman Mudassar Bukhari took three wickets for 12 runs while Logan van Beek finished with three for nine to bowl England out for a paltry 88 in 17.4 overs, after they were set a modest target of 134 to chase in their last Group 1, Super-10 match.

England captain Stuart Broad said there were ‘no excuses’ for the defeat.

"It sums up our winter,” said Broad. “It was similar to the sort of batting we put in after losing the Ashes.

"It was a very disorganised chase. The bowling and fielding was okay but we lacked application with the bat, no one took responsibility. There are no excuses."

England, who chased 190 to beat Sri Lanka in their only win in the tournament, never looked comfortable, despite the inexperienced Dutch bowling.

Ravi Bopara (18), Chris Jordan (14) and Alex Hales (12) were the only batsmen who reached double figures in an otherwise disappointing batting display.

Bukhari jolted England with two early wickets – Michael Lumb (six) and Hales by the fifth over – before dismissing Broad (four) to help his team repeat their upset win over England in the opening round of the 2009 World Twenty20, held in England.

Van Beek then came into his own, dismissing Jos Buttler (six), Bopara and Jordan in his short two-over spell.

Dutch captain Peter Borren was delighted at the winning finish.

"It's a nice way to end the tournament," said Borren. "We've shown the cricket world we can play. We're here representing all the Associates and with our performances shown the strength of Associate cricket.

"I’m really proud to see us play some smart cricket. We've played a bit of 40-over cricket against these guys before and that gave us some confidence."

Published in The Express Tribune, April 1st, 2014.

Like Sports on Facebook, follow @ETribuneSports on Twitter to stay informed and join in the conversation.]]>
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			<title>Pakistan, WI meet in cutthroat battle</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/689629/pakistan-wi-meet-in-cutthroat-battle</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/689629/pakistan-wi-meet-in-cutthroat-battle#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Mon, 31 Mar 14 20:30:36 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[fawad.hussain]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Sports]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=689629</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Winners of clash to qualify for World Twenty20 semi-finals.]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[A mercurial Pakistan side will take on the unpredictable West Indies in the last Group 2 battle in Mirpur on Tuesday, with the winner set to seal its berth in the World Twenty20 semi-finals.   


So far, both teams are locked with four points from two victories. They have faced similar fortunes, losing to India and winning their respective matches against Australia and Bangladesh. West Indies, the defending champions, are ahead of Pakistan on run-rate, + 1.223 against Pakistan's +0.893, which means if rain prompts a wash-out, the Caribbean team will go through.



But given the prediction for clear skies, Mohammad Hafeez’s team will most likely be spared this misfortune.

The winners of the game will join an unbeaten India to complete the pair from their group for the semi-finals.

Interestingly, both opponents known for working miracles and inviting debacles have not met much in the slam-bang format. Out of their three previous T20 internationals, Pakistan have won twice, with Darren Sammy’s side having a solitary victory to its credit.

Pakistan bowlers prepare for Gayle &amp; Co

Although Chris Gayle is yet to explode the way he is known for, Pakistan bowlers are not going to be complacent against the swashbuckler or his teammates such as Dwayne Smith, who can be quite lethal.

According to an official close to the Pakistan team management, the bowlers spent most of their time looking at visuals of the Caribbean batsmen on the eve of the crucial contest.

“The bowlers are ready to face the West Indies batsmen,” said the official.

“The team is equally banking on its fast-bowlers and spinners. Of course, a lot is expected from Saeed Ajmal too.”

Shehzad wants to excel again

West Indies spinners under the supervision of former Pakistan spinner, Saqlain Mushtaq, have made their presence felt — particularly Samuel Badree and ace Sunil Narine.  However, the Pakistan batsmen looked unperturbed with their form.

“We are used to playing our world-class spinners,” said Ahmed Shehzad, who became the first Pakistan batsman to smash a T20 century in Sunday’s game against hosts Bangladesh.

“We have the world’s best bowlers — Ajmal, Shahid Afridi and Hafeez, and we have played them a lot. We are not feeling any pressure of facing the West Indies spinners.”

‘Pakistan must fire in all departments’  

Former coach Mohsin Khan has cautioned the team to perform in all departments.

“The West Indies are tough opponents,” said the former Test cricketer.

“The team needs to perform in all departments and avoid mistakes. Our fielding has to be up to the mark.”

On another note, Mohsin praised Shehzad’s form, hoping the opening batsman would play a key role in the game to lay a strong platform for the team’s batting.

Published in The Express Tribune, April 1st, 2014.

Like Sports on Facebook, follow @ETribuneSports on Twitter to stay informed and join in the conversation.]]>
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			<title>Century maker: Ton-up Shehzad records milestone for country</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/689393/century-maker-ton-up-shehzad-records-milestone-for-country</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/689393/century-maker-ton-up-shehzad-records-milestone-for-country#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Sun, 30 Mar 14 21:51:45 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[salim.khaliq]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=689393</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[To qualify for a spot in the semi-finals, it must beat the West Indies on Tuesday.]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[Dashing opener Ahmed Shehzad stole everyone’s thunder on Sunday as he became the first Pakistani player to smash a century in the Twenty20 format and record tons in all three formats of the game.

Before Sunday’s match, Shehzad’s previous best of 98 not out against Zimbabwe at Harare in 2013 was also the highest by a Pakistani batsman in the Twenty20 International format.

In the early part of his career, Shehzad was under the microscope for mainly  disciplinary issues. In 2008, he was spotted at a nightclub in Nairobi along with fast bowler Anwer Ali during Pakistan Academy’s visit to Kenya. The team management came down hard on him, imposing a two-match ban on him and fining him $400. His erratic performance and less than gentlemanly conduct did not pick up much in 2009 despite several outings with the national team.

In 2011 he violated discipline during a short spell in the team. He was banned for a first class match for showing displeasure and arguing with the umpire over the latter’s decision. He also had a quarrel with one of his fellow players in Dubai. Shehzad’s close circles say he is trying to improve his discipline.

In the last two years, Shehzad has worked hard to put all this behind him. His blossoming into one of the team’s better batsmen has certainly helped. There are a still a couple of issues he needs to sort out first. Some more consistency with the bat would probably silence some, if not all, of his detractors.

Since his 98 runs against Zimbabwe in 2013, this is the first time that he has been able to cross the 50-run mark in Twenty20 cricket. While his 111 not out against Bangladesh on Sunday shows his talent, his unimpressive average of 12.55 in the nine previous matches stands out like an eyesore.

Just a few days back, he scored a century against Bangladesh at the very same venue in the Asia Cup one-day. In the current  tournament, however, he has been able to only post 22 runs against India and five runs against Australia.

Both these performances triggered harsh criticism against Shehzad. That is why he has dedicated his century to his critics.

Shehzad, who is a Pathan, lives in Lahore. That is why most people think he hails from Punjab.

In the national team he is very close to Shahid Afridi. His career was also established during the period when Afridi led the team. He has also participated in the Caribbean and Bangladesh leagues, and is a friend of Chris Gayle. In the current World Twenty20, he has been spotted often with Yuvraj Singh. His company consists of players who are aggressive like him.

Despite Shehzad’s match-winning innings, Pakistan still has a tough road towards the final. To qualify for a spot in the semi-finals, it must beat the West Indies on Tuesday.

Although the green shirts are proud of their spinners, their final opponents in the group stage are coached by former Pakistan spinner Saqlain Mushtaq. His advice may provide West Indian batsmen like Gayle a counter to Pakistan’s bowling attack.

Published in The Express Tribune, March 31st, 2014. ]]>
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			<title>Yuvraj, Ashwin help India destroy Australia</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/689409/yuvraj-ashwin-help-india-destroy-australia</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/689409/yuvraj-ashwin-help-india-destroy-australia#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Sun, 30 Mar 14 21:14:40 +0500</pubDate>
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				<![CDATA[afp]]>
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			<category><![CDATA[Sports]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=689409</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[India, who had already qualified for the semi-finals, topped group two of the Super-10s with four successive wins.]]>
			</description>
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				<![CDATA[Yuvraj Singh roared back to form with a pugnacious half-century and Ravichandran Ashwin grabbed 4-11 as India hammered listless Australia by 73 runs in the World Twenty20 in Dhaka on Sunday.

Yuvraj hit 60 off 43 balls to steer India to 159-7 after they were sent in to bat, before Australia collapsed in spectacular fashion to be bowled out for a paltry 86 in 16.2 overs.

India, who had already qualified for the semi-finals, topped group two of the Super-10s with four successive wins. They will meet the number two team from the other group next Friday for a place in the final.

It was Australia's third loss in a row, leaving them at the bottom of the table along with Bangladesh.

Pakistan, who beat Bangladesh by 50 runs earlier on Sunday, will clash with the West Indies on Tuesday to decide the second semi-finalist from the group.

South Africa have made it to the knock-out round from group one, while Sri Lanka will face New Zealand in Chittagong on Monday to determine the other semi-finalist.

Indian captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni said he was not surprised at the ease with which Yuvraj batted after a poor run earlier in the tournament.

"We all know what kind of a player Yuvi is and this T20 format is ideal for someone to get back into form," Dhoni said. "He gave himself time to get set at the start and then he opened out.

"There was no dew at all which helped the bowlers grip the ball well. It was a really good effort in the field. We now need a good rest before the semi-final."

India, whose previous three wins came while batting second, were given first strike by Australian captain George Bailey and found themselves in immediate trouble.

India's top order faltered after opener Rohit Sharma fell to part-timer Brad Hodge off the fourth ball of the innings and slipped to 66-4 by the 12th over.

Left-handed Yuvraj, who made one and 10 in the two innings he got to bat in the tournament, launched a spectacular counter-attack that included five boundaries and four sixes.

Dhoni made 24 during a fifth-wicket stand of 84 off 42 balls with Yuvraj before he was bowled by Mitchell Starc in the penultimate over.

Australia's batting caved in under lights at the Sher-e-Bangla stadium with Glenn Maxwell emerging the top scorer with 23.

Eight batsmen failed to reach double figures against the steady Indian spin attack in which leg-spinner Amit Mishra supported Ashwin with two wickets for 13 runs.

Bailey said he was disappointed at the way this tournament was going for his Australian team.

"I don't think we have been fans of the way we have been playing," he said. "There was a lack of game sense on a number of occasions. I just hope we can play well against the hosts on Tuesday."

...........................................................................................................................................................

[embed width="620"]http://www.dailymotion.com/video/x1ku5jr_india-beat-australia_sport[/embed]]]>
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			<title>Broad seeks new English era</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/689332/broad-seeks-new-english-era</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/689332/broad-seeks-new-english-era#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Sun, 30 Mar 14 20:23:39 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[afp]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Sports]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=689332</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Early World Twenty20 exit after SA loss adds to winter woes.]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[Stuart Broad is looking forward to a new England era after a miserable winter ended with a World Twenty20 exit in Chittagong on Saturday.

England lost by three runs in a pulsating Super-10 stage Group One match against South Africa, going out of the semi-final race after two defeats in three matches.

The loss ended a frustrating winter for England who lost the coveted Ashes in Australia, a whitewash which turned acrimonious with the axing of key batsman Kevin Pietersen.

“It’s going to be a new era of English cricket, isn’t it?” said Broad. “It has been a tough winter.

“We’ve been away a huge amount of time so there are some fantastic opportunities available for players in the summer.”

Broad said, despite the exit, there were some positives for the 2010 World Twenty20 champions.

“We’ve had a lot of positives coming out of this World Cup. If we had gotten out of the group, there would have been a lot of surprised people. We’re disappointed but we’ve done some good stuff with the squad available to us.”

England had looked like the side to beat after they upset favourites Sri Lanka on Thursday, successfully chasing a challenging 190-run target.

Alex Hales smashed a 64-ball 116 to carry England to their first win but South Africa piled up the tournament’s highest total of 196 for five, which was beyond England who managed to reach 193 for seven.

Broad conceded rival captain AB de Villiers’s 29-ball 69 not out made the difference.

“We came up three runs short and there’s some pretty clear ways we could have stopped those three runs,” said the captain.

“We didn’t field well, but that can happen in these conditions. We didn’t have someone hitting a Hales-like knock  scoring 60 or 70 which you realistically need in these sorts of chases.

“But, you have to hold your hands up and that knock from AB is as good as you’ll ever see. He hits the ball 360 degrees and targeted the short boundary with fantastic success.”

England play their meaningless last game against the Netherlands on Monday, while New Zealand will take on Sri Lanka in the second match of the day.

Published in The Express Tribune, March 31st, 2014.

Like Sports on Facebook, follow @ETribuneSports on Twitter to stay informed and join in the conversation.]]>
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			<title>Shehzad knocks out hosts Bangladesh</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/689318/shehzad-knocks-out-hosts-bangladesh</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/689318/shehzad-knocks-out-hosts-bangladesh#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Sun, 30 Mar 14 20:16:07 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[afp]]>
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			<category><![CDATA[Sports]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=689318</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[First Pakistan batsman to score ton in T20 cricket.]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[Opener Ahmed Shehzad smashed an unbeaten 111 off 62 balls as Pakistan thrashed hosts Bangladesh by 50 runs to stay on course for the semi-finals of the World Twenty20 in Dhaka on Sunday.


The 22-year-old from Lahore hit 10 boundaries and five sixes in what was Pakistan’s first Twenty20 international century to lift them to a commanding 190 for five after they elected to bat.

Bangladesh managed only 140 for seven in reply, in front of a sell-out home crowd of 25,000 at the Sher-e-Bangla stadium, to suffer their third successive defeat in group two of the Super-10s.

With both Bangladesh and Australia out of the race, the winner of the group’s last league match on Tuesday between Pakistan and the West Indies will join India from the group in the last-four.



“This was a great effort from the boys,” said Pakistan captain Mohammad Hafeez. “Everyone knew how important this game was. It was a special knock from Shehzad.

“He showed today [Sunday] that he has all the shots in the book. We now confidently look forward to playing the West Indies.”

Shehzad hammered 31 in an opening stand of 43 with Kamran Akmal (nine) that came off just 27 deliveries.

Bangladesh fought back by taking three quick wickets, two of them by left-arm spinner Abdur Razzak, as Pakistan slipped to 71 for three by the 10th over.

Umar Akmal, Pakistan’s hero against Australia when he made 94 off 54, was dismissed by Mohammad Mahmudullah for no score.

Shehzad gave the innings a boost by smashing two sixes and as many boundaries in the 13th over bowled by seamer Ziaur Rahman, which cost 22 runs.

Shehzad put on 83 for the fourth wicket with Shoaib Malik (26) in the only substantial partnership of the innings, a lesson that escaped the Bangladesh batsmen.

Bangladesh captain rues batting failure

The hosts, looking for a bright start, lost four top-order wickets in 9.1 overs with just 47 runs on the board.

Shakib Al Hasan delighted the crowd with a 32-ball 38 that included two sixes and two fours, before he top-edged a catch off seamer Umar Gul in the 15th over to effectively end Bangladesh’s challenge.

Gul finished with three for 30 in four overs, while off-spinner Saeed Ajmal took two for 20.

Bangladesh captain Mushfiqur Rahim blamed a batting failure for the loss.

“When you are chasing a big target, you need someone from the top four to bat all the way through,” he said.

...........................................................................................................................................................

[embed width="620"]http://www.dailymotion.com/video/x1ku6jh_pakistan-beat-bangladesh-in-t20-world-cup-2014_sport[/embed]

Published in The Express Tribune, March 31st, 2014.

Like Sports on Facebook, follow @ETribuneSports on Twitter to stay informed and join in the conversation. ]]>
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			<title>Pakistan seal resounding win against Bangladesh</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/689108/pakistan-vs-bangladesh-live-updates</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/689108/pakistan-vs-bangladesh-live-updates#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Sun, 30 Mar 14 09:00:56 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[afp]]>
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			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=689108</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Pakistan beat Bangladesh by 50 runs, Ton-up Shehzad named Man of the Match.]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[Pakistan beat Bangladesh by 50 runs in a Group Two Super-10 match of the World Twenty20 at the Sher-e-Bangla National Stadium on Sunday, staying in contention for the semi-finals.

Pakistan had won the toss and elected to bat, scoring 190 at a cost of 5 wickets.

Opener Ahmed Shehzad smashed an unbeaten 111 off 62 balls, becoming the first ever Pakistani batsman to have scored a century in T20 internationals.

The 22-year-old hit 10 boundaries and five sixes, sharing a fourth-wicket stand of 83 with Shoaib Malik (26) in the group two match.

Shehzad, who reached his century off 58 balls in the 18th over, was caught off a Mashrafe Mortaza no-ball in the 19th after hitting the previous ball for a six. He was declared Man of the Match.

The let-off proved expensive as Pakistan scored 44 runs in the last two overs, with Mortaza conceding 24 in the penultimate over.

Pakistan must defeat defending champions West Indies on Tuesday to join India in the semi-finals as the second team from the group.

&nbsp;





Last over: Bangladesh 140-7

Gul comes back to bowl.

FOUR! Mortaza strikes consecutive boundaries.

https://twitter.com/najamsethi/status/450252598038515712
https://twitter.com/NasimZehra/status/450251643909865473
https://twitter.com/FarrukhKPitafi/status/450253084346687488

Pakistan seal resounding win!

………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

19th over: Bangladesh 129-7

Sohail Tanvir comes back.

FOUR! Mortaza hits a boundary!

Pakistan fans gear up to celebrate victory!

………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

18th over: Bangladesh 120-7

Umar Gul's 3rd over.

OUT! Umar Gul gets Ziaur Rahman.

FOUR! Mashrafe Mortaza hits midwicket.

………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

17th over: Bangladesh 112-6

OUT! Ajmal removes Hossain. Kamran Akmal lights up the stumps on a missed hit.

After 17 overs Bangladesh require 79 from 18 balls.

………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

16th over: Bnagladesh 100-5

SIX! Afridi hit for a six on long off by Nasir Hossain.

Bangladesh reach 100 after 16 overs, need another 91 runs.



Bangladesh and Pakistan fans have some fun before the game. PHOTO: ICC

………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

15th over: Bangladesh 91-5

FOUR! Shakib continues to fight, hit consecutive boundaries off Gul.

Could Shakib be a man for Bangladesh?

Shakib dropped by Malik at long on off Malik.

OUT! Big wicket: Left-handed batsman Shakib scores 38 before being dismissed by Gul.

Umar Akmal made no mistake on a sitter at mid-on.

………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

14th over: Bangladesh 81-4

Afridi concedes 7 runs.

………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

13th over: Bangladesh 74-4

Man of crisis: Ajmal back on attack.

117 more required from 42 balls: Required rate near 17 runs per over.

………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

12th over: Bangladesh 69-4

Bangladesh have scored just 23 runs in last six overs for the loss of two wickets.

Shakib escapes stumping off Babar.

SIX! Shakib hits back-to-back sixes soon after escaping stumping.

Pakistan need Shakib's wicket before he poses a threat.

Babar's over conceded 14 runs, most expensive one so far.
https://twitter.com/NasimZehra/status/450243668897968128

………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

11th over: Bangladesh 55-4

Shahid Afridi to Shakib Al Hasan and Nasir Hossain.

………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

Tenth over: Bangladesh 53-4

OUT! Zulfiqar Babar strikes.
https://twitter.com/rahman_18/status/450240811389976576
https://twitter.com/jehan_ara/status/450240856021540864
Bangladesh in tatters, reach 50 in 10th over after losing four wickets.

………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

Ninth over: Bangladesh 47-3

Afridi sends back Shamsur Rehman to dug-out on his first ball.



………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

Eighth over: Bangladesh 44-2

Zulfiqar Babar bowls an impressive first over, just four runs coming from that.

Bangladesh need 147 runs from 72 balls with eight wickets in hands.

………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

Seventh over: Bangladesh 40-2

Mohammad Hafeez to Shamsur Rahman and Shakib al Hasan.

Experienced Shakib not in good touch, has just scored 11 runs from his last two Super 10-stage matches.

………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

Sixth over: Bangladesh 36-2

FOUR! Ajmal hit for a four on first delivery, Anamul Haque fires.

OUT! Ajmal caught and bowled Anamul Haq for 18.

An appeal for stumping, leg upmire makes a call to third umpire. Shamsur Rehman given not out.

Pakistan were 50-1 at this stage.

………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

Fifth over: Bangladesh 32-1

Umar Gul comes to bowl.

OUT! Gul lights bowled out Tamim, gets a breakthrough.

Shakib al Hasan replaces Tamim.

Bangladesh require 159 runs from 90 deliveries with nine wickets in hand.

………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

Fourth over: Bangladesh 30-0

Sohail Tanvir to Anamul Haque and Tamim Iqbal.

Tamim Iqbal has scored 70 runs against Pakistan in his five previous innings. His highest score came against the West Indies when he scored an unbeaten 88 in Dhaka in 2012.

FOUR! By Tamim.

Anamul Haque is playing his first Twenty20 International against Pakistan.

………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

Third over: Bangladesh 20-0

FOUR! Anamul Haque hits boundary!

[infogram url="https://infogr.am/infographic-88249" height="595"]

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Second over: Bangladesh 13-0

FOUR! Sohail Tanvir concedes a four on his first ball.

Seven runs off the over. Bangladesh require another 178 runs from 18 overs.

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First over: Bangladesh 6-0

Hafeez to Anamul Haque and Tamim Iqbal.

FOUR! First boundary on the third ball of the over!

&nbsp;



4:13pm

Now it’s on the Pakistani bowlers to ensure victory in must-win game.

A victory with a handsome margin can make a difference for Pakistan in later stage.

[poll id="1302"]



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20th over: Pakistan 190-5

FOUR! Afridi hits a boundary over cover on the second ball.

OUT! Afridi sent back to the hut after hitting two sixes and a boundary.

Pakistan set target of 191 runs for Bangladesh to chase.

https://twitter.com/sawerapasha/status/450228150098620416

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19th over: Pakistan 180-4

SIX! Shahid Afridi hits off the full delivery.

SIX! And, Boom Boom strikes again.
https://twitter.com/MansoorGeoNews/status/450225288627355648
https://twitter.com/faisalsubzwari/status/450225152027295744
https://twitter.com/ShkhRasheed/status/450225314548154368
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18th over: Pakistan 162-4

OUT! Malik gone for 26 runs. Shahid Afridi comes in to the crease.

100! Shehzad scores first century by any Pakistani player in T20i. Shehzad fired 9 boundaries and four sixes for his 58-ball hundred.

………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

17th over: Pakistan 151-3

150 comes up for Pakistan on the fourth ball. Pakistan's third 50 came quick, Shehzad and Malik took just 24 deliveries to do so

Shehzad three runs shy from his century.

………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

16th over: Pakistan 146-3

FOUR! Big wide by Mashrafe Mortaza to Shehzad, gives Pakistan five runs on the second ball.

FOUR! Shehzad hits another boundary of the over.

FOUR! Shehzad inches closer to his century with this boundary - 91 runs.



Ahmed Shehzad plays a shot during the ICC World Twenty20 tournament cricket match between Bangladesh and Pakistan at The Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium in Dhaka on March 30, 2014. PHOTO: AFP

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15th over: Pakistan 130-3

Shakib al Hasan comes in to bowl. 52% of his over gone for less than 6 runs.

Bangladesh win 75% of matches when he picks 2+ wickets.

………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

14th over: Pakistan 123-3

Mahmudullah comes in to bowl his third over.

FOUR! Malik hits his first boundary. And he strikes again! FOUR!

52 runs partnership from 29 balls between Malik and Shehzad.

………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

13th over: Pakistan 110-3

SIX! Shehzad whacks it over deep midwicket.

FOUR! And he strikes again.

100 comes up for Pakistan on the fourth ball.

SIX! Another shot by Shehzad. He hits again, and it is a FOUR!

Nice over for Team Green - 22 runs!

………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

12th over: Pakistan 88-3

The expected score for Pakistan is 162.

Shoaib Malik has slowed down the match a little.

[poll id="1300"]

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11th over: Pakistan 82-3

Razzak bowls the over, as Pakistan batsmen struggle to score.

https://twitter.com/ArifAlvi/status/450215231110008832

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10th over: Pakistan 75-3

Mahmudullah is the new bowler, with an economy of 6.83 in the T20i.

Here comes Shehzad's first 50 against Bangladesh, fourth in T20i matches and first in World T20i.

OUT! Umar Akmal out for duck! Shoaib Malik comes in support the team.

………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

Ninth over: Pakistan 70-2

Hafeez and Shehzad face Razzak.

OUT! Hafeez stumped for 8 runs. Second wicket for Razzak! Hafeez has a poor record in the series, continues to struggle.

Umar Akmal comes to the crease.

………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

Eighth over: Pakistan 65-1

Hossain bowls to Hafeez and Shehzad.

SIX! Shehzad hits to extra cover on the second ball.

Good fielding by Bangladesh, stops a boundary. Pakistan manage to score two off that ball.

………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

Seventh over: Pakistan 54-1

Razzak is back for the second over.

………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

Sixth over: Pakistan 50-1

Last over before the batting powerplay.

Good over for Bangladesh, just four runs.

………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

Fifth over: Pakistan 46-1

OUT! Kamran Akmal gone for 9 runs. Abdur Razzak claims the first casualty on the third ball. Muhammad Hafeez is the new batsman.

Shehzad 32 from just 16.

Impressive over by Razzak!



Bangladesh bowler Abdur Razzak (C) celebrates with team mates after taking the wicket of Pakistan batsman Kamran Akmal. PHOTO: AFP

………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

Fourth over: Pakistan 42-0

FOUR! Shakib alHassan comes in to rescue his team, gets hit by Kamran for a boundary at deep square leg.

https://twitter.com/faisalkarimGeo/status/450206536984719360
https://twitter.com/karachikhatmal/status/450205743665676288

………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

Third over: Pakistan 34-0

FOUR! Shehzad is on fire, strikes again towards long on.

FOUR! Fourth for Shehzad! Second of the over.

FOUR! Goes to deep cover for another boundary, Shehzad knows his game!

Pakistan win all matches when this genius scores 40+.

SIX! Shehzad hits the first six for Pakistan.

………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

Second over: Pakistan 16-0

Al-Amin Hossain bowls the second over.

FOUR! Shehzad strikes beautifully towards deep fine leg for a four on the second ball. And then he strikes again towards long on. FOUR! 

………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

First over: Pakistan 5-0

Kamran Akmal and Ahmed Shehzad are in to bat for Pakistan.

Mashrafe Murtaza, an experienced bowler, will start Bangladesh's bowling attack.

Ideally, Pakistan should make 45 to 50 runs in the first six overs.

FOUR! Akmal strikes a boundary on the last ball of the over.



2:20pm

Team players sing national anthem in the stadium.

………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

2:10pm

[infogram url="https://infogr.am/bangladesh-bowlers" height="599"]
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2:00pm

Pakistan win the toss and elect to bat first.



The data does not include statistics from the ongoing tournament.

Pakistan: Mohammad Hafeez (captain), Ahmed Shehzad, Bilawal Bhatti, Junaid Khan, Kamran Akmal (wicket keeper), Mohammad Talha, Saeed Ajmal, Shahid Afridi, Sharjeel Khan, Shoaib Malik, Sohaib Maqsood, Sohail Tanvir, Umar Akmal†, Umar Gul, Zulfiqar Babar

Bangladesh: Mushfiqur Rahim (captain and wicket keeper), Abdur Razzak, al-Amin Hossain, Anamul Haque, Farhad Reza, Mahmudullah, Mashrafe Mortaza, Mominul Haque, Nasir Hossain, Sabbir Rahman, Shamsur Rahman, Shakib al Hasan, Sohag Gazi, Tamim Iqbal, Ziaur Rahman]]>
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			<title>World T20: Rejuvenated Pakistan eye semi-final berth</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/688905/world-t20-rejuvenated-pakistan-eye-semi-final-berth</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/688905/world-t20-rejuvenated-pakistan-eye-semi-final-berth#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Sat, 29 Mar 14 20:17:23 +0500</pubDate>
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			<description>
				<![CDATA[Team Returns to action after week-long break to take on Bangladesh .]]>
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				<![CDATA[Pakistan will return to World Twenty20 action after a week's break on Sunday, charged up to make a move for the semi-finals by winning their two remaining games in the Super-10 round in Dhaka.


Mohammad Hafeez's men, who lost their opening group two match to India by seven wickets on March 21, bounced back to beat Australia by 16 runs last Sunday and remain in contention.

Pakistan must defeat hosts Bangladesh on Sunday and defending champions West Indies on Tuesday to join India in the semi-finals as the second team from the group.

"The picture is clear," said Hafeez on Saturday. "We have to win both games to make sure we are in the last four. There is no margin of mistake now and we are eager to get back to the field."

Hafeez said the team used the break to iron out shortcomings ahead of the crucial matches at the Sher-e-Bangla stadium.

"We have trained and worked hard for the last six days. The management and the coaches worked on our weaknesses. The build-up for the crucial stage has gone well."

Hafeez praised archrivals India, who have won three consecutive games to ensure their place in the knock-out round even before their last league match against Australia on Sunday.

"India have played very good cricket so far in the tournament," said the Pakistan skipper. "It's good they are through, so the rest of the teams know what it will take to advance.”

On another note, Hafeez revealed that Umar Akmal, who strained a hamstring during that innings, was fit to play on Sunday.

Dhoni's India fly high amid upheaval at home

For the second time in less than a year, Mahendra Singh Dhoni's team is making up for the sins of its administrators with a flawless display at the World Twenty20 in Bangladesh.

Despite the upheaval back home – Supreme Court’s decision to replace Board of Control for Cricket in India chief N Srinivasan – India cruised into the semi-finals for the first time since triumphing in the 2007 inaugural event with three emphatic wins in group two of the Super-10s.

The charismatic Dhoni said the team owed its success to a “good dressing-room atmosphere, belief and enjoying each other's success."

"A lot of things happen around cricket but you have to be focused when you are representing your country," he said. "That is one thing that this team has done really well.”

India take on winless Australia in their last league match on Sunday hoping to iron out any shortcomings as they head into the knock-out rounds.

"We have given a very good performance so far but there are still some areas where we can improve," Dhoni said. "We have dropped some catches, but so have the other teams.

"If our middle-order has not been tested, then it's beyond our control. We can't do much about it. All we can do for the middle-order is give them the priority in the next match and send them up the order."

Published in The Express Tribune, March 30th, 2014.

Like Sports on Facebook, follow @ETribuneSports on Twitter to stay informed and join in the conversation.]]>
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			<title>World T20: Fiery McCullum steers NZ to victory</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/688908/world-t20-fiery-mccullum-steers-nz-to-victory</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/688908/world-t20-fiery-mccullum-steers-nz-to-victory#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Sat, 29 Mar 14 20:13:28 +0500</pubDate>
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				<![CDATA[Black Caps thump Netherlands to earn second win in event.]]>
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				<![CDATA[Brendon McCullum hit a robust half-century to steer New Zealand to a comprehensive six-wicket win over the Netherlands in a World Twenty20 Super-10 game in Chittagong on Saturday.


McCullum hit 45-ball 65 with three sixes and four boundaries to make easy work of a 152-run target, which New Zealand chased down in 19 overs.

McCullum also became the first man to reach 2,000 runs in Twenty20 cricket, when he scored 21 in his 67th match.

The victory gives New Zealand their second win in three games, while the Netherlands crashed out of the event with three defeats in as many games.

McCullum added 42 for the second wicket with Kane Williamson (29) and another 46 for the fourth wicket with Corey Anderson, who made an unbeaten 20.

McCullum holed out in the 17th over off paceman Timm van der Gugten who took three for 30 in his four overs.

But he was not provided any support from the other Dutch bowlers as New Zealand's strong batting line-up proved too good for them.

"Definitely, Netherlands put up a really good fight," said man-of-the-match McCullum.

"There was a lot of talk about their game against Sri Lanka [Netherlands out for 39], but we had a lot of respect for them."

The losing captain Peter Borren said McCullum made the chase easy.

"Brendon got them through, but if we'd got him early something could have happened."

Earlier, Borren made 49 and Tom Cooper scored an unbeaten 40 as the two were involved in a 60-run fourth wicket stand off just 35 balls to steer their team to 151 for four in 20 overs.

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[embed width="620"]http://www.dailymotion.com/video/x1klgk7_world-t20-fiery-mccullum-steers-nz-to-victory_sport[/embed]

Published in The Express Tribune, March 30th, 2014.

Like Sports on Facebook, follow @ETribuneSports on Twitter to stay informed and join in the conversation.]]>
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