ICC urged to relocate Florida matches

Former Pakistan captain Azhar Ali has called on the International Cricket Council (ICC) to relocate matches from Florida due to severe flood warnings in the state.
In a recent interview with a local news channel, Azhar emphasized that the current circumstances suggest that scheduled matches may not proceed as planned.
“Given the severe conditions in Florida, it seems unlikely that the matches will take place. The ICC must take action and shift the games to another venue,” Azhar said.
“Even if it means holding two matches at a single venue, I’m confident the teams involved have already contacted the ICC, requesting a venue change,” he added.
Azhar also highlighted existing criticism directed at the ICC for substandard pitches at New York’s Nassau County International Cricket Stadium, urging the council to act swiftly.
“The ICC needs to act quickly, and logistically, it shouldn’t be too challenging. If no matches occur in Florida, the ICC will face even more scrutiny, especially given the ongoing concerns about pitch quality in New York,” he concluded.
On the other hand, former Pakistan captain Rashid Latif has criticized the ICC organizers for the poor playing conditions in New York and for placing matches in Lauderhill, Florida despite the predicted rain forecast.
Latif expressed his concerns on his X account, questioning the ICC’s decision to schedule matches in Florida during a period known for rain.
“After eight matches in New York where the playing surfaces were subpar (with Canada’s 137-7 being the highest total and India’s 111-3 the highest run chase), we are now facing the possibility of three more washouts in Lauderhill, Florida. This is not a good look for the T20 World Cup, for which teams have trained and practiced for years!” Latif posted.
In another tweet, Latif added, “How can the T20 World Cup organizers ignore the rain trends in Lauderhill during this period and schedule matches from June 14-16?”
Pakistan team holds indoor training due to rain
The Pakistan cricket team is currently in Florida, gearing up for their fourth and final group match in the T20 World Cup against Ireland on June 16.
Unfortunately, bad weather has already disrupted their first practice session. Instead of a full outdoor training session, the players engaged in light indoor physical training and a friendly game of football.
According to reports, the national cricket team decided to end their practice session early due to rain. Rather than heading to the stadium, they opted for physical training and a football game at a local club. This alternative approach aimed to keep the players active and engaged despite the inclement weather.
In addition to their training, the Pakistani cricketers took time to participate in a cricket clinic with local children. They played cricket with the young enthusiasts and offered valuable tips, creating memorable experiences for the budding athletes.
Aamer Jamal opens up on his axing from T20 WC
Pakistan all-rounder Aamer Jamal revealed he couldn’t sleep after watching Pakistan’s loss to the USA in the ICC T20 World Cup 2024.
Speaking to a cricket website, Jamal, who last played for Pakistan in January, confirmed he was deeply affected by the defeat.
“I couldn’t sleep that night [after the loss],” Jamal said.
He also addressed his omission from the national team after the T20I series against New Zealand, stating he wasn’t disappointed and remains focused on playing cricket.
“No, I’m not disappointed that I’m not in the team. First time I got disappointed after making my debut, I was dropped from the team without any reason. Like I hadn’t performed it was fine but still I took it rather positively after some time. My job is to play Cricket and perform in whatever platform I’m provided with,” he said.
“Selection is not in my hands, if it is written for me I will get it no matter what stage it is. So I always believe in playing good cricket, perform well. Selection is up to the selectors,” he concluded.