Pak gears up for NZ series with intensive training camp

The five-match T20 International series will be played from March 16 to 26

Pakistan cricket team's preparations for the upcoming tour of New Zealand are in full swing. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has organized an intensive training camp at the Lahore City Cricket Association Ground for the selected players.

The five-match T20 International series against New Zealand is set to take place from March 16 to 26. Salman Ali Agha has been appointed as Pakistan's T20I captain, while Shadab Khan will serve as the vice-captain.

Wicketkeeper-batter Mohammad Haris, who is part of the T20I squad, expressed confidence about playing in New Zealand, stating that he is familiar with the conditions, having played there before. Meanwhile, in the ODI format, Mohammad Rizwan will continue as Pakistan's captain for the three-match series scheduled from March 29 to April 5. Salman Ali Agha has been named as his deputy.

Former fast bowler Aaqib Javed will remain as the interim head coach for the New Zealand tour. His original tenure was set to last until the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, but he has been asked to extend his role until a permanent head coach is appointed. Additionally, Mohammad Yousuf has been named Pakistan's batting coach for the series.

Pakistan Squads for the New Zealand Tour

T20I Squad:

Salman Ali Agha (Captain), Shadab Khan (Vice-Captain), Abbas Afridi, Abdul Samad, Abrar Ahmed, Haris Rauf, Hasan Nawaz, Irfan Khan Niazi, Jahandad Khan, Khushdil Shah, Mohammad Ali, Mohammad Haris, Omair Bin Yousuf, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Sufiyan Muqeem, and Usman Khan.

ODI Squad:

Mohammad Rizwan (Captain), Salman Ali Agha (Vice-Captain), Abdullah Shafique, Abrar Ahmed, Akif Javed, Babar Azam, Faheem Ashraf, Imam-ul-Haq, Irfan Khan Niazi, Khushdil Shah, Mohammad Ali, Mohammad Wasim Jr., Naseem Shah, Sufiyan Muqeem, and Tayyab Tahir.

Pakistan will be aiming for a strong performance in both formats as they take on New Zealand in challenging conditions.

Cricket boards regret supporting India in CT

Cricket boards that once aligned with India for financial benefits and helped establish its dominance in international cricket are now frustrated by its growing influence and preferential treatment.

After current and former cricketers such as Pat Cummins, Steve Smith, Michael Atherton, Nasser Hussain, and Jonathan Agnew voiced their concerns, the British media has also started highlighting the advantages India has received in the ongoing Champions Trophy.