2 months ago
NEW DELHI: Former Pakistan captain Misbah-ul-Haq has offered his resignation from the Pakistan Cricket Board's (PCB) national selection committee, adding another dramatic twist to the turmoil surrounding the Test side after a sweeping overhaul of the squad and coaching staff.
According to Geo News, sources close to Misbah said the former cricketer had informed the PCB of his decision and would serve a notice period before formally stepping down. Cricinfo also reported that Misbah had offered his resignation, although the PCB is yet to accept it.
The development comes just a day after the PCB announced wholesale changes to the Pakistan Test squad and coaching staff following the team's heavy 194-run defeat to England at Lord's.
The timing of Misbah's decision has raised questions over the selection committee's role in the PCB's latest overhaul. According to the reports, Misbah was apparently not consulted despite being part of the national selection committee when the board decided to make major changes to the squad and coaching staff.
The PCB released seven players from the Test squad ahead of the third Test against England at Edgbaston, starting September 9. Mohammad Rizwan, Imam-ul-Haq, Salman Ali Agha, Ali Usman, Aamer Jamal, Awais Zafar and Khurram Shahzad were among those released.
Sarfaraz Ahmed and Umar Gul were also removed as head coach and bowling coach respectively.
The PCB subsequently brought in white-ball head coach Mike Hesson and bowling coach Ashley Noffke to work with the Test side for the remainder of the England tour.
Cricinfo further reported that Misbah has decided to step down from his role as a batting consultant at the National Cricket Academy in Lahore, where his contract required him to work for 180 days a year.
The extent of Pakistan's overhaul was further highlighted by the inclusion of five uncapped players in the squad for the third Test.
Arafat Minhas, Mohammad Imran Jnr, Saad Baig, Mohammad Imran Randhawa and Razaullah have been added, while Saim Ayub and Abdullah Fazal have also been brought into the group. The latter two have a combined experience of only 10 Test matches.
The sweeping changes followed Pakistan's innings-and-103-run defeat in the first Test before England won the second by 194 runs. The back-to-back defeats left Pakistan 0-2 down in the three-match series and staring at a potential 3-0 clean sweep.
Misbah was appointed to the four-member national selection committee in March alongside Aaqib Javed, Sarfaraz Ahmed and Asad Shafiq.
The former captain has previously held several senior positions within the PCB. He was appointed head coach and chief selector in 2019, before stepping down as chief selector in October 2020 and eventually leaving the head coach's position in 2021.
He returned to the PCB setup as an adviser in 2023 under the then ad hoc management committee headed by Zaka Ashraf. He was later appointed one of five mentors for the men's Champions Cup and al
According to Geo News, sources close to Misbah said the former cricketer had informed the PCB of his decision and would serve a notice period before formally stepping down. Cricinfo also reported that Misbah had offered his resignation, although the PCB is yet to accept it.
The development comes just a day after the PCB announced wholesale changes to the Pakistan Test squad and coaching staff following the team's heavy 194-run defeat to England at Lord's.
The timing of Misbah's decision has raised questions over the selection committee's role in the PCB's latest overhaul. According to the reports, Misbah was apparently not consulted despite being part of the national selection committee when the board decided to make major changes to the squad and coaching staff.
The PCB released seven players from the Test squad ahead of the third Test against England at Edgbaston, starting September 9. Mohammad Rizwan, Imam-ul-Haq, Salman Ali Agha, Ali Usman, Aamer Jamal, Awais Zafar and Khurram Shahzad were among those released.
Sarfaraz Ahmed and Umar Gul were also removed as head coach and bowling coach respectively.
The PCB subsequently brought in white-ball head coach Mike Hesson and bowling coach Ashley Noffke to work with the Test side for the remainder of the England tour.
Cricinfo further reported that Misbah has decided to step down from his role as a batting consultant at the National Cricket Academy in Lahore, where his contract required him to work for 180 days a year.
The extent of Pakistan's overhaul was further highlighted by the inclusion of five uncapped players in the squad for the third Test.
Arafat Minhas, Mohammad Imran Jnr, Saad Baig, Mohammad Imran Randhawa and Razaullah have been added, while Saim Ayub and Abdullah Fazal have also been brought into the group. The latter two have a combined experience of only 10 Test matches.
The sweeping changes followed Pakistan's innings-and-103-run defeat in the first Test before England won the second by 194 runs. The back-to-back defeats left Pakistan 0-2 down in the three-match series and staring at a potential 3-0 clean sweep.
Misbah was appointed to the four-member national selection committee in March alongside Aaqib Javed, Sarfaraz Ahmed and Asad Shafiq.
The former captain has previously held several senior positions within the PCB. He was appointed head coach and chief selector in 2019, before stepping down as chief selector in October 2020 and eventually leaving the head coach's position in 2021.
He returned to the PCB setup as an adviser in 2023 under the then ad hoc management committee headed by Zaka Ashraf. He was later appointed one of five mentors for the men's Champions Cup and al
2 months ago
Pakistan head coach Sarfaraz Ahmed has said he and his players were completely unaware of the Pakistan Cricket Board's reported threat to withdraw from the Lord's Test after Sky Sports aired an interview with Imran Khan's sons.
The controversy emerged during the lunch break on the first day of the second Test between England and Pakistan, with reports claiming the PCB had warned the England and Wales Cricket Board that Pakistan could abandon the match and potentially pull out of the remainder of the three-Test tour if the interview was broadcast.
However, Pakistan's players returned to the field after lunch and the Test continued as scheduled.
Asked about the incident after the end of play on Day 2, Sarfaraz said the reported developments had not reached the dressing room and insisted his attention remained on the match.
"I don't know anything. I'm just focusing on the match. You're talking about the interview? We don't know about the interview," Sarfaraz told reporters.
The Pakistan coach was then asked whether there had been any possibility of the players refusing to return for the second session on the opening day.
"All are OK. We were having lunch at that time," he replied.
The interview in question featured Suleiman and Kasim Khan, the sons of former Pakistan captain and prime minister Imran Khan, and was conducted by former England captain and Sky Sports broadcaster Michael Atherton.
During the conversation, the two brothers spoke about their father's treatment and security while he remains in custody. They also questioned the UK government's response to his situation.
A version of the interview was ultimately broadcast, despite the reported concerns raised by the PCB.
In Pakistan, however, viewers did not see the interview. The Test is being shown by state broadcaster PTV using Sky's international feed, but PTV did not air the segment involving Imran Khan's sons.
The episode has unfolded against a politically sensitive backdrop, with PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi also serving as Pakistan's interior minister.
Imran Khan, 73, remains one of the most prominent figures in Pakistan's cricket and political history. He spent 21 years as an international cricketer and led Pakistan to their first World Cup triumph in 1992.
He later entered politics and served as Pakistan's prime minister from 2018 to 2022. Khan has been in prison since 2023 after being convicted in corruption-related cases, charges he has denied.
Despite the reported threat surrounding the Sky Sports interview, Pakistan's participation in the Lord's Test was not disrupted.
England ended the second day in a strong position, moving 261 runs ahead after reaching 81 for 3 in their second innings.
#test #england #reported #sports
The controversy emerged during the lunch break on the first day of the second Test between England and Pakistan, with reports claiming the PCB had warned the England and Wales Cricket Board that Pakistan could abandon the match and potentially pull out of the remainder of the three-Test tour if the interview was broadcast.
However, Pakistan's players returned to the field after lunch and the Test continued as scheduled.
Asked about the incident after the end of play on Day 2, Sarfaraz said the reported developments had not reached the dressing room and insisted his attention remained on the match.
"I don't know anything. I'm just focusing on the match. You're talking about the interview? We don't know about the interview," Sarfaraz told reporters.
The Pakistan coach was then asked whether there had been any possibility of the players refusing to return for the second session on the opening day.
"All are OK. We were having lunch at that time," he replied.
The interview in question featured Suleiman and Kasim Khan, the sons of former Pakistan captain and prime minister Imran Khan, and was conducted by former England captain and Sky Sports broadcaster Michael Atherton.
During the conversation, the two brothers spoke about their father's treatment and security while he remains in custody. They also questioned the UK government's response to his situation.
A version of the interview was ultimately broadcast, despite the reported concerns raised by the PCB.
In Pakistan, however, viewers did not see the interview. The Test is being shown by state broadcaster PTV using Sky's international feed, but PTV did not air the segment involving Imran Khan's sons.
The episode has unfolded against a politically sensitive backdrop, with PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi also serving as Pakistan's interior minister.
Imran Khan, 73, remains one of the most prominent figures in Pakistan's cricket and political history. He spent 21 years as an international cricketer and led Pakistan to their first World Cup triumph in 1992.
He later entered politics and served as Pakistan's prime minister from 2018 to 2022. Khan has been in prison since 2023 after being convicted in corruption-related cases, charges he has denied.
Despite the reported threat surrounding the Sky Sports interview, Pakistan's participation in the Lord's Test was not disrupted.
England ended the second day in a strong position, moving 261 runs ahead after reaching 81 for 3 in their second innings.
#test #england #reported #sports
2 months ago
Head coach Sarfaraz Ahmed said he and his players did not know about a Pakistan Cricket Board threat to the England and Wales Cricket Board over a Sky interview with the sons of Imran Khan.
During lunch on day one of the second Test, Sky Sports aired an interview with Suleiman and Kasim Khan, the sons of former Pakistan captain and prime minister Imran, who has been in prison for the past three years.
It is understood the PCB raised the prospect of cancelling the Test at Lord's and the remainder of the three-match tour if the interview aired.
A version of the interview was broadcast, and the players returned to the field after the interval to continue the match.
"I don't know anything. I'm just focusing on the match," said Sarfaraz at the end of the second day's play.
#interview #Pakistan #players
During lunch on day one of the second Test, Sky Sports aired an interview with Suleiman and Kasim Khan, the sons of former Pakistan captain and prime minister Imran, who has been in prison for the past three years.
It is understood the PCB raised the prospect of cancelling the Test at Lord's and the remainder of the three-match tour if the interview aired.
A version of the interview was broadcast, and the players returned to the field after the interval to continue the match.
"I don't know anything. I'm just focusing on the match," said Sarfaraz at the end of the second day's play.
#interview #Pakistan #players
2 months ago
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has reportedly raised an objection with Sky Sports after former England captain Michael Atherton interviewed the two sons of Imran Khan during the lunch break on the opening day of the Test at Lord's.
According to Cricinfo, the PCB complained to the broadcaster over the decision to air the 18-minute interview with Suleiman Khan and Kasim Khan, which focused on their father's health and concerns over his safety in prison.
The episode created an unusual off-field controversy around the Test, with the PCB reportedly even considering whether Pakistan's players should remain off the field when play was due to resume for the second session.
Atherton conducted the interview with Suleiman and Kasim on Wednesday at Lord's, a day before the Test began. Sky Sports had also used a preview of the conversation in its coverage ahead of the match.
According to Cricinfo, the PCB contacted Sky Sports before lunch on Thursday and objected to the planned broadcast. The board reportedly warned that Pakistan's players could refuse to return to the field if the interview was aired.
Sky Sports initially held back the segment before eventually showing it during the lunch interval.
The interview was not broadcast in Pakistan because state broadcaster PTV holds the television rights for the series.
During their conversation with Atherton, Suleiman and Kasim discussed their concerns about their father's condition and safety while he remains in prison.
The brothers also spoke about their efforts to ensure that Imran receives appropriate medical treatment.
The former Pakistan captain and 1992 World Cup-winning skipper has been incarcerated for around three years, with his health and access to medical care becoming an increasingly prominent concern for his family.
His sons have stepped up their public calls for greater access to medical treatment in recent weeks.
The latest controversy comes after Pakistan's Supreme Court last week directed that Imran be admitted to Shifa Hospital in Islamabad.
However, instead of being taken to the hospital named in the directive, Imran was taken to the government-run Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS) for a medical check-up before being returned to prison.
His sisters and sons have alleged that the authorities did not follow the court's directive. They have also continued to demand that Imran be examined by his own doctor.
The developments have prompted former international cricketers to publicly call for better medical care for the former Pakistan captain.
Last week, 21 former international captains, including Atherton, signed a letter to Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif urging authorities to ensure that Imran receives proper medical attention while in custody.
The signatories included former captains from India, Australia, England, New Zealand and the West Indies.
It followed another appeal in February, when 14 former international captains wrote
According to Cricinfo, the PCB complained to the broadcaster over the decision to air the 18-minute interview with Suleiman Khan and Kasim Khan, which focused on their father's health and concerns over his safety in prison.
The episode created an unusual off-field controversy around the Test, with the PCB reportedly even considering whether Pakistan's players should remain off the field when play was due to resume for the second session.
Atherton conducted the interview with Suleiman and Kasim on Wednesday at Lord's, a day before the Test began. Sky Sports had also used a preview of the conversation in its coverage ahead of the match.
According to Cricinfo, the PCB contacted Sky Sports before lunch on Thursday and objected to the planned broadcast. The board reportedly warned that Pakistan's players could refuse to return to the field if the interview was aired.
Sky Sports initially held back the segment before eventually showing it during the lunch interval.
The interview was not broadcast in Pakistan because state broadcaster PTV holds the television rights for the series.
During their conversation with Atherton, Suleiman and Kasim discussed their concerns about their father's condition and safety while he remains in prison.
The brothers also spoke about their efforts to ensure that Imran receives appropriate medical treatment.
The former Pakistan captain and 1992 World Cup-winning skipper has been incarcerated for around three years, with his health and access to medical care becoming an increasingly prominent concern for his family.
His sons have stepped up their public calls for greater access to medical treatment in recent weeks.
The latest controversy comes after Pakistan's Supreme Court last week directed that Imran be admitted to Shifa Hospital in Islamabad.
However, instead of being taken to the hospital named in the directive, Imran was taken to the government-run Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS) for a medical check-up before being returned to prison.
His sisters and sons have alleged that the authorities did not follow the court's directive. They have also continued to demand that Imran be examined by his own doctor.
The developments have prompted former international cricketers to publicly call for better medical care for the former Pakistan captain.
Last week, 21 former international captains, including Atherton, signed a letter to Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif urging authorities to ensure that Imran receives proper medical attention while in custody.
The signatories included former captains from India, Australia, England, New Zealand and the West Indies.
It followed another appeal in February, when 14 former international captains wrote
2 months ago
Sunil Narine added another landmark to an extraordinary T20 career on Thursday, becoming only the second bowler in the history of the format to reach 650 wickets.
The Trinbago Knight Riders spinner achieved the feat during their Caribbean Premier League 2026 clash against Saint Lucia Kings at the Brian Lara Stadium in Tarouba. Playing his 611th T20 match, Narine needed just one wicket to enter the exclusive club and duly delivered, finishing with figures of 1/27 from his four overs.
The milestone wicket arrived in the sixth ball of the 12th over of Saint Lucia Kings' innings. Narine trapped West Indies batter John Campbell lbw to take his career tally to 650 wickets.
Only Afghanistan's Rashid Khan had previously reached the mark. Rashid has 736 wickets from 547 T20 matches and is set to travel to India next month for a three-match T20I series in New Delhi against the three-time T20 World Cup winners.
Narine and Rashid have established a significant gap over the next names on the list. Dwayne Bravo is third with 631 wickets, followed by Imran Tahir on 582.
The latest milestone adds to Narine's remarkable record in the CPL. He is the competition's leading wicket-taker with 137 dismissals, two ahead of Tahir's 135.
His numbers in the IPL are equally impressive. Since making his debut for Kolkata Knight Riders in 2012, Narine has represented the franchise in 202 matches and taken 207 wickets. He is the only overseas player in IPL history to cross 200 wickets and also holds the record for the most wickets by a player for a single team in the competition.
What makes Narine's longevity even more striking is his economy rate. At a time when 200-plus totals have become increasingly common in the IPL, the mystery spinner has continued to keep scoring under control. He has maintained an economy rate of 6.79 throughout IPL seasons, while in IPL 2026 he took 15 wickets at an outstanding economy of 6.65.
133560419
Narine's impact has also extended beyond his bowling. The all-rounder has scored 4,881 runs in 390 T20 innings, underlining his value as one of the format's most versatile players.
With 650 wickets now to his name, Narine has further strengthened his claim as one of the greatest T20 players of all time.
#time
The Trinbago Knight Riders spinner achieved the feat during their Caribbean Premier League 2026 clash against Saint Lucia Kings at the Brian Lara Stadium in Tarouba. Playing his 611th T20 match, Narine needed just one wicket to enter the exclusive club and duly delivered, finishing with figures of 1/27 from his four overs.
The milestone wicket arrived in the sixth ball of the 12th over of Saint Lucia Kings' innings. Narine trapped West Indies batter John Campbell lbw to take his career tally to 650 wickets.
Only Afghanistan's Rashid Khan had previously reached the mark. Rashid has 736 wickets from 547 T20 matches and is set to travel to India next month for a three-match T20I series in New Delhi against the three-time T20 World Cup winners.
Narine and Rashid have established a significant gap over the next names on the list. Dwayne Bravo is third with 631 wickets, followed by Imran Tahir on 582.
The latest milestone adds to Narine's remarkable record in the CPL. He is the competition's leading wicket-taker with 137 dismissals, two ahead of Tahir's 135.
His numbers in the IPL are equally impressive. Since making his debut for Kolkata Knight Riders in 2012, Narine has represented the franchise in 202 matches and taken 207 wickets. He is the only overseas player in IPL history to cross 200 wickets and also holds the record for the most wickets by a player for a single team in the competition.
What makes Narine's longevity even more striking is his economy rate. At a time when 200-plus totals have become increasingly common in the IPL, the mystery spinner has continued to keep scoring under control. He has maintained an economy rate of 6.79 throughout IPL seasons, while in IPL 2026 he took 15 wickets at an outstanding economy of 6.65.
133560419
Narine's impact has also extended beyond his bowling. The all-rounder has scored 4,881 runs in 390 T20 innings, underlining his value as one of the format's most versatile players.
With 650 wickets now to his name, Narine has further strengthened his claim as one of the greatest T20 players of all time.
#time
2 months ago
Former England captain Michael Atherton has revealed why he joined a group of 21 former international cricketers in calling on Pakistani authorities to ensure imprisoned former Pakistan captain and Prime Minister Imran Khan receives proper medical treatment.
Imran has been in prison since 2023 after being convicted in corruption cases, charges he has vehemently denied. Concerns over his health have grown in recent months, with reports earlier this year claiming that he had lost sight in one eye.
The reports prompted former cricketers to appeal to the authorities for his medical care. Last week, 21 former international players again wrote to the authorities after Imran was reportedly taken to a hospital following an order from the country's top court, but was allegedly not properly examined.
Atherton, speaking on a Sky Sports cricket podcast alongside former England captain Nasser Hussain, said the appeal was not simply about ensuring medical treatment for Imran. He also expressed concern over what he described as an attempt to erase the former Pakistan leader from public life.
"Nass [Nasser Hussain] and I were among 21 former captains who sent a second letter yesterday, a humanitarian appeal for Imran Khan to get the requisite level of treatment. But I suppose the basic theme was the way the state has tried to airbrush Imran almost out of existence, which is increasingly difficult to do in a social media age," Atherton said on a Sky Sports cricket podcast in the company of Hussain.
The group included several prominent former cricketers from across the cricketing world. Former India captains Kapil Dev, Sunil Gavaskar and Dilip Vengsarkar were also among those who signed the appeal.
The involvement of the three Indian cricketers was particularly notable given the political tensions between India and Pakistan and Imran's own history as Pakistan's prime minister.
Kapil explained why he felt compelled to support his former cricketing rival and friend, while also acknowledging that Pakistani cricketers could be in a difficult position if they spoke publicly.
"I don't blame Pakistani cricketers for not speaking up. They have to live there. But I would like to support my friend, whom we admired and played with," Kapil said.
The former India captain stressed that the appeal was not about intervening in Pakistan's legal process but about ensuring basic care and dignity for a prisoner.
"We don't know the law of the country, that's fine. But humility and simple facilities should be given to a prisoner, whoever he may be. And he was a former prime minister of the country and a top cricketer.
"We want him to get the best treatment, [that's] what we are asking for. We are not asking for anything else, we are not asking for any replies, we are requesting," the former India captain added.
Imran led Pakistan to their only men's ODI World Cup ***** le in 1992 and was considered one of the finest all-rounders the game has ever s
Imran has been in prison since 2023 after being convicted in corruption cases, charges he has vehemently denied. Concerns over his health have grown in recent months, with reports earlier this year claiming that he had lost sight in one eye.
The reports prompted former cricketers to appeal to the authorities for his medical care. Last week, 21 former international players again wrote to the authorities after Imran was reportedly taken to a hospital following an order from the country's top court, but was allegedly not properly examined.
Atherton, speaking on a Sky Sports cricket podcast alongside former England captain Nasser Hussain, said the appeal was not simply about ensuring medical treatment for Imran. He also expressed concern over what he described as an attempt to erase the former Pakistan leader from public life.
"Nass [Nasser Hussain] and I were among 21 former captains who sent a second letter yesterday, a humanitarian appeal for Imran Khan to get the requisite level of treatment. But I suppose the basic theme was the way the state has tried to airbrush Imran almost out of existence, which is increasingly difficult to do in a social media age," Atherton said on a Sky Sports cricket podcast in the company of Hussain.
The group included several prominent former cricketers from across the cricketing world. Former India captains Kapil Dev, Sunil Gavaskar and Dilip Vengsarkar were also among those who signed the appeal.
The involvement of the three Indian cricketers was particularly notable given the political tensions between India and Pakistan and Imran's own history as Pakistan's prime minister.
Kapil explained why he felt compelled to support his former cricketing rival and friend, while also acknowledging that Pakistani cricketers could be in a difficult position if they spoke publicly.
"I don't blame Pakistani cricketers for not speaking up. They have to live there. But I would like to support my friend, whom we admired and played with," Kapil said.
The former India captain stressed that the appeal was not about intervening in Pakistan's legal process but about ensuring basic care and dignity for a prisoner.
"We don't know the law of the country, that's fine. But humility and simple facilities should be given to a prisoner, whoever he may be. And he was a former prime minister of the country and a top cricketer.
"We want him to get the best treatment, [that's] what we are asking for. We are not asking for anything else, we are not asking for any replies, we are requesting," the former India captain added.
Imran led Pakistan to their only men's ODI World Cup ***** le in 1992 and was considered one of the finest all-rounders the game has ever s
2 months ago
ISLAMABAD (AP) — Pakistan's Supreme Court on Tuesday ordered authorities to take imprisoned former Prime Minister Imran Khan to a private hospital in the capital for a medical examination, following months of concerns from his family and personal physicians about his health and access to medical care, his lawyers and party officials said.
A three-judge panel ordered that Khan be taken to Shifa International Hospital in Islamabad in the coming days and examined by a medical board that will include specialists and one of his personal physicians, Faisal Sultan.
The court also ordered prison officials to allow Khan weekly meetings with family members and telephone calls with his sons. Khan's family has been struggling to secure access to him and have him examined by physicians of his choice.
Hours after the order, authorities allowed one of Khan's sisters to visit him. Pakistan had barred visitors earlier this year after receiving intelligence reports about a possible attack on the prison where he is being held.
The order came months after Khan petitioned the court, asking to be transferred from a high-security prison in the nearby garrison city of Rawalpindi to a hospital and to be allowed access to his personal physicians, family and lawyers.
#access
A three-judge panel ordered that Khan be taken to Shifa International Hospital in Islamabad in the coming days and examined by a medical board that will include specialists and one of his personal physicians, Faisal Sultan.
The court also ordered prison officials to allow Khan weekly meetings with family members and telephone calls with his sons. Khan's family has been struggling to secure access to him and have him examined by physicians of his choice.
Hours after the order, authorities allowed one of Khan's sisters to visit him. Pakistan had barred visitors earlier this year after receiving intelligence reports about a possible attack on the prison where he is being held.
The order came months after Khan petitioned the court, asking to be transferred from a high-security prison in the nearby garrison city of Rawalpindi to a hospital and to be allowed access to his personal physicians, family and lawyers.
#access
2 months ago
Former Pakistan fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar believes he could have taken 400 Test wickets if he had played under Imran Khan's leadership earlier in his career.
Shoaib took 178 wickets in 46 Tests during his international career, which ended during the 2011 World Cup in India amid reported differences with then Pakistan captain Shahid Afridi. He also took 247 wickets in 163 ODIs and 21 wickets in 15 T20Is.
Speaking on a Geo TV show, Shoaib pointed to his first-class record, where he took more than 400 wickets, and said playing under Imran could have helped him develop further as a Test bowler.
"If I had played earlier under the fiery leadership of Imran Khan I would have learnt a lot and I would have taken 400 wickets in Test cricket," said the 51-year-old, as quoted by news agency PTI.
Shoaib made his Test debut against the West Indies in Rawalpindi, his hometown. At the time, Pakistan captain Wasim Akram had reservations about giving the young fast bowler his debut, believing it was not the right time.
The relationship between Akram and Shoaib remained complicated during their careers, with both having moments of admiration and disagreements.
The two also formed part of Pakistan's bowling attack during some notable performances, including the 1999 tour of India and the 1999 World Cup in England. Pakistan finished runners-up to Australia in the final at Lord's.
Shoaib also spoke about the physical toll of his career, which lasted from 1997 to 2011.
He recalled the routine he followed to stay fit and recover from injuries, including problems with his knees.
"I had to wake up three hours before everyone else. I had to cycle first, then go to the gym. My knees would get jammed and lock up.
"I would have fluid drained from them, apply medication, and ice them," said the 51-year-old.
133249043
#Pakistan
Shoaib took 178 wickets in 46 Tests during his international career, which ended during the 2011 World Cup in India amid reported differences with then Pakistan captain Shahid Afridi. He also took 247 wickets in 163 ODIs and 21 wickets in 15 T20Is.
Speaking on a Geo TV show, Shoaib pointed to his first-class record, where he took more than 400 wickets, and said playing under Imran could have helped him develop further as a Test bowler.
"If I had played earlier under the fiery leadership of Imran Khan I would have learnt a lot and I would have taken 400 wickets in Test cricket," said the 51-year-old, as quoted by news agency PTI.
Shoaib made his Test debut against the West Indies in Rawalpindi, his hometown. At the time, Pakistan captain Wasim Akram had reservations about giving the young fast bowler his debut, believing it was not the right time.
The relationship between Akram and Shoaib remained complicated during their careers, with both having moments of admiration and disagreements.
The two also formed part of Pakistan's bowling attack during some notable performances, including the 1999 tour of India and the 1999 World Cup in England. Pakistan finished runners-up to Australia in the final at Lord's.
Shoaib also spoke about the physical toll of his career, which lasted from 1997 to 2011.
He recalled the routine he followed to stay fit and recover from injuries, including problems with his knees.
"I had to wake up three hours before everyone else. I had to cycle first, then go to the gym. My knees would get jammed and lock up.
"I would have fluid drained from them, apply medication, and ice them," said the 51-year-old.
133249043
#Pakistan
3 months ago
Crystal Palace are one of the several clubs interested in signing Imrân Louza (27) from Watford during the summer transfer window, according to a report from Foot Mercato. The Premier League have enquired about the Moroccan international midfielder's availability ahead of a potential move.
French clubs have also shown an interest in bringing the former Nantes midfielder back to Ligue 1. Paris FC have already contacted the EFL Championship club regarding a potential move for the 27-year-old. However, they must sell players first before acting upon their interest. Nice and Ajax are also interested in signing the midfielder.
With several clubs interested in his services, the Hornets have indicated Louza's price tag to interested clubs. It will take an offer in the region of €10m for the Nantes-born player to leave Vicarage Road during the summer transfer window.
GFFN | Liam Wraith
#clubs #window
French clubs have also shown an interest in bringing the former Nantes midfielder back to Ligue 1. Paris FC have already contacted the EFL Championship club regarding a potential move for the 27-year-old. However, they must sell players first before acting upon their interest. Nice and Ajax are also interested in signing the midfielder.
With several clubs interested in his services, the Hornets have indicated Louza's price tag to interested clubs. It will take an offer in the region of €10m for the Nantes-born player to leave Vicarage Road during the summer transfer window.
GFFN | Liam Wraith
#clubs #window
3 months ago
Global Super League 2026: 47-year-old Imran Tahir stars as Guyana Amazon Warriors stage epic comeback to secure second consecutive GSL ****** le originally appeared on Cricket News. Add Cricket News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
Guyana Amazon Warriors defend GSL ****** le, winning by six runs.
Team collapsed to 29/8 before recovering to post a modest 85.
Historic bowling effort restricts San Francisco Unicorns to just 79.
Guyana Amazon Warriors, led by 47-year-old Imran Tahir, pulled off a nail-biting six-run victory over San Francisco Unicorns in the Global Super League final, staged in Providence, Guyana, on Saturday.
#league #imran
Guyana Amazon Warriors defend GSL ****** le, winning by six runs.
Team collapsed to 29/8 before recovering to post a modest 85.
Historic bowling effort restricts San Francisco Unicorns to just 79.
Guyana Amazon Warriors, led by 47-year-old Imran Tahir, pulled off a nail-biting six-run victory over San Francisco Unicorns in the Global Super League final, staged in Providence, Guyana, on Saturday.
#league #imran
3 months ago
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Sunday announced two changes to India's squads for the upcoming series of England and Zimbabwe after injuries to Harshit Rana and Varun Chakravarthy.
Fast bowler Prince Yadav has replaced Harshit Rana in India's squad for the ODI series against England. Harshit has been ruled out with a hamstring injury.
Leg-spinner Ravi Bishnoi, meanwhile, has been drafted into India's squad for the three-match T20I series against Zimbabwe later this month, replacing Varun Chakravarthy.
Bishnoi was not part of the original squad but has now been included after it was confirmed that Varun will need more time to recover from the hamstring injury that also ruled him out of the final two T20Is against England.
Bishnoi featured in the first two matches of India's five-match T20I series in England. India did not bowl in the opening game after rain washed it out. In the second T20I at Old Trafford, Bishnoi conceded 60 runs in his four overs. He also bowled three back-foot no-balls and gave away two sixes and a four from the resulting free-hits.
Varun will now report to the BCCI's Centre of Excellence (CoE) in Bengaluru for further ****** sment and rehabilitation. Harshit Rana will also join him there after suffering a hamstring injury that has ruled him out of the three-match ODI series against England.
Varun had only recently returned to action during the T20I series in Ireland before playing the first two T20Is against England. The latest injury is another setback after he fractured his left toe during the latter stages of IPL 2026. He played through the injury before missing the T20I series against Afghanistan and Ireland while recovering at the CoE.
Chakravarthy also struggled for form in England, taking just one wicket while conceding runs at an economy rate of 10.28.
India's updated squad for England ODIs: Shubman Gill (Captain), Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer (Vice-Captain), KL Rahul (WK), Ishan Kishan (WK), Washington Sundar, Axar Patel, Shivam Dube, Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit ****** rah, Prasidh Krishna, Arshdeep Singh, Gurnoor Brar, Prince Yadav
India's updated squad for Zimbabwe T20Is: Shreyas Iyer (Captain), Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, Abhishek Sharma, Tilak Varma (Vice-Captain), Ishan Kishan (WK), Shivam Dube, Suryansh Shedge, Rinku Singh, Harsh Dubey, Prince Yadav, Yash Thakur, Ashok Sharma, Mayank Yadav, Prabhsimran Singh (WK), Ravi Bishnoi
Fast bowler Prince Yadav has replaced Harshit Rana in India's squad for the ODI series against England. Harshit has been ruled out with a hamstring injury.
Leg-spinner Ravi Bishnoi, meanwhile, has been drafted into India's squad for the three-match T20I series against Zimbabwe later this month, replacing Varun Chakravarthy.
Bishnoi was not part of the original squad but has now been included after it was confirmed that Varun will need more time to recover from the hamstring injury that also ruled him out of the final two T20Is against England.
Bishnoi featured in the first two matches of India's five-match T20I series in England. India did not bowl in the opening game after rain washed it out. In the second T20I at Old Trafford, Bishnoi conceded 60 runs in his four overs. He also bowled three back-foot no-balls and gave away two sixes and a four from the resulting free-hits.
Varun will now report to the BCCI's Centre of Excellence (CoE) in Bengaluru for further ****** sment and rehabilitation. Harshit Rana will also join him there after suffering a hamstring injury that has ruled him out of the three-match ODI series against England.
Varun had only recently returned to action during the T20I series in Ireland before playing the first two T20Is against England. The latest injury is another setback after he fractured his left toe during the latter stages of IPL 2026. He played through the injury before missing the T20I series against Afghanistan and Ireland while recovering at the CoE.
Chakravarthy also struggled for form in England, taking just one wicket while conceding runs at an economy rate of 10.28.
India's updated squad for England ODIs: Shubman Gill (Captain), Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer (Vice-Captain), KL Rahul (WK), Ishan Kishan (WK), Washington Sundar, Axar Patel, Shivam Dube, Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit ****** rah, Prasidh Krishna, Arshdeep Singh, Gurnoor Brar, Prince Yadav
India's updated squad for Zimbabwe T20Is: Shreyas Iyer (Captain), Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, Abhishek Sharma, Tilak Varma (Vice-Captain), Ishan Kishan (WK), Shivam Dube, Suryansh Shedge, Rinku Singh, Harsh Dubey, Prince Yadav, Yash Thakur, Ashok Sharma, Mayank Yadav, Prabhsimran Singh (WK), Ravi Bishnoi
4 months ago
NEW DELHI: Former India off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has strongly criticised the selectors for leaving Sanju Samson out of India's T20I squad for the upcoming Zimbabwe tour, calling the decision "just unfair". Ashwin also warned that frequent changes in the team could create insecurity among players and hurt India's T20 setup.
Speaking on his YouTube show Ash Ki Baat, Ashwin said he completely disagreed with the decision.
"I mean, what can I even say? It's just unfair. Just unfair. I don't agree with it. But it is what it is. I mean, I don't know. Seriously, it's difficult."
Ashwin questioned the logic behind dropping Samson after a few poor scores and wondered who would be next if the team continued to lose.
"Sanju has been dropped because of losses and form. He has been left out. We've already lost two games. If we lose again, will someone else be dropped too? Who is next? That's wrong. I really hope the Indian team finds itself. Indian cricketers should not be put in an insecure position."
Samson's omission has become one of the biggest talking points in Indian cricket. The wicketkeeper-batter, who was named Player of the Tournament at this year's T20 World Cup, managed scores of 5, 0 and 1 in his last three innings against Ireland and in the opening T20I against England.
Samson was replaced in the playing XI by 15-year-old batting sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi and was later left out of the Zimbabwe-bound squad.
Ashwin said such decisions can make players think more about protecting their place than winning matches.
"As I had said earlier after the SKY incident, players will go insular. They will start thinking only about themselves. In T20 cricket, that is disastrous."
"If batters start thinking that they will be dropped if they don't score runs, they will begin playing only to protect their place in the team, which is extremely dangerous."
Ashwin added that even if Samson gets another opportunity, the pressure of keeping his place could affect the way he bats.
"Even now I'm saying, imagine Sanju gets another chance. He too will start thinking about himself. And you can't even say that's wrong."
"If Sanju scores 45 or 48 off 25 **** and takes two more deliveries to reach his fifty, you can't say that's wrong because he is trying to protect his place in the team. I really hope... I really hope they find a solution to this."
Ashwin further argued that a good domestic season should not automatically guarantee an India call-up, while responding to suggestions that players like Prabhsimran Singh deserved opportunities after impressive performances.
"In our TNPL team, there's a player named Hunny Saini. He's a very good player and an excellent finisher. He also wants a chance. There's BR Sharad from Bengaluru Dragons, who is playing well too. If you're asking when they should get an opportunity, then send them to Zimbabwe as well. I'll send Hunny Saini too."
"See, I have all the time for Prabhsimr
Speaking on his YouTube show Ash Ki Baat, Ashwin said he completely disagreed with the decision.
"I mean, what can I even say? It's just unfair. Just unfair. I don't agree with it. But it is what it is. I mean, I don't know. Seriously, it's difficult."
Ashwin questioned the logic behind dropping Samson after a few poor scores and wondered who would be next if the team continued to lose.
"Sanju has been dropped because of losses and form. He has been left out. We've already lost two games. If we lose again, will someone else be dropped too? Who is next? That's wrong. I really hope the Indian team finds itself. Indian cricketers should not be put in an insecure position."
Samson's omission has become one of the biggest talking points in Indian cricket. The wicketkeeper-batter, who was named Player of the Tournament at this year's T20 World Cup, managed scores of 5, 0 and 1 in his last three innings against Ireland and in the opening T20I against England.
Samson was replaced in the playing XI by 15-year-old batting sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi and was later left out of the Zimbabwe-bound squad.
Ashwin said such decisions can make players think more about protecting their place than winning matches.
"As I had said earlier after the SKY incident, players will go insular. They will start thinking only about themselves. In T20 cricket, that is disastrous."
"If batters start thinking that they will be dropped if they don't score runs, they will begin playing only to protect their place in the team, which is extremely dangerous."
Ashwin added that even if Samson gets another opportunity, the pressure of keeping his place could affect the way he bats.
"Even now I'm saying, imagine Sanju gets another chance. He too will start thinking about himself. And you can't even say that's wrong."
"If Sanju scores 45 or 48 off 25 **** and takes two more deliveries to reach his fifty, you can't say that's wrong because he is trying to protect his place in the team. I really hope... I really hope they find a solution to this."
Ashwin further argued that a good domestic season should not automatically guarantee an India call-up, while responding to suggestions that players like Prabhsimran Singh deserved opportunities after impressive performances.
"In our TNPL team, there's a player named Hunny Saini. He's a very good player and an excellent finisher. He also wants a chance. There's BR Sharad from Bengaluru Dragons, who is playing well too. If you're asking when they should get an opportunity, then send them to Zimbabwe as well. I'll send Hunny Saini too."
"See, I have all the time for Prabhsimr
4 months ago
New Delhi: Veteran administrator Imran Khwaja faced a shock defeat as Gurumurthy Palani, Mubashshir Usmani and Rudie van Vuuren were elected as ******* ociate Member Directors of the International Cricket Council (ICC). The election was held during the ICC Annual Conference in Edinburgh on Wednesday.
Palani got 35 votes, Usmani was tied second with Vuuren at 26 votes and Khwaja and Mahinda Vallipuram could manage 23 and 19 votes, respectively.
Khwaja, the current Deputy Chair, was the biggest upset of the day as the election saw Palani and Vuuren enter the 17-member Board for the first time. Usmani has retained his position.
Most of the top brass of the global cricket body, including chairman Jay Shah, were in attendance for the T20 Women's World Cup final at the Lord's on Sunday and then travelled to Scotland for the Annual Conference. Important cricketing matters will be up for discussion during the four-day event which culminates on July 11.
Palani got 35 votes, Usmani was tied second with Vuuren at 26 votes and Khwaja and Mahinda Vallipuram could manage 23 and 19 votes, respectively.
Khwaja, the current Deputy Chair, was the biggest upset of the day as the election saw Palani and Vuuren enter the 17-member Board for the first time. Usmani has retained his position.
Most of the top brass of the global cricket body, including chairman Jay Shah, were in attendance for the T20 Women's World Cup final at the Lord's on Sunday and then travelled to Scotland for the Annual Conference. Important cricketing matters will be up for discussion during the four-day event which culminates on July 11.
4 months ago
India batter Ajinkya Rahane expressed disbelief regarding Sanju Samson’s omission from India’s T20I squad for the Zimbabwe tour. He expressed surprise and hoped that the selectors had communicated the decision to him.
Rahane took to Instagram and posted a story throwing his weight behind Samson, saying he expected the wicketkeeper-batter to return to the national side soon.
"Hope there has been some communication with Samson. Find it odd that the hero of our recent T20 WC win has been left out of the T20 squad to Zimbabwe. Hope to see him back in the team soon," Rahane wrote on his Instagram Story.
The veteran shared his remarks following the announcement of India’s squad for the three-match T20I series against Zimbabwe, which marked Samson’s absence.
The 31-year-old was omitted despite his significant contribution to India’s successful ICC T20 World Cup campaign.
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Sunday announced a 15-member squad for the Zimbabwe tour, with Prabhsimran Singh and Yash Thakur earning their maiden India call-ups.
The T20I series will commence on July 23, with all three matches scheduled to be played in Harare. The team will take the field under Shreyas Iyer’s captaincy. Tilak Varma, on the other hand, will be the vice-captain.
Fifteen-year-old Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, who replaced Samson in the second T20I against England, keeps his spot.
Shreyas Iyer (Captain), Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, Abhishek Sharma, Tilak Varma (Vice-Captain), Ishan Kishan (WK), Shivam Dube, Suryansh Shedge, Rinku Singh, Harsh Dubey, Varun Chakaravarathy, Prince Yadav, Yash Thakur, Ashok Sharma, Mayank Yadav, Prabhsimran Singh (WK).
Rahane took to Instagram and posted a story throwing his weight behind Samson, saying he expected the wicketkeeper-batter to return to the national side soon.
"Hope there has been some communication with Samson. Find it odd that the hero of our recent T20 WC win has been left out of the T20 squad to Zimbabwe. Hope to see him back in the team soon," Rahane wrote on his Instagram Story.
The veteran shared his remarks following the announcement of India’s squad for the three-match T20I series against Zimbabwe, which marked Samson’s absence.
The 31-year-old was omitted despite his significant contribution to India’s successful ICC T20 World Cup campaign.
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Sunday announced a 15-member squad for the Zimbabwe tour, with Prabhsimran Singh and Yash Thakur earning their maiden India call-ups.
The T20I series will commence on July 23, with all three matches scheduled to be played in Harare. The team will take the field under Shreyas Iyer’s captaincy. Tilak Varma, on the other hand, will be the vice-captain.
Fifteen-year-old Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, who replaced Samson in the second T20I against England, keeps his spot.
Shreyas Iyer (Captain), Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, Abhishek Sharma, Tilak Varma (Vice-Captain), Ishan Kishan (WK), Shivam Dube, Suryansh Shedge, Rinku Singh, Harsh Dubey, Varun Chakaravarathy, Prince Yadav, Yash Thakur, Ashok Sharma, Mayank Yadav, Prabhsimran Singh (WK).
4 months ago
First, Captain Suryakumar Yadav, and now Player of the Tournament Sanju Samson. Almost four months after winning the T20 World Cup, India have decided to move on from two key figures of the squad that defended the **** le at home. While Ajit Agarkar, chairman of the men's senior selection committee, held a press conference explaining the move regarding SKY, much was left to the imagination and interpretation when Samson was excluded from the Shreyas Iyer-led squad for Zimbabwe.
Not long ago, Samson was the toast of the nation for his knocks in the business end of the multi-nation tournament but the selectors have been wary of the inconsistency on either side of those outings. The opener only made the World Cup XI because the left-handed top-order struggled against off-spin. He repaid the faith, but the frustrating pattern of inconsistency returned even in the IPL and subsequent international fixtures. Add to this a red-hot Vaibhav Sooryavanshi making life uncomfortable for the decision-makers.
Samson was the coaching set-up's original choice and received backing in the press conferences, but the other crucial stakeholders in Indian cricket were not willing to make Sooryavanshi wait in the wings. The argument was simple: "How can you make him carry drinks? The whole argument of 'he will learn' sounds so kiddish right now. You don't make him learn by carrying towels and drinks. You throw him in the deep end to swim when he is riding high on confidence," explains a well-placed source.
Someone had to make way, and the options were Abhishek Sharma, Ishan Kishan, and Samson. While the southpaws have managed to stay amongst the runs, consistency has never been Samson's friend. Whether this sends the right message to the team and players is a separate discussion, but this move was purely aimed at giving Sooryavanshi the rope he has earned, even if it comes at the cost of snapping it for someone else.
Prabhsimran Singh's maiden international call-up sends another message. Even if Kishan, Sharma, or Sooryavanshi have failures or inconsistent outings, Prabhsimran is ready to grab his chance, and it could well be a tough road back for the experienced Samson. While he hasn't been the only player missing from the squad playing in England, he is the only one-format player left out. Harshit Rana, Arshdeep Singh, Washington Sundar and Axar Patel have also missed the cut. Initially, there were suggestions to send a second-string side to Zimbabwe, under a new captain, but this did not translate into anything meaningful.
There are murmurs that the regular support staff might skip the Zimbabwe tour. While TimesofIndia.com couldn't confirm, discussions have occurred because the turnaround time between the ODIs against England and the Zimbabwe series is very less. It remains to be seen whether the Gambhir-led support staff boards the flight or if the Indian cricket board sends coaches from the CoE panel.
India announced their squad for the Asian Games l
Not long ago, Samson was the toast of the nation for his knocks in the business end of the multi-nation tournament but the selectors have been wary of the inconsistency on either side of those outings. The opener only made the World Cup XI because the left-handed top-order struggled against off-spin. He repaid the faith, but the frustrating pattern of inconsistency returned even in the IPL and subsequent international fixtures. Add to this a red-hot Vaibhav Sooryavanshi making life uncomfortable for the decision-makers.
Samson was the coaching set-up's original choice and received backing in the press conferences, but the other crucial stakeholders in Indian cricket were not willing to make Sooryavanshi wait in the wings. The argument was simple: "How can you make him carry drinks? The whole argument of 'he will learn' sounds so kiddish right now. You don't make him learn by carrying towels and drinks. You throw him in the deep end to swim when he is riding high on confidence," explains a well-placed source.
Someone had to make way, and the options were Abhishek Sharma, Ishan Kishan, and Samson. While the southpaws have managed to stay amongst the runs, consistency has never been Samson's friend. Whether this sends the right message to the team and players is a separate discussion, but this move was purely aimed at giving Sooryavanshi the rope he has earned, even if it comes at the cost of snapping it for someone else.
Prabhsimran Singh's maiden international call-up sends another message. Even if Kishan, Sharma, or Sooryavanshi have failures or inconsistent outings, Prabhsimran is ready to grab his chance, and it could well be a tough road back for the experienced Samson. While he hasn't been the only player missing from the squad playing in England, he is the only one-format player left out. Harshit Rana, Arshdeep Singh, Washington Sundar and Axar Patel have also missed the cut. Initially, there were suggestions to send a second-string side to Zimbabwe, under a new captain, but this did not translate into anything meaningful.
There are murmurs that the regular support staff might skip the Zimbabwe tour. While TimesofIndia.com couldn't confirm, discussions have occurred because the turnaround time between the ODIs against England and the Zimbabwe series is very less. It remains to be seen whether the Gambhir-led support staff boards the flight or if the Indian cricket board sends coaches from the CoE panel.
India announced their squad for the Asian Games l
4 months ago
NEW DELHI: World Cup-winning wicketkeeper-batter Sanju Samson was on Monday left out of India's squad for the three-match T20I series against Zimbabwe later this month after a poor run of form.
The selectors, led by Ajit Agarkar, announced a 15-member squad with Shreyas Iyer as captain. Teenage opener Vaibhav Sooryavanshi retained his place after making his international debut against England.
Fast bowlers Ashok Sharma and Yash Thakur received their maiden India call-ups, while Punjab wicketkeeper-batter Prabhsimran Singh also earned his first senior national team selection.
India will play three T20Is against Zimbabwe in Harare on July 23, 25 and 27.
Samson's omission comes after a disappointing run with the bat.
The Kerala wicketkeeper was dropped from India's playing XI for the second T20I against England after scoring just one run off seven ****** in the series opener at Durham.
Before that, he managed scores of 0 and 5 in the two-match T20I series against Ireland.
Despite playing a key role in India's recent T20 World Cup triumph and winning the Player of the Tournament award, Samson failed to build on that success and has now lost his place in the squad.
The selectors rewarded three players with their first senior India call-ups.
Rajasthan pacer Ashok, who was recently drafted into the India A squad for the tri-series in Sri Lanka, has now been included in the T20I squad.
— BCCI (BCCI)
Yash Thakur also earned his maiden call-up after impressive domestic performances.
Punjab wicketkeeper-batter Prabhsimran also received his maiden call-up after impressive performances in domestic circuit and IPL.
Express pacer Mayank Yadav also returned to the national squad for the first time since 2024.
The selectors, led by Ajit Agarkar, announced a 15-member squad with Shreyas Iyer as captain. Teenage opener Vaibhav Sooryavanshi retained his place after making his international debut against England.
Fast bowlers Ashok Sharma and Yash Thakur received their maiden India call-ups, while Punjab wicketkeeper-batter Prabhsimran Singh also earned his first senior national team selection.
India will play three T20Is against Zimbabwe in Harare on July 23, 25 and 27.
Samson's omission comes after a disappointing run with the bat.
The Kerala wicketkeeper was dropped from India's playing XI for the second T20I against England after scoring just one run off seven ****** in the series opener at Durham.
Before that, he managed scores of 0 and 5 in the two-match T20I series against Ireland.
Despite playing a key role in India's recent T20 World Cup triumph and winning the Player of the Tournament award, Samson failed to build on that success and has now lost his place in the squad.
The selectors rewarded three players with their first senior India call-ups.
Rajasthan pacer Ashok, who was recently drafted into the India A squad for the tri-series in Sri Lanka, has now been included in the T20I squad.
— BCCI (BCCI)
Yash Thakur also earned his maiden call-up after impressive domestic performances.
Punjab wicketkeeper-batter Prabhsimran also received his maiden call-up after impressive performances in domestic circuit and IPL.
Express pacer Mayank Yadav also returned to the national squad for the first time since 2024.
4 months ago
Where to start in a summer of upheaval at Watford Football Club?
Alessio Dionisi has replaced Ed Still as head coach - becoming the 24th boss since the Pozzo family took control in 2012 - and the Italian has brought new backroom staff in with him.
The under-21 team is no more and changes are being made to the recruitment staff and strategy at Vicarage Road.
Attacker Giorgi Chakvetadze has left for sister club Udinese and rumours are swirling about the future of key players Nestory Irankunda, Imran Louza and Othmane Maamma.
With all these changes in mind Hornets fans, what are you making of another turbulent summer?
Alessio Dionisi has replaced Ed Still as head coach - becoming the 24th boss since the Pozzo family took control in 2012 - and the Italian has brought new backroom staff in with him.
The under-21 team is no more and changes are being made to the recruitment staff and strategy at Vicarage Road.
Attacker Giorgi Chakvetadze has left for sister club Udinese and rumours are swirling about the future of key players Nestory Irankunda, Imran Louza and Othmane Maamma.
With all these changes in mind Hornets fans, what are you making of another turbulent summer?
4 months ago
Harvey Weinstein is facing another setback in his ongoing health battle.
The Oscar-winning producer and disgraced movie mogul was recently hospitalized for "heart and breathing issues," Weinstein's representative, Juda Engelmayer, confirmed to USA TODAY on Wednesday, July 1.
Engelmayer said Weinstein's medical ordeal was exacerbated by a case of pneumonia. He is currently recovering at Bellevue Hospital in New York City.
The Miramax cofounder has experienced a spate of health issues in recent years.
A November 2024 filing from one of Weinstein's lawyers listed medical problems such as chronic myeloid leukemia (bone marrow cancer), diabetes, coronary artery disease, obstructive sleep apnea, thyroid issues, obesity, high blood pressure and chronic back pain. The lawyer, Imran H. Ansari, accused Rikers Island Correctional Facility of having "failed to render proper medical treatment."
The Oscar-winning producer and disgraced movie mogul was recently hospitalized for "heart and breathing issues," Weinstein's representative, Juda Engelmayer, confirmed to USA TODAY on Wednesday, July 1.
Engelmayer said Weinstein's medical ordeal was exacerbated by a case of pneumonia. He is currently recovering at Bellevue Hospital in New York City.
The Miramax cofounder has experienced a spate of health issues in recent years.
A November 2024 filing from one of Weinstein's lawyers listed medical problems such as chronic myeloid leukemia (bone marrow cancer), diabetes, coronary artery disease, obstructive sleep apnea, thyroid issues, obesity, high blood pressure and chronic back pain. The lawyer, Imran H. Ansari, accused Rikers Island Correctional Facility of having "failed to render proper medical treatment."
5 months ago
Vaibhav Sooryavanshi’s much-anticipated return to competitive cricket for India A ended in a brief stay at the crease as the teenage sensation managed 14 runs in the Tri-Nation A Series opener against Sri Lanka A in Dambulla on Tuesday.
The young batter, who attracted widespread attention following his stellar IPL 2026 campaign, walked in with plenty of expectations but could not convert his start into a big score.
Sooryavanshi struck only three fours during his 12-ball knock before being caught by Sahan Arachchige off the bowling of Mohamed Shiraz. His dismissal left India A at 16-1 in the fourth over.
India A had opted to bat first after winning the toss.
Alongside Sooryavanshi, wicketkeeper-batter Prabhsimran Singh also departed early for just two runs.
However, Priyansh Arya and Ruturaj Gaikwad steadied the innings with a useful partnership before Arya was run out for 32.
Gaikwad remained unbeaten on 46, while captain Tilak Varma was unbeaten on 18 as India A reached 118-3 after 28 overs.
Ahead of the match, Sri Lanka A vice-captain Niroshan ****** wella had spoken about the excitement surrounding Sooryavanshi and the challenge of facing the youngster.
“I’m glad to be a wicketkeeper, because I won’t be getting many of the ****** when he is batting. He’s an exciting talent, and everyone loves the way the BCCI is handling him at this age and giving him opportunities in the ‘A’ team to perform. He’s not only a motivation for young Sri Lankan cricketers, but for youngsters all over the world. He hasn’t played a lot of List ‘A’ cricket, but this is a good opportunity for him to showcase his talent, explore, and show that he’s a very good short-format player. And, you know, we’re looking forward to this contest,” ****** wella told TOI.
131607582
When asked about plans to contain the Indian batter, ****** wella said: “We’re not trying to stop him, but, we’ll try to execute our basics first. We’ve some plans for him and for the whole Indian batting line-up. But, on that day, on the merit of how he is going to take the bowlers on, we will try and keep him down. The conditions here are different... I think in the IPL they have flatter pitches, but here in Sri Lanka we have huge grounds.”
The young batter, who attracted widespread attention following his stellar IPL 2026 campaign, walked in with plenty of expectations but could not convert his start into a big score.
Sooryavanshi struck only three fours during his 12-ball knock before being caught by Sahan Arachchige off the bowling of Mohamed Shiraz. His dismissal left India A at 16-1 in the fourth over.
India A had opted to bat first after winning the toss.
Alongside Sooryavanshi, wicketkeeper-batter Prabhsimran Singh also departed early for just two runs.
However, Priyansh Arya and Ruturaj Gaikwad steadied the innings with a useful partnership before Arya was run out for 32.
Gaikwad remained unbeaten on 46, while captain Tilak Varma was unbeaten on 18 as India A reached 118-3 after 28 overs.
Ahead of the match, Sri Lanka A vice-captain Niroshan ****** wella had spoken about the excitement surrounding Sooryavanshi and the challenge of facing the youngster.
“I’m glad to be a wicketkeeper, because I won’t be getting many of the ****** when he is batting. He’s an exciting talent, and everyone loves the way the BCCI is handling him at this age and giving him opportunities in the ‘A’ team to perform. He’s not only a motivation for young Sri Lankan cricketers, but for youngsters all over the world. He hasn’t played a lot of List ‘A’ cricket, but this is a good opportunity for him to showcase his talent, explore, and show that he’s a very good short-format player. And, you know, we’re looking forward to this contest,” ****** wella told TOI.
131607582
When asked about plans to contain the Indian batter, ****** wella said: “We’re not trying to stop him, but, we’ll try to execute our basics first. We’ve some plans for him and for the whole Indian batting line-up. But, on that day, on the merit of how he is going to take the bowlers on, we will try and keep him down. The conditions here are different... I think in the IPL they have flatter pitches, but here in Sri Lanka we have huge grounds.”
5 months ago
MUMBAI: One of Indian cricket’s worst-kept secrets became official on Saturday as BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia announced Shreyas Iyer as India’s new T20I captain. In a cruel twist of fate, Suryakumar Yadav, who had led India to a third T20 World Cup ***** le just three months ago, now finds himself out of the squad altogether.
It’s the first time a world ***** le-winning skipper has been axed for the team’s next international ***** ignment, though some — like Imran Khan in 1992 and Rohit Sharma, who quit T20Is in 2024 — chose to retire on a high while savouring their triumph.
The Rajasthan Royals opener forced his way into the team after a stunning IPL season in which he smashed 776 runs at a strike rate of 237.3, with a record 72 sixes.
The appointment as captain marks a remarkable comeback for Shreyas, who has not played a T20I since Dec 2023. The 31-year-old will now lead India into a new T20 cycle that includes the 2028 Olympics and T20 World Cup.
‘Shreyas was standout candidate’
Tilak Varma has been named vice-captain, replacing Axar Patel, who served as deputy during India's 2026 World Cup triumph. Chief selector Ajit Agarkar said Shreyas’s leadership record and consistency made him the standout choice.
“We have seen what he has done over the last few years, leading different franchises. He won the IPL with KKR and then handled a tougher season this year after a great start. His own performances have been really good. He was quite close to making the World Cup squad as well. In my opinion, he is a standout candidate with enough experience now of having led in the T20 format,” Agarkar said.
Agarkar acknowledged that Surya’s form and longterm planning influenced the decision. “With regard to Surya, it’s a tough one, having just won the World Cup. But after every World Cup, you reassess the best way forward. Partly his own form and partly looking at the next two-year cycle, we thought this was the best way forward,” he said. Agarkar was effusive about Sooryavanshi. “We have seen what he can do. Even in the playoffs, he almost singlehandedly carried Rajasthan Royals. For a young kid to perform in such a high-pressure environment and be such a game-changer is commendable,” he said.
Meanwhile, Yashasvi Jaiswal has replaced the injured Virat Kohli in India’s ODI squad for the three-match series against Afghanistan.
Delhi pacer Prince Yadav has been retained for the Ireland and England tours after earning an ODI call-up against Afghanistan.
Squads for Ireland and Eng tours: Shreyas Iyer (captain), Abhishek Sharma, Sanju Samson, Ishan Kishan, Shivam Dube, Tilak Varma, Nitish ***** ar Reddy, Axar Patel, Washington Sundar, Varun Chakaravarthy, Ravi Bishnoi, Mohammad Siraj, Harshit Rana, Arshdeep Singh, Prince Yadav, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi.
India squad for Asiad: Shreyas Iyer (captain), Abhishek Sharma, Sanju Samson, Ishan Kishan, Shivam Dube, Tilak Varma, Nitish ***** ar Reddy, Axar Patel
It’s the first time a world ***** le-winning skipper has been axed for the team’s next international ***** ignment, though some — like Imran Khan in 1992 and Rohit Sharma, who quit T20Is in 2024 — chose to retire on a high while savouring their triumph.
The Rajasthan Royals opener forced his way into the team after a stunning IPL season in which he smashed 776 runs at a strike rate of 237.3, with a record 72 sixes.
The appointment as captain marks a remarkable comeback for Shreyas, who has not played a T20I since Dec 2023. The 31-year-old will now lead India into a new T20 cycle that includes the 2028 Olympics and T20 World Cup.
‘Shreyas was standout candidate’
Tilak Varma has been named vice-captain, replacing Axar Patel, who served as deputy during India's 2026 World Cup triumph. Chief selector Ajit Agarkar said Shreyas’s leadership record and consistency made him the standout choice.
“We have seen what he has done over the last few years, leading different franchises. He won the IPL with KKR and then handled a tougher season this year after a great start. His own performances have been really good. He was quite close to making the World Cup squad as well. In my opinion, he is a standout candidate with enough experience now of having led in the T20 format,” Agarkar said.
Agarkar acknowledged that Surya’s form and longterm planning influenced the decision. “With regard to Surya, it’s a tough one, having just won the World Cup. But after every World Cup, you reassess the best way forward. Partly his own form and partly looking at the next two-year cycle, we thought this was the best way forward,” he said. Agarkar was effusive about Sooryavanshi. “We have seen what he can do. Even in the playoffs, he almost singlehandedly carried Rajasthan Royals. For a young kid to perform in such a high-pressure environment and be such a game-changer is commendable,” he said.
Meanwhile, Yashasvi Jaiswal has replaced the injured Virat Kohli in India’s ODI squad for the three-match series against Afghanistan.
Delhi pacer Prince Yadav has been retained for the Ireland and England tours after earning an ODI call-up against Afghanistan.
Squads for Ireland and Eng tours: Shreyas Iyer (captain), Abhishek Sharma, Sanju Samson, Ishan Kishan, Shivam Dube, Tilak Varma, Nitish ***** ar Reddy, Axar Patel, Washington Sundar, Varun Chakaravarthy, Ravi Bishnoi, Mohammad Siraj, Harshit Rana, Arshdeep Singh, Prince Yadav, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi.
India squad for Asiad: Shreyas Iyer (captain), Abhishek Sharma, Sanju Samson, Ishan Kishan, Shivam Dube, Tilak Varma, Nitish ***** ar Reddy, Axar Patel
5 months ago
Pakistan captain Shaheen Shah Afridi added his name to a rare list on Tuesday after taking a wicket with the first ball of the second ODI against Australia at Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore.
Opening the bowling for Pakistan, Shaheen dismissed Australia batter Alex Carey with the first delivery of the match. Carey was bowled, giving Pakistan an early breakthrough.
With that wicket, Shaheen became the third Pakistan captain to take a wicket with the first ball of an ODI, as per a News18 report.
The first Pakistan captain to achieve the feat was Wasim Akram, who dismissed Zimbabwe batter Andy Flower with the opening delivery of an ODI in Karachi on December 24, 1993.
Waqar Younis became the second Pakistan captain on the list when he removed England batter Marcus Trescothick with the first ball of an ODI at Headingley in Leeds on June 17, 2001.
Former Pakistan captain Imran Khan was the first player from the country to take a wicket with the opening ball of an ODI. He achieved the feat against India in Sharjah on March 22, 1985, when he dismissed Ravi Shastri with the first delivery of the match.
Imran went on to take five more wickets in that game and finished with figures of 6 for 14.
Shaheen is also now the third Pakistan bowler, after Wasim Akram and Mohammad Irfan, to take a wicket with the first ball of an ODI on more than one occasion.
He had previously achieved the milestone in April 2022 when he dismissed Australia's Travis Head with the opening delivery of an ODI.
Opening the bowling for Pakistan, Shaheen dismissed Australia batter Alex Carey with the first delivery of the match. Carey was bowled, giving Pakistan an early breakthrough.
With that wicket, Shaheen became the third Pakistan captain to take a wicket with the first ball of an ODI, as per a News18 report.
The first Pakistan captain to achieve the feat was Wasim Akram, who dismissed Zimbabwe batter Andy Flower with the opening delivery of an ODI in Karachi on December 24, 1993.
Waqar Younis became the second Pakistan captain on the list when he removed England batter Marcus Trescothick with the first ball of an ODI at Headingley in Leeds on June 17, 2001.
Former Pakistan captain Imran Khan was the first player from the country to take a wicket with the opening ball of an ODI. He achieved the feat against India in Sharjah on March 22, 1985, when he dismissed Ravi Shastri with the first delivery of the match.
Imran went on to take five more wickets in that game and finished with figures of 6 for 14.
Shaheen is also now the third Pakistan bowler, after Wasim Akram and Mohammad Irfan, to take a wicket with the first ball of an ODI on more than one occasion.
He had previously achieved the milestone in April 2022 when he dismissed Australia's Travis Head with the opening delivery of an ODI.
