Pakistani fast bowlers are a phenomenon. The land is a paradise of fast bowling. Over the years, we have seen many amazing fast bowlers. Wasim Akram, Waqar Younis, and Shoaib Akhtar can be said to be the best of the lot. But off late we haven?t seen many amazing or out-of-the-box fast bowlers. Shaheen Shah Afridi is a decent player he is better they all of the other left-arm pacers across the globe. But does he have the caliber of Wasim-Waqar? So, why has it happened?&nbsp;



<h2>Lack of Inspiration:&nbsp;</h2>



Lack of inspiration is one of the biggest reasons why Pakistani fast bowling is on the decline. We have seen Wasim and Waqar getting inspired by Imran Khan. Imran Khan groomed these pacers before leaving the international circuit. Wasim and Waqar groomed players like Asif, Amir, and Shoaib before leaving. &nbsp;



But did Asif and Amir carry on the legacy? I?m not talking about their unfortunate incident in England. Every player makes mistakes and they did that as well. But they should have at least been keen on giving their skills to younger pacers. Maybe make academies in the local areas of Pakistan. &nbsp;



<h2>Lack of Scouting has Cost Pakistani Fast Bowlers:&nbsp;</h2>



Earlier, the Pakistani coaches had an eye for good players. Shoaib Akhtar was picked from the grounds of Rawalpindi. Earlier they had an elite scouting system. Rashid Latif was once in charge of the academy which worked on grooming these young pacers. The MRF Pace Foundation also needs to have a vast expanse in the small towns of Pakistan. The MRF organization is a Chennai-based organization. India and Pakistan have their differences but for the growth of the sport, they need to keep these differences aside. &nbsp;



<h2>Injury management has Costs Pakistani Fast Bowlers:&nbsp;</h2>



In India, the NCA has introduced strong plans for the rehabilitation of injured players. The NCA has worked especially on injury-prone players like Hardik Pandya and Deepak Chahar. A similar structure can be introduced by the PCB. The PCB management is working on such a world-class system or world-class academy under the supervision of Ramiz Raja. Hasan Ali, Mohammad Irfan, and Mohammad Abbas are players who could have had longer careers if their injuries could be managed. &nbsp;



During the World Cup of 2003, Shoaib Akhtar was having pain in his knees. The Pakistani physio during those days made sure that Shoaib plays the game against India in full bloom. These are characters whose contributions go unnoticed. Such characters, help in making legends. &nbsp;



Read more such articles at <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/suryakumar-yadav-indian-michael-hussey-a-strong-phenomenon-in-indian-cricket-2022/" target="_blank" data-type="URL" data-id="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/suryakumar-yadav-indian-michael-hussey-a-strong-phenomenon-in-indian-cricket-2022/" rel="noreferrer noopener">Suryakumar Yadav: Indian Michael Hussey. A Strong Phenomenon in Indian Cricket 2022.</a>



To know more go to <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/left-hand-batters-top-5-best-left-handers-to-ever-play-for-the-indian-cricket-team/" target="_blank" data-type="URL" data-id="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/left-hand-batters-top-5-best-left-handers-to-ever-play-for-the-indian-cricket-team/" rel="noreferrer noopener">Left-Hand Batters: Top 5 Best Left-Handers to Ever Play for the Indian Cricket Team.</a>



Read more such articles at<a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/dinesh-karthik-one-of-the-greatest-comeback-stories/" target="_blank" data-type="URL" data-id="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/dinesh-karthik-one-of-the-greatest-comeback-stories/" rel="noreferrer noopener"> Dinesh Karthik: One of the Greatest Comeback Stories in World Cricket. Will he play the T20 World Cup 2022?</a>



Read more at the <a href="https://www.pcb.com.pk/" target="_blank" data-type="URL" data-id="https://www.pcb.com.pk/" rel="noreferrer noopener">official website of the PCB.</a>

Pakistani Fast Bowlers: Why is Pakistani Fast Bowling on the Decline in 2022? ?

pakistani-fast-bowlers-why-is-pakistani-fast-bowling-on-the-decline-in-2022

Best Left-handed Players: Left-handers in cricket have always been a topic of great discussion amongst fans and several cricket experts from all around the globe. The rare unorthodox style used by several left handed batters as well as bowlers on the pitch makes them unique and often a threat to the opposition in various ways.&nbsp;



The left-handers thrive particularly because they are a part of the minority. The left-handed batters gain an advantage because the opposition bowlers need to change their line and lengths which are usually meant for a right-handed batsmen in general.&nbsp;



The left-arm bowlers too often manage to master variations that are pretty much unknown to the opposition batters making life tough for them on the pitch. It's time for us to have a look at three of the best left handed players in the history of cricket so far.&nbsp;



<h2>3. Wasim Akram</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://admin.icccricketschedule.com/uploads/2022/07/Wasim-Akram-min-1024x569.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-91948"/><figcaption>Wasim Akram</figcaption></figure>



At no.3 in this illustrious list is Pakistan's legendary left-arm pacer Wasim Akram. Known for his incredible pace and swing, Wasim Akram was Pakistan's finest bowler and was the leader of the pace department on his side during the late 80s and 90s.&nbsp;



Akram was regarded as one of the finest bowlers with both the new and old ball in his era and has picked over 900 wickets in his international career.&nbsp;



He also has bagged 31 Five wicket hauls in his career. His bowling average too was an extremely impressive 23 in both Tests and Odis.



<h2>2. Yuvraj Singh</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full is-resized"><img src="https://admin.icccricketschedule.com/uploads/2022/08/Yuvraj-Singh-compressed.jpg" alt="Yuvraj Singh" class="wp-image-92481" width="1038" height="651"/><figcaption>Yuvraj Singh</figcaption></figure>



At no.2 on the list is India's world cup hero, Yuvraj Singh. The all-rounder was regarded as one of the best of his kind during his period who could be equally handy for the side both with the bat and ball. His unforgettable contributions in helping India lift the World T20 in 2007 and ODI World Cup in 2011 make him an undisputed legend in India's history.&nbsp;



The explosive left-handed batsman scored a total of over 10 thousand runs in his international career. His most impressive performances with the bat however came majorly in white ball cricket during the major <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/International_Cricket_Council">ICC</a> events. Firstly his six sixes in an over of a T20I match took the world by storm.&nbsp;



Then his unimaginable consistency in the 50 world cup in 2011 made the world realise his calibre in limited formats. The expert batsman was a champion with the ball too had picked up around 150 wickets in his international career. His services to Indian cricket will forever be etched in the memories of all Indian cricket fans.



<h2>1. Kumar Sangakkara</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full is-resized"><img src="https://admin.icccricketschedule.com/uploads/2022/07/Kumar-Sangakkara-compressed.jpg" alt="Kumar Sangakkara" class="wp-image-92216" width="1040" height="653"/><figcaption>Kumar Sangakkara</figcaption></figure>



The top spot in this list is conquered by possibly the most elegant batsman in the history of cricket and this generation, Kumar Sangakkara. The Sri Lankan legend is possibly the best ever left-handed player to have stepped onto the cricket pitch ever.&nbsp;



Kumar provided his team with exceptional batting performances throughout his career besides being vital while keeping the wickets as well. Rated amongst the top three batters in all the formats of the game during various phases of his career, the left-hander scored a total of around 28 thousand runs in his international career.&nbsp;



Test cricket was where Kumar majorly thrived the most. With an average of around 57, the legendary batsman scored 12,400 runs in the longest format of the game.&nbsp;



With 63 centuries to his name during his international career, Kumar Sangakkara will no doubt remain to be one of the best left handed batsmen to have ever played the game at the topmost level.&nbsp;



Also Read:- <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/virat-kohlis-top-3-t20i-knocks-pakistan-will-vita-score-50-asia-cup-2022-ind-vs-pak/">Virat Kohli?s Top 3 T20I innings against Pakistan. Will Virat score 50+ in Asia Cup 2022 Ind Vs Pak?</a>

Top 3 Best left-handed players in the history of cricket

top-3-best-left-handed-cricket-players

Wasim Akram Reacts To Jay Shah's Statement On Asia Cup 2023: For the past few days, there has been a heated argument between India and Pakistan regarding the Asia Cup 2023. All this was triggered after Jay Shah, who is the President of the Asian Cricket Council (ACC) and Secretary of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), first said that "the Indian team will not travel to Pakistan, and the Asia Cup 2023 will be held in a neutral venue, not in Pakistan." (Read Jay Shah's first statement: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/india-will-not-travel-to-pakistan-for-asia-cup-2023-jay-shah/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">India will not travel to Pakistan for Asia Cup 2023: Jay Shah</a>).



A day after Shah?s statement, the PCB issued a statement and said that the ACC chief made the comments without any discussion or consultation with the ACC board or the host PCB. (Read the full article:<a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/it-can-impact-pakistans-visit-to-india-for-the-icc-cricket-world-cup-2023-pcb-responds-to-jay-shahs-statement-on-asia-cup-2023/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> ?It can impact Pakistan?s visit to India for the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023,? PCB responds..."</a>) In that post, PCB wrote that 'Pakistan is officially chosen to host the 2023 event and Mr. Shah?s statement of shifting of the ACC Asia Cup has clearly been made unilaterally.'



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://admin.icccricketschedule.com/uploads/2022/10/jay-shah-and-ramiz-raja-1024x576.jpg" alt="Asia Cup 2023" class="wp-image-96074" /><figcaption>Jay Shah and Ramiz Raja standing on opposite ends regarding the 2023 Asia Cup.</figcaption></figure>



This was followed by Anurag Thakur, the Union Sports Minister in India. He said that 'India is not in a position to go to Pakistan in the Asia Cup to be held in 2023. The chances are very low for this.' (Read the full article:<a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/india-wont-go-to-pakistan-for-asia-cup-2023-india-hits-back-at-pcb-after-their-threat-to-leave-acc/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> India won?t go to Pakistan for Asia Cup 2023, India hits back at....</a>) Reactions keep pouring in on Asian Cricket Council (ACC) President Jay Shah's statement that India will not tour Pakistan for the 2023 Asia Cup and the latest reaction is from former Pakistan captain Wasim Akram.



<h2>Wasim Akram Reacts To Jay Shah's Statement On Asia Cup 2023</h2>



The legendary fast bowler has said that if Jay Shah wanted to make such a statement, he should have at least called PCB chairman Rameez Raja and discussions could have taken place. He also said that such a statement is "Just not fair."



"India cannot dictate how Pakistan play their cricket. For 10-15 years, much cricket did not take place in Pakistan and now teams have finally started touring Pakistan. I am all for their difference, I am an ex-cricketer and sportsperson, and I don't know what's happening on the political front. But people-to-people contact is very important," Akram told to A-Sports.



"If you wanted to say something like this Mr. Jay Shah, then you should have at least called our chairman and you should have called for a meeting of the Asian Council. You could have given your point of view and there could have been a discussion on it. You cannot just stand up and say we are not traveling to Pakistan," he added.



"The hosting rights of the Asia Cup were awarded to Pakistan, the entire council awarded the rights. It is just not fair," he concluded.



<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wCzyUQCej0Y
</div><figcaption>Youtube (A-Sports)</figcaption></figure>



ASLO READ: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/india-vs-pakistan-t20-world-cup-2022-weather-forecast-pitch-report-rain-chances/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">India vs Pakistan T20 World Cup 2022 Weather Forecast, Pitch Report, Rain Chances</a>



VISIT<a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> ICC CRICKET SCHEDULE </a>FOR MORE CRICKET UPDATES AND NEWS

"India Can't Dictate How Pakistan Play Their Cricket": Wasim Akram Reacts To Jay Shah's Statement On Asia Cup 2023

india-cant-dictate-how-pakistan-play-their-cricket-wasim-akram-reacts-to-jay-shahs-statement-on-asia-cup-2023

ICC Cricket World Cup 2023 Winner Predicted by Wasim Akram: Pakistan's former fast bowler and captain Wasim Akram ranks Pakistan atop against all other teams in the world to lift the upcoming ICC Cricket World Cup 2023 in India owing to its fast bowling lineup. Akram reckons Babar Azam-led Pakistan is a strong contender to win the marquee ICC tournament slated to be held in the month of October-November, later this year.



Talking to Sports Tak, Wasim Akram said Pakistan's fast bowling unit is currently second to none in world cricket and possesses the quality to lift the coveted trophy.



?Our captain is a great player and we have one of the best fast-bowling lineups in the world,? Akram said on Sports Tak.



He cited how lethal Shaheen Shah Afridi can be, who has recently led his Pakistan Super League (PSL) team to tournament victory. Besides Afridi, the likes of Naseem Shah, and Haris Rauf make Pakistan's fast bowling unit special.



?Shaheen Afridi is currently in prime form. He has led his team to victory in the PSL for the second time. He is developing pretty well as an all-rounder. Then there is Haris Rauf and Naseem Shah. (Mohammad) Hasnain is there, Ihsanullah is an exciting young fast bowler," he added.



The cricketer-turned-commentator added that because the nature of pitches in India is largely batter's friendly, team with a formidable bowlers will eventually succeed in making it through.



?I think because the World Cup is happening in India, it is the team with the stronger bowling attack that will succeed because the pitches tend to be batter friendly,? he said.



<h2>In-swinging deliveries have troubled Indian batters: Wasim Akram</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img src="http://www.icccricketschedule.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Mitchell-Starc.jpg" alt="ICC Cricket World Cup 2023 Winner Predicted by Wasim Akram" class="wp-image-104913" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Mitchell Starc picked five wickets against India in 2nd ODI | Image: BCCI</figcaption></figure>



Akram then went on to address the Indian batter's shortcoming to tackle the in-swinging deliveries. He said although the angling deliveries have troubled the Indians, they would find a way to pass the problem.



?It is the angle that makes it difficult and especially when ball the comes in," he said. "At the same time, India have some great top-order player. Be it,?Virat Kohli, be it,?Rohit Sharma and?KL Rahul, all of them are greats of the game and they will figure out the problems.?



Notably, the Indian top order faced a similar challenge against Mitchell Starc in the recently held 2nd ODI between IND and AUS. Starc wreaked havoc with his moving deliveries and dismissed the Indian top order in his first spell.



In fact, Starc went on to scalp his career's ninth ODI five-wicket haul during the IND vs AUS 2nd ODI. Lauding the pacer's abilities, Akram said: ?Let?s give credit to Mitchell Starc. He bowled brilliantly and the pitch was also very lively. And the way the ball was seaming around at one point I thought I am seeing a match in Australia or New Zealand."



ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/ind-vs-aus-3rd-odi-dream11-prediction-fantasy-team-playing11-pitch-report-where-to-watch-india-vs-australia/">IND vs AUS 3rd ODI Dream11 Prediction, Fantasy Team, Playing11, Pitch Report, Where to Watch India vs Australia</a>



For more details head to BCCI?s official&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bcci.tv/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">website</a>.

ICC Cricket World Cup 2023 Winner Predicted by Wasim Akram

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ICC WTC Final: We are just a couple of sleeps away from the biggest game in Test cricket. The <a href="https://www.worldtestchampionship.com/standings" data-type="URL" data-id="https://www.worldtestchampionship.com/standings">ICC World Test Championship Final</a> is here as India and Australia will cross swords with each other in a summit clash. The event will take place at Oval England from the 7th to the 11th of June.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">ICC WTC Final: Ricky Ponting and Wasim Akram pick Australia as favourites to win the?</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img src="http://www.icccricketschedule.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/India-vs-Australia.jpg" alt="ICC WTC Final Qualification Scenario! Know, how can India qualify for the 2021-23 WTC final." class="wp-image-103649" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">ICC WTC Final Qualification Scenario! Know, how can India qualify for the 2021-23 WTC final.</figcaption></figure>



The excitement for the ICC WTC final is building up. Both the teams have reached the Oval and are putting in hard yards for the game. It?s fair to say that they have got a fair amount of time to prepare and by the game comes, the teams would be roaring to go. With English conditions on offer, it?ll be an extremely challenging contest for both.&nbsp;



With the ICC WTC final just a couple of days away, Legends of the game in Ravi Shastri, Ricky Ponting, Wasim Akram, Ian Bell and Ross Taylor in a pre-game live event, An Afternoon with Test Cricket Legends, we?re addressing the game also spoke to both the captains of the game. They also picked the favourites to win the game.&nbsp;



Former Australian cricketer Ricky Ponting backed the Pat Cummins-led side to win the game because he feels that the players will be fresh as compared to Indian players who will be coming after the two-month-long IPL. He said:&nbsp;



Read Also:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/icc-wtc-final-ishan-kishan-or-ks-bharat-ravi-shastri-and-dinesh-karthik-pick-keeper-for-india-in-wtc-final/">ICC WTC Final: Ishan Kishan or KS Bharat? Ravi Shastri and Dinesh Karthik pick keeper for India in WTC Final</a>



?Australia) are slight favourites. I mean, there wasn't much between them through a two-year cycle, right? So that says that these two teams, through two years, have beaten more opposition than they've lost to, and they deserve to finish first and second.&nbsp;The interesting thing as far as preparation is concerned is that some of the Australians have done nothing. They haven't been playing any cricket at all.?&nbsp;



Former Pakistan cricketer Wasim Akram too picked Australia as favourites to win the game. He said that the Pat Cummins-led side will be slight favourites to win the game and toss will also play a crucial role.?



?I agree with Ricky. Australia are slight favourites. It depends on the weather as well. And I think weather has been excellent, will be excellent from the seventh onwards. And toss is also crucial. And the pitch also matters. But Australia are slight favourites.?



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">ICC WTC Final: Ravi Shastri backs Australia to win the World Test Championship Final&nbsp;</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img src="http://www.icccricketschedule.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Australia-1.jpg" alt="WTC Final: Australia are clear favourites to win WTC Final, Ravi Shastri refuses" class="wp-image-114375" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Image Source: ICC</figcaption></figure>



Apart from Ricky Ponting and Wasim Jaffer, former Indian head coach Ravi Shastri also backed Australia to win the game. He said that the Pat Cummins-led side on paper are strong than India but match fitness might cost them. He explained:&nbsp;



?Australia. On paper, if you look man to man, they have the slight edge, but that match fitness might be the key. Where Shami might just come in and do the damage in the first half an hour because he's been playing so much, as opposed to someone settling in to a line length and the right areas to bowl.?



India hasn?t won an ICC trophy since 2013 and would be eager to end the drought. On the other hand, Australia didn?t lose a single series in this edition of the WTC Final and would be looking to clinch their maiden trophy.&nbsp;

ICC WTC Final: Ravi Shastri, Wasim Akram and Ricky Ponting pick their favourites for the WTC Final

icc-wtc-final-ravi-shastri-wasim-akram-and-ricky-ponting-pick-their-favourites-for-the-wtc-final

IND vs AUS: Wasim Akram warns BCCI: Former Pakistan bowling legend, Wasim Akram reckons the upcoming IND vs AUS ODI series is "unnecessary" as it could lead to fatigue in the players ahead of the marquee ICC Cricket World Cup 2023. Akram's warning came after India defeated Sri Lanka in the Asia Cup 2023 Final in Colombo by 10 wickets.



Notably, Team India is set to play a three-game ODI series against Australia, starting September 22. The two sides will meet in Mohali for the first fixture, followed by games in Indore and Rajkot on September 24 and 27 respectively.



It is also noteworthy that the ICC World Cup 2023 begins eight days after the IND vs AUS ODI series conclusion, on October 5 in Ahmedabad.



Wasim Akram, the former Pakistan skipper, felt that the Indian team has been on the road continuously since August 2023. There were a couple of back-to-back matches in the Asia Cup 2023 as well. So the ODI series against Australia might put pressure back on the players, who are continuously playing competitive cricket.



He argued that the players have to be fresh and in the right mind space before such a big event like the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023. Moreover, India, being one of the favorites of the tournament, needs to make sure that all the boys are fresh and ready to rock.



?There are different venues and traveling in India? it takes a day (between every match)," said Wasim Akram on Star Sports post India's resounding win against Sri Lanka in the Asia Cup 2023 Final.



"You need to preserve energy before the World Cup. I don't know why they are playing three ODIs (against Australia). It was probably done a long time ago, but it was a bit unnecessary. You don't want to be tired before a mega-tournament where you are favorites at home. If you want some more players in the squad, you can play those in the three ODIs against Australia,? he said.



The BCCI is yet to announce India's squad for the Australia ODI series. If nothing goes wrong, the players named for the Asia Cup 2023 will take the guard against Australia as well. There might be a few changes in the squad, depending upon the requirement, but the overall dynamics of the team would remain the same.



The upcoming series against Australia becomes important for India as it will be their final chance to make improvements to their game before the much-important World Cup 2023. Australia being a tough opponent, would provide India with an opportunity to take their preparation to its climax, and vice-versa.



Below is the complete IND vs AUS ODI Schedule:



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img src="https://admin.icccricketschedule.com/uploads/2023/09/367413-1.jpg" alt="IND vs AUS: Wasim Akram warns BCCI, Indian players could get tired with Australia ODIs" class="wp-image-119758" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Asia Cup 2023 Final: Siraj Took Lanka by Storm, Sri Lanka 6 wickets down| IND vs SL Final</figcaption></figure>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">IND vs AUS ODI Schedule</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-table"><table><tbody><tr><td>Day/Date</td><td>Match Details</td><td>Venue</td><td>Time (IST)</td></tr><tr><td>Friday/22nd September 2023</td><td>IND vs AUS 1st ODI</td><td>Punjab Cricket Association IS Bindra Stadium, Mohali</td><td>1:30 PM</td></tr><tr><td>Sunday/24th September 2023</td><td>IND vs AUS 2nd ODI</td><td>Holkar Cricket Stadium, Indore</td><td>1:30 PM</td></tr><tr><td>Wednesday/27th September 2023</td><td>IND vs AUS 3rd ODI</td><td>Saurashtra Cricket Association Stadium, Rajkot</td><td>1: 30 PM</td></tr></tbody></table></figure>



ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/ind-vs-aus-2023-schedule-fixtures-india-squad-australia-squad-australia-tour-of-india-2023/" data-type="link" data-id="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/ind-vs-aus-2023-schedule-fixtures-india-squad-australia-squad-australia-tour-of-india-2023/">IND vs AUS 2023 Schedule, Fixtures, India Squad, Australia Squad | Australia tour of India 2023</a>



For more details head to ICC?s&nbsp;<a href="https://www.icc-cricket.com/homepage" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">official website.</a><a href="https://admin.icccricketschedule.com/plugins/gumlet/assets/images/pixel.png"></a>

IND vs AUS: Wasim Akram warns BCCI, Indian players could get tired with Australia ODIs

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IPL 2024: The controversy relating former Mumbai Indians (MI) skipper Rohit Sharma and the franchise is far from ending. Even though the tournament has progressed to its second half, the fans and cricket experts are still keeping a close watch on the controversy. In the recent addition to it, former Pakistani cricketer Wasim Akram believes that Rohit Sharma might not continue with his IPL franchise in the next IPL season, and will likely join other teams.



It all began when Mumbai Indians (MI) dropped a bombshell announcing that Rohit Sharma would no longer lead the side, and it would be all-rounder Hardik Pandya who was made to sit at the helm. 



The move didn't rest well with the fans, and even with the experts, as it looked more desperate one. Although the controversy had already begun with the fans not liking the decision, it actually took a rage when MI played their first game of the season against Gujarat Titans (GT) in Ahmedabad.



MI fans, who were in displeasure, booed Hardik Pandya at the toss and even during the field. The criticism continued, even when Mumbai Indians (MI) played their first home match against Rajasthan Royals. The home fans attacked the franchise with their constant booing at the Wankhede Stadium.



It went to a certain point that some reports emerged that the MI contingent had divided into two factions with one supporting former captain Rohit Sharma and the other being on Hardik Pandya's side. However, there was substantial proof to support the reports.



To make it worse, MI's performance hasn't been up to the mark this season. The five-times IPL champion, under Rohit Sharma's captaincy, has maintained a spot at the bottom of the IPL 2024 points table, with just a few wins in 11 matches. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Rohit Sharma to join KKR in next IPL season: Wasim Akram</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://admin.icccricketschedule.com/uploads/2024/05/Rohit-Sharma-Gautam-Gambhir-1024x576.jpg" alt="IPL 2024: &quot;Rohit Sharma to join KKR in next IPL season,&quot; leaving Mumbai Indians (MI) after 13 Years, says Wasim Akram " class="wp-image-133890" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Rohit Sharma - Gautam Gambhir | Image: PTI</figcaption></figure>



Meanwhile, amidst all this, Wasim Akram reckons Rohit Sharma will no longer remain glued with Mumbai Indians (MI) and will likely move out of the franchise in the next IPL season. Notably, Akram had previously disapproved MI's move to dethrone Rohit Sharma from the leadership spot.



"I have a feeling, he [Rohit Sharma] won't be at Mumbai Indians (MI) next [IPL] season," Wasim Akram told Sportskeeda recently. 



The legendary pacer further added that Rohit Sharma and Gautam Gambhir as a pair would be great to see at the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR).



"I would love to see him at KKR. Imagine him open there, Gauti as a mentor, Iyer as a captain. They will have a very strong batting, at that wicket (Eden Gardens). He bats very well on any wicket, he is that great a player. But it will be good to see him at KKR," he added.



The next edition of the Indian Premier League (<a href="https://iplt20.com">IPL</a>) will have a mega auction. The teams are likely to have at most 5 players retentions from the previous squad while the rest of the players will be at the auction table.



ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/ipl-points-table-updated-on-8th-may-after-dc-vs-rr-delhi-at-no-5-in-points-table-after-defeating-rajasthan-by-20-runs/">IPL Points Table (Updated) On 8th MAY after DC vs RR, Delhi at No 5 in Points Table after defeating Rajasthan by 20 Runs</a>

IPL 2024: "Rohit Sharma to join KKR in next IPL season," leaving Mumbai Indians (MI) after 13 Years, says Wasim Akram

ipl-2024-rohit-sharma-to-join-kkr-in-next-ipl-season-leaving-mumbai-indians-mi-after-13-years-says-wasim-akram

Afghanistan Cricket Team, as well as Mumbai Indians, have faced a massive blow. Star spinner Allah Mohammad Ghazanfar has been ruled out of the ICC Champions 2025 as well as the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 due to an injury. 
Allah Ghazanfar suffered a fracture in the L4 vertebra and will be out of action for four months. The spinner faced an injury while playing for the team during the Zimbabwe tour, and his injury surely would've disrupted the balance of both Afghanistan as well as the Mumbai Indians in the Indian Premier League. 
Allah Ghazanfar was picked by Mumbai Indians for Rs 4.80 crore in the IPL mega auction.  With the kind of talent and the skills that he brings with him, it's fair to say that he surely would've been in the playing XI for the franchise in the league right from the start. 
Allah Ghazanfar has played one Test and 11 ODIs for Afghanistan and has been decent for the team. The spinner also has played 19 T20 matches so far and has 30 wickets to his name. He also has been part of the Mumbai Indians in the ILT20 as he plays for MI Emirates in the league. 
Also Read: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/batting-strategy-or-blunder-kl-rahul-and-hardik-pandya-at-6-and-7/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Batting Strategy or Blunder? KL Rahul and Hardik Pandya at 6 and 7</a>
<h2>Afghanistan Cricket Board confirms about  Allah Ghazanfar's injury ahead of IPL 2025 </h2>
Afghanistan Cricket Board released an official statement confirming Allah Ghazanfar's injury. The Board confirmed that he will be under the observation of the medical team during his four-month recovery period. 
The statement read: “Afghanistan’s young spin-bowling sensation, AM Ghazanfar, has been ruled out of the ICC Champions Trophy due to a fracture in the L4 vertebra, specifically in the left pars interarticularis. 
"He sustained the injury during Afghanistan’s recently held tour Zimbabwe, and will be sidelined for a minimum of four months and will remain under treatment during this period," ACB said in a release. 
With Allah Ghazanfar being ruled out, Mumbai Indians spin bowling will be heavily reliant on Mitchell Santner and Karn Sharma.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/australia-a-beth-mooney-pips-india-s-trisha-gongdi-to-win-icc-women-s-player-of-the-month-award-for-january/">Australia's Beth Mooney pips India's Trisha Gongdi to win ICC Women's Player of the Month award for January</a>

Mumbai Indians face huge injury blow ahead of IPL 2025 {PC:X}

Allah Ghazanfar was picked by Mumbai Indians for Rs 4.80 crore in the IPL mega auction

Star spinner Allah Mohammad Ghazanfar has been ruled out of the ICC Champions 2025 as well as the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 due to an injury. 

IPL 2025: Mumbai Indians face massive blow! Star player RULED OUT of IPL

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Australia captain Steve Smith has been having a great game as captain in the ongoing first ODI against Sri Lanka. The opening game of the two-match series between the teams is taking place at the R Premadasa Stadium in Colombo on Wednesday (12th February) 
Steve Smith, who is known as one of the best fielders in the game, came up with another stunner in the ongoing game. The Australia skipper picked a blinder in the slips to send Sri Lanka batter Dunith Wellalage back into the hut and provide his team with a crucial breakthrough. 
During the last ball of the 26th over, Matthew Short bowled a delivery that got extra bounce on the length delivery outside off. Dunith Wellalage got forward to defend and the ball kissed the shoulder of the bat and went quickly towards the first slip, where Steve Smith was stationed. 
Steve Smith came with a magical effort as he took it with an outstretched right hand on the dive. His body momentum was going the other way, but he grabbed it with no fuss and got up, passing a smile to his teammates and ending Dunith Wellalage's innings on 30 runs. 
You can see the video at the end of the article: 
Steve Smith has been appointed as the captain of Australia for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 as well. This comes after both Pat Cummins and Mitchell Marsh were ruled out of the tournament due to the injuries and the batter was given responsibility to take the role. 
Steve Smith captained Australia in the Test series against Sri Lanka as well. Under his leadership, the team won the series by the margin of 2-0 and ended their long wait for a series win in Sri Lanka. He led from the front as he slammed centuries in both the games. 
Steve Smith also has been top-notch as a captain in the ongoing game against Sri Lanka. He has made brilliant changes as captain and also has been spot-on with his field placements. With the kind of performance they have put in, they look favourites to win the match. 
<h2>Watch: Steve Smith takes a blinder to remove Dunith Wellalage in SL vs AUS 2nd ODI</h2>

Steve Smith takes a stunner to remove Dunith Wellalage in first SL vs AUS ODI  {PC:X}

Australia captain Steve Smith has been having a great game as captain in the ongoing first ODI against Sri Lanka.

Steve Smith, who is known as one of the best fielders in the game, came up with another stunner in the ongoing game.

Watch: Steve Smith takes a STUNNER in slips to remove Dunith Wellalage in first SL vs AUS ODI

watch-steve-smith-takes-a-stunner-in-slips-to-remove-dunith-wellalage-in-first-sl-vs-aus-odi-

India Cricket Team, on Tuesday (12th February), made massive changes to their squad for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. Star pacer Jasprit Bumrah was ruled out of the tournament with a back injury, which he faced during the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25, and it no doubt will jolt India's chances. 
In place of Jasprit Bumrah,<a href="https://www.bcci.tv"> India</a> added Harshit Rana to the squad for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. The Kolkata Knight Riders pacer made his debut in the first game of the ongoing ODI series against England and so far looked decent in the first two games. 
Another massive change that India made in their squad for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 was to replace Yashasvi Jaiswal with Varun Chakravarthy. This came as a big surprise because Jaiswal was forced to make his debut in the first ODI against, and had Virat Kohli not got injured and Shreyas Iyer not scored runs, he would've played all three games. 
<h2>Harshit Rana and Varun Chakravarthy have been added to the team on the recommendation of head coach Gautam Gambhir - Report</h2>
The inclusion of Varun Chakravarthy, who made his debut in the second ODI against England, also came as a surprise because India already had 4 spinners in the team and out of 15 players, the squad for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 will now feature 5 spinners. 
Also Read: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/riyan-parag-statement-finally-after-months-cricketer-riyan-parag-speaks-on-his-leaked-youtube-search-history/#google_vignette">Riyan Parag Statement : Finally After Months Cricketer Riyan Parag Speaks On His Leaked Youtube Search History</a>
With India making huge changes to their squad for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, it saw them facing massive criticism. However, a report in PTI has mentioned both Harshit Rana and Varun Chakravarthy have been added to the team on the recommendation of head coach Gautam Gambhir.
Both Harshit Rana and <a href="https://www.google.com/search?client=safari&amp;rls=en&amp;q=varun+chakravarthy&amp;ie=UTF-8&amp;oe=UTF-8">Varun Chakravarthy</a> are part of the Kolkata Knight Riders, a franchise that was mentored by Gautam Gambhir. The head coach will now be hoping that his idea to add both players to the team pays off and India wins the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. 
The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 will be kick-starting on 19th February, and India will be playing their first game on 20th February against Bangladesh.
India squad: Rohit Sharma (Captain), Shubman Gill (Vice-captain), Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul (WK), Rishabh Pant (WK), Hardik Pandya, Axar Patel, Washington Sundar, Kuldeep Yadav, Harshit Rana, Mohd. Shami, Arshdeep Singh, Ravindra Jadeja, Varun Chakaravarthy
Also Read: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/ind-vs-eng-kl-rahul-s-below-average-performance-with-the-bat-might-lead-to-rishabh-pant-getting-a-chance-in-ahmedabad/">IND vs ENG: KL Rahul's below average performance with the bat might lead to Rishabh Pant getting a chance in Ahmedabad</a>

Gautam Gambhir makes call to add  Harshit Rana and Varun Chakravarthy {PC:X}

India Cricket Team, on Tuesday (12th February), made massive changes to their squad for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025

Massive change that India made in their squad for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 was to replace Yashasvi Jaiswal with Varun Chakravarthy

KKR influence over Harshit Rana and Varun Chakravarthy's selection in CT 2025? Reports make massive "Gautam Gambhir's call" statement

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Australia is having a tough time ahead of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. Star pacer Mitchell Starc has opted out of the tournament due to personal reasons as the ICC World Cup 2023 winners finalised their squad for the eight-nation tournament. 
With Mitchell Starc opting out of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, it means that Australia will be without their big three in Starc, Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood, who will be missing the tournament due to injuries. This means Australia will be without their key players. 
Apart from the three pacers, Australia will also be without the services of two key all-rounders, Marcus Stoinis and Mitchell Marsh. While the former retired from the ODIs after being named in the team for ICC Champions Trophy 2025, Marsh suffered the injury during the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25. 
With all the injuries in the camp, Steve Smith has been made the captain of the team. The right-hander will be leading a depleted side, and it will be a massive headache for him to lead the team in such a big tournament without match-winners in the team. 
In the absence of Starc, Cummins and Hazlewood, Spencer Johnson, Nathan Ellis, Sean Abbott and Ben Dwarshuis who have been named in Australia's final 15-man squad for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. While in place of Marus Stoinis, Aaron Hardie has been added to the team. 
Also Read: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/ind-vs-eng-kl-rahul-s-below-average-performance-with-the-bat-might-lead-to-rishabh-pant-getting-a-chance-in-ahmedabad/">IND vs ENG: KL Rahul's below average performance with the bat might lead to Rishabh Pant getting a chance in Ahmedabad</a>
Leg-spinner Tanveer Sangha has been named in the squad for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 as well. While Jake Fraser-McGurk and Matthew Short are among the batters that have been added to the team. It will be a tough task for Australia in the tournament, but considering their history, one cannot write them off. 
<h2>Australia squad for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 </h2>
Australia Champions Trophy squad:  
Steve Smith (c), Sean Abbott, Alex Carey,  Ben Dwarshuis, Nathan Ellis, Jake Fraser-McGurk, Aaron Hardie, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Spencer Johnson, Marnus Labuschagne, Glenn Maxwell, Tanveer Sangha, Matthew Short, Adam Zampa. Travelling reserve: Cooper Connolly.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/riyan-parag-statement-finally-after-months-cricketer-riyan-parag-speaks-on-his-leaked-youtube-search-history/#google_vignette">Riyan Parag Statement : Finally After Months Cricketer Riyan Parag Speaks On His Leaked Youtube Search History</a>

Steve Smith to captain Australia in ICC Champions Trophy 2025 {PC:X}

Australia is having a tough time ahead of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025.

With Mitchell Starc opting out of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, it means that Australia will be without their big three in Starc, Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood

ICC Champions Trophy 2025: Another star pacer ruled out! Australia announces Steve Smith as captain of depleted side

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IND vs ENG 3rd ODI: As India and England prepare for the third and final ODI in Ahmedabad, each team has its own set of goals and challenges. With the series in hand, India could look for a couple of practice games for benched players, and England would want to win the last game, at least for the pride.
India, already looking well-settled ahead of the ICC Champions Trophy, will seek another dominant performance to round off the series. Meanwhile, England, struggling in the crucial middle overs, will aim for a complete batting display, particularly against spin. Rohit Sharma’s century in Cuttack and Jos Buttler’s acknowledgment of modern ODI dynamics set the stage for another exciting contest at the Narendra Modi Stadium.
<h2>Playing Conditions &amp; Pitch Report  </h2>
Match Details   - Date &amp; Time: February 12, 2025, 2:30 PM IST   - Venue: Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad  
<h2>Pitch Report Of Narendra Modi Stadium</h2>
Ahmedabad has historically been a tough venue for batters, with the lowest average first-innings score (240) in this series. The pitch provides significant assistance to spinners in the first innings, while pacers find more swing under lights. Additionally, the large square boundaries will impact batting strategies, making boundary-scoring tougher. Dew has played a major role in past games at this venue, with five of the last eight ODIs being won by chasing sides.  
<h3>Conditions to Expect  </h3>
<ul>
<li>A slow surface favoring spinners early on.  </li>
<li>The Pacers might get swing under the lights.  </li>
<li>Dew in the second innings could make defending totals difficult.  </li>
<li>Captains might prefer to chase after winning the toss.  </li>
</ul>
<h2>Squads and Probable Playing XIs</h2>
India Squad: Rohit Sharma (c), Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul (wk), Hardik Pandya, Axar Patel, Ravindra Jadeja, Harshit Rana, Mohammed Shami, Varun Chakravarthy, Kuldeep Yadav, Rishabh Pant, Washington Sundar, Arshdeep Singh, Yashasvi Jaiswal  
India Probable XI:
1. Rohit Sharma (c) 2. Shubman Gill 3. Virat Kohli 4. Shreyas Iyer 5. Axar Patel 6. KL Rahul / Rishabh Pant (wk) 7. Hardik Pandya 8. Ravindra Jadeja 9. Arshdeep Singh / Harshit Rana 10. Varun Chakravarthy 11. Mohammed Shami
England Squad: Philip Salt (wk), Ben Duckett, Joe Root, Harry Brook, Jos Buttler (c), Liam Livingstone, Jamie Overton, Gus Atkinson, Adil Rashid, Mark Wood, Saqib Mahmood, Brydon Carse, Jofra Archer, Jamie Smith, Jacob Bethell
England Probable XI:
<ol>
<li>Philip Salt (wk)</li>
<li>Ben Duckett</li>
<li>Joe Root</li>
<li>Harry Brook</li>
<li>Jos Buttler (c)</li>
<li>Liam Livingstone</li>
<li>Tom Banton / Jamie Overton</li>
<li>Gus Atkinson / Brydon Carse</li>
<li>Adil Rashid</li>
<li>Mark Wood</li>
<li>Saqib Mahmood / Jofra Archer</li>
</ol>
India heads into this match as the stronger, more settled team, while England will look to overcome their struggles in the middle overs. Ahmedabad's pitch favors spin early and swing late, so both teams must be strategic with their batting and bowling approaches. A thrilling contest awaits as both sides fine-tune their preparations for the ICC Champions Trophy.

India and England are set to clash in the 3rd ODI in Ahmedabad. India looks settled, while England struggles against spin. The pitch favors spinners early, pacers later. Dew may influence the chasing strategy. 

India seeks dominance as England fights spin struggles in Ahmedabad’s low-scoring conditions. Toss is crucial with dew favoring chasing teams.

wasim akram