Articles by "Misbah-ul-Haq"
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Anonymous at February 17, 2018 0
Pakistan won the first test against Zimbabwe due to an extra ordinary innings of Younis Khan. However, all other batsmen especially top order flopped. In first test Zimbabwe could not capitalise the momentum due to lack of experience but team Pakistan’s continuous poor performance provoked Zimbabwe to have a jubilant ending of the test. As I said earlier that Coach Whatmore should formulise, the strategy considering and tweaking the weaker aspects of the team otherwise these mistakes will haunt us again against South Africa and Sri lanka. But the players agreed upon bringing shame at the hands of Zimbabwe, this has created bigger trouble for Whatmore who is trying to console by saying that Pakistan equalised the series against Zimbabwe did not lose it.

Moin Khan who was a critique about the system and team when he was an expert on TV channels now when he has been appointed to a post in PCB he has declared grass as green. Former Wicket Keeper should have been worried about the defeats however, he is declaring the performance rather satisfactory saying Pakistan only played bad in two matches in the rest of the tour team played well. This indeed is another limit of naivety.

What are the reasons behind losing, who were the underperforming players, and which player has a falling performance graph? Our readers must have realised that very well as for past few days “experts” on TV are sobbing over the defeat and conducting autopsy of the team. The majority agrees that Pakistan lost due to the defensive approach of Captain Misbah who failed to act like a finisher in the second test mach. As a result Pakistan lost by 24 runs. If Misbah would have single handedly lead Pakistan to the victory he could avail the praises but now he is the only one facing the music and his critical 79 runs not out have been totally wasted. This is interesting that why experts fail to see that team is not all about Misbah only there were five other expert batsmen too who also failed completely.

It seems to be easy escape for the office holders in PCB to bring Captain down and cricket fans can be amused with the chants of new captain and new spirit. However, this will not be the solution of the real problem. There is need of changing the system not captain, system that is killing the capabilities of cricket in Pakistan. This is sheer helplessness that poor performers cannot be replaced as the options have either lesser experience or talent. Moreover, seniors like Younis Khan and Misbah Ul Haq are still playing because board and system failed to produce their replacement, and those who were painted as the next big thing are also in line to be replaced.

Just because the backup does not have good players, therefore the poor performers from Zimbabwe series will still manage to hold their spot against South Africa for the series in UAE. Change in system is inevitable to turn things around and creating a consistency in the performance. PCB is not producing good players regularly for the international level and as a result; cricket is on the verge of devastation. Rather than emphasising over changing the captain the need of hour is to change is vision, mindset and setting up an effective system that PCB can operate with and produce good results with any captain.
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Anonymous at October 17, 2013 0
Everybody knows Pakistan are the most unpredictable team. And they have only strengthened the impression in the first Test against South Africa. The team, which failed to chase a target of 264 runs against minnows Zimbabwe a month ago, has now defeated the world number one side by 7 wickets.

[caption id="attachment_2389" align="alignright" width="244"]Khurram Manzoor, who scored record 146 against South Africa, was declared man of the match (Photo: AFP) Khurram Manzoor, who scored record 146 against South Africa, was declared man of the match (Photo: AFP)[/caption]

It seems that any team on the top spot should play against Pakistan in the UAE to check its worth. England failed in the acid test in 2011-12. And now the Proteas have suffered the same fate in the first Test.

From the day one in Sheikh Zayed Stadium, everything seemed in the favour of Pakistan. Having bowled out South Africa on 249 runs in the first innings, Pakistani openers made a partnership of over 100. Then centuries by debutant Khurram Manzoor and captain Misbahul Haq and a team total of 442 runs against one of the best bowling attacks. And then once again let the opponents to take a lead of only 39 runs. This was the performance of the team which had recently been defeated by the world’s weakest team.

The victory has helped Pakistan take an assailable lead of 1-0 in the two-match series. Moreover, Pakistan have jumped to fourth position from sixth in the Test rankings.

On the other hand, it was the first defeat for South Africa after 15 Tests, and it can only level the series at best.

South Africa decided to bat after winning the toss. The visitors were 245 for 8 after the first day, thanks to excellent performance by Pakistan bowlers. South Africa’s position could have been much worse had Hashim Amla not scored hundred. The only other batsman with respectable runs was JP Duminy, who scored 57. In fact, no other player except Graeme Smith, AB de Villiers and Dales Steyn could hit double-figures.

The 20th century of Amla’s career did help South Africa to remain in the match. But came next day, the end of South Africa’s innings on 249 and a 135-run opening stand by Khurram Manzoor and Shan Masood stifled the Proteas’ hopes.

It was the first 100-run partnership by Pakistan openers in one and a half years. Though Masood (75) could not complete his century, he did help Manzoor clinch his hundred. He scored 146.

Pakistan were in a leading position after the 2nd day and lost only three wickets. On the third day, a hundred by Misbah took Pakistan’s lead to 193, making situation more difficult for South Africa.

Misbah scored exact 100 runs off 187 balls, with the help of 8 fours. When Pakistan’s innings ended on 442, it was necessary for Pakistan to take a wicket or two of South Africa before the third day ended. And bowlers lived up to expectations. Especially, Zulfiqar Babar, who took the day’s most important wicket of Hashim Amla.

The other visiting batsmen who lost their wickets on the third day were Alviro Petersen (17), Graeme Smith (32) and Jacques Kallis (0).

AB de Villers was South Africa’s last hope on the fourth day. He had to find a way out with the help of Faf du Plessis and JP Duminy and by utilising tail-enders. But both batsmen failed to do so. Duminy fell prey to Junaid Khan on duck while du Plessis was dismissed by Saeed Ajmal before Plessis could touch double-digits.

De Villiers made 90 runs and a 57-run partnership with Robin Peterson. But all he could was to delay the defeat, which was becoming more and more inevitable. The last two wickets added 42 runs to South Africa’s total, preventing the team from defeat – for a few hours.

As Pakistan started chasing a 40-run target, the first innings star openers Shan Masood and Khurram Manzoor departed on just 0 and 4. When Pakistan lost their third wicket on 7, it seemed that Pakistan were going to be unpredictable. But, fortunately, they didn’t. The experienced hands of Misbah and Younis led Pakistan to victory. Misbah hit the winning shot – a six to Peterson.

The second and last Test of the series will be played in Dubai International Cricket Stadium from Oct 23-27.
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Anonymous at October 12, 2013 0
Just like every topic has two extreme opinions in Pakistan, the same goes with cricket. Fans of Shahid Afridi do not like the batting style of Misbah, and people who like Misbah’s style criticize Afridi. That is the reason why social media has become a battlefield for cricket lovers. Even some private TV channels are following the same trend.

[caption id="attachment_2350" align="alignright" width="300"]Afridi thinks that apart from changing his batting style, Misbah should also change attitude towards irresponsible players (Photo: AFP) Afridi thinks that apart from changing his batting style, Misbah should also change attitude towards irresponsible players (Photo: AFP)[/caption]

But in reality, both cricketers respect each other and always try to share helpful tips for the national team. For instance, Afridi has recently given some suggestions to Misbah for the upcoming series against South Africa.

In an interview with Dawn, Afridi said that Misbah needed to be more aggressive with those batsmen who lose their wickets on crucial moments.

Admiring Misbah’s captaincy, Afridi said the way he was leading the team from the front should be appreciated. Besides, he should be strict with those batsmen who took the game for granted.

Afridi, who has played 362 ODIs, is keen to be a part of the World Cup 2015. However, the decision of his retirement depended on his fitness, he added.
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Anonymous at October 08, 2013 0
Pakistan, who failed to win the Test series against the last-ranked Zimabwbe, are not going to face the top-ranked South Africa.

[caption id="attachment_2332" align="alignright" width="200"]Only an extraordinary performance can help Pakistan save the day (Photo: AFP) Only an extraordinary performance can help Pakistan save the day (Photo: AFP)[/caption]

Pakistan reached the UAE today to play two Tests, five ODIs and two Twenty20s against the Proteas. The first Test will start from October 14 in Abu Dhabi

Talking to the media at Lahore's Allama Iqbal International Airport, Pakistan captain Misbahul Haq said the team is ready to face South Africa.

Misbah, 39, said Pakistan are well prepared for the upcoming series and will give tough time to South Africa.

About Mohammad Hafeez from the Test squad, Misbah said he was ruled out because of his recent poor performance but “I hope he will return soon, and that too on the back of his performance”.

He said that apart from batting, Pakistan have to perform in the bowling and fielding departments as well to achieve positive results.

Pakistan have only won a single Test in their last eight matches. And that too against Zimbabwe. The team’s failure to lift a single series in the previous one and a half years under the coaching of Dav Whatmore has put a question mark on its Test eligibility. It is against this backdrop that Pakistan are going to play against the world’s best test side. Let’s hope. But what else can we do?
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Anonymous at September 19, 2013 0
The poor performance of Zimbabwe series put many players’ necks on the line and on the other hand, there are many who are eager to capitalise this situation. Apparently there is no such chance that Misbahul Haq will be axed from captaincy immediately as PCB chairman Najam Sethi has given a statement that changing the Test and ODI captain is not under consideration and that he is satisfied with Misbah’s performance. However, within the board something is cooking which will eventually cause end of Misbah’s career.

[caption id="" align="alignright" width="394"]Shahid Afridi, Misbah Ul Haq, Pakistan, Cricket, team, Captain, The hopeful Afridi is openly sharing his desire of becoming captain again. (Photo: Reuters)[/caption]

According to the sources, many office holders in Pakistan Cricket Board are advising the chairman to instigate the process of change of leadership slowly. In addition, the argument formulated in this regard is that Misbah is a good batsman but he is not a match winner, his defensive approach not only causing failure but also promoting such attitude in other players too. These important office holders are lobbying to have an aggressive captain.

On the other side, the newly appointed Manager Moin Khan is also very active to end Misbah’s story. Moreover, head coach Dav Whatmore is also looking to target Misbah for his own failure, as it is the only way out for him to save his job.

Vice Captain Hafeez has himself such a poor performance that in such emergency it is out of question for him to become captain. Therefore, if all things are might not in the control of Misbah but somehow they are favouring him, as his personal performance is defending him. Constantly losing big games for past few months have created many hard grounds for Misbah now.

Now Shahid Afridi is looking forward to utilising this situation. While talking to a private TV channel he said that he is completely ready if he is nominated as captain again. Time will decide if this statement was just an innocent desire or a hint towards a development.

It is evident that many current players in the national team have their future on the line during the upcoming series with tough team like South Africa. We should wait and watch for the result of that series.
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Anonymous at September 01, 2013 0
Pakistan lifted the ODI series 2-1 against Zimbabwe, winning the decisive match by 108 runs on the back of good performance in all departments.

[caption id="attachment_2264" align="alignright" width="300"]It was after 11 years that Pakistan won the decisive match of a series (Photo: AFP) It was after 11 years that Pakistan won the decisive match of a series (Photo: AFP)[/caption]

It was first time in 11 years that Pakistan won the series once it was levelled. They last time they did so was against Australia in 2002.

In today’s match at Harare, the hosts put the tourists into bat. Though Pakistani openers stood their ground until the 16th over, but once again it was a slow start for the team – 66 runs in 15.3 overs. The first batsman to be dismissed was Nasir Jamshed who scored 38 off 67. When Mohammad Hafeez got retired hurt at the total of 87, it seemed Pakistan were getting into hot water. But then came Misbah-ul-Haq, destined to be declared the player of the match.

Both Shehzad and Misbah guided the score forward quite slowly. The duo added mere 32 runs until the 33rd over. And when Shehzad finally decided to speed up the run rate, Hamilton Masakadza sent him packing. He scored 54 off 85.

At this stage, Umar Amin performed as needed. He helped the team make the most of the powerplay, making a quick 25-ball 33-run innings. Shahid Afridi once again failed to get into the double figures and fell prey to Tendai Chatara.

The need of the time was to expedite the run rate, and Misbah and Sarfaraz Ahmed played accordingly. Ahmed scored 22 off just 13 before being dismissed in the 49th over. Misbah, who had initially scored just 8 runs on 35 balls, completed is half-century on 74 balls. He lost his wicket on the fourth ball of the last over, scoring 67 runs.

Pakistan amassed 65 runs in the last 6 overs, which guided them to a respectable total of 260. The key partnership of 48 off 29 between Misbah and Sarfaraz perhaps snatched the match from the hosts.

Zimbabwe’s bowlers bowled skillfully in the first 40 overs, with Chatara giving only 15 runs in 6 overs and Prosper Utseya 23 in 7. Chatara gave 33 runs in his last 4 overs and Utseya gave 24 in 3.

Vusi Sibanda was the first to lose hi wicket as Zimbabwe started their chase. He was dismissed by Hafeez in the 4th over. Like Pakistan, the hosts also kept on dragging their innings at a snail’s pace. But Zimbabwe collapsed after H Masakadza lost his wicket in the 11th over, making 25 off 42.

Captain Brendan Taylor (26 off 29) lost his wicket in the space of 4 overs from Masakdza’s. Misbah’s direct throw ended his innings. As Zimbabwe were still reeling from the skipper’s loss, Sikandar Raza was lbw by Hafeez. Sean Williams faced the same fate as Taylor’s. Another throw by Misbah sent him packing. Half of Zimbabwe’s side was back to the pavilion on 75.

Malcolm Waller and Utseya tried to resist with 48 and 23 runs, respectively, but to no avail. They could only lead the score to 152 in 40 overs. Pakistan sealed victory by a huge margin and clinched the series 2-1.

Saeed Ajmal, Abdur Rehman and Hafeez took two wickets apiece, where Afridi took one. Pakistan’s pacers could not claim a wicket.

Misbah was declared player of the match for his batting and fielding heroics, and Hafeez was given the player-of-the-series award for scoring most runs.

Now both teams will play the first Test from Sept 3 in Harare.
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Anonymous at August 19, 2013 0
Pakistan's The Test and ODI captain Misbah-ul-Haq is set to reach Lahore from West Indies today along with his family. He was already scheduled to leave the Caribbean Premier League to join the national side for Zimbabwe tour but his team St Lucia’s failure to qualify in the semi-finals made it even easier for him.

[caption id="attachment_2199" align="alignright" width="260"]Misbah to reach Pakistan today Misbah will reach Zimbabwe on 25th of this month (Photo: AFP)[/caption]

Misbah is coming to Pakistan with his family only to leave for Zimbabwe on August 25 where he will captain the team in ODI series, set to begin from August 27, and in two Tests.

Pakistan-Zimbabwe series is officially starting from August 23 at Harare with the first T20. Pakistani squad has already left for Zimbabwe the last night.

Misbah was part of 2013 Caribbean Premier League where his team St Lucia Zouks failed to qualify for the semis.
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Anonymous at August 05, 2013 0
News about differences between Pakistan ODI captain Misbah-ul-Haq and T20 captain Mohammad Hafeez have been in the media for quite a while. However, the ‘rivalry’ between the two materialised when the players came to face-to-face by a twist of fate in Caribbean Premier League 2013 match. Misbah, playing for St Lucia Zouks, gave Guyana Amazon Warriors’ Hafeez a bashing, guiding his team to win in the last over.

[caption id="attachment_2117" align="alignright" width="300"]Misbah finished the game with a six! (Photo: Getty Images) Misbah finished the game with a six! (Photo: Getty Images)[/caption]

When St Lucia needed 10 runs to win in the last over, Misbah missed the first ball delivered by the ‘professor’. But he smashed the next two balls into the stand, helping St Lucia grab a 5-wicket victory. Misbah’s form that was witnessed during the ODI series against West Indies is continuing.

Guyana Amazon scored 126 runs in the first innings at the loss of 6 wickets. Hafeez’s share in the total was 13. Opener Lendl Simmons and Christopher Barnwell were the leading scorers for the team with 38 and 29 runs.

Shane Shillingford took three wickets for Zouks.

St Lucia chased the target in the third ball of the last over, thanks to Pakistan skipper’s 49 off 33. His innings included 4 sixes, an aspect generally not expected from Misbah.

Apart from Misbah, Andre Fletcher scored, 23; Devon Smith, 24; while Darren Sammy smashed quick and valuable 21 off 9.

Misbah was declared man of the match for his fireworks.

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Anonymous at July 25, 2013 0
Pakistan beat West Indies by four wickets after an exciting game, winning the five-match series 3-1. The most important aspect of the match was that Pakistan decided to bowl after winning the toss, and chased a target of 243 runs successfully. In the final moments, where on the one hand fours and sixes by Umar Akmal and Shahid Afridi made it easier for the team to head to victory, on the other, Misbah’s dismissal raised the chances of another tie. However, a missed throw by Kieron Pollard helped Pakistan take a run and win the match and the series as well.

[caption id="attachment_1932" align="alignright" width="260"]Winning captain, man of the match and man of the series. (Photo: WICB) Winning captain, man of the match and man of the series. (Photo: WICB)[/caption]

Ahmed Shehzad and Nasir Jamshed gave Pakistan an opening stand if 51 runs – first time Pakistani openers crossed 50 runs. Especially, Shehzad played well by scoring 64 runs. Although he took 100 balls to score that much, such innings was the need of the time.

When Haris Sohail was dismissed in the batting powerplay, Pakistan needed another 83 runs in 12 overs, with Umar and Misbah left at the crease. Both played responsibly and turned only those balls to boundaries that deserved to be hit. Umar started batting aggressively from the 41st over by hitting three fours to Jason Holder to lessen the required run rate.

As Pakistan were nearing the target, a moment came that was later regarded by West Indies captain Dwayne Bravo as decisive for he result of the match. A delivery by Tino Best seemed to have touched Misbah’s gloves was caught behind. But field umpire Paul Reiffel declared him not out. The host took the review, but with no Hot Spot available the decision went in favour of Misbah.

The decision helped Misbah complete his 29th ODI half-century. It was his fourth century in the five matches of the series. Presently, he is the top run scorer of 2013. It reflects his consistency as a batsman.

Pakistan run rate dropped after that until Umar hit a six to Dwayne Bravo and back-to-back six and four to Tino Best to make the matter easier for Pakistan. But Umar tired to hit yet another ball which cost him his wicket. As Umar’s shot landed safely in the hands Kemar Roach (substitute), rain started pouring in. Before the dismissal Pakistan was 10 runs ahead of the Duckworth-Lewis par score. Pakistan got tense for some moments, and rightly so. Because nobody knew the revised D/L par score. But after a brief pause, the scoreboard showed that the tourists were still 5 runs ahead of the target, means Pakistan were still the winners if the match had ended at the moment.

When the match resumed after 2o minutes, Misbah was accompanied with Shahid Afridi. West Indies set the same fielding for Afridi as they had done in the previous game, that is to lure Boom Boom to play a shot by offering him short ball so that he was caught near the boundary. But Afridi came prepared this time. He smashed a six to Dwayne Bravo on a similar delivery. He scored a four at the point in the same over to reduce the chase to just a few runs. But when the score levelled, Misbah lost his wicket in trying to play the winning shot. Saeed Ajmal, the next batsman in, only managed to take a risky single on the second last ball of the match after having missed two balls.

The builder of Pakistan’s victory, Misbah, scored 63 runs off 93 balls. He scored one six and five fours.

Tino Best was the top wicket-taker for West Indies with three wickets, while Jason Holder and Dasrren Sammy took one wicket apiece.

Earlier, West Indies made 242 runs after Pakistan put them into bat. Their innings was built up on the efforts of Johnson Charles, Marlon Samuels and captain Dwayne Bravo. The team’s strike rate remained low throughout the innings until Bravo and Sammy came and captivated the spectators by their stormy knocks. Bravo scored 48 off just 27 while Sammy made 29 off 18. The partnership between the duo was 53 off 27.

Junaid Khan took three wickets while Mohammad Irfan and Ajmal took two each.

After a poor performance in the Champions Trophy, the victory was a must for Pakistan, and this was a golden chance for the team. West Indies have never one an ODI series against since 1988 and Pakistan have been winning ODI series against them since 1993.

Now both teams are scheduled to play two Twenty20s. The first T20 will be played on July 27.

West Indies vs Pakistan


5th ODI


July 24, 2013


Venue: Beausejour Stadium, Gros Islet, St Lucia


Result: Pakistan won by 4 wickets


Man of the match: Misbah-ul-Haq


Man of the series: Misbah-ul-Haq









































































































ویسٹ انڈیزRunsBalls4s6s
Johnson Charlesc Haris Sohail b Mohammad Irfan437140
Devon Smithc Mohammad Hafeez b Junaid Khan71401
Darren Bravoc †Umar Akmal b Junaid Khan92110
Marlon Samuelsc Shahid Afridi b Mohammad Irfan458921
Chris Gaylec †Umar Akmal b Junaid Khan213421
Lendl Simmonsc Mohammad Hafeez b Saeed Ajmal252612
Dwayne Bravoc Haris Sohail b Saeed Ajmal482753
Darren Sammynot out291821
Sunil Narinenot out0000
Extras(lb 6, w 9)15
Total(7 wickets; 50 overs)242

 






















































Pakistan (bowling)OversMaidensRunsWickets
Mohammad Hafeez62220
Mohammad Irfan101342
Junaid Khan101483
Asad Ali91450
Shahid Afridi50300
Saeed Ajmal102572

 






























































































پاکستانTarget: 243 runsRunsBalls4s6s
Nasir Jamshedrun out (Gayle)232521
Ahmed Shehzadc DJ Bravo b Best6410080
Mohammad Hafeezc Simmons b Sammy112210
Misbah-ul-Haqc DJ Bravo b Holder639351
Haris Sohailc Simmons b Best172220
Umar Akmalc sub (KAJ Roach) b Best372851
Shahid Afridinot out13611
Saeed Ajmalnot out1300
Extras(lb 5, w 9)14
Total(6 wickets; 49.5 overs)243

 






















































West Indies (bowling)OversMaidensRunsWickets
Jason Holder9.50471
Tino Best102483
Darren Sammy100351
Sunil Narine100420
Marlon Samuels50250
Dwayne Bravo50410
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Anonymous at July 23, 2013 0
Pakistan unexpectedly beat West Indies by 6 wickets to take a 2-1 lead in the five-match series. The builders of the victory were Misbah-ul-Haq, Mohammad Hafeez and Umar Akmal, who helped Pakistan chased a target after a long time.

[caption id="attachment_1917" align="alignright" width="300"]As the match resumed after rain, Mohammad Hafeez turned the tables (Photo: AFP) As the match resumed after rain, Mohammad Hafeez turned the tables (Photo: AFP)[/caption]

The 4th ODI in the St Lucia was a surprising match for Pakistan from every aspect. Having chosen to bowl after winning the toss, Pakistan were facing a big target as West Indian batsmen, especially Marlon Samuels, took their team by storm. Moreover, Pakistan’s sloppy fielding also made matter worse for the. But Pakistan managed to save the day, at last.

After the disappointing performance on the last ODI, when Pakistan started chasing the target of 262 runs, their chances of winning were scarce. As Pakistan lost both their openers on 60, the batsmen who were did not seem to make runs at the required run rate of more than 8.5. Rain ruined about an hour’s game after 17 overs. And when the match resumed, the revised target for Pakistan was 189 runs in 31 overs.

Hafeez’s inning of 59 off 62 made the chase easier. The way he scored 32 runs in two overs and hit two sixes to Jason Holder turned the tables on Wets Indies. Later Misbah’s 53 off 43 and Umar Akmal’s 19 off 18 led Pakistan to their destination. Umar’s three back-to-back fours to Dwayne Bravo in the 30th over ended the game an over before.

[caption id="attachment_1918" align="alignright" width="210"]Marlon Samuels’ outstanding century went in vain (Photo: AFP) Marlon Samuels’ outstanding century went in vain (Photo: AFP)[/caption]

Pakistan’s bowling, however, was not up to the mark. Samuels’ hundred was a blow to the confidence of the tourist bowlers. His brilliant knock helped West Indies amass the biggest total of the series. The most disappointing thing for Pakistan was that they opted to bowl after winning the toss as it was equal to undermining the team’s confidence, particularly after the bowlers’ bad performance in the last match. Wahab Riaz was once again out of form and gave 42 run sin 6 overs, whereas Shahid Afridi gave 41 runs in as much overs. Samuels remained unbeaten after a smashing knock of 106 off 104 which included a six on the last ball of the innings.

It’s a fact that batting was the catalyst for Pakistan, because bowling and filed did enough to get the match off the tourists’ hands. As compared to the previous match, Pakistan today dropped a catch and missed a stump, too.

Although Pakistan weaknesses have been concealed beneath the thin layer of the victory, the team needs to win the series 3-1, and does not take it for granted to level the 2-2. The fifth and the last one-dayer will be played in the same ground on July 24.

West Indies vs Pakistan


4th ODI


July 21, 2013


Venue: Beausejour Stadium, Gros Islet, St Lucia


Result: Pakistan won by 6 wickets (D/L method)


Man of the match: Marlon Samuels









































































































ویسٹ انڈیزRunsBalls4s6s
Devon Smithc Umar Akmal b Mohammad Irfan82210
Johnson Charleslbw b Junaid Khan324850
Darren Bravoc Saeed Ajmal b Wahab Riaz91810
Marlon Samuelsnot out10610494
Chris Gaylec sub (Umar Amin) b Shahid Afridi304631
Lendl Simmonsb Saeed Ajmal464451
Darren Sammyb Mohammad Irfan7901
Dwayne Bravorun out (Umar Akmal/Mohammad Irfan)6510
Kemar Roachnot out0000
Extras(leg-byes 6, wides 9, no-balls 2)17
Total(7 wickets; 49 overs)261

 






















































Pakistan (bowling)OversMaidensRunsWickets
Mohammad Irfan101602
Mohammad Hafeez81300
Junaid Khan92391
Wahab Riaz60421
Shahid Afridi60411
Saeed Ajmal100431

 














































































پاکستانTarget: 189 (31 overs)RunsBalls4s6s
Nasir Jamshedrun out (Charles/Narine)223710
Ahmed Shehzadlbw b Holder141420
Mohammad Hafeezc DM Bravo b Roach596252
Misbah-ul-Haqnot out534331
Shahid Afridic Simmons b DJ Bravo7710
Umar Akmalnot out291840
Extras(leg-bye 1, wides 3, no-balls 1)5
Total(4 wickets; 30 overs)189

 






















































West Indies (bowling)OversMaidensRunsWickets
Jason Holder50411
Kemar Roach61331
Sunil Narine70290
Darren Sammy30100
Dwayne Bravo60491
Marlon Samuels30260
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Anonymous at July 20, 2013 0
One, only one bad over deprived Pakistan of victory in a match that remained in their grasp for most of the time. The bowling of Wahab Riaz in the last over was reminiscent of Mohammad Sami’s as the last two batsmen of West Indies scored 14 runs in the over, tying the third ODI played in St Lucia. So the series is still 1-1.

[caption id="attachment_1907" align="alignright" width="300"]Even such a bowling couldn’t save the day for Pakistan (Photo: WICB) Even such a bowling couldn’t save the day for Pakistan (Photo: WICB)[/caption]

Chasing a 230-run target, Pakistan took a firm grip on the match from the beginning, taking three key wickets of Johnson Charles, Darren Bravo and Chris Gayle before 50 runs. Marlon Samuels and Lendl Simmons did nothing but saved the wicket in the next 22 overs, adding just 91 runs. Samuels was dismissed in the batting powerplay after scoring 46 runs on a hefty 106 balls. He was to blame had West Indies lost the match. After his departure, West Indies tried to come back in the game, thanks to Simmons. Pakistan would have lost the grasp on the match, had Saeed Ajmal not dismissed Simmons and aggressive Dwayne Bravo in a single over. Kieron Pollard and Darren Sammy gave away their wickets to Junaid Khan in the next over, and the game was almost slipped off the hands of the hosts as they need another 39 runs to win in three overs with two wickets remaining.

When Sunil Narine lost his wicket after hitting a six and two fours to Ajmal in the 48th over, West Indies were hinging on the last wicket. The last over stated with Kemar Roach and Jason Holder standing on the wicket and the hosts needing 15 runs to claim victory. The ball was given to Riaz and he did what Sami had done recently against Sri Lanka. Failing to deliver a single ball at the target, he was hit a six and a four and on the last ball, when three more runs were required to win, the batsmen scored two runs and the match ended in a draw.

Umar Akmal missed a chance to run out and the hosts succeeded to take a couple of runs. Although the match was a tie, it should be considered a defeat for the tourists as the West Indian themselves found it difficult to believe that they had restricted Pakistan from winning.

Holder scored 19 off just 9, hitting a six and a four. Simmons was the top-scorer for West Indies and also shared the man-of-the-match award. He faced 86 balls during his innings, which included two 6s and seven 4s.

Junaid and Ajmal took three wicket apiece, Mohammad Irfan took two, whereas Riaz took just one wicket and proved the most expensive with 63 runs in 10 overs.

Ironically, Pakistan were denied a run in the final moments of the first innings when Akmal played a shot and took a double. Umpire said it was short run and deducted one run. Replay, however, showed that it was not. So that “one run” snatched victory from Pakistan.

Earlier, the tourists put West Indies into bat after winning the toss. Pakistan had replaced Haris Sohail and Junaid Khan with Asad Shafique and Asad Ali. After a 39-run opening stand, both openers lost their wickets successively. Mohammad Hafeez and Misbah-ul-Haq added 53 runs on the third wicket but Hafeez’s dismissal lessened the team’s chances of making a big total. Debutant Sohail did his best and scored 26 runs in a 60-run partnership with Misbah.

Pakistan get a blow by the back-to-back dismissals of Misbah and Shahid Afridi. The captain was clean bowled by Dwayne Bravo after scoring 75 off 112. Shahid Afridi, who was back in his old form after his fireworks in the first ODI, lost his wicket on just 1 run.

[caption id="attachment_1908" align="alignright" width="294"]Umar Akmal remained the “side hero” of the match: heroic batting, short run and failing to run out on the last ball (Photo: AFP) Umar Akmal remained the “side hero” of the match: heroic batting, short run and failing to run out on the last ball (Photo: AFP)[/caption]

Umar and Riaz added 52 runs on just 25 balls in the end to help Pakistan amass a total of 229 runs. Umar scored 40 off 31.

However, the target was not enough on the wicket. It was Pakistani bowlers, except Riaz, who led the match to such a close position.

Holder and Dwayne Bravo took two wickets apiece, and each of Roach and Sammy took one. Misbah and Simmons shared the man-of-the-match award on scoring 75 runs each.

The fourth and important one-dayer is now played at the same venue in July 21. The team that wins will get an unassailable lead in the series.
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Anonymous at July 15, 2013 0
Pakistan beat West Indies in a low-scoring match, the first of a five-match ODI series, thanks to an all-round performance by Shahid Afridi.

[caption id="attachment_1850" align="alignright" width="300"]Afridi performed brilliantly with both bat and ball (Photo: WICB Media) Afridi performed brilliantly with both bat and ball (Photo: WICB)[/caption]

West Indies won the toss and chose to field. Pakistan’s start was a nightmare. Half of the team was back to the pavilion below 50 runs. In what seemed to be another defeat for the green shirts, Shahid Afridi came and salvaged the match for the team. Captain Misbah-ul-Haq also played his part. Although Misbah played a bit slow, but it was the need of the time.

Pakistan managed to make 224 runs, including Afridi’s 76 and Misbah’s 52.

West Indies outshine the tourists in poor batting. Seven of their batsmen could not touch double digits. It was again Afridi here who worked miracles with the ball as well. The hosts were bowled out on as low as 98. It was a hefty 126-run victory for Pakistan.
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Anonymous at June 25, 2013 0
The 2013 Champions Trophy has ended after a few exciting and a number of disappointing matches, with India making yet another history. The latest ODI rankings issued by the International Cricket Council (ICC) showed that India have reaffirmed their first position.

[caption id="attachment_1761" align="alignright" width="268"]Jadeja has secured third position in bowlers’ and all-roundrs’ rankings (Photo: AP) Jadeja has secured third position in bowlers’ and all-roundrs’ rankings (Photo: AP)[/caption]

India, who had 119 points before the tournament, have now gained four additional points after five stunning victories against South Africa, West Indies, Pakistan, Sri Lanka and England. It means that the Champions Trophy winners have 10-point lead over England, who are at second position with 113 points, while Australia are at number three with the difference of a few decimals. South Africa are fourth with 111 points and Sri Lanka are fifth with 108 points after losing one point apiece. Pakistan lost three points after beaten in all the tournament’s matches and are now at sixth position with 102 points.

As for individual’s rankings, India’s Ravindra Jadeja, who claimed the “Golden Ball” award for his 12 wicket in the Champions Trophy, is ranked third in both bowlers’ and all-rounders’ list. Ravichandran Ashwin has jumped six places to grab ninth position among the top ten bowlers. West Indies Sunil Narine remains at the top slot while Pakistan’s Saeed Ajmal is at second.

England Jonathan Trott is now ranked fourth in the batsmen’s list while Pakistan test and ODI captain Misbah-ul-Haq has managed to secure ninth position after furthering one position. South Africa captain AB de Villiers and countryman Hashim Amla are still securing the top two positions.

Shikhar Dhawan has climbed a hefty 21 places to earn 29th position. He was also given the “Golden Bat” award for scoring 363 – most runs by any individual in the 2013 Champions Trophy. If he continues to perform in a similar manner, it will not take him long to carve out his place in the Top 10 list.

Click here for complete ODI rankings.
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Anonymous at June 11, 2013 0
Pakistan played contrary to expectations in the 2011 World Cup and reached the semi-finals on the back of their determined performance. In the 2013 Champions Trophy, however, Pakistan were being regarded as one of the four favourite teams to reach the semis. And again, they played against the expectations as they are likely to become the first team to get out of the tournament. South Africa revenged the loss against Pakistan in the warm-up match, giving Misbah XI 67-run defeat. Barring captain Misbah-ul-Haq and Nasir Jamshed Pakistan batting line-up miserably failed once again, giving away the victory to the opponents.

[caption id="attachment_1497" align="alignright" width="300"]The photo aptly depicts Pakistan’s vulnerable batting in the match (Photo: AFP) The photo aptly depicts Pakistan’s vulnerable batting in the match (Photo: AFP)[/caption]

A large number of Pakistan spectators had gathered at Birmingham to watch the contest, giving their team a home-like atmosphere, but few were the occasions when they felt ecstatic. Knowing Pakistan’s Achilles heel of failing to chase targets, South Africa decided to go for batting after winning the toss. The Proteas set up a slow but strong base upon which a big target could be built, but Pakistani bowlers restricted them to 234. South Africa, who at one stage were 122 for one, could only add 112 more runs for eight wickets.

However, South Africa’s start was way better than their opponents. Hashim Amla and Colin Ingram laid the foundations with a 53-run opening stand. After Ingram was dismissed lbw by Mohammad Hafeez, Pakistan missed a crucial chance to take control of the match when Umar Amin dropped Amla’s catch. Amla later made most runs for South Africa, playing a pivotal role in the team’s win. Although Amla deserved a century for his performance, he was dismissed by Saeed Ajmal after making 81 off 97.

Pakistan bowlers gripped the match after that and controlled the flow of runs, taking crucial wickets. AB de Villiers and Jean-Paul Duminy were run out, while aggressive David Miller and Ryan McLaren were also restricted to 19 and four runs, respectively. Debutant Chris Morris and Aaron Phangiso were also run out as the Proteas managed to set a 235-run target in 50 overs, with nine wickets fallen.

The score seemed insufficient for South Africa, given the absence of Morne Morkel and Dale Steyn. But they were unaware of the fragile batting line-up of Pakistan.

Morris took the maiden of wicket in his career’s first over, and match’s second over, sending Imran Farhat packing. Overoptimistic fans were pinning their hopes on Misbah and Nasir Jamshed, but Pakistan did not seem to recover after suffering irreparable losses in the form of Hafeez and Shoaib Malik’s dismissals. Jamshed shared his bit by scoring 42, but failed to give what Pakistan needed at the stage. Misbah scored 55 and left the ground when the side needed another 87 run win. Later, whole team razed to 167 in the 45th over.

[caption id="attachment_1498" align="alignright" width="166"]Misbah yet again. The captain tried in vain to achieve the target, once more (Photo: Getty Images) Misbah yet again. The captain tried in vain to achieve the target, once more (Photo: Getty Images)[/caption]

McLaren bowled brilliantly, giving just 19 runs in eight over and taking four wickets. Morris and Lonwabo Tsotsobe took two wickets apiece, while Phangiso and Duminy each took one. Amla was declared the man of the match.

With this defeat, Pakistan’s chances to reach the semi-finals have almost finished. The only way out is that if West Indies win both of their upcoming matches against India and South Africa, and Pakistan beat India on June 15 by a heavy margin. But given the current circumstances it is highly unlikely.

Pakistan’s batting had been considered as weak before the beginning of the event, but nobody could have imagined it was so fragile that it could only make 337 runs in two matches. Pakistan’s batting line-up seems to on the wane and it is unfortunate that they did not learn a thing in the national training camp held in Abbottabad under the supervision of Javed Miandad. Moreover, the services of Trent Woodhill as the team’s coach also went in vain.

South Africa vs Pakistan


Champions Trophy 2013, Match 5


June 10, 2013


Venue: Edgbaston, Birmingham


Result: SA won by 67 runs


Man of the match: Hashim Amla

















































































































جنوبی افریقہRunsBalls4s6s
Colin Ingramlbw b Mohammad Hafeez204520
Hashim Amlac Mohammad Hafeez b Saeed Ajmal819790
Faf du Plessisc Shoaib Malik b Mohammad Irfan284020
AB de Villiersrun out (Misbah-ul-Haq)313111
Jean-Paul Duminyrun out (Misbah-ul-Haq)243810
David Millerc Misbah-ul-Haq b Junaid Khan192420
Ryan McLarenlbw b Shoaib Malik4800
Robin Petersonnot out11620
Chris Morrisrun out (Wahab Riaz)1200
Aaron Phangisorun out (†Kamran Akmal)0000
Extraslb 5, w 4, nb 1)10
Total(9 wickets; 50 overs)234

 






















































Pakistan (bowling)OversMaidensRunsWickets
Mohammad Irfan71271
Junaid Khan80451
Mohammad Hafeez100381
wahab Riaz90500
Saeed Ajmal100421
Shoaib Malik60271

 






















































































































پاکستانtarget: 235 runsRunsBalls4s6s
Imran Farhatb Morris2900
Nasir Jamshedc & b Tsotsobe427640
Mohammad Hafeezc Miller b Morris72100
Shoaib Malikb Duminy82900
Misbah-ul-Haqc Amla b Tsotsobe557531
Umar Aminc Ingram b McLaren162910
Kamran Akmalc du Plessis b McLaren0200
Wahab Riazb Phangiso131220
Saeed Ajmalc Ingram b McLaren5510
Junaid Khanb McLaren41200
Mohammad Irfannot out0000
Extraslb 7, w 8)15
Total(all out; 45 overs)167

 






















































South Africa (bowling)OversMaidensRunsWickets
Lonwabo Tsotsobe91232
Chris Morris70252
Ryan McLaren83194
Aaron Phangiso100501
Jean-Paul Duminy70261
Robin Peterson40170
Read more »

Anonymous at June 08, 2013 1
The venue was The Oval, Champions Trophy’s match and a two-wicket victory by West Indies – the history repeated itself as Pakistan had to pay the price of their batsmen’s failure. In the 2004 edition of the tournament, West Indies beat England in the final at the same venue and with the same margin, and now in the last Champions Trophy, they gave Pakistan a drubbing and claimed a two-wicket victory in the low-scoring thriller.

[caption id="attachment_1373" align="alignright" width="241"]Kemar Roach had the first and the last laughs: three wickets and the winning stroke (Photo: ICC) Kemar Roach had the first and the last laughs: three wickets and the winning stroke (Photo: ICC)[/caption]

Pakistani miserably failed to perform and no batsman could touch double figures, barring Misbah-ul-Haq (96) and Nasir Jamshed (50). Minus the duo’s share from the total, what you get is just 18 runs – two runs by each batsman on average. On the other hand, West Indie, too, somehow managed to chase down the target, but almost all of their batsmen played their bit.

In the first match of the tournament, batsmen ruled the day, disregarding the English conditions, but today’s match at The Oval saw bowler’s come out of hibernation. A total of 342 runs were scored in the match and 18 wickets were fallen, but the thriller had all the peaks and troughs that make a game unforgettable.

West Indies won the toss in the morning and put Pakistan into bat as expected. Pakistan lived up to West Indies’ expectations and performed as poorly as possible. They would have been all out before reaching the 100-run mark, had the third umpire not saved Misbah on duck. Kemar Roach helped West Indies to strengthen their position by dismissing Imran Farhat (2), Mohammad Hafeez (4) and Asad Shafiq (0) in a single spell. But Roach had a less share in the fiasco and the credit must go to the shot selection of Pakistani batsmen.

Misbah entered the ground when Pakistan were 15 for three and he put in a captain’s innings. Misbah escaped an lbw appeal on the first ball, but on the second ball he was almost out when the ball kissed his bat and went to wicket-keeper Denesh Ramdin, who took the catch and apparently ended Misbah’s innings as the umpire raised his index finger. But the umpire felt something fishy just in the nick of time and referred the decision to the third umpire, who found that the ball touched the ground after landing into Ramdin’s gloves. The umpire changed his decision and Misbah was now once again at the crease.

Jamshed and Misbah added 90 runs in the fourth wicket and at the time when both seemed to poised to amass a big total, Jamshed lost his wicket, trying to hit Sunil Narine. Shoaib Malik was sent packing in the same over with a golden duck, and moments later Kamran Akmal was returning to the pavilion after spending 12 minutes at the crease. Now West Indies were in complete control of the game as Pakistan’s one end was in a very vulnerable position.

[caption id="attachment_1374" align="alignright" width="216"]Misbah’s 96-run innings went in vain (Photo: Getty Images) Misbah’s 96-run innings went in vain (Photo: Getty Images)[/caption]

Wahab Riaz had the misfortune to lose his wicket after Misbah’s shot disturbed the bails at the non-striker’s end, touching Bravo’s hand on its way. Saeed Ajmal’s blind running on the wicket cost him his innings. Misbah and Mohammad Irfan added 32 runs in the last wicket, but the latter departed at the time when the captain was just four runs away from his maiden century. Pakistan innings finished on 170 and Misbah left the ground on 96 not out.

Roach and Narine took three wickets apiece, while Ravi Rampaul and Dwayne Bravo also took one wicket each.

West Indies’ start was not good either as the lost Johnson Charles (9) and Darren Bravo (0) to Irfan on just 15 runs. A 60-run partnership between Chris Gayle and Marlon Samuels played a pivotal part in the low-scoring match.

Pakistan tried to come back in the match in vain many a time. Gayle was clean bowled by Ajmal after making 39 off 47, including a six and four fours, and then Riaz dismissed Ramnaresh Sarwan, who had just entered the ground. But the bowlers could do nothing as the batsmen had not done anything. Match did enter an interesting phase but remained out of Pakistan’s reach, even at the time when West Indies were 94 for five.

Pakistan’s optimism vanished into thin air after a 43-run partnership between Kieron Pollard and Dwayne Bravo. Although Pakistan took more wickets after that, but the episode ended in the 41st over when Roach hit a match-winning four. What else Twenty20 world champions need than starting their Champions Trophy campaign with a two-wicket win?

Pakistan scored 30 to 40 runs less required to set a defendable target. And they will be in bigger trouble as their upcoming matches are against South Africa and arch-rivals India. West Indies will also face the same opponents but they will be through to the semi-finals if they win one more match.

Irfan was the most successful bowler for Pakistan by taking three wickets against 32 runs in nine overs, while Ajmal and Riaz took two wickets apiece. Mohammad Hafeez also took one wicket. It would be an injustice not to mention the effort put in by Pakistani bowlers. They tried to defend and indefensible target and the same performance is expected in the coming matches, but the remaining rests with the batsmen, because it would be futile to pin all your hopes on bowlers if batsmen failed to perform.

Roach was given the man-of-the-match award for his killing heroics with the ball. West Indies are now at the top of the Group B after the win, with India on the second position.

The next match of the tournament is scheduled to play tomorrow (Saturday) in Birmingham between defending champions Australia and the hosts England.

Pakistan vs West Indies


Champions Trophy 2013, Match 2


June 7, 2013


Venue: The Oval, London


Result: West Indies won by 2 wickets


Man of the match: Kemar Roach

























































































































پاکستانRunsBalls4s6s
Imran Farhatc DJ Bravo b Roach2600
Nasir Jamshedc Rampaul b Narine509350
Mohammad Hafeezb Roach4910
Asad Shafiqc Rampaul b Roach0400
Misbah-ul-Haqnot out9612753
Shoaib Malikc DJ Bravo b Narine0100
Kamran Akmalc Ramdin b Narine2800
Wahab Riazrun out (DJ Bravo)61400
Saeed Ajmalrun out (Pollard/Rampaul)2300
Junaid Khanc Gayle b DJ Bravo0900
Mohammad Irfanc DJ Bravo b Rampaul21400
Extras(leg-bye 1, wides 5)6
Total(all out; 48 overs)170

 






















































West Indies (bowling)OversMaidenRunsWickets
Kemar Roach104283
Ravi Rampaul100391
Dwyane Bravo90291
Marlon Samuels50170
Sunil Narine101343
Kieron Pollard40220

 














































































































ویسٹ انڈیزTarget: 171 runsRunsWickets4s6s
Chris Gayleb Saeed Ajmal394741
Johnson Charlesc Wahab Riaz b M  Irfan91420
Darren Bravoc Kamran Akmal b M Irfan0400
Marlon Samuelsst Kamran Akmal b M Hafeez35730
Ramnaresh Sarwanc Kamran Akmal b Wahab Riaz1200
Kieron Pollardc Kamran Akmal b Wahab Riaz305831
Dwayne Bravolbw b Saeed Ajmal193600
Denesh Ramdinnot out111410
Sunil Narinec Kamran Akmal b M Irfan11820
Kemar Roachnot out5610
Extras(leg-byes 10, wickets 5, no-balls 2)17
Total(8 wickets; 40.4 overs)172

 















































Pakistan (bowling)OversMaidenRunsWickets
Mohammad Irfan90323
Junaid Khan7.40360
Saeed Ajmal101382
Wahab Riaz101422
Mohammad Hafeez40141
Read more »

Anonymous at May 28, 2013 0
Pakistan have backed Ireland's bid for Test status after a thrilling ODI series. Pakistan earlier supported Bangladesh in winning Test status and have been working to get a prominent place for Afghanistan in international cricket.

[caption id="attachment_1208" align="alignright" width="300"]Ireland have beaten in Pakistan and England in past World Cups (Photo: AFP) Ireland have beaten Pakistan and England in past World Cups (Photo: AFP)[/caption]

Pakistan Test and ODI captain Misbah-ul-Haq said that it is up to the ICC to grant Test status to any side, but Ireland are a better team now and the council should consider their request.

Pakistan had to struggle against Ireland in the recently concluded ODI series, and even came to the brink of defeat in the second match.

“We had to put in all our efforts to win the series. Ireland’s batting line-up is strong and they can perform anywhere in the world,” Misbah said. “As for bowling, they may need to struggle abroad, but they have improved a lot.”

The first ODI between the two ended in a draw after a riveting chase by the hosts. Ireland looked set to lift the series as theycame very close to winning the second ODI when Pakistan’s half of the team were sent packing on just 60, while chasing a target of 230 runs. Kamran Akmal and Wahab Riaz added 93 runs for the eighth wicket, shattering Ireland’s dreams.

Ireland, who hold ODI status, beat Pakistan and England in the past in two World Cups and are considered among better associate teams. In contrast to other emerging teams, Ireland’s cricketers have got experience of playing with seasoned players in English County circuit.
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Anonymous at May 19, 2013 0
Do you know that there is an addition in the list of players who have hit more than 100 sixes, and the new comer is the batsman who is famous as ‘Mr. Tuk Tuk’ by his country’s fans. Yes! Misbah-ul-Haq achieved the milestone yesterday against Scotland.

[caption id="attachment_988" align="alignright" width="300"]Misbah is the 10th Pakistani player to have hit 100 international sixes (Photo: AFP) Misbah is the 10th Pakistani player to have hit 100 international sixes (Photo: AFP)[/caption]

Misbah scored 83 off 80 in the match played at Edinburgh. His victorious innings included two sixes and the second six was actually the 100th six of his career. So, Misbah has now become the 10th Pakistani player to have achieved the feat.

In his 12-year international career, Misbah has been capped 39 Tests, 115 ODIs and 39 T20s, hitting 27, 47 and 26 sixes in the respective format. This makes his total number of sixes 100.

Shahid Afridi, Inzamam-ul-Haq, Wasim Akram, Abdur Razzaq, Mohammad Yousuf, Saeed Anwar, Ijaz Ahmed and Younis Khan have also got more than 100 sixes under their belts. Misbah reached the mark in the least number of matches.

Shahid Afridi with 392 international sixes is not only Pakistan’s but the world’s number one player to have hit most number of sixes. Below is the list of Pakistani players whose careers are studded with most sixes in international matches.









































































































































BatsmanMatchesRunsBest scoreAve100s50s0s4s6s
Shahid Afridi440978115624.21114641949392
Inzamam-ul-Haq4992058132943.3235129352076193
Wasim Akram4606615257*18.7331345571178
Abdur Razzaq341740913428.9463019632168
Mohammad Yousuf3811730022345.523997261747142
Saesd Anwar3021287619441.003168231473111
Ijaz Ahmed3101287621133.94224921948110
Younis Khan3601420531338.082776381360105
Imran Khan263751613635.4573714538100
Misbah-ul-Haq1936569161*42.3834410546100
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Anonymous at May 18, 2013 0
After a two-month gap from international cricket, Pakistan are in Scotland to acclimatize themselves to the conditions before the next month’s Champions Trophy. Pakistan claimed a hefty 96-run victory over Scotland, thanks to stunning performances by the team’s Test and ODI captain Mishab-ul-Haq and by bowlers. Pakistani bowlers defended the 231-run target well, whereas except Misbah, a big question mark still hangs over the capabilities of team’s batsmen.

[caption id="attachment_982" align="alignright" width="241"]Mibah-ul-Haq played a victorious innings of 83 runs off 80 balls (Photo: Getty Images) Mibah-ul-Haq played a victorious innings of 83 runs off 80 balls (Photo: Getty Images)[/caption]

In the morning when the temperature was nine degrees Celsius, Pakistan elected to bat after winning the toss. Despite making a good start of 50 runs, Pakistan failed to piggyback on that and half of the team were back to the pavilion on 115. The only noteworthy performance from the top-order was by Imran Farhat who scored 46. But again he faced 70 balls for that. Nasir Jamshed scored 20, Mohammad Hafeez 18, Asad Shafique nine and Umar Amin scored three.

At that stage, Misbah proved why he was the team’s captain. After the fall of sixth wicket of Kamran Akmal in the 37th over, it seemed that Pakistan could not cross 200-run mark as the total score was 144. But Misbah put in an 83-run unbeatable innings and led Pakistan’s score to 231. His innings was studded with two sixes and three fours. Saeed Ajmal gave his full support to the skipper, scoring 28 off 28.

Majid Haq was leading wicket-taker for Scotland with three wickets. Neil Carter, Iain Wardlaw, Rob Taylor and Matt Machan took one wicket apiece.

Pakistan did not give Scotland a chance from the very outset. After their first wicket fell on zero, the 52-run partnership between the newly made captain Kyle Coetzer and Josh Davey was the only resistance from the hosts. Both players made the most of the familiar conditions and faced Mohammad Irfan and Junaid Khan with determination until Kamran Akmal ended the partnership with a riveting catch. Pakistani bowlers ruled the game after that and restricted the opponents to 135 in 40 overs. Coetzer made 32 off 60 – the highest score for Scotland in the match – while Davey scored 20 off 23. None of their remaining player could pass 15 runs.

Ajmal and Junaid took three wickets each and Irfan, Ehsan Adil and Mohammad Hafeez took one wicket apiece.

Pakistan have taken an unassailable lead in the two-match series. The second and the last match of the series will be played on May 19 in Edinburgh.
Read more »

Anonymous at May 10, 2013 0
Having witnessed musical chairs of democracy and dictatorship for the past 65 years, people of Pakistan now seem to have decided to take the nation’s destiny in their hands. Election fever has gripped the country, and players are no exception.

[caption id="attachment_871" align="alignright" width="238"]The PCB prematurely concluded the national training camp in Abbottabad so that players could reach their hometowns on time (Photo: Getty Images) The PCB prematurely concluded the national training camp in Abbottabad so that players could reach their hometowns on time (Photo: Getty Images)[/caption]

Players are preparing to leave for their hometowns to cast their votes after the national training camp held in Abbottabad ended on Wednesday. Saeed Ajmal, Junaid Khan, Mohammad Irfan, Asad Shafique and young pace bowler Asad Ali confirmed to Cricnama that they would use their voting right and go to

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has prematurely concluded the national training camp in view of the general election so that players could reach their hometowns on time.

The present world’s best spinner Saeed Ajmal would cast their vote in Faisalabad and Junaid Khan in Swabi. The tallest bowler of the history Mohammad Irfan is facing a technical problem, but he hopes that the issue would be resolved by tomorrow and he would use his voting right in his ancestral town Gaggu Mandi.

Karachi-based young batsman Azhar Ali is going to cast his vote in Federal B Area. His brother is associated with a famous political party of Karachi, so Shafique’s vote would go in the party’s favour.

Players face a different situation than other famous personalities. To them, making their political affiliations known is tantamount to their death. There was a flurry of activity everywhere when Shahid Afridi recently met Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz chief Nawaz Sharif. The all-rounder had to come forward to deny the rumours that he was going to join the PML-N.

The most prominent figure to enter politics after leaving the cricket world is undoubtedly none other than Imran Khan, whose party Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf is hoping to win the elections. The four constituencies from which Imran is going to contest the general election includes the one in which Pakistan’s present captain Misbah-ul-Haq resides. Do you think Misbah’s vote would go to Imran Khan?
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Anonymous at April 20, 2013 0
Misbah-ul-Haq has proved once again why he is the right choice to retain his position as the captain of the national side. He silenced his critics by helping his team Sui Northern Gas Pipelines Limited (SNGPL) beat Water and Power Development Authority (Wapda), lifting the title of President’s Cup One-day Tournament – his third win in a row this season.

[caption id="attachment_638" align="alignright" width="224"]Under Misbah’s captaincy, this is the second triumph of SNGPL this year after President’s Trophy (Photo: PCB) Under Misbah’s captaincy, this is the second triumph of SNGPL this year after President’s Trophy (Photo: PCB)[/caption]

Earlier this year, Misbah led SNGPL to clinch President’s Trophy title and helped his regional team Faislabad Wolves claim Super Eight Twenty20.

SNGPL beat Wapda by 32 runs in the match played at National Stadium, Karachi.

Chasing a 284-run target, Wapda failed to make a good start as their two openers – Rafatullah Mohmand and Saad Nasim – were back to pavilion by the sixth over when the team were only on eight. Both wickets were clinched by Asad Ali, who took another two wickets in the match – all clean bowled – and became the leading wicket taker of the tournament, taking 14 wickets. His four wickets off 34 in the match also earned him best-bowler award of the tournament.

The 36-year-old Rafatullah Mohmand, who hit his consecutive third century of the tournament in the semi-finals to help Wapda book a place in the final, managed to make only seven runs against the star-studded SNGPL.

A 100-run partnership by Sohaib Maqsood and Ali Azmat revived the hopes of Wapda’s players as by the time Azmat was dismissed, the team need another 176 runs in 26 overs with seven wickets in hand.

But after Maqsood’s dismissal on 125, Wapda could not put in a big partnership and succeeded to make 251 runs giving away a 32-run victory to the opponents.

Besides Asad’s four, Yasir Shah took two wickets and Mohammad Hafeez and Khurram Shehzad dismissed one batsman apiece.

Earlier, Wapda won the toss and put SNGPL to bat. From the very start it was evident that Misbah’s team was going to reach 300-run mark as both Hafeez and Taufeeq Umar put a 125-run partnership. Hafeez scored 58 off 64 and Umar 79 off 78. Though no other batsman could score a half-century after the opening duo, the side succeeded to set a reasonable target of 284 which eventually led them to clinch the title.

Mohammad Rizwan of the winning side and Ali Nadeem were given the best-wicketkeeper award for their nine catches each. Taufeeq Umar was awarded the best fielder of the tournament.

Wapda’s Sohaib Maqsood was given the best batsman award for his 427 runs in the tournament.
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