In a warm-up clash against New Zealand, Pakistan’s wicketkeeper-batsman, Mohammad Rizwan, showcased his unique and humorous perspective on his partnership with captain Babar Azam. Their stellar performance with the bat was a highlight of Pakistan’s innings, even though they eventually lost the match to New Zealand.
Batting first after winning the toss, Pakistan endured a rocky start, losing early wickets. However, Mohammad Rizwan and Babar Azam combined forces to mount a remarkable 114-run partnership, steadying the ship for Pakistan. Babar Azam scored a fluent 80 before being dismissed by Mitchell Santner, while Mohammad Rizwan went on to achieve a century, ultimately retiring hurt after amassing 104 runs from 94 balls.
Following the innings, Mohammad Rizwan expressed his happiness at reaching a century and thanked the Indian crowd for their support during the game. He also praised Saud Shakeel for his crucial knock.
However, the most amusing part of his post-match interview came when he discussed his partnership with Babar Azam. Rizwan used a metaphorical approach, stating, “Because me and Babar, chemistry is the same, physics is the same. Sometimes we don’t [even] call each other but run for singles.”
This light-hearted and somewhat cryptic comment provided a glimpse into the camaraderie and understanding shared by Rizwan and Babar while batting together. It’s evident that their partnership is built on an unspoken connection and a shared understanding of the game.
Despite their impressive performances, Pakistan ended up losing the match to New Zealand. The Kiwis chased down the target of 346 runs, with Rachin Ravindra (97), Kane Williamson (54), Daryl Mitchell (59), and Mark Chapman (65*) all contributing significantly to their victory.
While the result didn’t go Pakistan’s way, Mohammad Rizwan’s humorous take on his partnership with Babar Azam added a touch of levity to the post-match discussions. Their on-field chemistry will undoubtedly be an asset for Pakistan as they prepare for the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023, where they aim to make a strong impression.
As the cricketing world eagerly awaits the start of the ICC ODI World Cup 2023, fans and experts alike are keeping a close eye on several key players who are expected to shine in this highly-anticipated tournament. From established legends to emerging talents, these players are poised to make a significant impact on the biggest stage of ODI cricket.
Here are top 5 key players to watch out for at the ICC ODI World Cup 2023 held in India:
1. Virat Kohli – India
Virat Kohli, one of India’s greatest and most competitive cricketers, aims to emulate the success of his idol Sachin Tendulkar, who led India to World Cup glory in 2011. Kohli is the only active player featured in the ICC’s all-time top 10 lists, holding the No. 6 spot in the batting rankings. With a massive following in the cricket-crazy nation of India, Kohli is a cricketing icon. He recently achieved his 47th century in ODIs, surpassing 13,000 runs in the format in just 267 innings. Kohli’s ability to chase down targets and anchor the innings makes him a linchpin in India’s batting lineup. In his previous World Cup appearances, Kohli has played 26 games, scoring two centuries and averaging 46.81. With his exceptional consistency and remarkable batting prowess, Kohli is a player who can single-handedly change the course of a match.
2. Babar Azam – Pakistan
As the No. 1-ranked batter in the ODI format, Babar Azam is a linchpin in Pakistan’s top order. His impeccable technique, balanced approach, and poise at the crease make him a formidable force in world cricket. With an average of over 58 and a strike rate close to 90, Babar Azam is a master of both accumulation and acceleration. He holds the distinction of being the fastest batter to reach 5,000 ODI runs, achieving this milestone in just 97 innings. At the previous World Cup in 2019, he averaged a staggering 67.71, including an unbeaten century and three half-centuries. Babar Azam’s ability to consistently produce significant innings makes him a player to watch in this tournament.
3. Mitchell Starc – Australia
Mitchell Starc, the tall left-arm paceman, is Australia’s primary weapon with the ball in white-ball cricket. His role at the start of powerplays is to deliver full, swinging deliveries that bring all modes of dismissal into play. Starc played a pivotal role in Australia’s 2015 World Cup victory, finishing as the Player of the Tournament with 22 wickets. In the 2019 edition, he continued his World Cup heroics with 27 wickets, despite Australia’s semifinal exit. Starc’s aggressive style, coupled with his ability to take early breakthroughs, makes him a threat to any opposition. With 49 wickets in just 18 World Cup games at an astounding average of 14.8, Starc’s performance will be closely monitored, especially in Indian conditions.
4. Shakib Al Hasan – Bangladesh
Shakib Al Hasan, the 36-year-old allrounder, is set to play his fifth World Cup and remains Bangladesh’s premier player in the short formats. As the No. 1 all-rounder in international ODI cricket, Shakib has accumulated over 7,300 runs and claimed more than 300 wickets with his slow left-arm orthodox bowling. His combative approach with both bat and ball sets him apart. Shakib is only the third cricketer to achieve the unique double of scoring 7,000 runs and taking 300 wickets in ODIs, a feat previously accomplished by Sanath Jayasuriya and Shahid Afridi. In the last World Cup, he finished third on the run-scoring charts with 606 runs at an astonishing average of over 86.5, including two centuries and five half-centuries. His ability to perform consistently under pressure makes him a key player for Bangladesh.
5. Bas de Leede – Netherlands
As one of the players representing the Associate nations, Bas de Leede is a cricketer to watch out for. The 23-year-old all-rounder from the Netherlands has already made waves in ODI cricket. His remarkable 5-52 with the ball and a century (123 off 92 balls) while batting at No. 4 against Scotland played a pivotal role in Netherlands’ qualification for the World Cup. Bas de Leede’s exceptional performance placed him in an elite category alongside cricketing legends like Viv Richards, as he became only the third player to achieve the rare feat of scoring a century and taking five wickets in a one-day international. With a cricketing lineage (his father, Tim de Leede, played in three World Cups), Bas de Leede is poised to make a significant impact in the tournament. His ability to contribute with both bat and ball makes him a valuable asset for the Netherlands.
As the ICC World Cup 2023 unfolds in the cricket-crazy nation of India, these five players, among others, are expected to create moments of brilliance and capture the imagination of cricket fans worldwide. Whether it’s through centuries, wickets, or match-winning performances, these players have the potential to leave an indelible mark on the grandest stage of ODI cricket.
In the recent Asia Cup tournament, the Pakistan cricket team showed promise initially but couldn’t maintain their form, exiting the competition during the Super 4 stage due to a disappointing loss to Sri Lanka. Following their surprising elimination, there were rumors circulating about a potential conflict between Pakistan’s captain, Babar Azam, and their star fast bowler, Shaheen Afridi.
According to a Bol News report, Babar Azam expressed concerns about the contributions of senior players after the loss to Sri Lanka. In response, Shaheen Afridi interjected, advising against generalizing criticism and urged Babar not to condemn those who had performed well, as per the same report.
Furthermore, the report mentioned that Babar Azam chose not to engage with anyone during his journey from the press conference after the Asia Cup loss to the hotel.
Shaheen promptly put an end to the rumors by sharing a photo on social media alongside Babar Azam, accompanied by the caption: “Family.” In addition, Babar Azam confirmed on Tuesday that there are no conflicts within the dressing room despite the disappointment of their Asia Cup performance.
In a pre-departure media conference, Babar said: “There is no ill will in the dressing room. There are discussions after every loss but they get twisted into something else entirely. The entire team is like a family and there is love and respect there.”
Although most of the Pakistan squad members lack previous experience playing in India, team captain Babar Azam expressed confidence on Tuesday, stating that the team has diligently prepared for the upcoming ODI World Cup, commencing on October 5th.
It’s noteworthy that the visas for the Pakistan team were cleared on Monday night, and the team is scheduled to arrive in Hyderabad via Dubai on Wednesday. Among the squad, only Mohammad Nawaz and Agha Salman have prior experience playing in India. Additionally, Babar Azam missed the opportunity to travel to India for the T20 World Cup in 2016 due to an injury.
Indian opener Shubman Gill continues to make waves in the cricketing world as he achieved a significant milestone during the second ODI against Australia in Indore. Fresh from his match-winning 74 in Mohali, Gill delivered another masterclass, notching up a century that propelled him past former South African batter Hashim Amla and Pakistan’s great Babar Azam in an all-time ODI record.
In the second ODI, after losing his opening partner Ruturaj Gaikwad early in the innings, Shubman Gill proceeded to form a monumental 200-run partnership with the number three batsman, Shreyas Iyer. Their remarkable partnership laid a solid foundation for India in their three-match series against Australia.
Shubman Gill’s Spectacular ODI Journey Shubman Gill made his international debut during a series in New Zealand in January 2019. Since his introduction to the national team, the talented batsman from Punjab has featured in 35 ODIs for the ‘Men in Blue.’ Almost exclusively serving as an opener in his ODI appearances, Gill has accumulated over 1,900 runs at an astonishing average of over 68.
Gill’s century in Indore against Australia not only showcased his exceptional batting prowess but also propelled him to become the highest run-scorer in ODI history after his first 35 innings. This remarkable achievement allowed him to surpass the ODI record held by former South African batsman Hashim Amla. Furthermore, Pakistan’s current captain, Babar Azam, who scored 1,758 runs in his initial 35 innings, also fell behind Gill in the all-time list due to Shubman Gill’s batting blitzkrieg.
The list of batters with the most ODI runs after their first 35 innings now stands as follows:
Shubman Gill: 1,914* runs
Hashim Amla: 1,844 runs
Babar Azam: 1,758 runs
Shubman Gill’s Star Role in the Upcoming World Cup Shubman Gill has rapidly become one of India’s standout attractions in preparation for the forthcoming ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023, which will be hosted in India. During this highly anticipated tournament, Gill is expected to play a pivotal role as the opening batsman alongside regular captain Rohit Sharma. His exceptional form and consistent performances have positioned him as one of the key players to watch in India’s quest for World Cup glory.
With the cricketing world’s eyes fixed on India’s promising young talent, Shubman Gill’s record-breaking achievements continue to underline his potential as a cricketing superstar and a future legend of the game. As he continues to shine on the international stage, Gill’s contributions will undoubtedly play a significant role in India’s pursuit of cricketing excellence.
The Pakistan cricket team’s plans for a pre-ODI World Cup trip to Dubai before heading to Hyderabad, India, have been scrapped due to visa issues. Reportedly, the team, led by Babar Azam, had intended to go to Dubai for team bonding, but this had to be canceled as they are still awaiting Indian visas. Among the nine teams participating in the tournament, Pakistan is the only one yet to receive their visas.
Originally, Pakistan was scheduled to travel to the UAE next week for a brief stay before proceeding to Hyderabad for their first warm-up match against New Zealand on September 29. However, these plans have been abandoned. Instead, the team will head to Karachi and then fly to Hyderabad next week. This marks Pakistan’s first visit to India since 2012-13.
It’s worth noting that neither Pakistan nor India has played a bilateral series in each other’s country since 2012-13 when Pakistan toured India for a white-ball series. Additionally, only two players in the current Pakistan squad have previous experience playing cricket in India.
Pakistan will commence their World Cup campaign on October 6 against The Netherlands at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium in Hyderabad. Recently, Pakistan announced their 15-player squad for the World Cup, with Babar Azam as the captain. However, they will miss the services of star pacer Naseem Shah, who sustained an injury during a Super Four match against India at the Asia Cup. Naseem has been replaced by Hasan Ali, and Pakistan’s formidable pace attack will be spearheaded by Shaheen Shah Afridi, supported by Haris Rauf, Mohammed Waseem, and Hasan Ali.
As anticipation for the ODI World Cup 2023 builds, cricket enthusiasts and experts are eager to predict the standout performers of the tournament. Former Indian cricketer Gautam Gambhir has joined in and selected a player whom he believes could set the ODI World Cup 2023 ablaze.
The ODI World Cup, returning to India after a decade, has sparked high expectations among cricket fans worldwide. With Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli leading the Indian team, cricket enthusiasts are hopeful about India’s chances.
However, Gambhir acknowledges that formidable players from other cricketing nations also pose a significant challenge to India’s aspirations, including Babar Azam from Pakistan, Kane Williamson from New Zealand, and Joe Root from England.
In an unexpected choice, Gambhir singled out Pakistan’s skipper, Babar Azam, as the potential standout performer of the ODI World Cup 2023. He praised Babar’s unique and exceptional batting capability, noting that he possesses a level of skill that distinguishes him from players like Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Kane Williamson, and Joe Root.
“Babar Azam can set this World Cup on fire. I have seen a lot of players with so much time to bat. I think that Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Kane Williamson, and Joe Root are there, but Babar Azam has a different level of capability,” remarked Gambhir.
Babar Azam’s recent form aligns with Gambhir’s endorsement, as he has accumulated an impressive 745 runs in 15 ODI innings this year. However, it’s worth noting that he faced some challenges in the Asia Cup 2023 after a brilliant 151-run performance in the opening game.
The cricketing world eagerly awaits the ODI World Cup 2023, where these talented players will showcase their skills on the grand stage, and the battle for cricket’s most prestigious title will captivate fans across the globe.
Former Indian cricketer Gautam Gambhir has praised Babar Azam as a standout batsman to keep an eye on in the upcoming 2023 ODI World Cup in India. The two-time World Cup champion admires Azam’s ability to pick his shots with ample time, setting him apart from other players. Gambhir even went on to suggest that Azam’s skills surpass those of India’s captain Rohit Sharma, the prolific Virat Kohli, New Zealand’s captain Kane Williamson, and England’s stalwart Joe Root.
“Babar Azam can set this World Cup on fire. I have seen a lot of players with so much time to bat. I think that Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Kane Williamson and Joe Root are there, but Babar Azam has a different level of capability,” Gambhir said to Star Sports.
Despite recent scores of 17 (22), 10 (24), and 29 (35) against Bangladesh, India, and Sri Lanka in the Asia Cup 2023, it’s worth noting that Babar Azam showcased his prowess with a brilliant 151 off 131 against Nepal during the same tournament.
In the year 2023, Babar has accumulated an impressive total of 745 runs from 15 innings, maintaining an average of 49.67. This includes two centuries and six half-centuries. Looking at his overall ODI career, he has notched up a remarkable 5409 runs in 108 matches, boasting an impressive average of 58.16, which includes 19 centuries and 28 half-centuries.
Babar Azam boasts an outstanding track record in ODIs, especially against cricketing giants like five-time champions Australia, against whom he has tallied 588 runs in nine ODIs at a remarkable average of 73.50. This includes three centuries and two half-centuries.
He also demonstrates proficiency when facing defending champions England, having accumulated 816 runs in 19 ODIs at a solid average of 48, which features two centuries.
Against South Africa and New Zealand, Azam continues to shine. He has amassed 523 runs in ten ODIs against the Proteas at an impressive average of 65.38 and 840 runs in 19 ODIs against the Kiwis at a commendable average of 46.67.
However, it’s worth noting that Babar Azam’s performance against India has been relatively below par, with 168 runs in seven ODIs at an average of 28, and he has yet to register a half-century against them.
In the high-stakes world of cricket, where teamwork and camaraderie are paramount, a rift within a team can spell disaster. Pakistan’s cricket team is currently facing such a situation, with just a month left before the ODI World Cup. The team’s preparations have taken a massive hit as reports of a bitter exchange between skipper Babar Azam and fast bowler Shaheen Shah Afridi have emerged, dividing the dressing room into factions.
The Incident that Shook the Team
The reported exchange between Babar Azam and Shaheen Shah Afridi took place in the aftermath of Pakistan’s heart-wrenching last-ball defeat to Sri Lanka on Thursday, September 14. This agonizing loss not only ended Pakistan’s Asia Cup campaign but also laid bare the simmering tensions within the team.
According to multiple news agencies, after the defeat, Babar Azam admonished the players, expressing his dissatisfaction with their performance, and lamenting their lack of responsibility on the field. A win in that game could have catapulted Pakistan into the final against arch-rivals India, but they fell agonizingly short.
In response to Babar’s criticism, Shaheen Shah Afridi retorted, “At least appreciate those who bowled and batted well.” This sharp retort from the fast bowler further fueled the fire. Babar Azam, not one to back down, responded with, “I know who’s performing well.”
Although this heated exchange did not escalate into a physical altercation, it left an indelible mark on the team’s morale and unity. It was only thanks to the intervention of senior wicketkeeper-batsman Mohammed Rizwan that the mini-spat was brought under control.
The Asia Cup had already proven to be a tough outing for Pakistan. The nadir came in the Super Four stage, where they suffered their most significant ODI defeat to India, a staggering 228-run loss. This resounding defeat against their arch-rivals set the tone for the rest of their campaign.
While they managed to secure wins against Nepal and Bangladesh, they found themselves facing another nightmare against Sri Lanka. The loss to Sri Lanka not only ended their Asia Cup journey but also highlighted the cracks within the team.
Naseem Shah’s Unfortunate Injury
Adding to Pakistan’s woes, young pacer Naseem Shah is likely to miss the entire ICC World Cup 2023 in India due to a shoulder injury. Scans in Dubai revealed the extent of the injury to be more severe than initially anticipated. It’s now expected that Naseem Shah may be sidelined for an extended period, possibly for the rest of the year.
Naseem Shah’s injury came at a particularly unfortunate time, just when Pakistan’s cricket team appeared to be hitting its stride heading into the World Cup. This setback has further compounded the team’s woes and left them grappling with uncertainties and divisions.
As Pakistan attempts to regroup and refocus with the World Cup on the horizon, the team’s ability to bridge the internal divides and rediscover its cohesion will be paramount. The cricketing world will watch closely as they navigate these turbulent waters on the path to the ODI World Cup 2023.
In a surprising turn of events, there has been a significant disruption in the unity of the Pakistan cricket team following their exit from the Asia Cup 2023. The incident in question unfolded during Babar Azam’s post-match speech after Pakistan’s narrow defeat to Sri Lanka in the Super Four stage.
Reportedly, tensions arose when Babar Azam expressed his frustration over the team’s poor performance in the dressing room. He called out underperforming players, which didn’t sit well with ace pacer Shaheen Shah Afridi. Shaheen interrupted, suggesting that Babar should appreciate the players who had performed well, but this exchange didn’t lead to a positive outcome. Mohammad Rizwan had to step in to mediate and resolve the issue.
This incident has raised questions about the future of Pakistan cricket, as it marks a significant disruption within the team. Sources indicate that Babar Azam distanced himself from his teammates after the match, both at the team hotel and during their return to Pakistan.
The underlying cause of this discord appears to be Pakistan’s failure to secure a place in the Asia Cup 2023 final. Despite an impressive start in the Super Four stage with a convincing victory over Bangladesh, subsequent defeats to arch-rivals India and, notably, Sri Lanka, shattered their hopes of reaching the final.
Pakistan’s exit from the Asia Cup has left them disappointed, but they remain determined. In a tweet, Shaheen Afridi expressed hope and determination, stating that there are more significant challenges ahead, and they will be better prepared for them.
In the decisive match against Sri Lanka, Kusal Mendis’ 91 and Charith Asalanka’s unbeaten 49 secured a two-wicket win for Sri Lanka in a thrilling last-ball encounter. Sri Lanka advanced to the final against India, while Pakistan, led by Babar Azam, faced heartbreak.
One of the players who struggled for Pakistan in the tournament was star spinner Shadab Khan, who had an impressive start but failed to maintain his performance in subsequent games.
In summary, the clash between Babar Azam and Shaheen Afridi following Pakistan’s exit from the Asia Cup highlights internal tensions within the team, leaving their future uncertain. Pakistan’s inability to secure a spot in the final added to their disappointment, but they remain determined to face future challenges.
Pakistan’s campaign in the Asia Cup 2023 took an unexpected turn as Shadab Khan, the vice-captain, made a surprising revelation about the team’s dynamics. The tournament began positively for Pakistan, with a convincing victory over Nepal followed by a washed-out game against Afghanistan. They continued their winning streak with a Super 4 victory over Bangladesh. However, their fortunes took a nosedive with a crushing defeat to India.
In a do-or-die match against Sri Lanka, Pakistan failed to defend their score of 252 runs in 42 overs, resulting in their exit from the Asia Cup. Reports emerged of a rift within the Pakistan dressing room, with skipper Babar Azam and pace bowler Shaheen Afridi reportedly involved in a heated exchange during a team meeting after the Sri Lanka loss. Mohammad Rizwan had to intervene to defuse the situation.
Adding fuel to the fire, Shadab Khan, the leg-spinner, made a candid comment about Babar Azam’s captaincy. Shadab revealed that he and his teammates do not particularly enjoy Babar Azam’s captaincy on the field but have no issues with him off the field. He noted that Babar Azam’s personality undergoes a significant change when he assumes the captain’s role on the field.
“We don’t really enjoy with Babar on the field because he is a different person altogether over there, but we do enjoy with him off the field,” Shadab remarked. Pakistan, now looking to regroup, is focused on the upcoming World Cup, set to commence on October 5 in India.
These comments surfaced shortly after Babar Azam expressed concerns about Shadab Khan’s bowling performance during the Asia Cup, where Shadab struggled to take wickets. Despite his struggles, Babar Azam acknowledged Shadab’s bowling skills and considered him one of the team’s top bowlers.
