Tag: Wasim Jaffer

Will Punjab Kings undergo changes in IPL 2025? A veteran who has scored over 19 thousand runs may take the role of head coach

Many changes will be seen in IPL 2025. Changes will be seen in many teams. Whether it is in the form of players or team staff. Its first trend is seen in Punjab Kings. Where news of a new head coach is coming out. Former Indian cricketer Wasim Jaffer is likely to be appointed as the next head coach of Punjab Kings. The franchise was looking for an Indian coach to replace Trevor Bayliss, who failed to take the team to the playoffs in his two-year reign.

According to reports, Jaffer will return to the Mohali-based franchise. Which is co-owned by Bollywood actress Preity Zinta. Jaffer, the all-time top scorer in Ranji Trophy history, is not new to Punjab Kings management. He has previously served as the team’s batting coach (2019-21) and batting consultant (2023).

The former batsman has undertaken several coaching programmes after retiring from competitive cricket. He served as the batting coach of the Bangladesh youth team, and has also been the head coach of Uttarakhand and Odisha in the Indian domestic circuit.

Former England head coach Bayliss, who has also won two IPL titles as Kolkata Knight Riders head coach in 2012 and 2014, joined Punjab Kings as head coach on a two-year deal ahead of IPL 2023. But during his tenure, he failed to deliver the results the franchise deserved and the team finished 8th (2023) and 9th (2024) in the points table.

Also Read: Punjab Kings in the Mood to End Partnership with Trevor Bayliss; The Franchise is Looking for an Indian Coach

The news of a new head coach for Punjab Kings ahead of IPL 2025 has been in the news for quite some time now, as it was earlier reported that Punjab Kings are in no mood to extend Bayliss’ tenure and want to appoint an Indian as the head coach.

July 26, 2024
IPL 2024: Impact Player Rule to be Abolished- Know the Truth

Former Indian batsman Wasim Jaffer voiced his concerns on Sunday, suggesting that the Indian Premier League (IPL) should eliminate the ‘Impact Player’ rule. He emphasized that this rule is discouraging all-rounders from bowling, posing a potential setback for Indian cricket due to the diminished focus on their bowling capabilities. Wasim conveyed his thoughts on ‘X’.

“I think IPL needs to take away the impact player rule, as it’s not encouraging the all-rounders to bowl much and lack of ARs and batters not bowling is a major area of concern for Indian cricket. Thoughts? #IPL2024 #iplauction2024,” wrote Jaffer.

Also read: IPL 2024 Auction: Rilee Rossouw Predicts Bidding War for Himself

Under the impact player rule, franchises have the flexibility to substitute a playing eleven member with any of the five designated substitutes named during the toss throughout the match. This rule aims to enhance teams’ depth in either batting or bowling.

Looking ahead to the IPL auction for the upcoming season, it is scheduled to occur in Dubai on December 19.

December 11, 2023
Tilak IN, Surya OUT – Wasim Jaffer Picks India’s World Cup Squad
Former Indian cricketer, Wasim Jaffer, has voiced his support for including the promising 20-year-old Tilak Varma in India’s squad for the ODI World Cup 2023, proposing his selection over Suryakumar Yadav. Jaffer’s endorsement of Varma comes as a result of Suryakumar Yadav’s recent struggles to shine consistently in the Indian cricket team.

Tilak Varma made an impressive debut for the Indian cricket team during the West Indies series, showcasing his remarkable skills on the field. In contrast, Suryakumar Yadav has faced criticism from numerous cricket pundits for his inconsistent performances in the 50-over format. During the Caribbean series, Yadav himself acknowledged his unimpressive ODI statistics and expressed his commitment to improving them.

In a conversation with ESPNcricinfo, Wasim Jaffer acknowledged the difficulty of choosing between Tilak Varma and Suryakumar Yadav. However, he leaned towards Tilak Varma’s inclusion, despite the youngster’s limited experience in 50-over matches for India. Jaffer justified his choice by citing Varma’s batting style, which he believes is better suited for ODI cricket.
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Also Read: Surprise Addition: Yuzi Chahal in India’s World Cup Squad 2023
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Given Suryakumar’s ongoing struggle to find his rhythm in one-day cricket and his subpar performance in the 50-over format, Jaffer argued that it might be prudent to exclude him from the squad for the upcoming ODI World Cup.

Jaffer stated, “I will probably take out Prasidh Krishna, and it would be a tough choice between Tilak Varma and Suryakumar Yadav. I’ll pick Tilak Varma even though he has not played ODI cricket at all for India. But looking at how he bats and plays his cricket, I think he is more suited to one-day cricket. Suryakumar does have a lot of promise, and he has not cracked the code of ODI cricket despite getting a lot of opportunities.”

Both Tilak Varma and Suryakumar Yadav are currently part of the India squad for the Asia Cup 2023 in Sri Lanka. But, neither Tilak Varma nor Suryakumar Yadav featured in India’s playing 11 for the first and second matches of the tournament against Pakistan and Nepal, respectively.
September 5, 2023
Wasim Jaffer believes that Suryakumar Yadav should be given a chance to bat at No. 6 in ODIs
Wasim Jaffer, the former cricketer, has put forth a proposition concerning Suryakumar Yadav’s batting position in One Day Internationals (ODIs), asserting that batting at number six would enable him to exhibit his best style of play.

Although Suryakumar Yadav has proven his mettle in the shortest format of cricket, his performance in ODIs has been less remarkable. In his 26 appearances in the 50-over format, he has amassed a mere 511 runs. Despite this, the team management remains steadfast in their faith in him, offering him an opportunity in the upcoming Asia Cup.

Wasim Jaffer, reflecting on Suryakumar’s cricketing prowess, suggests that deploying him at number six in ODI cricket would align with his exceptional capabilities and allow him to deliver his aggressive brand of cricket. Jaffer, who has observed Suryakumar’s growth closely, notes that while his playing style has evolved, his inherent dynamism persists.

“Suryakumar Yadav possesses the skill set to flourish in ODI cricket. Having led him on the field and witnessed his debut, I am familiar with his journey. Although he began at number four during his Ranji Trophy days, his approach to the game has undergone a transformation. Nevertheless, his innate dynamism remains intact. Adapting from T20 to ODI cricket seems to be the current challenge,” Jaffer stated.
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Also Read: Naveen-ul-Haq Omission from Afghanistan’s Asia Cup Squad Disappoints Fans Hoping for Virat Kohli Clash
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Jaffer believes that Suryakumar’s strengths could be harnessed most effectively by positioning him at number six in the 50-over format. This slot would empower him to play the aggressive, finishing style of cricket he is known for.

“In the realm of ODI cricket, a distinct skill set is required. This is where Suryakumar needs to focus his efforts. Opting for the sixth batting position could serve him well. At this juncture, he can wield his bat with the freedom and intent synonymous with his brand of cricket, akin to that of a finisher,” Jaffer explained.

Jaffer’s recommendations stem from Suryakumar Yadav’s recent struggles in ODI cricket. However, he maintains a steadfast belief that with the right opportunity, batting at number six could lead to a resurgence of his form.

“I firmly believe that if Suryakumar secures the chance to occupy the sixth position, he will emerge triumphant. His innate talent and aptitude for match-finishing are undeniable. As he matures, his potential will undoubtedly shine through,” Jaffer concluded optimistically.
August 28, 2023
7 Talented Cricketers Who Wasted Their Careers

Hundreds of talented cricketers around the globe who were rated very high by legends from the cricketing world have failed to make an impact despite their prowess on the field. These cricketers either failed to grab the opportunities or were plagued by their own vices. Their interesting and fascinating tales gives a life lesson that one should always be humble, hardworking and ready to seize the opportunity. Here we have covered seven cricketers who just could not make it big despite their obvious talents in the cricketing world.

7 Cricketers Who Wasted Their Careers

1- Wasim Jaffer

A legend of domestic cricket, Wasim Jaffer failed to replicate the same success in international cricket. Jaffer has an average of 50.67 in First Class cricket with 19,410 runs. However, in international cricket he could only manage an average of 34.10 in 31 Test matches. He scored a measly 1,944 runs in his Test career and never really fulfilled the desires of his fans. Jaffer also played 2 ODI matches in which he only scored 10 runs with an average of 5. He is probably the biggest disappointment when it comes to transforming talent and skills into success in international cricket.

2- Vinod Kambli

The story that began with two promising cricketers ultimately unfolded as a contrasting narrative, with Tendulkar’s remarkable achievements standing in stark contrast to Kambli’s cricketing aspirations that did not materialize as hoped. Vinod Kambli was a talented Indian player who played 17 Tests and scored 1,084 runs with an average of above 54. He also played 104 ODIs and scored 2,477 runs with an average of 32.59. It is said that Kambli’s lavish lifestyle came in the way of his cricket. He started with a great flourish but failed to convert his career into something big.

3- Shaun Tait

A lethal fast bowler who could continuously bowl around 155 km/ph, Shaun Tait was a menace to deal with for the batters. However, the former Australian cricketer could never get his line and lengths right and failed to grab the opportunities that came his way. Tait played 35 ODIs for Australia in which he picked 62 wickets with an average of 23.56. He also represented Australia in 3 Tests and picked up 5 wickets. Shaun Tait performed in an underwhelming manner at the international level and could never reach the heights that he was capable of. Definitely, a talented cricketer who wasted his career.

Also read: Top 7 Indian Cricketers Who Deserved Better

4- Mohammad Asif

Pakistani pacer, Mohammad Asif had an exciting career. He was banned by ICC for seven years due to his involvement in the spot-fixing scandal. Asif even served one year in prison for the same. Asif played 23 Tests and picked 103 wickets with an average of 23.18. He also represented Pakistan in 38 ODIs and picked 46 wickets with an average of 33.13. His involvement in fixing led to his downfall. Asif was becoming on of the top bowlers for Pakistan when he wasted his career for illegal money.

5- Chris Lynn

Chris Lynn is an Australian batter who arrived with a great persona in the international circuit. He was known for his insane hitting abilities. Lynn played a lot of cricket in IPL for Kolkata Knight Riders and scored more than 1300 runs with a strike rate of 140. However, Chris Lynn failed to make an impact in international. He wasted away his huge potential. Lynn could only score 75 runs in 4 ODIs that he has played with an average of 18.8. He also played 18 T20Is and scored 291 runs at an average of 19.4. Chris Lynn could never make it big and wasted away his potential.

6- Corey Anderson

The Kiwi all-rounder Corey Anderson shot to fame with the fastest ODI century in just 36 balls in 2014. However, following this Anderson could never make it big in the international cricket. He played IPL and various leagues but could never contribute significantly with either bat or ball. In 2020, Corey Anderson retired from international cricket but in 2022 announced his desire to play for USA Cricket Team. Anderson played 49 ODIs and scored only 1,109 runs and picked 60 wickets. He played 13 Tests and scored 683 runs and picked 16 wickets. Anderson also played 31 T20Is and scored 485 runs and picked 14 wickets.

7- Unmukt Chand

Unmukt Chand was once called the talent to watch out for. However, the visual of Brett Lee shattering his stumps on a Yorker actually finished his career in India. He could never get going in IPL and failed to capitalise on his talent. Unmukt announced retirement from Indian cricket in 2020. Following this, he played in Minor League and Major League Cricket. Unmukt has also played in Big Bash League and Bangladesh Premier League 2023.

August 9, 2023
Youngster Tilak Varma Impresses on T20I Debut, Earns Praise from Wasim Jaffer for Fearless Batting
Wasim Jaffer was highly impressed by young cricketer Tilak Varma’s fearless batting during his T20I debut, which took place in an intense clash between India and West Indies. Varma’s outstanding performance drew praise from Jaffer, who compared his composure at the crease to playing a club or state match, showcasing mental strength and lack of nerves.

West Indies set a target of 149/6 after winning the toss and opting to bat first. During the chase, India faced challenges, but Varma emerged as the standout player with an exciting innings of 39 runs off just 22 balls.

Varma displayed aggressive intent from the start, hitting sixes confidently off the second and third deliveries he faced. Jaffer commended the young cricketer for backing his game under pressure and showing mental fortitude.
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Also Read: ICC ODI World Cup 2023: Salman Butt Urges India to Finalize World Cup Squad, Criticizes Frequent Changes in Squads
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Speaking to ESPNcricinfo, Jaffer praised Varma’s performance, saying, “He looked impressive. There were no nerves at all. The way he started, it seemed like he was playing a club game or for his state team. No pressure at all. He came out and backed his game. That’s the good thing about him – it shows that he’s mentally very strong. He was the only one who looked very comfortable on this pitch.”
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Also Read: Pragyan Ojha Criticizes Resting Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli in ODIs, Emphasizes Importance of KL Rahul and Shreyas Iyer for World Cup Squad
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Jaffer regretted Varma’s dismissal, mentioning that if he had stayed at the crease a bit longer, India might have secured a victory. He also highlighted Sanju Samson’s run-out as a crucial moment in the match.

Varma’s wicket fell as he attempted to pull a slower short delivery from Romario Shepherd, and the catch was taken in the deep. Despite his innings coming to an end, his positive approach and commendable strokeplay left cricket enthusiasts excited about his potential and future prospects.
August 5, 2023
Wasim Jaffer Expresses Concerns over Sanju Samson’s High-Risk Game
Sanju Samson’s impressive fifty in the third ODI against West Indies earned him accolades, but former India batsman Wasim Jaffer has delivered a worrying verdict about the young cricketer. Jaffer believes that while Samson played well, his high-risk game and inconsistency could pose challenges for him in cementing his spot as the No.4 batsman in the Indian team.

Despite his fine performance in the third ODI, Jaffer pointed out that Samson’s aggressive style of play comes with its share of risks. While the batsman connected well with a few sixes, mistiming one of those shots could have resulted in an early dismissal. Jaffer raised concerns about Samson’s ability to consistently deliver at the No.4 position, emphasizing the importance of stability in that role.

Jaffer expressed his concerns over Samson’s record of fluctuating performances, citing the Indian Premier League (IPL) as an example. He urged Samson to work on maintaining consistency and learning from lean patches, as destructive innings alone may not be sufficient for securing a permanent spot in the team.
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Also Read: India’s World Cup Success Hinges on Jasprit Bumrah’s Fitness: Wasim Akram
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Currently, Sanju Samson is in the ODI team as a specialist batsman, with Ishan Kishan taking up the wicketkeeper-batsman role in the absence of KL Rahul and Rishabh Pant. However, once Rahul and Shreyas Iyer return, Samson’s place in the team could be at risk unless he addresses the concerns regarding his high-risk approach and inconsistent form.
August 3, 2023
Wasim Jaffer’s Hilarious Meme on India’s Unconventional Batting Order during First ODI against West Indies Goes Viral
Former Indian cricketer Wasim Jaffer, renowned for his wit, couldn’t resist sharing his take on India’s unconventional batting order during the second ODI against the West Indies. He took to Twitter and posted an amusing meme, suggesting that the Men in Blue might have adopted a street cricket approach to decide their batting lineup for the match.

Despite the experimental approach and shuffling in the order, India secured a victory by 5 wickets. Jaffer’s tweet quickly went viral, sparking a massive engagement on social media. However, not all Indian fans were thrilled with the experimentation. While some found humor in it, others expressed concern that the team should be taking their games more seriously.
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Also Read: Ashes 2023: Glenn McGrath Raises Concerns over David Warner’s Test Career; Urges a Big Second Innings Performance
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One fan humorously quipped that the same approach might be used to finalize World Cup venues. Nevertheless, many fans were not entirely pleased to witness India losing wickets to an unproven bowling line-up. One person remarked, “It’s not good to see India losing five wickets while chasing just 115 runs against a team that hasn’t even qualified for the ODI World Cup.”

Team India deciding batting order today 😛 #WIvIND pic.twitter.com/FtkXDSG7bL
— Wasim Jaffer (@WasimJaffer14) July 27, 2023

The absence of Virat Kohli from the batting innings against the West Indies disappointed several fans who were eager to see their favorite player perform. A fan replied, “And as always, Virat was unlucky; he didn’t get to bat because of this.”

In the first ODI of the international series at the Kensington Oval, Barbados, India opted for a different opening duo. While Rohit Sharma and Yashasvi Jaiswal had proven to be an ideal pair in Test matches against the Windies, in the 50-over format, Ishan Kishan and Shubman Gill were entrusted with leading the innings, following an impressive display by the Indian bowling unit.
July 28, 2023
ODI World Cup 2023 India Squad: Wasim Jaffer Picks His Playing 11

Former cricketer and current commentator Wasim Jaffer has chosen his desired 15-player squad for the 2023 ODI World Cup. Interestingly, he included the out-of-favor players Shikhar Dhawan and Sanju Samson in his selected team.

Despite not being included in India’s 17-member squad for the upcoming ODI series against West Indies and having played his last match for the national team in December 2022, Shikhar Dhawan has been chosen by Wasim Jaffer as a backup opener in his preferred India’s 15-member squad for the 2023 ODI World Cup.

In a conversation on JioCinema, Wasim Jaffer revealed his three preferred openers for India’s ODI World Cup 2023 squad, which are Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill, and Shikhar Dhawan. He provided this selection while discussing the potential composition of the team for the upcoming tournament.

Also read: ICC ODI World Cup 2023: India Squad Prediction

“My three openers will be Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill and Shikhar Dhawan. Even though Shikhar Dhawan is not going to be picked, I will keep him as the backup opener. Even if he doesn’t play at the start, I am okay with that.”

“After that, Virat Kohli at No. 3 obviously. Shreyas Iyer at No. 4, KL Rahul at No. 5 and Hardik Pandya at No. 6. Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel and Kuldeep Yadav will be my three spinners in the XI.”

“In my XI, I will have Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj/Mohammad Shami. I will play two seamers – Bumrah and Siraj. For me, it is very important that Hardik Pandya bowls because the World Cup is in India. Even if he doesn’t bowl 10 overs and bowls seven-eight overs, it’s enough for me.”

“If he bowls, I will definitely try to play three spinners and I will definitely play both Axar and Jadeja because they are all-rounders. My third spinner will obviously be Kuldeep. My fourth seamer will be Shardul Thakur. Sanju Samson will be my backup keeper because I have already picked Shikhar as my third opener.”

July 25, 2023
“That Is What I Like About Him…” – Wasim Jaffer Shares an Interesting Story about MS Dhoni
Former India opener Wasim Jaffer has shared an intriguing story about legendary captain MS Dhoni, revealing that he used to drink Pepsi during drinks breaks, despite it not being recommended for athletes. Jaffer highlighted that Dhoni stuck to his routine and didn’t change his habits.

MS Dhoni, who celebrated his 42nd birthday on Friday, July 7, is one of the biggest stars in Indian cricket. Having made his debut in 2004, the right-handed batsman holds the record for being the only captain to win all three white-ball ICC trophies.

In an interview Wasim Jaffer mentioned that MS Dhoni had no reservations about drinking Pepsi because he was accustomed to it.

“MS Dhoni used to drink Pepsi during the drinks break. It’s not allowed. Fitness-wise, it has a lot of sugar, and sportspeople are advised to stay away from it,” Wasim Jaffer told Sportskeeda.

“But he used to regularly drink Pepsi or Coke. That’s the kind of person he was. Just because you are playing at the international level, where there is a lot of pressure, it doesn’t mean you change your routine. That’s what I like about him,” he added.
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Dhoni kick-started his captaincy career by winning the 2007 T20 World Cup. He went on to guide the team to victory in the 2011 ODI World Cup and the 2013 Champions Trophy.

The former Indian opener mentioned that Dhoni believed in continuing the practices that had brought him success.

“He always used to say, the things that have brought you success, don’t abruptly abandon them just because you are playing at a different level of cricket. That’s something I feel has worked for him,” Jaffer continued.

“He has evolved over time, but I don’t think he has changed. That’s a remarkable quality he has maintained from the start of his career until now,” he concluded.

Former Indian captain MS Dhoni had an extraordinary career, representing India in 90 Tests, 350 ODIs, and 98 T20Is. He retired from international cricket in 2020 but continued to participate in the Indian Premier League (IPL), leading the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) to their fifth title in the IPL 2023.
July 7, 2023