Following Pakistan’s poor performance in the ICC Cricket World Cup held in India last year, where they finished fifth with only four wins out of nine matches, a significant decision was made, and Shaheen Shah Afridi was appointed as the T20I captain of Pakistan, replacing Babar Azam. This move was seen as a strategic step in preparation for the upcoming ICC T20 World Cup, which is? sc??heduled to commence on June 1 this year in the West Indies/USA.

However, the start of Shaheen’s captaincy journey was marred by a series of defeats. Pakistan suffered a 1-4 loss to New Zealand in their away series, a result that was unexpected and disappointing. Furthermore, his team, Lahore Qalandars, had a dismal season in the Pakistan Super League (PSL), finishing at the bottom of the table after securing the title twice in 2022 and 2023. These setbacks raised serious questions about Shaheen’s leadership, ultimately leading to his replacement by Babar.

Amidst the upheaval surrounding the captaincy change, media reports began to circulate, suggesting that Shaheen was displeased with the manner in which he was removed from the captaincy. These reports gained further traction after Shaheen shared a cryptic post on social media.

Wahab Riaz’s clarification on the growing speculations of the rift between Shaheen and Babar

Wahab Riaz, the manager of Pakistan men’s national team, has curbed the rumours of a rift between Shaheen and Babar over the reinstatement of Babar as Pakistan’s captain.

“There is so much speculation we really are the ones ruining our environment. Until things were not clear, media and social media were so active that it felt if we had not gone to Kakul, they might have just hit each other,” said Wahab, as quoted by the Wisden.

“When we actually went, we saw an atmosphere as friendly as we could have seen. The boys were united. After their training and iftar, they would head to the snooker room or watch TV together. It was a really good atmosphere,” he added.

Former Pakistan cricke??ter requested the media not to sp??read rumours about players and said that the media should confirm the truth about any issue before publishing it.

“We need to confirm the truth behind such news before breaking it, these are Pakistan players who want to represent their country, and that is their collective goal, and they are united because of that, and will be. The players you talk about will win Pakistan games in the future,” the 38-year-old stated.

Also READ: T20 World Cup 2024- Brian Lara picks the top contenders for wicketkeeping role ??in India’s squa??d

Imad Wasim and Mohammad Amir return to Pakistan squad against New Zealand

The five-match T20I home series of Pakistan against New Zealand will commence on April 18, 2024. The squad which Babar will head will include Mohammad Amir and Imad Wasim, who are making a comeback after staying away from international cricket for many days.
Amir was away from cricket after getting banned for spot-fixing. Meanwhile, Wasim had announced his retirement in November 2023, but he took it back after the req??uest of selectors following his impressive performance in the PSL.

Wahab called the decision to include Amir and Wasim a straightforward call amid the injury of Haris Rauf and Mohammad Nawaz’s lost form.

“The decision to include Imad Wasim and Mohammad Amir was a straightforward one, given their availability for selection and considering Haris Rauf’s injury and Mohammad Nawaz’s current form. Both Amir and Imad possess undeniable match-winning capabilities, and we trust they will consistently deliver strong performances to bolster the team’s objectives,” said Wahab.

Apart from Amir and Wasim, the squad of Pakistan also includes two uncapped players, Muhammad Irfan Khan and Usman Khan, for their exceptional performance in the PSL.

Also READ: Monank Patel, A??ndries Gous steer USA to a thrilling win over Canada in a high-scoring 2nd T20I

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New Pakistan chief selector Wahab Riaz has come down heavily on fast bowler Haris Rauf for retracting his confirmation and opting out of the upcoming three-Test match series in Australia, scheduled to commence in December.

Shan Masood to captain Pakistan in Australia

In his inaugural selection announcement, Riaz, who recently took over from Inzamam-ul-Haq as Pakistan men’s chief selector, disclosed the 18-member squad for the series. Shan Masood will lead the Pakistan team for the first time following Babar Azam‘s resignation. The decision comes after Babar’s resignation from the captaincy post. The team faces a challenging tour, and Masood’s leadership will be crucial in navigating the tough Australian conditions.

Wahab Riaz criticizes Haris Rauf’s withdrawal

Expressing his disappointment, Riaz disclosed that Haris had withdrawn from the Test squad, a decision he? believes will hurt Pakistan cricket.

“We spoke to Haris Rauf for this tour. When we spoke to him two days ago, he consented to play Test cricket for Pakistan. But last night he changed his mind, and now he doesn’t want to be part of this Test series. I’m revealing this because we should be honest with officials, teammates, and the public. We spoke to Haris and he was worried about his body and fitness, as well as his workload. Mohammad Hafeez and I sat with him and tried to facilitate him in every way. We told him even if he didn’t perform well there, we would accept it,” Riaz was quoted as saying by ESPNcricinfo.

Also READ: ??Pakistan legend Shoaib Akhtar pinpoints the cr??itical factor that went against India in ODI World Cup 2023 final

Selectors assure Rauf over bowling workload

According to Riaz, discussions were held with Rauf, along with team director Mohammad Hafeez, addressing the player’s concerns. They assured Rauf that he won’t be required to bowl more than 12 overs in a day.

“We spoke to the captain and coach, and they wanted to utilise Haris Rauf as an impact player in Test cricket. We weren’t demanding more than 10-12 overs a day from him, which he has done in ODIs,�?the 38-year-old added.

National duty comes first: Riaz urges players to prioritize country

Rauf’s inclusion in the squad was necessitated due to injuries sidelining other pacers who would have otherwise played. The chief selector emphasized the importance of Rauf’s commitment to the team, and his withdrawal raises questions about the team’s preparedness for the challenging Australia tour.

“Our frontline Test bowling options that bowl 140+ and can create an impact are unfit, all 3 of them. As a player when you’re centrally contracted, I think you need to sacrifice in such a situation and look to play for Pakistan rather than moving back,” the Lahore-born cricketer concluded.

Also READ: Tom Moody shares his perspective on India’s tactic of using Mohammed Shami with the new ball in CWC 2023 final

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Wahab Riaz, the Pakistani fast bowler known for his fiery pace and fierce determination, has announced his retirement from in??ternational cricket. Riaz left an indelible mark on? t?he world of cricket with his sensational bowling displays.

Throughout his international career, the left-armer showcased moments of brilliance that define his legacy as a cricketer who thrived in pressure situations and contributed significantly to his team’s success. From his scintillating performances in World Cups to his role in historic victories, Riaz’s contributions have been nothing short of exceptional.

Let’s delve into Riaz’s top five career-defining moments in international cricket, highlighting his extraordinary performances on the global stage.

2011 ODI World Cup Semi-Final Spell

In the intense semi-final clash of the 2011 ICC Cricket World Cup between India and Pakistan, Riaz delivered a spell that etched his name into cricketing history. With unwavering determination and blistering pace, Riaz dismantled the Indian batting order, claiming a remarkable five crucial wickets while conceding just 46 runs. His deliveries seamed, swung, and extracted sharp bounce, leaving the Indian batsmen grappling to find answers. This spell epitomized Riaz’s ability to elevate his game under immense pressure, showcasing his capacity to excel at the highest level.

Riaz’s performance wasn’t merely a collection of wickets; it was a display of pure skill and a showcase of his mastery over the art of fast bowling. The pivotal moment arrived when he dislodged Yuvraj Singh, a prized wicket, for a golden duck. Riaz’s fiery pace and clever variations continued to bewilder the opposition, unraveling their batting line-up. His exceptional spell became a defining chapter in his career, symbolizing his knack for seizing the moment and producing extraordinary feats on cricket’s grandest stage.

Also WATCH: Lahiru Kumara cleans up Babar Azam with a brilliant inswinger in LPL 2023

The battle against Shane Watson in 2015 ODI World Cup

In the high-stakes quarter-final clash of the 2015 ICC ODI World Cup against Australia, Riaz emerged as a relentless force with his fiery fast bowling. His face-off against Australian all-rounder Shane Watson took center stage, captivating cricket enthusiasts worldwide. While Pakistan may have fallen short in the match, Riaz’s spell of 2/54 underscored his unwavering courage and determination to take on the world’s premier cricketing talents.

Wahab’s performance was a testament to his ability to inject fear into even the most accomplished batsmen. His display of raw pace and aggression unsettled the Australian batting lineup, exemplifying his capacity to become a game-changing factor. Despite finishing on the losing side, Riaz’s spirited and aggressive approach in the 2015 World Cup quarter-final firmly established him as a bowler not only capable of challenging the best but also one who could leave an indelible mark on the cricketing arena.

The Oval Test victory against England in 2010

Cricket has a way of etching unforgettable moments into history, and Wahab Riaz’s remarkable bowling performance against England at The Oval in 2010 is one such moment. The stage was set at The Oval, one of England’s historic cricket venues, during the third Test of Pakistan’s tour in 2010 and a young & fiery Riaz set the stage on fire with his lethal bowling.

He consistently bowled at a lively pace, generating bounce and movement that troubled the English batters. Wahab accounted for the dismissals of Andrew Strauss, Jonathan Trott, Kevin Pietersen, Eoin Morgan, and Stuart Broad to claim his career-best figures of 5/63 in the first innings. He got ??one more scalp in the ??second innings as Pakistan won the historic match by 4 wickets.

Pakistan’s maiden World Cup win over South Africa in 2015

Riaz played a pivotal role in Pakistan’s historic victory over South Africa during the 2015 ICC Cricket World Cup. Riaz showcased his unwavering d??etermination and skill. Armed with his fiery pace and a strategic mindset, he dismantled the South African batting lineup, securing crucial wickets that included key players.

With a captivating performance, Riaz demonstrated his prowess and guided his team to a groundbreaking win against South Africa. His impressive figures of 3/45 stood as a linchpin in Pakistan’s success, highlighting his ability to excel on cricket’s grandest stage.

Also READ: India set to square off with Pakistan in an exhibition match ahead of US Masters T10 League 2023

Bats with a broken hand in ODI World Cup 2019

In a remarkable display of sheer determination and selflessness, Riaz exhibited an extraordinary act during the 2019 ICC Cricket World Cup clash against Afghanistan. Despite battling a broken hand, Riaz courageously stepped onto the field to wield the bat, showcasing his unwavering commitment to his team’s cause.

Pakistan had suffered a collapse, finding themselves at 206-7 and needing 21 runs from the final three overs when Wahab Riaz arrived at the crease. Despite the odds stacked against them, Riaz displayed immense courage and led Pakistan to a thrilling 3-wicket victory with only 2 balls remaining. His valiant effort not only secured the win for Pakistan but also underlined his role as a driving force behind the team’s success.

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Pakistan fast bowler Wahab Riaz has announced his retirement from international cricket??, marking the end of a successful career that spanned over a decade. The 38-year-old made the announcement through a heartfelt statement, expressing gratitude to his fans, teammates and the cr??icket fraternity for their unwavering support.

Riaz made his international debut for Pakistan in 2008 and quickly gained recognition for his raw pace and ability to generate reverse swing. Throughout his international career, he played a pivotal role in many memorable matches, contributing to Pakistan’s successes in various formats of the game.

The left-arm pacer played 27 Test matches, 91 One Day Internationals (ODIs), and 36 Twenty20 Internationals (T20Is) f?or Pakistan. He took a total of 240 wickets across formats, often delivering crucial breakthroughs with his lethal bowling.

One of the defining moments of Riaz’s career came during the 2011 ICC Cricket World Cup, where his fiery spell against India in the semi-final match remains etched in cricket fans’ memories. His confrontations with top-class batters and his aggressive approach on the field earned him a reputation as a fierce competitor.

Riaz will continue playing franchise cricket

Riaz expressed his gratitude to the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and his fellow players, acknowledging the camaraderie and shared experiences that made his journey ?special. He also thanked his family for their unwavering support throughout his cricketing ca??reer.

“Stepping off the international pitch. After an incredible journey, I’ve decided to retire from international cricket. Big thank you to PCB, my family, coaches, mentors, teammates, fans, and everyone who supported me,” Riaz wrote in his social media post.

He added: “Exciting times ahead in the world of franchise cricket!”

🏏 Stepping off the international pitch

🌟 After an incredible journey, I've decided to retire from international cricket. Big thank you to PCB, my family, coaches, mentors, teammates, fans, and everyone who supported me. 🙏

Exciting times ahead in the world of franchise�?/p>

— Wahab Riaz (@WahabViki) August 16, 2023

While stepping away from international cricket, Riaz will contin??ue to contribute to domestic cricket and various T20 leagues around the world. His decision to retire is a reminder of his dedication to the s??port and his desire to pass on the baton to the next generation of Pakistani cricketers.

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In a highly anticipated match of the Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2023, Peshawar Zalmi took on Quetta Gladiators at the Pindi Club Ground in Rawalpindi on We?dnesday (March 8).

Opting to bat first, Peshawar got off to a flying start with their openers Babar Azam and Saim Ayub smashing the Quetta bowlers all around the park. Babar played a magnificent knock of 115 off just 65 deliveries, while Saim played a brilliant supporting role with a quickfire 74 off just 34 balls. The Quetta bowlers tried their best to contain the Peshawar batters, but they were unable to stop them from posting a massive total of 240-2 in their 20 overs. Dwaine Pretorius was the pick of the bowlers for Quetta Gladiators, pickin??g up one wicket for 40 runs in his four overs.

Chasing a mammoth total of 241, Quetta also started well as Jason Roy came out all guns blazing and played an unbelievable knock of 145 off just 63 deliveries. His innings included 20 fours and 5 sixes, and he became the highest individual scorer in the history of the PSL. Mohammad Hafeez played a crucial knock of 41 off just 18 balls, which helped Quetta chase down the target with ten ball?s to spare. Mujeeb ur Rehman and Wahab Riaz picked up a wicket e?ach for Peshawar, but they were u??nable to stop the Quetta batters from doing a record run chase.

Apart from the high-scoring game and exceptional batting performances from both teams, Wahab’s dismissal of Martin Guptill also entertained the fans. On ??the fifth ball of the third over, Wahab produced a shorter delivery to Gupill, which the latter tried to pull but ended up hitting straight in the air, and the left-arm pacer made no mistake in collecting the white leather as he claimed a caught and bowled.

After dismissing Guptill, Wahab went closer to him and kissed the left side of the opener’s helmet, which soon went viral on social media.

Here’s the video:

"I got this", said @WahabViki #SabSitarayHumaray l #HBLPSL8 l #PZvQG pic.twitter.com/K0WIMaklHT

— PakistanSuperLeague (@thePSLt20) March 8, 2023

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Pakistan speedster Wahab Riaz is one of the most skilful bowlers of his country. The aggressive fast bowl??er bowls with deadly pace and has extraordinary control on line an??d length. Riaz is one of the fewest pacers who can swing the ball both ways with so much ease.

However, for the past few years, Riaz hasn’t been consistent and failed to cement his place in the team. He last played international cricket in December 2020 during the tour of New Zealand. This year he wasn’t even considered for home as well as away series against South Africa and Zimbabwe.

The left-armer has so far played 27 Tests, 91 ODIs and 36 T20Is, and taken 83, 120 and 34 wickets, respectively. But who, according to the Lahore-born, is the most challenging batsmen he has ever bowled to? Well, in a rapid-fire round with Cricket Pakistan, Riaz r??evealed the name of a b?atsman he found toughest to bowl to.

The 35-year-old did not name Virat Kohli, Steve Smith, Rohit Sharma, Kane Williamson or Joe Root. He instead went with former South Africa captain and arguably one of the finest modern-day batters AB de Villiers.

De Villiers puzzled several top-quality bowlers in his glorious cricketing career. His dextrous batting, ??fantastic power-hitting, exceptional ability to hit humungous sixes and innovation of fresh and unique shots has made? him a legendary batsman.

De Villiers hung his boots from all the formats of the game in ?2018. He e??nded his international ODI career with 9577 runs with a spectacular tally of 25 centuries. In the longest format, the right-handed batsman scored 8765 runs with the help of 22 hundreds.

Some other questions that Riaz answered:

1. Question �?Whose phone call will you pick – Virat Kohli or Rohit Sharma?

Answer �?Virat Kohli

2. Question �?Favourite PSL team other than Zalmi?

Answer �?Quetta Gladiators

3. Question �?Your favourite holiday destination?

Answer �?England

4. Question �?Role Model in cricket?

Answer �?Wasim Akram

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The debate between the Indian Premier League (IPL) and the Pakistan Super League (PSL) is not new to the cricket fans. This time, Pakistan pacer Wahab Riaz stepped into the disc??ussion with his opinion about the two ?leagues.

In an interview with Cricket Pakistan’s YouTube channel, the left-arm pacer praised the IPL, stating that the Indian T20 extravaganza is class apart.

The 35-year-old stated that IPL is a league where all the top international ?players queue up to play.

“IPL is a league where all the top international players come and play. You can’t compare IPL with PSL, I believe IPL is at a different level. Their commitments, the way they run things, communicate things, the way they draft the players, that is totally different,” asserted Riaz.

“I don’t think any league can compete with the IPL, but if there is any league that stands behind it, it has to be the PSL. The League in Pakistan has proved it,” the veteran pacer stated further.

However, Riaz opine?d that the bowling standards of PSL are the best in the world, and that is why there are not many ?high-scoring games in the league.

“The standards of bowling are quite high. The kind of bowlers you get in the PSL is not found in other leagues, not even in the IPL. This is why PSL doesn’t have many high-scoring games. The bowling attacks in PSL are the best in the world,” the Lahore born pacer said.

Riaz leads the Peshawar Zalmi franchise in the league and is very optimistic about his team’s chances in the PSL once it resumes.

“We have formed a good combination in the first-half of the tournament,” he said. “Our rhythm was really good. I hope that when we get back together for the second-half, we will continue our good work.”

The PSL and IPL have been postponed due to the coronavirus outbreak, and th??e respective boards a?re looking for possibilities to reschedule the leagues in the near future.

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