sports

Shaheen Afridi Exits BBL Match Early Due to Injury

Shaheen Afridi Injured During BBL Match Between Brisbane Heat and Adelaide Strikers Pakistani fast bowler Shaheen Afridi was forced to leave the field during the Big Bash League (BBL) clash between Brisbane Heat and Adelaide Strikers after sustaining an injury. The left-arm pacer bowled three overs in the match but could not continue due to visible discomfort. Shaheen, known for his pace and wicket-taking ability, appeared in pain while bowling and was subsequently substituted out of the game as a precaution. The exact nature of the injury has not yet been officially disclosed, but team medical staff were seen attending to him on the field. Impact on Brisbane Heat Shaheen’s early exit was a significant blow to the Brisbane Heat’s bowling attack, as he has been one of their key overseas players this season. Analysts noted that his absence could impact the team’s performance in the ongoing BBL, particularly in the death overs where his experience and pace are crucial. Fans and Media Reactions Fans of the pacer expressed concern on social media, wishing him a speedy recovery. Cricket analysts have also speculated on the potential impact of the injury on Shaheen’s upcoming international commitments, including series and T20 leagues. Conclusion Brisbane Heat and Pakistan cricket supporters will be closely monitoring updates regarding Shaheen Afridi’s condition. His recovery and return to action will be critical not just for the Heat’s BBL campaign, but also for Pakistan’s fast-bowling lineup in upcoming international fixtures.

1/9/2026, 11:25:00 PM

Junaid Khan Demands Removal of Mashrafi Murtaza’s Image from IPL Logo

Junaid Khan Demands Removal of Mashrafi Murtaza’s Image from IPL Logo Following Mustafizur Rahman’s Release Former Pakistani fast bowler Junaid Khan has sparked controversy on social media by demanding that the Indian Premier League (IPL) remove the image of Bangladeshi cricket legend Mashrafi Murtaza from its official logo, following the release of Bangladesh’s star pacer Mustafizur Rahman by Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR). In a tweet that quickly gained traction, Junaid expressed his frustration over Mustafizur’s sudden release, describing it as “unfair to Bangladeshi players” and calling on the IPL to reconsider using Bangladeshi representations in its branding. The tweet has ignited widespread discussion among fans and analysts across South Asia. Background of the Controversy Mustafizur Rahman was released by KKR despite being purchased for Rs 9.2 crore in the IPL 2026 auction, following a directive reportedly from the BCCI. The move prompted the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) to formally request the International Cricket Council (ICC) to consider shifting Bangladesh’s T20 World Cup matches from India to Sri Lanka, citing concerns over the treatment of Bangladeshi players in the IPL. Junaid Khan’s tweet added another layer to the controversy, drawing attention to regional sensitivities and the symbolic representation of Bangladeshi players in Indian cricket leagues. Reactions and Public Debate Reactions to Junaid’s call have been mixed. Many fans expressed solidarity with Mustafizur and supported his stance, while others criticized it as unnecessarily provocative. Analysts note that while social media outrage highlights fan sentiment, it is unlikely to directly influence IPL branding or official decisions. Conclusion The episode underscores the delicate nature of player management and cross-border representation in franchise cricket. With Mustafizur Rahman reportedly joining the Pakistan Super League (PSL), attention now shifts to how leagues, fans, and cricket boards navigate professional, cultural, and diplomatic considerations in South Asian cricket.

1/9/2026, 11:10:00 PM

Mustafizur Rahman Joins PSL After Release by KKR

Bangladeshi fast bowler Mustafizur Rahman has found a new opportunity in the Pakistan Super League (PSL) following his release by Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) earlier this year. Mustafizur, who was released by KKR despite being bought for Rs 9.2 crore in the IPL 2026 auction, will now showcase his skills in Pakistan’s premier T20 competition. The move comes amid widespread attention after Bangladesh had formally approached the ICC over his IPL release. Mustafizur’s signing in the PSL is expected to strengthen his new team’s pace attack while giving him an international platform to continue performing at the highest level. Fans and analysts are eagerly awaiting to see “The Fizz” make an impact in the upcoming PSL season, where his proven ability in T20 cricket could be a game-changer for his franchise.

1/9/2026, 10:55:00 PM

KKR’s Release of Mustafizur Rahman Sparks International Cricket Controversy

KKR’s Release of Mustafizur Rahman Triggers Diplomatic and Cricketing Tensions The release of Bangladeshi fast bowler Mustafizur Rahman by Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) has escalated into a broader controversy, extending beyond cricket and drawing the involvement of international cricketing authorities. KKR released Mustafizur Rahman following a directive from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), despite having secured the left-arm pacer for Rs 9.2 crore during the IPL 2026 auction. The unexpected move raised questions across the cricketing world, particularly due to the significant investment made by the franchise just months earlier. BCCI Directive and KKR’s Compliance According to sources familiar with the matter, the release was not a purely cricketing decision by KKR but rather a compliance measure following instructions from the BCCI. While the board has not issued a detailed public explanation, the directive reportedly influenced the franchise’s squad composition involving overseas players. KKR’s decision, though aligned with regulatory instructions, placed the franchise under scrutiny, as Mustafizur had been considered a key overseas signing ahead of the 2026 season. Bangladesh’s Strong Response The development prompted a formal response from Bangladesh, which escalated the matter to the International Cricket Council (ICC). The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) officially requested that Bangladesh’s T20 World Cup matches be shifted from India to Sri Lanka, citing concerns arising from the treatment of Bangladeshi players within Indian domestic leagues. This move marked a rare instance where a franchise-level decision directly influenced international cricket scheduling discussions, highlighting growing sensitivities around player participation, governance, and bilateral cricket relations. Cricketing and Diplomatic Implications The controversy has sparked debate among former players, administrators, and fans, with opinions divided on whether regulatory authority should override franchise autonomy after major auction investments. Analysts have also warned that such decisions could impact future overseas participation and confidence in league processes. For Mustafizur Rahman, the episode represents an unfortunate setback despite his proven credentials as one of Bangladesh’s most successful T20 bowlers. His future in the IPL now remains uncertain, though his value in global T20 leagues remains intact. Conclusion The release of Mustafizur Rahman by KKR has underscored the complex intersection of sports governance, franchise autonomy, and international cricket relations. What began as a squad decision has evolved into a significant issue involving the ICC, with potential implications for tournament hosting and cross-border cricket cooperation. As discussions continue behind the scenes, the situation serves as a reminder that modern franchise cricket operates not only within sporting boundaries but also within broader administrative and diplomatic frameworks.

1/9/2026, 10:40:00 PM

PSL XI Marks a New Era as Two New Franchises Join the League

Historic Expansion: Two New Franchises Join PSL XI Edition The Pakistan Super League (PSL) has entered a new era of growth with the inclusion of two new franchises for its upcoming XI (11th) edition, expanding the league from six to eight teams. This landmark expansion reflects the rising commercial value and global appeal of Pakistan’s premier T20 tournament. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) finalized the addition following a competitive bidding process, attracting strong interest from both local and overseas investors. The new teams represent Hyderabad and Sialkot, two cities with deep-rooted cricketing traditions. Franchise Prices and Ownership Details Hyderabad Franchise The Hyderabad team was purchased by the FKS Group, a US-based group of companies with interests in aviation, healthcare, and sports ventures. The franchise was secured at a price of PKR 1.75 billion per year, making it one of the most valuable new additions in PSL history. Sialkot Franchise The Sialkot franchise was acquired by OZ Developers, a prominent Pakistani real estate and development group. The winning bid stood at PKR 1.85 billion per year, the highest price ever paid for a new PSL franchise. Combined, the two new teams add PKR 3.6 billion annually in franchise fees, highlighting growing investor confidence in the PSL’s business model and long-term sustainability. Impact on PSL XI With the addition of Hyderabad and Sialkot, the PSL XI edition will feature eight teams for the first time. The expansion is expected to: Strengthen regional representation across Pakistan Create more opportunities for domestic and emerging cricket talent Enhance competition quality and fan engagement Increase commercial revenues and global visibility of the league The move marks a significant milestone in the PSL’s evolution and positions the league for continued growth in both sporting and commercial terms. As the PSL enters its second decade, the inclusion of two new franchises signals a strong future driven by investment confidence, expanding audiences, and a renewed commitment to cricket development in Pakistan.

1/9/2026, 10:25:00 PM

Mohammad Amir Leaves BPL Mid-Season, Returns to Pakistan Amid Financial Concerns

Mohammad Amir Returns to Pakistan After Early Exit from BPL Over Payment Issues January 2026 — Former Pakistan fast bowler Mohammad Amir has returned to Pakistan after cutting short his participation in the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL), following reported payment-related issues with his franchise. Amir was representing the Sylhet Strikers in the ongoing BPL season and featured in several matches before his unexpected departure. While the franchise confirmed his early exit, it did not publicly disclose detailed reasons. However, sources close to the matter indicate that delayed or incomplete payments were a key factor behind the decision. Brief Stint in the BPL The left-arm pacer joined the BPL after fulfilling other international franchise commitments and brought valuable experience to his side. During his short stay in the tournament, Amir delivered competitive performances and played a role in strengthening the team’s bowling attack. Despite his on-field contributions, discussions between Amir’s management and the franchise reportedly failed to resolve outstanding financial concerns, prompting the cricketer to return to Pakistan before the completion of the league. Franchise Response and Industry Concerns The Sylhet Strikers described Amir’s departure as a mutual decision, avoiding reference to financial disputes. Nevertheless, the development has once again highlighted broader concerns regarding contract enforcement and timely payments for overseas players in franchise-based leagues. Such incidents have sparked debate among cricket observers, with many emphasizing the need for stronger contractual safeguards to protect international players and maintain the credibility of global T20 tournaments. What Lies Ahead At present, Mohammad Amir has not issued an official public statement elaborating on the matter. It remains to be seen whether he will pursue further franchise opportunities, focus on domestic cricket, or explore future international league options. The situation serves as a reminder of the growing importance of professionalism, transparency, and financial accountability in modern franchise cricket.

1/9/2026, 3:38:00 AM

ICC finds Indian captain guilty of breaching code of conduct during Pakistan match

India skipper Suryakumar Yadav has been ruled guilty by the ICC for violating the code of conduct after making remarks hinting at the military clash between India and Pakistan following their Asia Cup group match on September 14, ESPNcricinfo reported on Friday. The publication reported that ICC match referee Richie Richardson rejected Yadav’s not-guilty plea; however, it is not yet clear what his punishment was. India, in response, have filed an appeal against the verdict. This development comes a day after reports that the ICC formally reprimanded the Indian captain over his political statements after the Pakistan match. The ICC had held a hearing on an official complaint filed by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), in which it reportedly advised Yadav to refrain from making political statements in the future. The PCB, in its complaint, accused the Indian captain of politicising cricket and violating the ICC's code of conduct on neutrality. Sources said the PCB submitted a detailed letter demanding strict action, claiming that Yadav's remarks were against the spirit of the game and harmed cricket's reputation. According to the foreign publication, the PCB had demanded that the top cricketing body impose a Level 4 sanction on Suryakumar, which is reserved for the most serious breaches of the ICC Code of Conduct. The issue arose during the high-profile game between the arch-rivals, which drew significant attention both on and off the field. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) had also lodged a complaint against two Pakistan cricketers — Sahibzada Farhan and Haris Rauf — against their on-field celebrations. In a hearing in Dubai conducted by ICC match referee Richardson today, Farhan and Rauf "submitted their written responses" to ICC match referee Richardson, who held a hearing in Dubai, sources told Geo News. Both cricketers "denied" having any political intent in their on-field celebrations. India and Pakistan only play in multinational tournaments as their bilateral ties have been stalled since 2012 over political tension. In the Asia Cup 2025, the arch-rivals have so far faced off twice and are set to take on each other for the first time in the continental tournament's final on Sunday.

9/25/2025, 7:00:00 PM

ICC reprimands Suryakumar Yadav over political remarks after Pakistan clash: sources

DUBAI: The International Cricket Council (ICC) formally reprimanded Indian captain Suryakumar Yadav over his political statements after their Asia Cup game against Pakistan on September 14, sources said on Thursday. The ICC held a hearing on an official complaint filed by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), in which it reportedly advised Yadav to refrain from making political statements in the future. The controversy stems from his post-match comments after India defeated Pakistan in the group stage of the Asia Cup on September 14. The PCB, in its complaint, accused the Indian captain of politicising cricket and violating the ICC’s code of conduct on neutrality. Sources said the PCB submitted a detailed letter demanding strict action, claiming that Yadav’s remarks were against the spirit of the game and harmed cricket’s reputation. The issue arose during the high-profile game between the arch-rivals, which drew significant attention both on and off the field. Tensions had heightened at the toss when both teams skipped the traditional handshake, reportedly at the match referee's advice. India won the group-stage match by seven wickets, but Yadav’s comments have continued to attract criticism, with pundits calling them “unprecedented” and “detrimental to the spirit of the game.” Separately, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) lodged a formal complaint with the ICC against Pakistan’s Haris Rauf and Sahibzada Farhan for their on-field gestures during the Asia Cup Super Fours clash in Dubai last Sunday. The complaint, reportedly submitted via email on Wednesday, highlights Farhan’s animated celebration after reaching his half-century and Rauf’s gestures toward fans while fielding at the boundary, incidents that went viral on social media and sparked widespread debate. If the players deny the allegations, the ICC is expected to hold a hearing, where they could appear before match referee Richie Richardson. Andy Pycroft is also serving as a match referee for the tournament. Both Pakistan players are scheduled to appear before the ICC governing body on Friday.

9/25/2025, 5:45:00 AM

Saim Ayub surpasses Shahid Afridi on unwanted record list

Pakistan's Saim Ayub plays a shot during their ACC Men's T20 Asia Cup 2025 Super Fours match against India at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium on September 21, 2025. — AFP Pakistan's batter Saim Ayub surpassed former captain Shahid Afridi on an unwanted record list after getting a duck during their Super Fours clash against Bangladesh in the T20 Asia Cup 2025 at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium on Thursday.The left-handed batter fell for a three-ball duck, his fourth in the ongoing continental tournament. The 24-year-old scored ducks in all three of Pakistan's group-stage matches against Oman, arch-rivals India, and the United Arab Emirates (UAE), respectively. Ayub fell victim to Mahedi Hasan on the fourth delivery of the second over as he smashed a flighted delivery straight into the hands of Rishad Hossain at mid-on. This was his eighth duck in T20Is, which took him past former captain and star all-rounder Shahid Afridi on the list of most ducks by a Pakistan batter in the shortest format, led by out-of-favour middle-order batter Umar Akmal. Star batter Babar Azam, Mohammad Hafeez, and Kamran Akmal are joint fourth on the unwanted list with seven ducks each. Most ducks for Pakistan in T20Is Umar Akmal – 10 ducks in 84 matches Saim Ayub – 9 ducks in 47 matches Shahid Afridi – 8 ducks in 98 matches Kamran Akmal – 7 ducks in 58 matches Mohammad Hafeez – 7 ducks in 119 matches Babar Azam – 7 ducks in 128 matches Earlier in the tournament, Ayub also became the 62nd batter in men's T20Is to bag three consecutive ducks, featuring compatriots Mohammad Hafeez and Abdullah Shafique. Shafique is at the top of the unwanted list with four consecutive ducks in the shortest format.

9/24/2025, 5:44:00 AM

Asia Cup 2025: Bangladesh win toss, opt to field first against Pakistan

9/24/2025, 5:00:00 AM

Alcaraz expects Sinner to come back stronger after US Open loss

"I know he's going to change something from the last match," says World number one Carlos Alcaraz By AFP | September 24, 2025 TOKYO: World number one Carlos Alcaraz said Wednesday that he will have to prepare for a new and improved Jannik Sinner after beating his great rival in the US Open final. Italy's Sinner admitted he needed to overhaul his "predictable" game after losing to Alcaraz in New York earlier this month in the latest of a string of recent defeats to his Spanish nemesis. Alcaraz is playing at the Japan Open in Tokyo this week, while Sinner will compete at the China Open in Beijing in his first appearance since the US Open. Alcaraz said he would need to be ready for a different Sinner next time he faces the world number two on the court. "I know he's going to change something from the last match," said Alcaraz. "It's the same thing that I did when I lost to him a couple of times, I tried to be a better player the next time I was going to face him. "I have to be focused and I have to be ready for that change," he added. Alcaraz and Sinner have dominated men's tennis this season, with the pair contesting all four Grand Slam finals, winning two each. Alcaraz is only 22 and Sinner is just two years older, and the two look set to monopolise the sport's top titles for years to come. "Our rivalry is getting better, which for me and for tennis I would say is great," said Alcaraz. "We will see in the future how many times I'm going to play against him and which circumstances we will play. "Right now, it's going great." Alcaraz heads to Tokyo coming off a surprise loss to American world number five Taylor Fritz at the Laver Cup in San Francisco last week. Fritz is the number two seed in Tokyo, where Denmark's Holger Rune, Norway's Casper Ruud and the Czech Republic's Tomas Machac will also compete. Alcaraz has won the French Open as well as the US Open this year and he said it had been "the best season that I've ever done". "I've seen myself that I've grown up a lot as a player on the court," he said. "For me, it could be better, of course it could be better, but I can't complain about the season I'm having so far." Alcaraz is playing at the Japan Open for the first time in his career. He said he wanted to play in Tokyo to "see the culture and see everything here". "I'm really excited about playing in different places, in different stadiums, and feel the energy from the Japanese people," he said.

9/23/2025, 9:40:00 PM

Abrar Ahmed breaks into ICC T20I top five rankings

Pakistan's Abrar Ahmed and Sahibzada Farhan have achieved notable gains in the latest ICC T20I player rankings, following their recent performances in the ongoing ACC Men’s T20 Asia Cup 2025. Spinner Abrar Ahmed made the biggest headlines, jumping 12 places to break into the top five for the first time. In the batting charts, opening batter Farhan rose 31 places to 24th position with 589 points. His climb follows a crucial knock of 58 runs in Pakistan’s recent Super Four clash against India. Skipper Salman Ali Agha and opener Fakhar Zaman also improved, moving up three places each to 64th and 66th respectively. Meanwhile, senior duo Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan continued to slip down the charts, having last featured in a T20I for Pakistan in 2024. Babar dropped nine places to 35th, while Rizwan fell five spots to 38th. Struggling opener Saim Ayub slid eight places to 55th, middle-order batter Hasan Nawaz dropped 11 spots to 58th, and wicketkeeper-batter Mohammad Haris slipped one place to 90th. India’s Abhishek Sharma retained his position as the No. 1 T20I batter, followed by England’s Phil Salt in second, while Tilak Varma leapfrogged Jos Buttler to claim third. He now sits in fourth with 703 points, edging closer to a top-three finish. Pacers Shaheen Afridi and Haris Rauf also rose in the standings, climbing to 25th and 28th, respectively, after strong performances in recent matches. However, not all bowlers fared well. Spinner Sufiyan Muqeem slipped three places to 14th, Mohammad Nawaz dropped 13 spots to 46th, and pacer Abbas Afridi fell three places to 44th. India’s Varun Chakaravarthy remains the top-ranked T20I bowler, followed by New Zealand’s Jacob Duffy in second and the West Indies’ Akeal Hosein in third. In the all-rounders’ rankings, Saim Ayub held on to his fifth position with 201 points, while Mohammad Nawaz rose one place to 17th. Shadab Khan dropped five places to 35th, while Faheem Ashraf surged 12 places to 39th. Shaheen Afridi and Agha Salman both climbed 14 and 11 places respectively, now tied at 71st. India’s Hardik Pandya continues to lead the all-rounders’ chart, with Afghanistan’s Mohammad Nabi second and Zimbabwe’s Sikandar Raza third.

9/23/2025, 6:00:00 AM

Japanese climbers summit 6,080m high Hasho Peak II

Japanese rock climbers Yudai Suzuki, Genki Narumi, and Hiroki Yamamoto successfully summited Hasho Peak II (also known as Ilford Peak, 6,080m) in the Karakoram range of Pakistan. On their arrival at the Alpine Club of Pakistan (ACP), Karrar Haidri, Vice President ACP, welcomed the team, congratulated them on their summit, and discussed opportunities for future collaboration. The climbers shared that it was a wonderful experience to climb peaks in the Karakoram and praised Pakistan’s unique mountain landscapes. Genki Narumi, an IFMGA-certified mountain guide, expressed his commitment to cooperate with ACP to help train mountain guides in Pakistan. On behalf of President ACP, Irfan Arshad Khan, a commemorative shield was presented to the Japanese team as a token of appreciation for their successful expedition and visit to Pakistan.

8/21/2025, 5:05:00 AM

Skipper Agha confident of Pakistan win against India in Asia Cup final

Pakistan skipper Salman Ali Agha has said that the national team players have capability to face any challengers and beat them, following their 11-run triumph over Bangladesh in Dubai that sealed them a spot in the ACC Men’s T20 Asia Cup 2025 final. The Green Shirts qualified for the summit clash after securing a hard-earned 11-run victory over Bangladesh in the high-stakes Super Four clash, which was concluded earlier today here at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium. Put into bat first, Pakistan could accumulate 135/8 in their allotted 20 overs, courtesy of wicketkeeper batter Mohammad Haris, who top-scored with a 23-ball 31, comprising two fours and a six. All-rounder Mohammad Nawaz (25) and Shaheen Shah Afridi (19) made handy contributions to Pakistan’s total. In response, Bangladesh amassed 124/9 in their set of 20 overs despite Shamim Hossain’s gutsy 30-run knock and thus succumbed to a campaign-ending defeat. Shaheen and Haris Rauf jointly led Pakistan’s bowling charge with two wickets, followed by Saim Ayub with two, while Nawaz chipped in with one scalp. Reflecting on the victory at the post-match presentation, Pakistan captain Agha admitted room for improvement but remained confident in his team to come good in the historic final, scheduled to be played at the same venue on Sunday. “If you can win these kinds of games, you must be a special team. Everyone chipped in. The way Shaheen bowled and the way Haris bowled up front, it was special,” Agha said. “We are finding ways to win. There are ways to improve but we will be better in the final,” he added. After walking out to bat at number six, with the scoreboard reading 33/4 in 8.1 overs, wicketkeeper batter Haris held Pakistan’s innings together with a sensible knock, which eventually culminated in the 18th over. “He is a special player. He is not batting in his number. He never moaned. He said whatever the team needs, he will do it. He is contributing every single game and I am very happy,” Agha lauded Haris for his anchoring knock. Although Pakistan successfully defended the 136-run target, their captain Agha rued that they were around 15 runs short. He, however, praised the bowling unit for creating pressure by bowling well, especially with the new ball. “We were 10-15 runs short - no way I am going to deny that. If we bowl the way we did up front, we will create pressure,” Agha continued. “When you create pressure up front, it is tough to chase it down. Bowled well with the new ball and once you bowl like this with the new ball, you win more often,” he added. The Green Shirts were equally productive in the fielding department, with Saim Ayub and Mohammad Nawaz taking sky-high catches with precision at crucial junctures of the low-scoring, and Agha termed it the outcome of their hard work and credited coach Shane McDermott. “We have been fielding really well. Since Shane came, we have been working really hard. Mike, our coach said whoever cannot field, cannot be in the team - so everyone is working very hard with Shane and I am happy with how everyone is fielding,” said Agha. Salman Ali Agha then went on to share his excitement for the blockbuster Asia Cup 2025 final against arch-rivals India, stating that they are aware of the requirements and will strive to win the summit clash. “Very excited. We know what we need to do, and we are a good enough team to beat anyone, and we will come on Sunday and try to beat them.”

8/6/2025, 6:34:00 AM