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Time Business News
11 hours ago
- Sport
- Time Business News
Cricket Diplomacy: Pakistan and Bangladesh Square Off in T20I
Cricket fans are eagerly anticipating the highly anticipated three-match Twenty20 International (T20I) series between Pakistan and Bangladesh, commencing on Wednesday, May 28, 2025. All three encounters are set to unfold at the iconic Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore, a venue that has recently undergone significant renovations and promises a vibrant atmosphere. This series holds considerable importance for both nations, as they navigate periods of transition and look to fine-tune their squads with an eye on the upcoming T20 World Cup in 2026. Both Pakistan and Bangladesh enter this series eager to reverse recent fortunes and build momentum for the future. Pakistan, once T20 World Champions in 2009, has experienced a challenging period over the past 12 months, including an early exit from the 2024 T20 World Cup. Their recent T20I series against New Zealand in March saw them suffer a 4-1 defeat, highlighting areas for significant improvement. In response, the Pakistan Cricket Board has opted for a fresh approach, with New Zealander Mike Hesson taking over as the white-ball head coach. This series marks Hesson's first assignment, and his tenure begins with a revamped squad that sees the notable absences of star batsmen Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan, as well as pace spearhead Shaheen Shah Afridi. Salman Ali Agha will lead this new-look Pakistan side, which features a blend of established performers and promising talents from the Pakistan Super League (PSL). Bangladesh, currently ranked ninth in T20 Internationals, is also undergoing a similar period of introspection and reconstruction. They have had a tough run of late, winning only four of their last 12 T20Is and suffering series defeats to lower-ranked teams like the United States in 2024 and the United Arab Emirates earlier this month. The Tigers are also under new leadership, with Litton Das taking on the full-time T20I captaincy. Their squad for this series is notably youthful, missing several senior players such as Tamim Iqbal, Shakib Al Hasan, Mohammad Mahmudullah, and Mushfiqur Rahim, who are either retired from the format or not available. Injuries have also sidelined key fast bowlers Taskin Ahmed and Mustafizur Rahman. This series provides an invaluable opportunity for Bangladesh's emerging talents to step up and make a mark on the international stage. Historically, Pakistan has held a significant advantage over Bangladesh in T20 International cricket. Out of the 19 T20I encounters between the two nations, Pakistan has emerged victorious in 16 matches, while Bangladesh has secured three wins. At the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore, where all three matches of this series will be played, Pakistan boasts a perfect record, having won both previous T20Is against Bangladesh at this venue. However, recent encounters suggest a shift in dynamics. While Pakistan has won four of the last five T20I matches against Bangladesh, the most recent clash, part of the 2023 Asian Games, saw Bangladesh clinch a notable six-wicket victory. This indicates that despite Pakistan's overall dominance, Bangladesh has the capability to spring surprises and provide a stern challenge, especially when playing with renewed confidence and a desire to prove a point. The rivalry, though statistically skewed, has consistently delivered engaging contests. The three-match T20I series is scheduled as follows: First T20I: Wednesday, May 28, 2025, at Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore. Wednesday, May 28, 2025, at Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore. Second T20I: Friday, May 30, 2025, at Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore. Friday, May 30, 2025, at Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore. Third T20I: Sunday, June 1, 2025, at Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore. All matches are scheduled for an 8:00 PM local time start, with the toss taking place at 7:30 PM. The Pakistan squad, led by Salman Ali Agha, includes players such as Shadab Khan (vice-captain), Abrar Ahmed, Faheem Ashraf, Fakhar Zaman, Haris Rauf, Hasan Ali, Hassan Nawaz, Hussain Talat, Khushdil Shah, Mohammad Haris (wicketkeeper), Muhammad Abbas Afridi (replacing Mohammad Wasim Jnr due to injury), Muhammad Irfan Khan, Naseem Shah, Sahibzada Farhan (wicketkeeper), and Saim Ayub. The inclusion of players like Saim Ayub, returning from injury and having performed well in the PSL, and Fakhar Zaman, who is back to strengthen the top order, highlights Pakistan's intent to inject fresh energy and aggressive batting into their lineup. Bangladesh's squad, under the leadership of Litton Das (captain and wicketkeeper), comprises Mahedi Hasan (vice-captain), Tanzid Hasan, Parvez Hossain Emon (wicketkeeper), Najmul Hossain Shanto, Towhid Hridoy, Jaker Ali (wicketkeeper), Shamim Hossain, Rishad Hossain, Hasan Mahmud, Shoriful Islam, Tanvir Islam, Tanzim Hasan Sakib, and Nahid Rana. Soumya Sarkar was ruled out due to a back injury and replaced by Mehidy Hasan Miraz, while Khaled Ahmed replaced the injured Mustafizur Rahman. This young Bangladeshi side will be looking to prove their mettle against a strong Pakistani team on their home turf. This series is more than just a bilateral contest; it's a critical component of both teams' preparations for the T20 World Cup in 2026, which will be jointly hosted by India and Sri Lanka. For Pakistan, it's an opportunity for their new coaching staff and fresh faces to gel as a unit and establish a clear playing style. The absence of seasoned campaigners presents a chance for younger players to step into leadership roles and demonstrate their capabilities under pressure. For Bangladesh, this tour is a valuable part of their ongoing process to try out different combinations and build a resilient squad for the future. Facing a strong opponent in challenging away conditions will provide invaluable experience for their developing players. Both captains, Salman Ali Agha and Litton Das, have publicly emphasized the importance of this series for their respective teams' long-term objectives. As the two teams take to the field at the Gaddafi Stadium, cricket enthusiasts can expect a fiercely contested series. While Pakistan will be keen to assert their dominance at home and rebuild their winning momentum, Bangladesh will be determined to showcase their fighting spirit and prove that they are a force to be reckoned with in the shortest format of the game. The stage is set for an exciting display of T20 cricket, as both nations embark on a new chapter in their cricketing journeys. TIME BUSINESS NEWS
Time of India
18 hours ago
- Sport
- Time of India
Haider Ali – The fruit seller who refused to let go of his cricket dream
Born in Pakistan, Haider Ali now represents UAE. (Image: Special Arrangement) Born in a small village in Pakistan where cricketing facilities were nonexistent and education was prioritised over sport, Haider Ali 's path to the UAE national team was anything but conventional. He never played age-group cricket, worked as a night-time waiter, sold fruits during the pandemic and even survived a near-fatal accident that almost ended his career. Yet, he never gave up. Today, at 30, the left-arm spinner stands tall as one of UAE cricket's most promising cricketers, having played a pivotal role in their historic T20I series win over Bangladesh and shining in franchise cricket with Dubai Capitals in ILT20. From village dust to Lahore dreams Haider Ali's journey to international cricket is the stuff of Bollywood dramas — minus the glamour. Born in a remote village (Kamalia Azmat Shah) in Pakistan, Haider was never meant to be a cricketer. There were no playgrounds, no nets and most importantly, no permission. His uncle, who raised him, made it clear: no cricket until you pass your Matric (Class 10) exams. That meant missing all formative cricket — school, under-14, under-16. Go Beyond The Boundary with our YouTube channel. SUBSCRIBE NOW! "I came from a very small village which had no facilities. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like 4BHK+Family Lounge+Utility room at 4.49Cr (All Incl)* ATS Triumph, Gurgaon Book Now Undo My uncle, who took care of me and my education, did not allow me to play," Haider told "He used to say that first you have to clear the matric exam… after that I won't stop you." Once he graduated, he left for Lahore — five hours away — on a one-way ticket to chase his dream. He found a cricketing home at Ludhiana Gymkhana Club, under the guidance of Akhtar Mumtaz. Days were for cricket. Nights were for survival. "I used to work as a waiter in the night time and during the day I played cricket and exercised in the gym. My family didn't know anything… they only knew that their son was playing cricket in Lahore," he said. EPIC IS BACK! ILT20 set for explosive return on December 2, 2025 Then came COVID. Marriage halls shut, jobs vanished and Haider became a fruit seller. Yet, cricket remained. "I worked (for) almost four years as a fruit seller, but I did not leave my cricket. I kept practicing my skills, because cricket is my passion and my father's dream." But tragedy struck again — a life-threatening accident. He fell 30 feet from a bridge when an overloaded auto-rickshaw toppled while transporting fruits. "The auto fell down… I broke my shoulder, leg, nasal bone and others. But I am very lucky, God has given me a second life," he said. Most people told him it was over. "A lot of big cricketers, including Test players, told me that 'your career is over.' But I didn't believe them. I had worked too hard and believed that God would give me my result." A new life in the UAE Haider Ali. (Image: Special Arrangement) Haider's belief pushed him to take the most painful step yet — leaving home and Pakistan. With just 10 Pakistani rupees in his pocket (barely 1 Dirham), he flew to the UAE, tears in his eyes, for a better future. "It's a very emotional topic for me," he said, his voice cracking. "When I was leaving, my mom was crying… my dad too. I told my mom that I will return only after making you all proud." He found initial support in the Seven Districts cricket team, especially from its owner Muhammad Haider and his father Amir Ali. "We are not in touch now, but they gave me everything in the first two and a half years here," he acknowledged. ILT20 Season 4 Dates Announced Today, Haider represents Karwan Cricket Club — one of UAE's premier sides — and credits Babar Iqbal for his continued growth. Even in Dubai, the grind hasn't stopped. His routine reflects his obsession. "My day starts at 3:30 am. I go swimming, then practice. I sleep a bit, then wake up around 2-3 pm and train again — bowling and fielding drills in 45 degrees Celsius. Then I go to the gym. I don't care what others are doing. I work when no one is watching except for God." Making history and dreams come true Haider Ali. (Image: Special Arrangement) On May 21, 2025, Haider Ali etched his name in UAE cricket folklore. Playing a pivotal role, the 30-year-old left-arm spinner took 3 for 7 in four overs, helping UAE clinch their first T20I series win over a Test-playing nation — Bangladesh — in Sharjah. It wasn't just a series win. It was validation. From being a waiter and fruit-seller in Lahore to taking key wickets against a full-member nation, Haider has proven everyone wrong — except himself. "I always believed that God would give me my time. As the Almighty always says: you do the hard work, and leave the result to me." Get IPL 2025 match schedules , squads , points table , and live scores for CSK , MI , RCB , KKR , SRH , LSG , DC , GT , PBKS , and RR . Check the latest IPL Orange Cap and Purple Cap standings.
India Gazette
19 hours ago
- Sport
- India Gazette
Alice Capsey, Lauren Filer added in England's ODI squad for their ODI series against West Indies
New Delhi, [India], May 28 (ANI):Key batter Heather Knight is in doubt for the series that commences in Derby on May 30 due to a hamstring issue, with all-rounder Alice Capsey drafted into a 16-player group as cover for the former England captain. have been drafted into England's ODI squad as the team awaits the results of scans on Heather Knight's hamstring injury. According to the ICC website, England has brought two extra players into their squad for their upcoming three-match ODI series against the West Indies. Key batter Heather Knight is in doubt for the series that commences in Derby on May 30 due to a hamstring issue, with all-rounder Alice Capsey drafted into a 16-player group as cover for the former England captain. Knight hurt her troublesome hamstring while batting during the final match of the T20I series against the West Indies, and the team is still awaiting the scan results that will determine her availability for the 50-over matches. Capsey gets a call-up to the ODI squad after she featured in all three of the T20I contests, though the 20-year-old was used sparingly in those matches, managing just four runs and not given the chance with the ball. Pacer Lauren Filer has also been added to the ODI squad to take on the West Indies after recovering from a knee injury. Filer hasn't played at the international level since she featured against Australia at the start of the year, with the right-armer in contention to take on the West Indies in what will be a vital preparation for this year's ICC Women's Cricket World Cup in India. England take on the West Indies in three ODIs and host India in another three 50-over contests towards the end of next month, with both series being to finalise plans for the 50-over World Cup, according to new coach Charlotte Edwards. 'I feel these games are really big for us,' Edwards said, as quoted from ICC. 'We've got nine games before the World Cup starts, so a lot of this is about us getting the right balance of team,' she added. England squad: Nat Sciver-Brunt (c), Emily Arlott, Tammy Beaumont, Lauren Bell, Alice Capsey, Kate Cross, Alice Davidson-Richards, Charlie Dean, Sophia Dunkley, Lauren Filer, Mahika Gaur, Sarah Glenn, Amy Jones, Heather Knight, Emma Lamb, Linsey Smith. (ANI)
Arab News
21 hours ago
- General
- Arab News
Pakistan and Bangladesh begin T20I series today
ISLAMABAD: Pakistan are all set to take on Bangladesh in a three-match T20I series commencing from today, Wednesday, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) said in a statement. The second T20I will be held on Friday, May 30, while the third and final T20I of the series is scheduled on June 1. Salman Ali Agha will lead Pakistan, while Litton Das will captain Bangladesh. All three T20Is will be played at Lahore's Qaddafi Stadium, which will host its first T20I series after going through a complete renovation earlier this year. 'The boys are doing well as a unit. A lot of our players are coming off strong performances in the HBL PSL X, which is one of the most competitive T20 tournaments in the world. That form and momentum are something we are hoping to carry into this series,' Agha was quoted as saying in a PCB statement. 'Bangladesh are a quality side with talented players and we are expecting a good challenge from them. I believe fans are in for some thrilling cricket over the next few days.' Das, the Bangladesh captain, said his team was 'focused and understands the challenge Pakistan poses, especially in their home conditions.' 'This series is a great opportunity for every player to step up. We are trying a few combinations in the build-up to the T20 World Cup next year and this tour is a valuable part of that process,' the PCB statement quoted Das as saying. The 2009 world champions Pakistan have endured a significant downturn in the last 12 months and crashed out in the first round of the World Cup in 2024. They have won only three of their last 13 T20Is, two against minnows Zimbabwe, and slumped to eighth in the T20I rankings. With a new head coach in New Zealand's Mike Hesson they are looking to younger players with the World Cup in India and Sri Lanka just eight months away. Star batsmen Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan, and pace spearhead Shaheen Shah Afridi, have all been axed. Salman Agha will lead the side, having lost a series in New Zealand 4-1 two months ago. Bangladesh, ranked ninth, are in the same boat. They have won just four of their last 12 T20Is and lost series against lower-ranked United States (2024) and United Arab Emirates earlier this month. They also have a new coach in West Indian Phil Simmons, who will be missing senior players including Tamim Iqbal, Shakib Al Hasan, Mohammad Mahmudullah and Mushfiqur Rahim, all either fully retired or from the T20Is. Frontline fast bowlers Taskin Ahmed and Mustafizur Rahman are nursing injuries while new pace sensation Nahid Rana withdrew from the tour over security fears following the cross-border conflict between India and Pakistan. With inputs from AFP
News18
a day ago
- Sport
- News18
Rohit Sharma Personally Requested Gautam Gambhir To Reappoint T Dilip: Report
Last Updated: According to various reports, India fielding coach T Dilip has been given a one-year extension. T Dilip has reportedly been retained as the India men's fielding coach for another year by the BCCI weeks after parting ways. Along with Dilip, the BCCI had unceremoniously sacked batting coach Abhishek Nayar last month. However, failing to find a suitable replacement meant the board called back Dilip, who will take charge from India's five-match Test tour of England that starts from June 20. According to Cricbuzz, former Test and T20I captain Rohit Sharma played a major role in convincing the BCCI and head coach Gautam Gambhir to keep hold of Dilip. Quoting sources, the publication reports that Rohit, who announced his Test retirement earlier this month, personally requested Gambhir to reappoint the Hyderabadi, who has reportedly been given a one-year contract. 'Dilip is a good coach, who served the team well for over three years (from 2021). He knows most of these cricketers very closely. So, to have him on board for a big series (vs England) will do the team only good," a source close to the development told news agency PTI. 'So, there is no point in bringing in a fresh name at this stage, and Dilip is very popular with players too," the source added. The BCCI is said to have been keen on roping in a foreign name as fielding coach but failed to find a suitable candidate in the required time. During his stint, Dilip became a popular figure among the Indian players and on social media as he introduced 'fielding medals", which was awarded to the best player from each match. An India A team will play a couple of unofficial Test matches starting May 30 before the series starts. First Published: May 28, 2025, 10:03 IST
