What should Be The Team For The First Test VS NZ?
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My preferred team would be :
Butt
Farhat
Alam
Yousuf
Malik
Iqbal
Akmal
Aamer
Gul
Ajmal
Asif
I'm missing Mr Nazir !!
Analysis
Ajmal should be Pakistan's premier spinner. He is attacking and always maintains pressure in the sense that he doesn't leak runs easily and become predictable like Kaneria. Kaneria can produce some magical deliveries but doesn't dominate and win enough matches. Actually most of his wickets come in vain circumstances. Ajmal will be threatening and economical.
Asif was a huge prospect when he emerged on the scene in 2005/06 and good to see him back with the red cherry despite what he’s done in the past. He can extract amazing seam deviation of the pitch and produce some astonishing deliveries bowling in that “corridor of uncertainty channel”.
But above all Pakistan must maintain the same opening pair for a sufficient period of time. Chopping and changing will never settle the players or team balance which is bound to result in inconsistency.
Thursday, 19 November 2009
Saturday, 14 November 2009
The Broadcasting Dilemma
Free aired TV or Sky TV? This article shall explore the disputable matter and take into account the different perspectives.
On first analysis free aired TV will not be 100% committed like Sky which is simply and frankly a matter of fact. Sky are fully dedicated to the game and show many matches which include the U19 level and women’s cricket. They also present additional programme’s like cricket am and cricket writers on TV. In the off season they telecast matches from Australia, SA, New Zealand, India and the Caribbean. Surely if they are showing this level of commitment all year round and for years on end they deserve to be showing arguably the biggest bounty of all?
However, from a statistical perspective people will be affected. The differences in audience will be noticeable. In genuine the free aired broadcaster’s gain more publicity and can make people who don’t watch the game get into cricket as a result of being free aired. The successes of channel 4 and BBC in the past had been overwhelming. Wouldn’t one love to live those times again?
In despite of that vision one must remember highlights are provided on a regular basis and now internet TV enables sport to be watched online. Therefore the dependency won’t be that gr8 especially in today’s ever expanding world. Imagine 2016?
On the whole I feel mixed supportive towards both sides of the dispute. But from an administrators vision I’m sure they will want the most viewers to watch the game as possible which is what Sky limits whereas free aired provides.
On first analysis free aired TV will not be 100% committed like Sky which is simply and frankly a matter of fact. Sky are fully dedicated to the game and show many matches which include the U19 level and women’s cricket. They also present additional programme’s like cricket am and cricket writers on TV. In the off season they telecast matches from Australia, SA, New Zealand, India and the Caribbean. Surely if they are showing this level of commitment all year round and for years on end they deserve to be showing arguably the biggest bounty of all?
However, from a statistical perspective people will be affected. The differences in audience will be noticeable. In genuine the free aired broadcaster’s gain more publicity and can make people who don’t watch the game get into cricket as a result of being free aired. The successes of channel 4 and BBC in the past had been overwhelming. Wouldn’t one love to live those times again?
In despite of that vision one must remember highlights are provided on a regular basis and now internet TV enables sport to be watched online. Therefore the dependency won’t be that gr8 especially in today’s ever expanding world. Imagine 2016?
On the whole I feel mixed supportive towards both sides of the dispute. But from an administrators vision I’m sure they will want the most viewers to watch the game as possible which is what Sky limits whereas free aired provides.
Friday, 13 November 2009
Afridi For Captaincy !
I am anti Younis. I hope to get your support on this too! Younis Khan and captaincy has been an episode of comedy and irony. From the high of winning a world cup to the lows of wanting to resign as a result of media pressure and a few silly statements made by influential people.
Yet now he is asking to take a break in a big series. What kind of responsible and keen captain would want to do that? This and more before suggests captaincy is too much of an emotional, psychological or conscientious challenge for him to deal with as he has unleashed on several occasions. This surely is unacceptable for a responsible captain and someone who wants to be captain in the future? Captains are meant to be a leading role which have the highest conscious levels and don’t release emotion for petty things like a sympathetic attraction.
This annoying part of it all is that of Mr Ijaz Butt, the over aged chairman’s not letting Younis go and instead providing him full support and confidence for continuation when after all it’s only evident that Younis is unable to cope with the pressure of captaincy. That has been the case since the conclusion of the upsetting 2007 WC when he rejected it. Perhaps after that one should have never asked him to do it as he denied/ missed the golden opportunity. It's mean't to be privilege for leading a nation. Never shall it be acceptable for one to act foolishly over such a role.Shall it ?
Moreover, Afridi has captained in 3 T20’s and won all. May not been a sufficient sample to count for but that is a perfectionist record of 100%. In those matches Afridi has shown impressive leadership credentials like a true “Pathan” character.
But it doesn’t take an idiot to figure out that there has been some conspiracy flirting in the camp. The team has been partially divided under Younis but with Afridi there appeared to be more comfort for players (in particular the younger ones) and the boys appear to really gel well together. In other words the team morale seems better as a whole.
Afridi for captain :)
Yet now he is asking to take a break in a big series. What kind of responsible and keen captain would want to do that? This and more before suggests captaincy is too much of an emotional, psychological or conscientious challenge for him to deal with as he has unleashed on several occasions. This surely is unacceptable for a responsible captain and someone who wants to be captain in the future? Captains are meant to be a leading role which have the highest conscious levels and don’t release emotion for petty things like a sympathetic attraction.
This annoying part of it all is that of Mr Ijaz Butt, the over aged chairman’s not letting Younis go and instead providing him full support and confidence for continuation when after all it’s only evident that Younis is unable to cope with the pressure of captaincy. That has been the case since the conclusion of the upsetting 2007 WC when he rejected it. Perhaps after that one should have never asked him to do it as he denied/ missed the golden opportunity. It's mean't to be privilege for leading a nation. Never shall it be acceptable for one to act foolishly over such a role.Shall it ?
Moreover, Afridi has captained in 3 T20’s and won all. May not been a sufficient sample to count for but that is a perfectionist record of 100%. In those matches Afridi has shown impressive leadership credentials like a true “Pathan” character.
The true leader
But it doesn’t take an idiot to figure out that there has been some conspiracy flirting in the camp. The team has been partially divided under Younis but with Afridi there appeared to be more comfort for players (in particular the younger ones) and the boys appear to really gel well together. In other words the team morale seems better as a whole.
Afridi for captain :)
Monday, 2 November 2009
Boycs !
Geoffrey Boycott recently made some interesting statements which I would like to gather and review.
First he said that Kallis and Pointing were the best of the decade. That is a humbled opinion in my view. However, he also bracketed other big names that can’t be forgotten and unnoticed before coming to his opinion. As a result I have conducted a poll on the top right hand side to represent what our audience feels.
Geoffrey is a highly admired and respected individual. He will be joining the commentary set up in Abu Dhabi/Dubai. I look forward to hear his expertise if I get time.
Also he commented that Shahid Khan Afridi was the best all-rounder in the modern game. I agree with this. He is at the top of the game in the bowling department for certain and he’s improved drastically to the extent where he’s recognised as a strike bowler, wicket-taking bowler, reliable bowler and even the side’s premier spinner by some. His batting has improved in terms of concentration and focus and he can still play that pinch hitting role. But I have to mention that he’s in the side as a bowler/ bowling all-rounder/ wrist spinner. Batting now is a bonus as far as I’m concerned. Some say it always has been the case but I have to disagree because 5 years or so ago his batting was more consistent whereas his bowling was mediocre. It’s only been in the last couple of years where his bowling has really taken off as something matchwinnining and striking.
Nevertheless, he is still equally gifted and capable in both departments if he puts his mind to it. He in my opinion is the best T20 player there has ever been. But in regards to ODI cricket he's also right up there with the very best. The two most important events for him right now are the T20WC 2010 and the WC 2011. One wonders if he can he achieve glory in both or at least one of them ? Shahid, u are a unique and enterprising asset to the game. I salute your capabilities with both and bat ball.
First he said that Kallis and Pointing were the best of the decade. That is a humbled opinion in my view. However, he also bracketed other big names that can’t be forgotten and unnoticed before coming to his opinion. As a result I have conducted a poll on the top right hand side to represent what our audience feels.
Geoffrey is a highly admired and respected individual. He will be joining the commentary set up in Abu Dhabi/Dubai. I look forward to hear his expertise if I get time.
Also he commented that Shahid Khan Afridi was the best all-rounder in the modern game. I agree with this. He is at the top of the game in the bowling department for certain and he’s improved drastically to the extent where he’s recognised as a strike bowler, wicket-taking bowler, reliable bowler and even the side’s premier spinner by some. His batting has improved in terms of concentration and focus and he can still play that pinch hitting role. But I have to mention that he’s in the side as a bowler/ bowling all-rounder/ wrist spinner. Batting now is a bonus as far as I’m concerned. Some say it always has been the case but I have to disagree because 5 years or so ago his batting was more consistent whereas his bowling was mediocre. It’s only been in the last couple of years where his bowling has really taken off as something matchwinnining and striking.
Nevertheless, he is still equally gifted and capable in both departments if he puts his mind to it. He in my opinion is the best T20 player there has ever been. But in regards to ODI cricket he's also right up there with the very best. The two most important events for him right now are the T20WC 2010 and the WC 2011. One wonders if he can he achieve glory in both or at least one of them ? Shahid, u are a unique and enterprising asset to the game. I salute your capabilities with both and bat ball.
Wednesday, 28 October 2009
RIP David Shephered........
My deep condolences lie with his family and close friends. He was a fine umpire with an amusing sense of humour. Please share your condolences and memories.
Monday, 26 October 2009
My Expectations Of Pakistan This Winter !
Pakistan have a busy schedule in prospectus this winter. They play the down under sides in an important series for the country who haven't won a test series in a long time. Here below are my personal expectations of the side this winter. Feel free to share yours !
To beat the Kiwis in both formats of the game. Nothing but should be accepted.
To be competitive with Australia at least.The win might be a stiff task but they certainly should be a challenge to the Ricky's side and not a laughing stock like last time they went.
The U19 team to win the world cup in January. They should as always continue to flourish with their formidable success in the youth structure.
Win a large amount of their T20 fixtures eg 85%. Afterall, they are champions so they should play like one.
To beat the Kiwis in both formats of the game. Nothing but should be accepted.
To be competitive with Australia at least.The win might be a stiff task but they certainly should be a challenge to the Ricky's side and not a laughing stock like last time they went.
The U19 team to win the world cup in January. They should as always continue to flourish with their formidable success in the youth structure.
Win a large amount of their T20 fixtures eg 85%. Afterall, they are champions so they should play like one.
Saturday, 24 October 2009
Why The Stani's Are The Real Champs !
NSW winners - Doesn't mean Australia have the best T20 structure !
New South Wales may have won the CLT20 but surely it's only evident that Pakistan are the kings of the format. If Sialkot Stallions were in the reckoning I'm sure they would have been a frontline force with their unique and flamboyant style.
T20 comes as a synthetic format for the country. In fact it originated long ago for the talented and gifted cricketing nation when people used to play "Ramadan tournaments" and specifically 20/20 matches with tape balls etc. Therefore it's nothing new and comes very naturally to the people. The interest within the nation is of abundance and the structure is one that really motivates the players.
Here below is rock hard statistical evidence as to why I regard Pakistan as the real champs of T20 format !
Unofficial T20 Team Ranking
Until ICC introduces an official T20 Ranking system, lets go ahead and rank teams based on their performance so far in this format...
* Ranking are based on winning percentages on total matches. Exceptional world cup performance fetches more recognisation though.
** Ranking updated after T20 two match series between NZ vs SL & Aus vs Eng
--------------------------------------------------------------------
Rank 1
Pakistan- Its a no brainer with 2 consecutive world cup final apperances & current world cup holder as well as winning 19 of their 25 T20 matches so far.
Overall Record= played 25, won 19, lost 5, tied/no result 1
Overall Winnning percentage= 79%
Rank 2
South Arica
Though dissapointing in both world cups, they have a consistent overall record of winning 16 out of 24 matches.
Overall Record= played 24, won 16, lost 8, tied/no result 0
Overall Winnning percentage= 67%
Rank 3
Srilanka
With an ever improving T20 record of 14 wins out of 23 matches as well as latest world cup final apperance, they deserved no.3.
Overall Record= played 23, won 14, lost 9, tied/no result 0
Overall Winnning percentage= 61%
Rank 4
India
Maiden world cup winner India, slides down due to a disasterous second world cup where they failed to win a single match in super 8. Also the overall record of 9 wins & 7 losses in 18 T20 matches lack consistency.
Overall Record= played 18, won 9, lost 7, tied/no result 2
Overall Winnning percentage= 56%
Rank 5
West Indies
A semi final apperance in second world cup is no mean achievement and overall 50% record of 8 wins/8 losses in 18 T20 matches justifies their position.
Overall Record= played 18, won 8, lost 8, tied/no result 2
Overall Winnning percentage= 50%
Rank 6
Australia
Former ODI & Test no.1 team & 4 time ODI World cup winners didn't like the format apparntly and are langusihing in the bottom tier. After a decent first world cup, where they reach semis, they bowed out in the first round of the second. Overall record of 11 wins/12 losses in 25 games is quite average.
Overall Record= played 25, won 11, lost 12, tied/no result 2
Overall Winnning percentage= 47%
Rank 7
Newzealand
They flopped in both world cups and has a weak 12 wins /14 loss in 28 games.
Overall Record= played 28, won 12, lost 14, tied/no result 2
Overall Winnning percentage= 46%
Rank 8
England
ODIs whipping boys is also T20 whipping boys. Overall record of 8 wins out of 22 games proves that. they have the lowes percentage of winning of all 8 top teams.
Overall Record= played 22, won 8, lost 12, tied/no result 2
Overall Winnning percentage= 40%
Rank 9
Netherland
World Cup surprise team did their ranking no harm by beating Eng. Overall record 3 wins/2 loss in 6 games ( but must have played against minnows as well)
Overall Record= played 6, won 3, lost 2, tied/no result 1
Overall Winnning percentage= 60%
Rank 10
Ireland
Surprsingly ireland has a 50% record with 4 win 4 loss in 9 matches...quite good for a minnows but then they must have played T20 aginst another minow as well..
Overall Record= played 9, won 4, lost 4, tied/no result 1
Overall Winnning percentage= 50%
Rank 11
Bangladesh
They are doing no better than in ODIs or Tests and are at bottom. Overall record of 3win/10 loss is pathetic.
Overall Record= played 13, won 3, lost 10, tied/no result 0
Overall Winnning percentage= 23%
Notice that Pakistan have played more matches partly because they have qualified for the knockout stages in each eddition on the T20WC ! So the data is all but fair and trustworthy indicator.
Also have a look at this link which outlines the domestic strength: http://www.cricket20.com/db/power_rankings/default.asp
Sialkot as many may say would have been leading had they played more frequently ! It must also be that Lahore Badshahs aren't recognised otherwise inevitably they would have been in there I'm sure.
Players like Rana Naved (a personal favourite of mine and stani) and Imran Nazir can be both of high quality when it comes to T20 ! It's helped them with their cricketing careers and both of them have thrived remarkably in it. Noticeably, they are both from Sialkot !
New South Wales may have won the CLT20 but surely it's only evident that Pakistan are the kings of the format. If Sialkot Stallions were in the reckoning I'm sure they would have been a frontline force with their unique and flamboyant style.
T20 comes as a synthetic format for the country. In fact it originated long ago for the talented and gifted cricketing nation when people used to play "Ramadan tournaments" and specifically 20/20 matches with tape balls etc. Therefore it's nothing new and comes very naturally to the people. The interest within the nation is of abundance and the structure is one that really motivates the players.
Here below is rock hard statistical evidence as to why I regard Pakistan as the real champs of T20 format !
Unofficial T20 Team Ranking
Until ICC introduces an official T20 Ranking system, lets go ahead and rank teams based on their performance so far in this format...
* Ranking are based on winning percentages on total matches. Exceptional world cup performance fetches more recognisation though.
** Ranking updated after T20 two match series between NZ vs SL & Aus vs Eng
--------------------------------------------------------------------
Rank 1
Pakistan- Its a no brainer with 2 consecutive world cup final apperances & current world cup holder as well as winning 19 of their 25 T20 matches so far.
Overall Record= played 25, won 19, lost 5, tied/no result 1
Overall Winnning percentage= 79%
Rank 2
South Arica
Though dissapointing in both world cups, they have a consistent overall record of winning 16 out of 24 matches.
Overall Record= played 24, won 16, lost 8, tied/no result 0
Overall Winnning percentage= 67%
Rank 3
Srilanka
With an ever improving T20 record of 14 wins out of 23 matches as well as latest world cup final apperance, they deserved no.3.
Overall Record= played 23, won 14, lost 9, tied/no result 0
Overall Winnning percentage= 61%
Rank 4
India
Maiden world cup winner India, slides down due to a disasterous second world cup where they failed to win a single match in super 8. Also the overall record of 9 wins & 7 losses in 18 T20 matches lack consistency.
Overall Record= played 18, won 9, lost 7, tied/no result 2
Overall Winnning percentage= 56%
Rank 5
West Indies
A semi final apperance in second world cup is no mean achievement and overall 50% record of 8 wins/8 losses in 18 T20 matches justifies their position.
Overall Record= played 18, won 8, lost 8, tied/no result 2
Overall Winnning percentage= 50%
Rank 6
Australia
Former ODI & Test no.1 team & 4 time ODI World cup winners didn't like the format apparntly and are langusihing in the bottom tier. After a decent first world cup, where they reach semis, they bowed out in the first round of the second. Overall record of 11 wins/12 losses in 25 games is quite average.
Overall Record= played 25, won 11, lost 12, tied/no result 2
Overall Winnning percentage= 47%
Rank 7
Newzealand
They flopped in both world cups and has a weak 12 wins /14 loss in 28 games.
Overall Record= played 28, won 12, lost 14, tied/no result 2
Overall Winnning percentage= 46%
Rank 8
England
ODIs whipping boys is also T20 whipping boys. Overall record of 8 wins out of 22 games proves that. they have the lowes percentage of winning of all 8 top teams.
Overall Record= played 22, won 8, lost 12, tied/no result 2
Overall Winnning percentage= 40%
Rank 9
Netherland
World Cup surprise team did their ranking no harm by beating Eng. Overall record 3 wins/2 loss in 6 games ( but must have played against minnows as well)
Overall Record= played 6, won 3, lost 2, tied/no result 1
Overall Winnning percentage= 60%
Rank 10
Ireland
Surprsingly ireland has a 50% record with 4 win 4 loss in 9 matches...quite good for a minnows but then they must have played T20 aginst another minow as well..
Overall Record= played 9, won 4, lost 4, tied/no result 1
Overall Winnning percentage= 50%
Rank 11
Bangladesh
They are doing no better than in ODIs or Tests and are at bottom. Overall record of 3win/10 loss is pathetic.
Overall Record= played 13, won 3, lost 10, tied/no result 0
Overall Winnning percentage= 23%
Notice that Pakistan have played more matches partly because they have qualified for the knockout stages in each eddition on the T20WC ! So the data is all but fair and trustworthy indicator.
Also have a look at this link which outlines the domestic strength: http://www.cricket20.com/db/power_rankings/default.asp
Sialkot as many may say would have been leading had they played more frequently ! It must also be that Lahore Badshahs aren't recognised otherwise inevitably they would have been in there I'm sure.
Players like Rana Naved (a personal favourite of mine and stani) and Imran Nazir can be both of high quality when it comes to T20 ! It's helped them with their cricketing careers and both of them have thrived remarkably in it. Noticeably, they are both from Sialkot !
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