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Sports

Sialkot Stallions rebranded as Multan Sultans for PSL 11

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Sialkot Stallions

LAHORE: The franchise initially introduced as Sialkot Stallions for the upcoming season of the Pakistan Super League (PSL) 11 has been officially rebranded as Multan Sultans.

The development was confirmed on Tuesday by PSL Chief Executive Salman Naseer during a joint press conference attended by franchise owner Hamza Majeed and CD Ventures head Gohar Shah.

Earlier, OZ Developers had secured the Sialkot Stallions franchise rights for 10 years at a bid of Rs1.85 billion during the team auction held in Islamabad. However, the company has now entered into a strategic partnership with CD Ventures.

Under the new arrangement, Gohar Shah has been appointed as Chief Executive Officer of the franchise, and the team has been renamed Multan Sultans.

According to Salman Naseer, following the latest development, the franchise’s annual valuation has increased to Rs2 billion. He revealed that after assuming office, Gohar Shah formally requested the name change, which was subsequently approved.

“Sialkot Stallions will now participate as Multan Sultans,” Naseer stated.

Speculation had circulated in recent weeks regarding the Sialkot-based franchise, including reports about OZ Developers selling shares and facing financial challenges.

Speaking at the press conference, Multan Sultans CEO Gohar Shah confirmed his formal induction into the franchise leadership and expressed his desire to strengthen South Punjab’s representation in the league.

“An individual stallion cannot win the PSL alone; to move forward, a stallion needs a sultan — and we have come as the Sultan,” he remarked, emphasizing the importance of preserving Multan’s identity.

The PSL Season 11 is scheduled to take place from March 26 to May 3, 2026.

PCB plans major overhaul after T20 World Cup exit

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PCB plans major

LAHORE: In the wake of Pakistan’s underwhelming T20 World Cup campaign, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has reportedly decided to carry out another major overhaul of the national side. Sources indicate that star batter Babar Azam and several other players are being considered for exclusion from the T20 setup.

Despite reaching the Super Eight stage, Pakistan endured a disappointing tournament overall. The team failed to register a single victory against top-tier sides and narrowly avoided defeat in their final group-stage clash against Sri Lanka.

The Green Shirts were fortunate to escape an upset loss to the Netherlands in their opening match. Their much-anticipated encounter with India ended in another defeat, continuing a recent trend in high-profile contests between the two rivals. Wins against Asia and Namibia helped Pakistan secure a Super Eight berth.

However, their Super Eight campaign faltered. The opening fixture against New Zealand was washed out due to rain, followed by a loss to England that left the team dependent on other results. Although Pakistan managed to defeat Sri Lanka, an inferior net run rate ultimately knocked them out of semifinal contention.

PCB officials have signaled that accountability will be strictly enforced, with sweeping changes expected as part of efforts to rebuild the T20 squad ahead of upcoming international assignments.

While, Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is reportedly considering imposing fines on players for substandard performances in the recent T20 World Cup, sources say.

According to insiders, the board is contemplating a proposal to levy fines of PKR 5 million on each player, following Pakistan’s disappointing defeat against India. PCB officials have held consultations on strict measures to ensure accountability within the squad.

Officials emphasized that future financial incentives will be strictly linked to on-field performance. The board has sent a clear message to the players that leniency will no longer be tolerated.

Team management has also been instructed to implement strategies to improve performance, with PCB signaling that rigorous evaluation and accountability processes will continue. A final decision on the matter is expected to be announced soon.

Sahibzada Farhan becomes highest run-scorer in a single edition

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Sahibzada Farhan

Pakistan opener Sahibzada Farhan has become the highest run-scorer in a single edition of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup.

Farhan achieved the milestone during a crucial match against the Sri Lanka national cricket team in the 2026 tournament.

The previous record was held by Virat Kohli, who scored 319 runs in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup.

Sahibzada Farhan has now surpassed the 319-run mark in the 2026 edition, setting a new benchmark for the most runs scored by a batter in a single T20 World Cup tournament.

The achievement highlights Farhan’s remarkable consistency and impact throughout the competition, marking a historic moment for Pakistan cricket.

Pakistan beat Sri Lanka by 5 runs but eliminated from World Cup

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Pakistan beat

Pakistan secured a thrilling five-run victory over Sri Lanka national cricket team in the Super 8 stage of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 in Kandy, but the win was not enough to seal a semi-final berth.

After winning the toss, the Sri Lankan captain invited Pakistan to bat first in the crucial encounter.

For the must-win match, Pakistan dropped Babar Azam, Saim Ayub and Salman Mirza from the playing XI. They were replaced by Naseem Shah, Khawaja Nafay and Abrar Ahmed.

Pakistan posted a formidable 212/8 in 20 overs, powered by outstanding knocks from Sahibzada Farhan and Fakhar Zaman.

Farhan scored a brilliant 100, while Fakhar contributed 84 runs, with the duo stitching together a record 176-run partnership.

No other batter reached double figures. Khawaja Nafay made 2, Shadab Khan 7, while Mohammad Nawaz and Salman Agha were dismissed for ducks.

This marked Farhan’s second century of the 2026 T20 World Cup, making him the first player in the tournament’s history to score two centuries in a single edition.

Sri Lanka’s Chase

Chasing 213, Sri Lanka fought valiantly and managed 207/6 in 20 overs.

Captain Shanaka led the resistance with 76 runs, while Pawan Ratnayake added 58.

For Pakistan, Abrar Ahmed claimed three wickets, while Nawaz, Naseem Shah and Shaheen Afridi picked up one wicket each.

Pakistan Eliminated Despite Victory

To qualify for the semi-finals, Pakistan needed to restrict Sri Lanka to 147 runs or fewer to boost their net run rate. However, the bowlers were unable to achieve the required margin, resulting in Pakistan’s elimination.

From Group 2, New Zealand national cricket team advanced to the semi-finals with three points and a superior net run rate, while England cricket team had already secured their place in the final four.

Despite the dramatic win, Pakistan’s World Cup campaign came to an end at the Super 8 stage.

Shahid Afridi sees Shadab as future leader of Pakistan team

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Shahid Afridi sees

KARACHI:  Former Pakistan captain Shahid Afridi has said that Shadab Khan is likely to become captain if head coach Mike Hesson continues in his role.

Speaking on a private TV programme, Afridi noted that Shadab and Hesson have worked together for a considerable period at Islamabad United. “If the same coach remains, Shadab will be the captain,” Afridi remarked.

He added that Shadab is not a bad choice for leadership, especially given the limited captaincy options currently available. “Shadab Khan is the backbone of the Pakistan team. You can appoint him as captain, but he will have to deliver strong performances to silence critics,” Afridi said.

Meanwhile, former cricketer Ahmed Shehzad strongly criticised the team’s selection decisions. He claimed that spinner Sufiyan Muqeem has been sidelined to make room for Shadab in the playing XI.

Shehzad further alleged that even highly ranked spinner Abrar Ahmed was dropped to accommodate Shadab, arguing that there is a vast difference in performance levels between the players.

He concluded by blaming the coaching management for the team’s struggles, stating that internal selection dynamics are negatively impacting Pakistan’s performance.

T20 World Cup: Pakistan face net run rate test against Sri Lanka

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T20 World Cup

Colombo: Following New Zealand’s defeat to England in a thrilling Super 8 encounter of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, Pakistan national cricket team have kept their semi-final hopes alive — but a daunting challenge now awaits the Green Shirts.

England’s dramatic victory over the New Zealand cricket team has opened the door for Pakistan to qualify for the last four. However, Pakistan must overcome significant hurdles in their final Super 8 fixture.

Pakistan will play their decisive match in Kandy on Saturday, effectively a knockout contest to stay in the tournament. The equation is clear yet demanding: Pakistan must not only secure victory but also improve their net run rate substantially.

To qualify for the semi-finals, Pakistan need to defeat the Sri Lanka national cricket team by at least 65 runs if batting first. In case of a run chase, Pakistan must reach the target within 13 overs to surpass New Zealand on net run rate.

Meanwhile, tournament hosts Sri Lanka have suffered a major setback ahead of the crucial clash. Star batter Kusal Mendis has been ruled out of the match against Pakistan due to a hamstring injury and is expected to remain sidelined for four weeks.

With qualification hanging in the balance, all eyes will now be on Kandy as Pakistan aim to keep their title dreams alive.

England’s four-wicket win puts Pakistan’s fate in crucial decider

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England’s four-wicket

COLOMBO: England cricket team defeated New Zealand cricket team by four wickets in a gripping Super 8 clash of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, keeping Pakistan’s hopes of reaching the semi-finals alive.

After winning the toss, New Zealand captain Mitchell Santner opted to bat first. The Black Caps posted a competitive total of 159 for 7 in their allotted 20 overs. Glenn Phillips top-scored with 39 runs, while Tim Seifert contributed 35 and Finn Allen added 29.

England’s bowling attack shared the spoils, with Will Jacks, Rehan Ahmed and Adil Rashid claiming two wickets each to restrict New Zealand below the 160-mark.

In reply, England chased down the target in the final over, losing four wickets in the process. The victory propelled England to the top of the group standings with six points.

Following New Zealand’s defeat, Pakistan national cricket team remain in contention for a semi-final berth.

The fate of the second semi-final spot between Pakistan and New Zealand will now be decided in Pakistan’s crucial clash against Sri Lanka national cricket team on Friday.

Pakistan must secure a comprehensive win over Sri Lanka to boost their net run rate; otherwise, New Zealand — currently on three points — could advance to the semi-finals on superior net run rate.

Basit Ali says Fakhar Zaman ‘punished’ by making Babar and Rizwan openers

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Basit Ali says Fakhar

Former Pakistan cricketer Basit Ali has criticized the team management’s selection strategy, claiming that making Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan open the innings effectively “punished” Fakhar Zaman.

Speaking on the program Off the Record, Basit Ali said that among the 15 selected players, there is hardly any specialist middle-order batter, as most of the incoming players are natural openers.

He pointed out that players like Sameer Minhas, Moaz Sadaqat, and Shamil Hussain are all openers, raising concerns about the team’s balance.

Basit suggested that former captains Inzamam-ul-Haq and Misbah-ul-Haq should be tasked with grooming proper middle-order batters for the national side.

He termed the decision to promote Babar and Rizwan as openers a mistake, arguing that Fakhar Zaman — a proven opener — was forced to bat at No. 4 and No. 5 as a result. “That was unfair to him,” he said.

Basit further criticized what he described as flawed intent in team planning, stating that many players prefer opening because of the powerplay advantage, with only two fielders outside the circle. However, he stressed that such an approach does not necessarily win matches.

He also questioned the logic behind sending Babar Azam to bat at No. 4, saying it served no purpose. Referring to team management, Basit remarked that Mohsin Naqvi should seek accountability from those responsible for the decision. He added that if a coach publicly criticizes Babar in a press conference a day before a match, then selecting him creates further confusion.

The former cricketer also took aim at Saim Ayub, saying he has played many matches but has yet to deliver significant batting performances. He noted that Saim initially came in as a batter and only later developed into an all-rounder.

Basit added that players like Shadab Khan and Mohammad Nawaz were selected primarily as bowlers, emphasizing that a team with half-set roles — “half pigeon, half partridge,” as he metaphorically described it — cannot win major tournaments.

Record four centuries scored in ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026

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Record four centuries

A new record for the most centuries in a single edition of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup has been set during the ongoing tournament co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka.

So far, four centuries have been scored in the 2026 edition — the highest ever in one T20 World Cup.

Sri Lanka’s Pathum Nissanka struck a century against Australia, while Canada’s Yuvraj Samra reached three figures against New Zealand.

Pakistan’s Sahibzada Farhan then scored a century against Namibia, setting a new record of three hundreds in a single edition of the tournament.

The tally rose to four after England captain Harry Brook smashed a century against Pakistan during the Super 8 stage.

Previously, no T20 World Cup edition had produced more than two centuries.

In the inaugural 2007 tournament, only one century was recorded, while none were scored in 2009. The 2010 edition saw two centuries, followed by one in 2012. Both the 2014 and 2016 editions produced two centuries each.

There was one century in 2021 and two in 2022, while no hundreds were registered in the 2024 edition.

With several key matches still to be played, the 2026 tournament could see the record extended even further.

India crush Zimbabwe by 72 runs in Super 8 match

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India crush Zimbabwe

In the Super 8 stage of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, India registered a dominant 72-run victory over Zimbabwe in Chennai, strengthening their bid for a semifinal spot.

Chasing a daunting 257-run target, Zimbabwe managed 184 for 6 in their allotted 20 overs.

After being invited to bat first, India’s batters dismantled the Zimbabwe bowling attack, smashing boundaries and sixes at will to post one of the biggest totals in tournament history.

India piled up a massive 256 for 4 in 20 overs, hitting a total of 17 sixes during the innings.

Sanju Samson scored 24, Abhishek Sharma made 55, Ishan Kishan added 38, while captain Suryakumar Yadav contributed 33 runs. In the death overs, Hardik Pandya and Tilak Varma unleashed a brutal assault on the bowlers. Pandya smashed 53 off 23 balls, while Tilak remained unbeaten on 44 off just 16 deliveries.

India’s 256 is the second-highest total in T20 World Cup history. The highest remains Sri Lanka’s 260 against Kenya in the inaugural 2007 edition. It is also the highest score of the 2026 tournament so far, surpassing West Indies’ 254 against Zimbabwe earlier in the competition. Notably, it is India’s highest-ever total against any team in T20 World Cup history.

In response, Zimbabwe posted 184 for 6 in 20 overs. Opener Brian Bennett played a valiant unbeaten knock of 97, while captain Sikandar Raza scored 31.

Following the defeat, Zimbabwe were eliminated from the semifinal race. From Super 8 Group 1, South Africa have already secured qualification for the semifinals.

The second semifinalist from the group will be decided after Sunday’s crucial clash between India and West Indies. The winner of that encounter will advance to the next stage.

Zimbabwe are scheduled to play their final Super 8 match against South Africa.