In an older post, I had talked about the importance of taking a professional approach to the training of the squad. It appears that now that Geoff Lawson has some ideas, after being let go as coach.
He speaks the importance of having a team psychologist to help the players. It can't hurt. The shenanigans of Shoaib Akhtar (I'm injured, I'll hit team mates with a bat), the travails of Mohammad Asif (steroids or opium, name your poison), and even the hare brained things Mohammad Yousuf (ICL or IPL? Should I see or should I pee) and Younis Khan (Don't make me captain, PLEASE CAN I BE CAPTAIN!) have been upto all scream for some kind of psychological intervention. Whether its egos run rampant, or just confusion after coming face to face with the trappings of success in sports, the happenings of the last two years speak to the importance of some kind of help for the players. Even after the sudden and shocking death of Bob Woolmer, there was no help for the players. I can see for Geoff Lawson is coming from. Trainers, physios, position specific coaches and team counselors are a must in the modern game.
Showing posts with label mohammad yousuf. Show all posts
Showing posts with label mohammad yousuf. Show all posts
Saturday, January 17, 2009
Monday, September 03, 2007
Hefty bonuses by the PCB, but no response
So the PCB decided to address the ICL situation, by throwing around a huge chunk of change at the players, in the form of bonuses for those who accepted central contracts. Well, Yousuf was in Dir on a Tableeghi mission, and while Nasim Ashraf went ahead and tried to call Yousuf, Farhat and Razzaq, Inzamam was completely ignored. Razzaq and Farhat, supposedly have turned down the PCB's offer, almost on principle, but also because Inzamam was not consulted about the affair.
It appears NAsim Ashrafi s doing a good job with making a bad situation worse.
It appears NAsim Ashrafi s doing a good job with making a bad situation worse.
Powered by ScribeFire.
Wednesday, August 29, 2007
Canadian Cricket Commentator raises a point for Yousuf
I must say, I found this surprising when I read htis. It took a Canadian writer, in a Toronto paper, to come up with this. Now, I don't know if its representative of the thought process at the PCB or not, but it is an interesting proposition He proposes that perhaps all is not lost in the world of Pakistani cricket, with Yousuf signing on with the ICL. His technicality point is that Yousuf and Inzamam have made things easy for the PCB, by signing with the ICL, without signing central contracts with the PCB.
Quote: "While the world media has repeatedly presented the PCB position as one where any Pakistani player who signs with the ICL faces a life ban, the actual PCB position is that a life ban will be only be handed out to contracted players who play in the ICL. Yousuf never did sign a PCB contract and technically is eligible for selection.
In fact, when awarding central contracts the PCB has always reiterated that non-contracted players can still be called up for national duty. It is a fortuitous technicality, provided sanity prevails in the often insane world of Pakistani cricket. "
Very intriguing proposition. Will the PCB be smart enough to pick out a technicality of its own making?
Quote: "While the world media has repeatedly presented the PCB position as one where any Pakistani player who signs with the ICL faces a life ban, the actual PCB position is that a life ban will be only be handed out to contracted players who play in the ICL. Yousuf never did sign a PCB contract and technically is eligible for selection.
In fact, when awarding central contracts the PCB has always reiterated that non-contracted players can still be called up for national duty. It is a fortuitous technicality, provided sanity prevails in the often insane world of Pakistani cricket. "
Very intriguing proposition. Will the PCB be smart enough to pick out a technicality of its own making?
Powered by ScribeFire.
Saturday, August 25, 2007
PCB Backtracks on Yousuf?
Well, Osman Samiuddin predicted this earlier on Cricinfo, and it appears to be happening. The PCB is trying to find ways to get Yousuf back on track with the squad. Money, conversations with Geoff Lawson are only the beginning of the discussion. What might very well be needed is a conversation with Shoaib Malik, where he categorically and unequivocally states to Yousuf and to the media at large, that at no point did he ask for Yousuf to be dropped from the Twenty20 World Cup squad.
Powered by ScribeFire.
Thursday, August 23, 2007
Shoaib Malik didn't want Yousuf?
This is the last thing Pakistani cricket needs. If this story in Dawn is indeed true, then there is truly something rotten in the state of the PCB, and Pakistani cricket at large. If a new captain with limited overall experience was allowed to dictate to the national squad to the degree that arguably the greatest batsman in current cricket could be left out of the squad, then that is indeed a problem. One can discuss and raise the issue of whether it was ok or not to leave Yousuf out, when Tendulkar, Dravid, Kallis and Ganguly have all been excluded, but no one can argue that a new captain has the right to unilaterally leave out one of the team's superstars, that too on a whim.
Further, Osman Samiuddin writes a thoughtful and insightful summary on the ICL and Pakistan issue. The Cicero-esque critic in chief of Pakistani cricket?
Further, Osman Samiuddin writes a thoughtful and insightful summary on the ICL and Pakistan issue. The Cicero-esque critic in chief of Pakistani cricket?
Powered by ScribeFire.
Monday, August 20, 2007
Opinions on the Pakistani ICL exodus
More news on the Yousuf, Inzamam and Razzaq bombshell today. Rameez Raja, Intikhab Alam and Javed Miandad offer their perspective on issue, and perhaps not surprisingly, they all seem to hold the yoyos at the PCB responsible for this debacle.
Powered by ScribeFire.
What the heck is going on?!
On the day Geoff Lawson was supposed to arrive in Pakistan to take over the reins of the team, it seems that the entire enterprise of international Pakistani cricket is threatening to fall apart.
For the last few days, there has been a reasonable amount of drama, with Shoaib Akhtar and his fines, and then the supposed threat by Shoaib Malik and a few other players to not participate in the Twenty20 cup. While these have been fairly concerning, not much has made it into the media since the first rumours came out. Yet, todays news turns all of those shenanigans into minor brew hahas.
First came the news that Razzaq had announced his retirement from international cricket, due to his unhappiness over being dropped for the Twenty20 cup, followed very shortly by his signing a County Cricket contract. Then came the ICL announcement of the players signed to date, and within that list were Razzaq and Farhat, which we knew about before. Yet, the list also included Inzamam and Mohammad Yousuf.
While reactions from various cricketing forums is still awaited, these developments were probably not what Geoff Lawson had in mind for his first day. Yousuf has been the lynch pin of the Pakistani batting lineup, and one must wonder if there is something more deep seated here, than just not being selected for the Twenty20 cup. Rumours have been rampant that the PCB has been trying to rid the team of any links with Inzamam and the overt religiosity on display during his tenure as captain. Yousuf was a large part of that, and Razzaq was also fairly close to Inzamam. Has there been more going on behind the scenes? Only time will tell.
The Razzaq decision to retire, to be honest, smacks a lot of Shahid Afridi's surprise announcement a while ago. Ticked off, and perhaps feeling disrespected, Razzaq has taken the sour grapes approach, and said I didn't want to play anymore anyhow. It will probably get reversed sooner or later by Razzaq. Yet, what will the PCB do with Inzy, Yousuf and Razzaq after they have already said they will ban on all players signing with the ICL? What does it say about theses players' commitment to the Pakistani cricket team, if they were willing to risk their place in the team for the ICL?
The next few days should be interesting, in how the PCB chooses to respond to the newest fiasco in Pakistani cricket. One really gets the feeling that Nasim Ashraf and the PCB will have to do more than fiasco creation to try to fix this situation.
For the last few days, there has been a reasonable amount of drama, with Shoaib Akhtar and his fines, and then the supposed threat by Shoaib Malik and a few other players to not participate in the Twenty20 cup. While these have been fairly concerning, not much has made it into the media since the first rumours came out. Yet, todays news turns all of those shenanigans into minor brew hahas.
First came the news that Razzaq had announced his retirement from international cricket, due to his unhappiness over being dropped for the Twenty20 cup, followed very shortly by his signing a County Cricket contract. Then came the ICL announcement of the players signed to date, and within that list were Razzaq and Farhat, which we knew about before. Yet, the list also included Inzamam and Mohammad Yousuf.
While reactions from various cricketing forums is still awaited, these developments were probably not what Geoff Lawson had in mind for his first day. Yousuf has been the lynch pin of the Pakistani batting lineup, and one must wonder if there is something more deep seated here, than just not being selected for the Twenty20 cup. Rumours have been rampant that the PCB has been trying to rid the team of any links with Inzamam and the overt religiosity on display during his tenure as captain. Yousuf was a large part of that, and Razzaq was also fairly close to Inzamam. Has there been more going on behind the scenes? Only time will tell.
The Razzaq decision to retire, to be honest, smacks a lot of Shahid Afridi's surprise announcement a while ago. Ticked off, and perhaps feeling disrespected, Razzaq has taken the sour grapes approach, and said I didn't want to play anymore anyhow. It will probably get reversed sooner or later by Razzaq. Yet, what will the PCB do with Inzy, Yousuf and Razzaq after they have already said they will ban on all players signing with the ICL? What does it say about theses players' commitment to the Pakistani cricket team, if they were willing to risk their place in the team for the ICL?
The next few days should be interesting, in how the PCB chooses to respond to the newest fiasco in Pakistani cricket. One really gets the feeling that Nasim Ashraf and the PCB will have to do more than fiasco creation to try to fix this situation.
Friday, August 17, 2007
The Soap Opera that is Pakistan Cricket
It never ceases to amaze me that Pakistani cricket is truly an amazing soap opera. One had thought that with the appointment of Shoaib Malik, and the selection of Geoff Lawson as the coach of the squad, things for at least some time would have atleast a veneer of stability. Yet, all it took was a training camp, a new league, and it seems everything has fallen apart.
First, whether or not its true, Cricinfo and a few Indian papers have been talking over the last few days about a possible rebellion in the squad, lead by no other than Shoaib Malik. It appears that there was some altercation between Shoaib Malik and the management of the team over whether Shoaib Akhtar talked to someone before he left the camp early, leading to his suspension. While Shahid Afridi and Shoaib Malik have both denied any altercation, the rumours refuse to die down. The reports even point to a potential boycott of the upcoming Twenty20 cup by atleast 6 to 7 players.
While all this drama continues, the ICL has been active through Rashid Latif in trying to recruit Pakistani players. Imran Farhat has signed, Asim Kamal is close to signing, and rumours refuse to die that Inzamam, Yousuf and Razzaq are days away from signing. Asif was also offered an amount reaching USD 600,000 per year to play for two months / year for the ICL. The PCB and Nasim Ashraf in all their wisdom, are choosing to take an ostrich approach to the whole thing, and are threatening to suspend anyone who "dares" to sign with the ICL. Well, I have news for them. Pretty soon, it won't just be Imran Farhat calling their bluff. Imran Farhat they can do without, but Yousuf? Asif? I don't think so.
A few people raise the issue that if the players are patriotic enough, they will not choose the ICL, but play for the PCB regardless of the financial cost. Well, that may be all fine and dandy, but you cannot expect players to simply walk away from the types of figures the ICL is throwing around. If the PCB wants their players to remain under contract to the PCB, and not sign on with the ICL, they are going to have to pony up some serious sums of money to match ICL dollars. Further, what is going on at the PCB? Along with the ICL issue, the issue with the team's potential boycott, even if false, opens up a can of worms which after the World Cup debacle is the last thing the PCB needs.
While there appears to be a serious lack of foresight and leadership in the PCB, what I am starting to wonder about, as is Intikhab Alam, is where is Geoff Lawson? Its been over three weeks since his appointment, and I really haven't heard much from him to date. When is he coming to Pakistan? Who will be on his staff? Will it be an all foreign group, or will there atleast be some Pakistani representation? Serious questions remain.
First, whether or not its true, Cricinfo and a few Indian papers have been talking over the last few days about a possible rebellion in the squad, lead by no other than Shoaib Malik. It appears that there was some altercation between Shoaib Malik and the management of the team over whether Shoaib Akhtar talked to someone before he left the camp early, leading to his suspension. While Shahid Afridi and Shoaib Malik have both denied any altercation, the rumours refuse to die down. The reports even point to a potential boycott of the upcoming Twenty20 cup by atleast 6 to 7 players.
While all this drama continues, the ICL has been active through Rashid Latif in trying to recruit Pakistani players. Imran Farhat has signed, Asim Kamal is close to signing, and rumours refuse to die that Inzamam, Yousuf and Razzaq are days away from signing. Asif was also offered an amount reaching USD 600,000 per year to play for two months / year for the ICL. The PCB and Nasim Ashraf in all their wisdom, are choosing to take an ostrich approach to the whole thing, and are threatening to suspend anyone who "dares" to sign with the ICL. Well, I have news for them. Pretty soon, it won't just be Imran Farhat calling their bluff. Imran Farhat they can do without, but Yousuf? Asif? I don't think so.
A few people raise the issue that if the players are patriotic enough, they will not choose the ICL, but play for the PCB regardless of the financial cost. Well, that may be all fine and dandy, but you cannot expect players to simply walk away from the types of figures the ICL is throwing around. If the PCB wants their players to remain under contract to the PCB, and not sign on with the ICL, they are going to have to pony up some serious sums of money to match ICL dollars. Further, what is going on at the PCB? Along with the ICL issue, the issue with the team's potential boycott, even if false, opens up a can of worms which after the World Cup debacle is the last thing the PCB needs.
While there appears to be a serious lack of foresight and leadership in the PCB, what I am starting to wonder about, as is Intikhab Alam, is where is Geoff Lawson? Its been over three weeks since his appointment, and I really haven't heard much from him to date. When is he coming to Pakistan? Who will be on his staff? Will it be an all foreign group, or will there atleast be some Pakistani representation? Serious questions remain.
Sunday, August 12, 2007
ICL pull strongest in Pakistan?
Pakistani cricket continues to be the most enthralling and entertaining. Well, maybe not the cricket, but atleast all the shenanigans of the players and the establishment is enough to keep one tuned in to the world of Pakistani cricket. I think an Entertainment Tonight type show might do very well, specially if it is about Pakistani cricket. Hey, thats an idea. OH, want to do a show like that? Maybe we could quit the day jobs while we're at it!
Anyhow, here is this report in Dawn, which rarely has far-out rumours. According to Mohammad Yaqoob, it appears that Razzaq, Yousuf, Inzamam, Asim Kamal and Imran Farhat are all considering signing up with the ICL. While the paper refers to an anonymous, former Karachi-based international wicketkeeper batsman leading the negotiations, in light of this report, it appears that its probably Rashid Latif.
While it makes sense why someone like Inzamam might consider making the jump with his international career potentially coming to a close, the others might be a little more difficult to sort out. Farhat and Kamal have been on the fringes of the international squad, enjoying short runs here and there, but never really being able to settle themselves into the squad. This might be their opportunity to make some good money, specially when even players like Stephen Fleming are being offered money like 500,000 USD. The story about Razzaq and Yousuf makes a little less sense, but it may very well be hardball on their side to try to push the PCB to bring them back into the squad. Or, it could just be about the money. As one of my mentors used to say, Its never about money, Its ALWAYS about money.
Anyhow, here is this report in Dawn, which rarely has far-out rumours. According to Mohammad Yaqoob, it appears that Razzaq, Yousuf, Inzamam, Asim Kamal and Imran Farhat are all considering signing up with the ICL. While the paper refers to an anonymous, former Karachi-based international wicketkeeper batsman leading the negotiations, in light of this report, it appears that its probably Rashid Latif.
While it makes sense why someone like Inzamam might consider making the jump with his international career potentially coming to a close, the others might be a little more difficult to sort out. Farhat and Kamal have been on the fringes of the international squad, enjoying short runs here and there, but never really being able to settle themselves into the squad. This might be their opportunity to make some good money, specially when even players like Stephen Fleming are being offered money like 500,000 USD. The story about Razzaq and Yousuf makes a little less sense, but it may very well be hardball on their side to try to push the PCB to bring them back into the squad. Or, it could just be about the money. As one of my mentors used to say, Its never about money, Its ALWAYS about money.
Powered by ScribeFire.
Thursday, August 09, 2007
Yousuf and Razzaq Dropped
Well, what was suspected has indeed come to pass. The PCB announced the selected squad for the upcoming Twenty20 Cup in South Africa, and as reported in various papers both Mohammad Yousuf and Abdul Razzaq were indeed dropped. If dropping Abdul Razzaq means that Fawad Alam is to be given a try, along with Yasir Arafat then that is not necessarily a bad thing. It may also provide Abdul Razzaq the impetus to approach his cricket with more hunger and desire than he has shown in the past few years.
What is surprising, and what I earlier called lunacy, is the dropping of Yousuf. Kamran Abbasi on Cricinfo says: "His batting powers more than compensate for any fielding shortcomings. I'm baffled, he's shocked, and the selectors already sound confused." Osman Samiuddin likened the whole fiasco to logic having gone for a six. He makes a very valid claim that even the PCB has no clue why they have done what they did. Their claim that they did it to try out new blood falls apart, when they selected a 33 year old, someone who is 2 years older than Yousuf, as his replacement. Their claim falls apart when Yousuf is truly the greatest batsman in Pakistan today.
Omar Haq, on the other hand, makes a valid point that Misbah-ul-Haq has been scoring in Twenty20 at over 50, and given his experience in multiple Twenty20 games in the domestic circuit, it is the perfect venue to let him try to resurrect his international career. As happy as I am to have OH back in the blogging world, I must say I do disagree with him here. I definitely agree with KA that any shortcomings on Yousuf's part can be addressed by his batting prowess. This is yet another shenanigan by Nasim Ashraf and his cronies. I truly had higher hopes from this selection committee.
What is surprising, and what I earlier called lunacy, is the dropping of Yousuf. Kamran Abbasi on Cricinfo says: "His batting powers more than compensate for any fielding shortcomings. I'm baffled, he's shocked, and the selectors already sound confused." Osman Samiuddin likened the whole fiasco to logic having gone for a six. He makes a very valid claim that even the PCB has no clue why they have done what they did. Their claim that they did it to try out new blood falls apart, when they selected a 33 year old, someone who is 2 years older than Yousuf, as his replacement. Their claim falls apart when Yousuf is truly the greatest batsman in Pakistan today.
Omar Haq, on the other hand, makes a valid point that Misbah-ul-Haq has been scoring in Twenty20 at over 50, and given his experience in multiple Twenty20 games in the domestic circuit, it is the perfect venue to let him try to resurrect his international career. As happy as I am to have OH back in the blogging world, I must say I do disagree with him here. I definitely agree with KA that any shortcomings on Yousuf's part can be addressed by his batting prowess. This is yet another shenanigan by Nasim Ashraf and his cronies. I truly had higher hopes from this selection committee.
Friday, August 03, 2007
Dropping Yousuf and Razzaq?
When a new set of selectors were assigned, I thought that there would perhaps be some semblance of sanity to the selection process. First they decide to hold a series of matches in the middle of July in Karachi, Lahore and Abbotabad. Anyone with half a brain can tell you that playing cricket in 40 C + weather is not exactly a bright idea. Yet, that is what the selectors had the squad do.
And now, comes news that Razzaq and Yousuf may be dropped from the upcoming Twenty20 World Cup squad. Now, while I may be equivocal about dropping Razzaq, dropping Yousuf is tantamount to lunacy. Yousuf is to the Pakistani squad what Chanderpaul is to the West Indies or what Ponting (the batsman, not the captain) is to Australia. He is the lynch pin of our batting lineup, and currently the most senior and most experienced batsman in our squad. I hope that all this talk of potentially dropping Yousuf is just a lot of hot air.
And now, comes news that Razzaq and Yousuf may be dropped from the upcoming Twenty20 World Cup squad. Now, while I may be equivocal about dropping Razzaq, dropping Yousuf is tantamount to lunacy. Yousuf is to the Pakistani squad what Chanderpaul is to the West Indies or what Ponting (the batsman, not the captain) is to Australia. He is the lynch pin of our batting lineup, and currently the most senior and most experienced batsman in our squad. I hope that all this talk of potentially dropping Yousuf is just a lot of hot air.
Tuesday, April 17, 2007
Shoaib Malik: Captain
Since the World Cup, things have been increasingly interesting and yet, more and more discouraging by the day. While the name of Shoaib Malik is being put forward with greater confidence by those in the know, the players' attitude over the past few days has been as discouraging as the goings on at the PCB.
Except for PJ Mir's welcome disappearance and a non-selecting selection committee's resignations, the powers that be at the PCB still remain. Musharraf as patron, Nasim Ashraf as President PCB (btw he's a nephrologist, not a urologist. Minor difference for most, but for those of us in the medical profession a big one ;) ) and Saleem Altaf in some strange capacity or the other. Somehow I just doubt tihs group's ability to make the profound and far-reaching changes needed ot be made to Pakistani cricket.
What has been disappointing from the players standpoint is the increasing number of people who kept putting their names forward. The workings of Pakistani cricket made it quiet apparent from the start, that the choice for captain was going to be Younis Khan or one of the younger players in Shoaib Malik or Salman Butt. Yet, after Younis said no, almost everyone and their mom decided to put their name forward for the captaincy. Abdul Razzaq. Shahid Afridi. And in the last few days, even Mohammad Yousuf. And over the last few days, except for Yousuf, none of the players have come forward in support of Shoaib's appointment as captain. Not even players like Abdul Razzaq, Yasir Arafat or Kamran Akmal with whom Shoaib played in the 1998-99 in the U-19 circuit. Let us just hope that the politics which have played eternally in Pakistani cricket don't sink another young man's very promising career.
Tuesday, March 13, 2007
Yousuf raises further controversy
In an interesting display of Yousuf's personal religious development, he has declined to participate in a media campaign by PCB's sponsors Mobilink. While Yousuf can do what he chooses to, and if he finds photography unacceptable as a Muslim, power to him to make that individual choice. What I find irritating is the statement by the PCB, where the said that this was because of Yousuf's religious beliefs. What business does the PCB have in making that statement? As far as they are concerned, Yousuf declined to participate. If Mohammad Yousuf so chooses, he can say whatever he wants, but that wouldn't fit with the PCB's new attitude, even if it was in Urdu.Unbreak My Heart Pakistan!
Alas. It was the start of the World Cup, Pakistan had been facing adversity for the last few months, and as they took the field against the West Indies, my hopes were high. My mind was lofted in heights thinking about how the team was going to come through and defy all expectations and show themselves as the team we all know in our hearts for them to be. Yet, to be a fan of Pakistani cricket is to set yourself up to be taken to the pinnacle of faith and hope, and then to be left stranded with no way to get down!
The number of things that one can find fault with are legion. Why was the tail so horribly long, when all-rounders like Azhar Mahmood and Yasir Arafat were taken to address that issue? Why did Yousuf and Inzamam play at 3 and 4 in the warm-ups, and revert to their old positions when the match started? When Pakistan were bowling, why did the fast bowlers bowl almost 30 overs on the trot before the spinners were brought in, leaving the spinners to be annihilated in the last 20 overs?
These aren't just questions for second guessing, but each of these decisions had a direct effect on the outcome of the game. When Shoaib Malik was left at the crease, with Kamran Akmal the only batsmen of any calibre left, wouldn't it have helped to have a bat at #8 or 9? If Yousuf or Inzy had batted higher up the order, wouldn't that have given the innings a stability which Younis, Hafeez and Nazir could not provide it? Would it not have helped if Umar Gul or Rana Naved or Iftikhar had more overs left to bowl at the death, to further restrict the WI score?
Lets be honest. The bowling was supposed to be the weakness. It wasn't. To restrict a batting side to a score of 240 odd is an accomplishment in today's ODIs. An inability to reach such a target speaks to nothing except a certain inability to apply themselves on a wicket that was only getting easier to bat on. Almost every batsman fell to an ill-advised shot, placed in an unsuitable location. Yet, despite all of this negativity, Pakistan, as they always are, were one innings away from pulling this particular rabbit of a hat. If this doesn't speak to this teams ability, then I don't know what does.
It wasn't all negatives though. Yousuf and Inzamam displayed consistency. Shoaib Malik displayed his class again, and one just hopes he learns over time to marshal the tail in a more dominating and effective way. And Iftikhar, wow. I now know why Woolmer has been a fan of his for such a long time. Effective bowling, stellar control. I think his selection for every match in this tournament is a lead pipe cinch.
Lets hope the matches against Ireland and Zimbabwe aren't made as exciting as only Pakistan can make such matches against sub-standard opposition.
Ending Thoughts:
1. Isn't it a great story that the WI won the opening match of the first World Cup in the West Indies, in Jamaica? This will truly give the rest of the World Cup, specially when the WI play some great atmosphere.
2. I think Pakistan's performance in the field made it absolutely clear why Danish Kaneria has not played more ODIs. Would the Kaneria fans like to speak to that please? I can't wait to see Afridi back in the squad.
3. What happened to those awesomely hot uniforms the guys were wearing in practice? Where is the yellow sash across the bottom? What happened!
The number of things that one can find fault with are legion. Why was the tail so horribly long, when all-rounders like Azhar Mahmood and Yasir Arafat were taken to address that issue? Why did Yousuf and Inzamam play at 3 and 4 in the warm-ups, and revert to their old positions when the match started? When Pakistan were bowling, why did the fast bowlers bowl almost 30 overs on the trot before the spinners were brought in, leaving the spinners to be annihilated in the last 20 overs?
These aren't just questions for second guessing, but each of these decisions had a direct effect on the outcome of the game. When Shoaib Malik was left at the crease, with Kamran Akmal the only batsmen of any calibre left, wouldn't it have helped to have a bat at #8 or 9? If Yousuf or Inzy had batted higher up the order, wouldn't that have given the innings a stability which Younis, Hafeez and Nazir could not provide it? Would it not have helped if Umar Gul or Rana Naved or Iftikhar had more overs left to bowl at the death, to further restrict the WI score?
Lets be honest. The bowling was supposed to be the weakness. It wasn't. To restrict a batting side to a score of 240 odd is an accomplishment in today's ODIs. An inability to reach such a target speaks to nothing except a certain inability to apply themselves on a wicket that was only getting easier to bat on. Almost every batsman fell to an ill-advised shot, placed in an unsuitable location. Yet, despite all of this negativity, Pakistan, as they always are, were one innings away from pulling this particular rabbit of a hat. If this doesn't speak to this teams ability, then I don't know what does.
It wasn't all negatives though. Yousuf and Inzamam displayed consistency. Shoaib Malik displayed his class again, and one just hopes he learns over time to marshal the tail in a more dominating and effective way. And Iftikhar, wow. I now know why Woolmer has been a fan of his for such a long time. Effective bowling, stellar control. I think his selection for every match in this tournament is a lead pipe cinch.
Lets hope the matches against Ireland and Zimbabwe aren't made as exciting as only Pakistan can make such matches against sub-standard opposition.
Ending Thoughts:
1. Isn't it a great story that the WI won the opening match of the first World Cup in the West Indies, in Jamaica? This will truly give the rest of the World Cup, specially when the WI play some great atmosphere.
2. I think Pakistan's performance in the field made it absolutely clear why Danish Kaneria has not played more ODIs. Would the Kaneria fans like to speak to that please? I can't wait to see Afridi back in the squad.
3. What happened to those awesomely hot uniforms the guys were wearing in practice? Where is the yellow sash across the bottom? What happened!
Sunday, January 28, 2007
Pakistan lose Test Series 2 - 1
After injuries and wickets were discussed more than actual performances, the series against South Africa came to an end, with South Africa winning the third test on the 3rd day, and winning the series 2 - 1.
Its interesting that after the third straight series for Pakistan, the positives remain the same, and so do the negatives. Discussing these really does feel like Deja Vu!
Yousuf, Younis and Inzamam demonstrated once again their indispensability to the middle order, and it was interesting that each innings required atleast one of them to fire, and when they did, the results were apparent. However, there were enough instances where none of the three fired, which is why the team lost the series rather than coming out with a winning advantage. Mohammad Asif once again, drug related issues aside, demonstrated why he is one of the leading talents in international cricket. Sending down 125 overs in 6 innings demonstrates his fitness and his commitment to the team. However, one must recognize that this isn't a long-term viable situation, where a fast bowler sends down spinner like overs. Its a recipe for injuries and for disaster.
On the negative side, even though Imran Farhat was just behind the troika in his runs in the series, neither he nor Mohammad Hafeez were able to assert themselves as the key opening duo. This really does leave the doors open for Salman Butt or Imran Nazir, who really just need to assert themselves to gain access to the squad. Yasir Hameed had one good innings, but was again unable to demonstrate a reason to make him a permanent fixture in the squad.
Injuries played a major role in Pakistan's performance in South Africa. Pakistan's two other premiere fast bowlers, Shoaib Akhtar and Umar Gul, were unable to play due to injuries, while Shoaib Malik also missed the bulk of the series. Pakistan surely did miss Abdul Razzaq's middle order contributions with the bat, and then his bowling as well. Its been a long time since Pakistan's most talented bowlers were able to take the field together: Shoaib Akhtar, Mohammad Asif and Umar Gul. Pakistan has to figure out a better fitness regime, or some other means of ensuring that their players become more resilient, rather than being injured more time than not. While Woolmer has been blaming the schedule, and the itinerary, perhaps he should be blaming his own team for being unable to maintain appropriate levels of fitness and training.
Another area of concern which has arisen over the past few months, has been Kamran Akmal's poor showing behind the stumps. While he remains a key member of the squad in spirit, and has shown himself to be a fighter with the bat, it is his ability with the gloves which he has to fine tune to ensure his position in the squad long term.
So at the end of the series, we are left where we were at the start, with no areas being clarified, and only further muddling. And for the next few months, any discussion for the test squad will be put aside to concentrate on the all important World Cup. But I'm sure we'll hear more about that.
Its interesting that after the third straight series for Pakistan, the positives remain the same, and so do the negatives. Discussing these really does feel like Deja Vu!
Yousuf, Younis and Inzamam demonstrated once again their indispensability to the middle order, and it was interesting that each innings required atleast one of them to fire, and when they did, the results were apparent. However, there were enough instances where none of the three fired, which is why the team lost the series rather than coming out with a winning advantage. Mohammad Asif once again, drug related issues aside, demonstrated why he is one of the leading talents in international cricket. Sending down 125 overs in 6 innings demonstrates his fitness and his commitment to the team. However, one must recognize that this isn't a long-term viable situation, where a fast bowler sends down spinner like overs. Its a recipe for injuries and for disaster.
On the negative side, even though Imran Farhat was just behind the troika in his runs in the series, neither he nor Mohammad Hafeez were able to assert themselves as the key opening duo. This really does leave the doors open for Salman Butt or Imran Nazir, who really just need to assert themselves to gain access to the squad. Yasir Hameed had one good innings, but was again unable to demonstrate a reason to make him a permanent fixture in the squad.
Injuries played a major role in Pakistan's performance in South Africa. Pakistan's two other premiere fast bowlers, Shoaib Akhtar and Umar Gul, were unable to play due to injuries, while Shoaib Malik also missed the bulk of the series. Pakistan surely did miss Abdul Razzaq's middle order contributions with the bat, and then his bowling as well. Its been a long time since Pakistan's most talented bowlers were able to take the field together: Shoaib Akhtar, Mohammad Asif and Umar Gul. Pakistan has to figure out a better fitness regime, or some other means of ensuring that their players become more resilient, rather than being injured more time than not. While Woolmer has been blaming the schedule, and the itinerary, perhaps he should be blaming his own team for being unable to maintain appropriate levels of fitness and training.
Another area of concern which has arisen over the past few months, has been Kamran Akmal's poor showing behind the stumps. While he remains a key member of the squad in spirit, and has shown himself to be a fighter with the bat, it is his ability with the gloves which he has to fine tune to ensure his position in the squad long term.
So at the end of the series, we are left where we were at the start, with no areas being clarified, and only further muddling. And for the next few months, any discussion for the test squad will be put aside to concentrate on the all important World Cup. But I'm sure we'll hear more about that.
Sunday, January 14, 2007
Yousuf to be back for second test.
And not soon enough! He's on his way, after his wife gave birth to a baby girl. Best wishes and Gods blessings on them all.
Wednesday, December 27, 2006
Pakistan's End of the Year Test Rankings
With 2006 rapidly coming to a close, its a good time to review some of the standings from the ICC, as it relates to Pakistan. It has been an up and down year, and the rankings can now provide a reasonably objective form of assessment.
Within the test realm, Pakistan began the year in 4th position, behind England and India. Over the course of the year, chiefly because of wins over both of them at home, Pakistan was able to rise to third place within the realm of test cricket. A reasonable achievement, which could have been improved upon, if the team had performed even marginally better in the England series over the summer.
If one examines the batting rankings, they really do highlight Pakistan's problems well. With Yousuf at a personal all-time high at #2, and Younis Khan and Inzamam at 9 and 11 respectively, one would expect that the batting lineup was well taken care off, specially when Pakistan and Australia are the only two teams to have 3 batsmen in the top 11. However, the problem arises when we see that the next Pakistani player doesn't show up till #36, which is Imran Farhat. Australia and England have seven batsmen in this zone, India four. While one could perhaps question the skill level of the remaining Pakistani test batsmen, none of the others have received any kind of extended run. The selectors and the coaches have to really provide answers and explanations for their inability to shore up the batting reserved, specially with the upcoming (probably within the next two years) retirement of Inzamam.
Within the bowling, things do look somewhat better. Pakistan has the most bowlers in the top 30, but their first doesn't come up till Shoaib Akhtar at #9, and then Danish Kaneria at 16. Umar Gul, Mohammad Asif are lower down in the 20s, but the intriguing position is that of Shabbir Ahmed at #27. If not for the year long suspension, it is very likely that Shabbir could have been very close to the top of test cricket bowlers with the series over the course of this year.All in all a year which may seem more intriguing and interesting through the eyes of tabloids and sensationalism, which does not have a lot to show for it in the statistical arena, for the team or for individuals.
Technorati Tags: pakistan, cricket, pakistan cricket board, mohammad yousuf, shabbir ahmed
Saturday, December 02, 2006
Imran Khan comments on Yousuf's religious turn
Interesting that Imran Khan comes to the defence of Mohammad Yousuf. Many of Yousuf's detractors have spoken of the over emphasis he places on religion, and the way he credits religion for all of his successes. Imran's comment that it is religion that has given Yousuf spiritual strength is intriguing, as Imran Khan was captain of the cricket team at a very different time. Religion was a subdued part of the Pakistani cricket system, and I doubt if at any time Imran, Javed and Mohsin Khan were to be found praying in congregation after a practice session. It is true, that Imran Khan has become more vocal in recent years about his own personal beliefs and the role religion is playing in his personal and political life, yet I wonder if he would have been comfortable leading a team with such overt religious overtones.
Thursday, November 30, 2006
More analysis of Yousuf vs. Richards
Now, that the record has been broken, you knew that these comparisons were going to come.
Its like trying to compare da Vinci to Michelangelo. They are both greats of their times. One wielded absolute brute force, while the other is almost languid in his grace.
Its like trying to compare da Vinci to Michelangelo. They are both greats of their times. One wielded absolute brute force, while the other is almost languid in his grace.
Yousuf breaks record!
Kudos to Mohammad Yousuf. Breaking a record always deserves credit, but when its the record of a true cricketing giant, Sir Vivian Richards, and has stood the test of time for 30 years, through the careers of such people as Gavaskar, Miandad, Tendulkar, Gooch, Border, Waugh, it deserves even more than just recognition. It is high time that Yousuf cease to be seen as one of the better batsmen of his era, and begin to be seen as one of cricket's true greats. Kamran Abbasi recognizes that here, almost grudgingly it seems. To be honest, to criticise Yousuf for not being the tactital genius Miandad was, would be like criticising Gavaskar for not being the captain Border was. Not appropriate. Many congrats to Yousuf.
Kudos of course have been flying in from all corners. In typical humble fashion, Yousuf heaps praise on his predecessors, and gives a great deal of credit for his success to Bob Woolmer and surprising to me, Mushtaq Ahmed! Well, its his moment of pride and he can thank anyone and everyone he likes.
Kudos of course have been flying in from all corners. In typical humble fashion, Yousuf heaps praise on his predecessors, and gives a great deal of credit for his success to Bob Woolmer and surprising to me, Mushtaq Ahmed! Well, its his moment of pride and he can thank anyone and everyone he likes.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
