Pakistan tour of New Zealand 2020

[shamaan]

Btw do anyone know who are part of shaheen xi and who are part of pakistan xi? I believe this squads should be already out

Rohail is captain for the shaheens and haider is wise captain this suggest that they have already a sqaud for both main and shaheens but they havent annonced it

 

[shamaan]

I hope we play proper A team in Shaheen games and not use these games for test side practice.

Exactly hence why they should annonce the squads they have had a enough time to decide the squads to

 

[shamaan]

If only we could also announce a squad properly...
What is out Shaheen's squad?

I think the likes of haider rohail abdullah imran but ammad butt musa rauf talat will play in the shaheen

 

[tyron_woodley]

Rohail
Haider
Shafique

Keep an eye on these 3

Also my boy Sameen Gul. These guys will be Pakistan's future. Quality talents. Sameen needs to up his pace a bit though.

 

[angrypathan]

Rohail
Haider
Shafique

Keep an eye on these 3

Also my boy Sameen Gul. These guys will be Pakistan's future. Quality talents. Sameen needs to up his pace a bit though.

Would be nice if Sameen Gul wasn't rotting on the bench and actually playing FC games for his side

 

[shamaan]

Rohail
Haider
Shafique

Keep an eye on these 3

Also my boy Sameen Gul. These guys will be Pakistan's future. Quality talents. Sameen needs to up his pace a bit though.

Thiers also a few others like omair bin yousuf saud shakeel and akif javed who look good and have decent stats

 

[The Viper]

Statement of NZC:

"Just to advise that Pakistan have opted to play a series of intra-squad matches in Queenstown from Dec 10-13 instead of the planned four-day game against New Zealand A, in order to maximise their preparation ahead of the T20 and Test series. NZC is supportive of this decision."

 

[Arsal_AK]

Statement of NZC:

"Just to advise that Pakistan have opted to play a series of intra-squad matches in Queenstown from Dec 10-13 instead of the planned four-day game against New Zealand A, in order to maximise their preparation ahead of the T20 and Test series. NZC is supportive of this decision."

What a stupid decision.The Shaheen's tour was supposed to sperate from the main tour.

This now means guys like Abdullah, Haider won't get any four day games on the whole tour.

 

[Arsal_AK]

There are 35 players. Two teams make it 24. The rest of the 11 (you can guess who it won't be) will probably end up doing nothing whereas they should have been playing the game against NZ A.

 

[tyron_woodley]

Would be nice if Sameen Gul wasn't rotting on the bench and actually playing FC games for his side

Why isn't smaeen playing? His record is good. He has a good bouncer too. Pace is a bit lacking I know.

 

[tyron_woodley]

Thiers also a few others like omair bin yousuf saud shakeel and akif javed who look good and have decent stats

Definitely heard of said Shakeel. Akif Javed is a bowler correct? Need to see more of these 2.

 

[Usman]

Statement of NZC:

"Just to advise that Pakistan have opted to play a series of intra-squad matches in Queenstown from Dec 10-13 instead of the planned four-day game against New Zealand A, in order to maximise their preparation ahead of the T20 and Test series. NZC is supportive of this decision."

What a ridiculous decision. Do both! You have plenty of time to. Don't give up valuable match practice against a quality opposition used to the conditions.

 

[Babar_Azam_fan]

Statement of NZC:

"Just to advise that Pakistan have opted to play a series of intra-squad matches in Queenstown from Dec 10-13 instead of the planned four-day game against New Zealand A, in order to maximise their preparation ahead of the T20 and Test series. NZC is supportive of this decision."

[MENTION=132855]Arsal_AK[/MENTION] [MENTION=150610]tyron_woodley[/MENTION] [MENTION=123787]angrypathan[/MENTION] [MENTION=758]Usman[/MENTION]

People don’t seem to understand where it’s coming from. Guys, as per the rules, Pak players, once they land cannot mix with anyone from New Zealand, not even among themselves for 14 days, and they should’ve been COVID negative.

But pak players came positive, also mixed among themselves so you don’t know who can come positive when.

NZ gov and NZC would not allow mixing now coz they broke the rules and the quarantine days had to be increased, which eventually means no mixing with NZ people till Dec 13 at least.

If NZC says they won’t allow the match it’ll be another embarrassment to Pak team, management and nation. So rather they asked PCB to put it on their own saying they don’t want to play the game.

PCB is at blame, but don’t blame for saying they don’t want to play. It was forced by NZ. But blame them for the unprofessional behaviour they had during the travel and even after they landed. They’ve made everything a chaos, especially NZ as a country(COVID cases).

But good news is, Pak team has “said” no to only one 4 day game. There will still be one 4 day game and 5 T20Is. But if they break further rules, tour will be canceled altogether.

 

[Shafi]

[MENTION=132855]Arsal_AK[/MENTION] [MENTION=150610]tyron_woodley[/MENTION] [MENTION=123787]angrypathan[/MENTION] [MENTION=758]Usman[/MENTION]

People don’t seem to understand where it’s coming from. Guys, as per the rules, Pak players, once they land cannot mix with anyone from New Zealand, not even among themselves for 14 days, and they should’ve been COVID negative.

But pak players came positive, also mixed among themselves so you don’t know who can come positive when.

NZ gov and NZC would not allow mixing now coz they broke the rules and the quarantine days had to be increased, which eventually means no mixing with NZ people till Dec 13 at least.

If NZC says they won’t allow the match it’ll be another embarrassment to Pak team, management and nation. So rather they asked PCB to put it on their own saying they don’t want to play the game.

PCB is at blame, but don’t blame for saying they don’t want to play. It was forced by NZ. But blame them for the unprofessional behaviour they had during the travel and even after they landed. They’ve made everything a chaos, especially NZ as a country(COVID cases).

But good news is, Pak team has “said” no to only one 4 day game. There will still be one 4 day game and 5 T20Is. But if they break further rules, tour will be canceled altogether.

Among Pakistan squad?

 

[Babar_Azam_fan]

Among Pakistan squad?

No, coz the article talks just about Dec 10 - 13. So the second 4 day game and 5 T20s will be with NZ A

 

[shamaan]

What a stupid decision.The Shaheen's tour was supposed to sperate from the main tour.

This now means guys like Abdullah, Haider won't get any four day games on the whole tour.

It had to be done they havent played cricket for a month the players would have gone into the first test undercooked.but i do feel sorry for the youngesters who will have to waite for their chance. Ultimately its the players who had corona thier fault

 

[shamaan]

Why isn't smaeen playing? His record is good. He has a good bouncer too. Pace is a bit lacking I know.

He cant even get into a doesmtic team first he needs to perform or atleast play thier

 

[shamaan]

Definitely heard of said Shakeel. Akif Javed is a bowler correct? Need to see more of these 2.

Yes hes currently injuired othereise he proberly would have been with the squad in the shaheens.as for omair hes suited only for tests good on the pull shot and had decent technique he is only 22 i think

 

[tyron_woodley]

Yes hes currently injuired othereise he proberly would have been with the squad in the shaheens.as for omair hes suited only for tests good on the pull shot and had decent technique he is only 22 i think

Sameen deserves a chance in tests. Pakistani selectors really need to give him a go. I heard about the weight issues though.

Akif I need to see more of in PSL. Not sure about him. I feel Husnain has improved based on PSL.

 

[shamaan]

Sameen deserves a chance in tests. Pakistani selectors really need to give him a go. I heard about the weight issues though.

Akif I need to see more of in PSL. Not sure about him. I feel Husnain has improved based on PSL.

Sameen is a good talent but he only playrd 1 domestic game this season that automatically puts his at the back of the bowling order he should have played from game 1 and should have been in the shaheens squad.

Akif is rated highly the over he bowled to watson was brillant over he also has good height.

 

[tyron_woodley]

Sameen is a good talent but he only playrd 1 domestic game this season that automatically puts his at the back of the bowling order he should have played from game 1 and should have been in the shaheens squad.

Akif is rated highly the over he bowled to watson was brillant over he also has good height.

sameen is also tall and has a good bouncer.

 

[MenInG]

Those Black Caps fans hoping for a Devon Conway test debut may have been mistakenly buoyed by the news that Kane Williamson will soon be a dad for the first time.

The New Zealand test captain said after his career-best 251 against the West Indies in Hamilton on Friday that his wife Sarah was due to give birth “mid to late December”.

That could see Williamson miss a test – NZ play the second test against the Windies in Wellington starting on December 11 and then host Pakistan in two tests after Christmas, the first starting in Mount Maunganui on Boxing Day.

Black Caps poised for a big win over Windies in Hamilton.

“We're just going to cross that bridge when we can and see how things unfold, but very difficult to pre-plan,” Williamson said.

It’s possible he may still play all four tests this summer – Williamson lives in Mount Maunganui, the venue of the first test versus Pakistan from December 26-30, and after not playing the Twenty20 series against the Windies, he could also easily skip the two T20s against Pakistan on December 18 and 20, particularly if they coincide with the arrival of the couple’s first child.

Yet should Williamson take time off from cricket, Conway still looks unlikely to feature at home in tests this summer.

The South African-born left-hander was brought into the squad for the first test in Hamilton as injury cover after wicketkeeper-batsman BJ Watling injured a hamstring in a domestic one-dayer.

That eventually ruled him out of the test side, with Will Young promoted to debut as opener while Tom Blundell took over the keeping gloves and dropped down the batting order to No.6.

However, it appears Watling may make a quick return to the XI for the second test at the Basin Reserve.

The 35-year-old has been progressing well in his treatment and training in Hamilton and is targeting a return for the second test in Wellington, according to the Black Caps camp.

Should he be fit for the Basin, Young – who made a troubled five in his first test innings on Thursday – would drop out of the XI and Blundell would resume his opening role. That would leave Conway still three steps removed from the test side.

If Watling isn’t fit to play in Wellington, Young will be given another run at the top of the batting order.

Blundell and Henry Nicholls will also get another test in Wellington to make their mark with the bat. Nicholls made seven in NZ’s first innings in Hamilton and it’s now been 12 completed innings since his last test century. In that time, he’s averaged 20.33 with a highest score of 42.

Should any of the batsmen pressured by Conway – who made an outstanding start to his international career in two T20 innings against the Windies after dominating domestic attacks for the past three years – also fail in Wellington, it’d still go against the grain of recent selection trends not to see them given another chance versus Pakistan.

But rarely have chief selector Gavin Larsen and head coach Gary Stead had someone the calibre of Conway – who has compiled over 2000 runs while averaging 70 in first-class cricket since moving to NZ – waiting in the wings.

Ajaz Patel missed the first test against the Windies with a calf injury and could come back into selection contention if fit again. He was replaced by fellow left-arm spinner Mitchell Santner but Santner was left out of the XI in Hamilton as NZ went without a specialist spinner.

Colin de Grandhomme was ruled out of both tests against the Windies with bone bruising in his right foot and was replaced by Daryl Mitchell, with the two tests against Pakistan the aim of de Grandhomme’s return.

https://www.stuff.co.nz/sport/crick...despite-kane-williamsons-impending-fatherhood

 

[UzmanBeast]

Pakistan cannot play Yasir Shah in these conditions, there is nothing on offer. 4 quicks and part-timers should do the job. At max, you could try and fit in someone like Zafar Gohar, or Shadab Khan depending on what you see fit. Also, the openers have to get their bearings right. These are unforgiving tracks against a top-quality bowling lineup.

 

[shamaan]

Pakistan cannot play Yasir Shah in these conditions, there is nothing on offer. 4 quicks and part-timers should do the job. At max, you could try and fit in someone like Zafar Gohar, or Shadab Khan depending on what you see fit. Also, the openers have to get their bearings right. These are unforgiving tracks against a top-quality bowling lineup.

I would go shadab as he offers more with the bat than gohar and am not sure about the 4th pacer maybe it might be fahim ashraf

 

[UzmanBeast]

I would go shadab as he offers more with the bat than gohar and am not sure about the 4th pacer maybe it might be fahim ashraf

Whilst Shadab will give you more runs with the bat, he will almost certainly leak runs with the ball. So Shadab/Zafar is a 50/50 situation depending on what the team balance looks like.

 

[tyron_woodley]

Shafique
Masood
Babar
Haider Ali
Rizwan
Khusdil shah
Shadab khan
Hasan Ali
Sameen Gul
Shaheen Afridi
Junaid Khan

Tell me this team can't beat n.z?

 

[hitthestump]

Shafique
Masood
Babar
Haider Ali
Rizwan
Khusdil shah
Shadab khan
Hasan Ali
Sameen Gul
Shaheen Afridi
Junaid Khan

Tell me this team can't beat n.z?

Wow. Boult, Jamieson, Wagner and Southee wouldn't even turn up against that powerful batting line up.

 

[tyron_woodley]

Wow. Boult, Jamieson, Wagner and Southee wouldn't even turn up against that powerful batting line up.

What do you propose. N.z need to bat too you know?
Pakistan bowling above is good .excellent depth.

 

[shamaan]

Whilst Shadab will give you more runs with the bat, he will almost certainly leak runs with the ball. So Shadab/Zafar is a 50/50 situation depending on what the team balance looks like.

But if you have 4 pace attack your spinner will not bowl much proberly a spell here or thier hence why i would include shadab over gohar

 

[shamaan]

Shafique
Masood
Babar
Haider Ali
Rizwan
Khusdil shah
Shadab khan
Hasan Ali
Sameen Gul
Shaheen Afridi
Junaid Khan

Tell me this team can't beat n.z?

I dont no where this team looks like a test team or a t20 team ?

 

[tyron_woodley]

I dont no where this team looks like a test team or a t20 team ?

How so? Looks solid to me. Haider is young.
Shafique is raw but talented. Who else you want? Abid Ali?

Imam UL Haq I suppose? Ok have Imam open.
Haider at 4. Because the kaptaam Azhar is going to retire soon right? Hence I took him out.

 

[UzmanBeast]

But if you have 4 pace attack your spinner will not bowl much proberly a spell here or thier hence why i would include shadab over gohar

It also depends on how the pitches turn out. Our pacers are young, and most Pakistani captains in recent times have used spinners outrageously in all innings. Having a better spinner who can be economical and bowl good overs in Zafar Gohar, and bat to a certain extent, will be better in my opinion.

 

[shamaan]

How so? Looks solid to me. Haider is young.
Shafique is raw but talented. Who else you want? Abid Ali?

Imam UL Haq I suppose? Ok have Imam open.
Haider at 4. Because the kaptaam Azhar is going to retire soon right? Hence I took him out.

Khushdil cant play in test match.shafique is good but to early for him get him in the shaheens same with haider.hassan to early needs more games in domestic.junaid khan no comment.

I would pick haider abdullah if it was easier tour maybe next tour .theirs no chance khushdil can plau test match.

I would stil play azhar masood abid ali for the tour against new Zealand but that would aftwe new New Zealand if they dont score.

 

[shamaan]

It also depends on how the pitches turn out. Our pacers are young, and most Pakistani captains in recent times have used spinners outrageously in all innings. Having a better spinner who can be economical and bowl good overs in Zafar Gohar, and bat to a certain extent, will be better in my opinion.

The new Zealand pitches dont spin til atleast 4th day and the spin is bear minimal.dont get me wrong in asain conditions gohar plays as the main spinner

 

[Shoaibbtt]

I dont no where this team looks like a test team or a t20 team ?

What is this obsession with Sameen Gul??? He’s average as is Junaid Khan. Hussain Ali is injury prone and can’t do it anymore.

 

[Shoaibbtt]

Shafique
Masood
Babar
Haider Ali
Rizwan
Khusdil shah
Shadab khan
Hasan Ali
Sameen Gul
Shaheen Afridi
Junaid Khan

Tell me this team can't beat n.z?

It can’t beat NZ.

I don’t know what special thing Sameen Gul has done and what noteworthy of late Junaid Khan has done. Hassan Ali has been mediocre at best in the ongoing QeA. Besides you left out Imad who has proven he’s an effective spinner and good finisher.

Nice team for the most part but your bowling falls short.

 

[KoyoAli]

Shafique
Masood
Babar
Haider Ali
Rizwan
Khusdil shah
Shadab khan
Hasan Ali
Sameen Gul
Shaheen Afridi
Junaid Khan

Tell me this team can't beat n.z?

Which format is this team playing in? And no, Junaid Khan is done, at least in my opinion. And again I cant pin down one format where this team is balanced. Some look like test players while other LOI players.

 

[shaz619]

Normally NZ home series are on sky

Am not sure that will be the case this time in the UK, [MENTION=129927]space[/MENTION]Cat pointed out something about a change to the deal between Sky and NZC I think

 

[tyron_woodley]

It can’t beat NZ.

I don’t know what special thing Sameen Gul has done and what noteworthy of late Junaid Khan has done. Hassan Ali has been mediocre at best in the ongoing QeA. Besides you left out Imad who has proven he’s an effective spinner and good finisher.

Nice team for the most part but your bowling falls short.

Sameen Gul is a gun talent. Watch him bowl. He has the skill, good pace and a nice bouncer. He is ideal for tests. I can't believe Pakistan din't pick him over Naseem.

Sameen also averaged 21 not too long ago.

Hasan
Sameen
Shaheen
Naseem I guess as 11th or whoever else is deemed better.

Strong bowling for n.z condtions.

 

[Deewana Mastana]

I remember asking a week or so back if this series will be on TV broadcasting around the world.

But it seems like the current WI series it will also just be on the NZC youtube channel.

 

[Rayyman]

Abdullah, Babar*, Haider, Hafeez, Khushdil, Shadab, Rizwan+, Imad, Wahab, Rauf, Hasnain

 

[Rayyman]

Abid, Shan, Azhar, Babar*, Haris, Rizwan+, Shadab, Faheem, Abbas, Shaheen, Naseem

 

[tyron_woodley]

Abid, Shan, Azhar, Babar*, Haris, Rizwan+, Shadab, Faheem, Abbas, Shaheen, Naseem

Actually this is the team I had in mind. However for a long term solution the one I posted is better. Hasan over Faheem though.

 

[Rayyman]

Actually this is the team I had in mind. However for a long term solution the one I posted is better. Hasan over Faheem though.

Faheem is better than the trundler Abbas. Can’t wait until that guy is exposed.

Hasan Ali is not in the squad, but he should be brought back for the next Test series. He will be Pakistan’s best bowler if managed correctly.

 

[Kroll]

Actually this is the team I had in mind. However for a long term solution the one I posted is better. Hasan over Faheem though.

Masood and Abid need to be booted out, both are not test class and Azhar is on his last legs. Basically expired in SENA conditions and thus top three is a complete write off.

 

[tyron_woodley]

Faheem is better than the trundler Abbas. Can’t wait until that guy is exposed.

Hasan Ali is not in the squad, but he should be brought back for the next Test series. He will be Pakistan’s best bowler if managed correctly.

Yep. Form is temporary. Classics permanent. Hasan in quality. I know he has been poor but he has found some form recently. He is getting back. His only issue is his frail physique. Strength and conditioning training is a must for him.

I rate Hasan Ali. I have a soft spot for Junaid lol but I suppose he is past it now judging by how angry posters get on PP when I mention his name.

 

[tyron_woodley]

Faheem is better than the trundler Abbas. Can’t wait until that guy is exposed.

Hasan Ali is not in the squad, but he should be brought back for the next Test series. He will be Pakistan’s best bowler if managed correctly.

Faheem is good for balance I completely agree. I assumed Abbas will play in swing condtions though? Abbas is a fine swing bowler.

God I can't stand his action lol.

 

[Shoaibbtt]

Sameen Gul is a gun talent. Watch him bowl. He has the skill, good pace and a nice bouncer. He is ideal for tests. I can't believe Pakistan din't pick him over Naseem.

Sameen also averaged 21 not too long ago.

Hasan
Sameen
Shaheen
Naseem I guess as 11th or whoever else is deemed better.

Strong bowling for n.z condtions.

I never gave him credit but Hasnain has improved as a bowler and think he's a must in t20, i reckon with time he will be like Adam Milne (fast bowler of NZ) again a bowler who really worked hard on himself.

I reckon for t20s i would go in with the pace attack of Shaheen, Hasnain/Rauf, Wahab Riaz/Naseem Shah with perhaps 4th bowler/allrounder being Amir Yamin (he impressed me with how well he bowled with the new ball in PSL).

 

[shamaan]

What is this obsession with Sameen Gul??? He’s average as is Junaid Khan. Hussain Ali is injury prone and can’t do it anymore.

Junaid khan was a good bowler most of his wickets came on flat pitches he didnt get backed like amir otherwise he would have been twice the bowler amir is.same with sameen he isnt quick but he moves the ball similar to abbas.as for hassan ali i stil belive he can make a come back as an all rounder or a 3rs seemer what makes you think he cant do it anymore .

 

[shamaan]

It can’t beat NZ.

I don’t know what special thing Sameen Gul has done and what noteworthy of late Junaid Khan has done. Hassan Ali has been mediocre at best in the ongoing QeA. Besides you left out Imad who has proven he’s an effective spinner and good finisher.

Nice team for the most part but your bowling falls short.

Do you think this team is a test team or t20 team becouse it doesnt seem like either but abit of both

 

[shamaan]

My t20 team.

Haider ali
Babar
Abdullah
Hafeez
Sarfraz/ rizwan both doesnt warrant a spot thou
Khushdil
Shadab
Imad
Wahab
Shaheen
Rauf

 

[shamaan]

My predicted team

Abid ali
Shan masood
Azhar ali
Babar
Haris sohail/fawad
Rizwan
Shadab
Fahim
Shaheen
Abbas
Naseem

 

[shamaan]

Faheem is better than the trundler Abbas. Can’t wait until that guy is exposed.

Hasan Ali is not in the squad, but he should be brought back for the next Test series. He will be Pakistan’s best bowler if managed correctly.

You think fahim is better than abbas on what basis ?!

 

[shamaan]

Masood and Abid need to be booted out, both are not test class and Azhar is on his last legs. Basically expired in SENA conditions and thus top three is a complete write off.

Let abid and azhar have thier last series then get rid of them

 

[MenInG]

WELLINGTON: New Zealand stand-in captain Tom Latham said on Monday their sole focus was the upcoming Test series against Pakistan despite their 2-0 sweep of West Indies putting them in contention for a place in next year's World Test Championship final.

New Zealand moved into third place in the table for the World Test Championship when they completed an innings and 12 run victory over West Indies in the second Test at the Basin Reserve.

The top-two sides face each other in the final at Lord's next year. The two ahead of New Zealand, Australia and India, will start a four-match series in Adelaide on Thursday.

"When you look too far ahead you can sometimes get caught out," Latham, who stood in for the absent Kane Williamson at the Basin Reserve, told reporters.

"Our focus will shift to Pakistan and whatever happens post that we'll assess.

"The goal at the start of the Test Championship was to get to that final, and if we play well we give ourselves a chance and it may be a possibility."

New Zealand dominated West Indies in both Tests, posting big first innings totals after being put into bat in bowler-friendly conditions. Their bowlers then scythed through the tourists' first innings to set up their big victories.

New Zealand head to Auckland on Tuesday to begin preparations for three Twenty20 matches against Pakistan before a two-Test series begins in Mt. Maunganui on Dec. 26.

In order to remain in contention for the Test Championship final they must also sweep Pakistan and hope other results go their way, and Latham said their good form and knowledge of home conditions would give them every chance.

"We have been playing some good cricket of late," Latham said. "In our conditions we certainly know how to play."

https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com...nship-final/articleshow/79715553.cms?from=mdr

 

[MenInG]

Black Caps all-rounder Colin de Grandhomme has been ruled out of the test series against Pakistan.

Coach Gary Stead said de Grandhomme has a 'stress reaction' in his right foot and isn't back running or bowling. Stead added they were hoping for a mid-January return for the all-rounder.

De Grandhomme missed the West Indies series, replaced in the side by Daryl Mitchell.

In other squad news, skipper Kane Williamson remains on baby watch after missing the second test win over West Indies in Wellington. Stead said the plan is still for him to join the Twenty20 squad for games two and three.

Stead provided some positive news for spin bowler Ajaz Patel who will prepare with the New Zealand A side this week and is looking to be in contention for the opening test against Pakistan at Bay Oval starting Boxing Day.

The left-arm spinner had struggled with a calf injury but the state of the pitch will determine whether he will play in his ninth test, with the Black Caps favouring four seam bowlers in the opening two tests this summer.

Meanwhile, Lockie Ferguson has had scans on a back issue and is awaiting results.

https://www.nzherald.co.nz/sport/cr...istan-test-series/TWXHUIJIQSEGAWNW5GPLLCLDIU/

 

[tyron_woodley]

My predicted team

Abid ali
Shan masood
Azhar ali
Babar
Haris sohail/fawad
Rizwan
Shadab
Fahim
Shaheen
Abbas
Naseem

Perfect. I prefer shafique to open or is he too raw you think? No Haris please. He is done. Fawad or someone new.

Actually swap abid for Imam UL Haq.

 

[Thunderbolt14]

Perfect. I prefer shafique to open or is he too raw you think? No Haris please. He is done. Fawad or someone new.

Actually swap abid for Imam UL Haq.

He’s too raw to be honest, I’m happy Shafique has been selected since it means he’s in the selectors’ eyes and he’s very talented, but I would have let him play more domestic cricket before selecting him.

So two sides to the coin, for example these days I keep posting about Mubasir Khan and updating his stats and performances on the relevant threads since I think he has good potential, but I would be a very iffy if he was called up for the national team after just one season of domestic first XI cricket.

 

[tyron_woodley]

He’s too raw to be honest, I’m happy Shafique has been selected since it means he’s in the selectors’ eyes and he’s very talented, but I would have let him play more domestic cricket before selecting him.

So two sides to the coin, for example these days I keep posting about Mubasir Khan and updating his stats and performances on the relevant threads since I think he has good potential, but I would be a very iffy if he was called up for the national team after just one season of domestic first XI cricket.

You have to select players based on their ability to play in specific condtions.

Can mubashir play swing ? Is he good on the Backfoot? That's what selectors need to look into.
Flat track bully won't work in Sena. yes they can decimate teams in Asia but you need different skillset for the different conditions.

I believe Imam should start.

Fawad or mubashir over Haris for sure. Maybe Haider? Why not? Haider is exceptionally talented imo. I think that kid has legit potential to be a gun player in the future.

 

[Thunderbolt14]

You have to select players based on their ability to play in specific condtions.

Can mubashir play swing ? Is he good on the Backfoot? That's what selectors need to look into.
Flat track bully won't work in Sena. yes they can decimate teams in Asia but you need different skillset for the different conditions.

I believe Imam should start.

Fawad or mubashir over Haris for sure. Maybe Haider? Why not? Haider is exceptionally talented imo. I think that kid has legit potential to be a gun player in the future.

Definitely. Mubasir is a ways away, but I would definitely try to begin building a Test team around Haider, Abdullah, Babar, Shan, Imam, Saud Shakeel. Ideally we’d see this begin to happen in this New Zealand series, and begin to work towards a core like this in 3 years time, with Abid Ali and Mohammad Abbas nearing retirement.

1.
2. Shan Masood
3. Abdullah Shafique
4. Babar Azam (c)
5. Saud Shakeel
6. Haider Ali
7. Mohammad Rizwan (wk)
8. Zafar Gohar
9. Shaheen Afridi
10. Naseem Shah
11.

Second opener can be any one of Imam ul Haq, Omair bin Yousuf, Imran Butt, or Ali Zaryab. All are great options!

Now that would be an immensely tantalizing lineup.

 

[tyron_woodley]

Definitely. Mubasir is a ways away, but I would definitely try to begin building a Test team around Haider, Abdullah, Babar, Shan, Imam, Saud Shakeel. Ideally we’d see this begin to happen in this New Zealand series, and begin to work towards a core like this in 3 years time, with Abid Ali and Mohammad Abbas nearing retirement.

1.
2. Shan Masood
3. Abdullah Shafique
4. Babar Azam (c)
5. Saud Shakeel
6. Haider Ali
7. Mohammad Rizwan (wk)
8. Zafar Gohar
9. Shaheen Afridi
10. Naseem Shah
11.

Second opener can be any one of Imam ul Haq, Omair bin Yousuf, Imran Butt, or Ali Zaryab. All are great options!

Now that would be an immensely tantalizing lineup.

yea i agree. iirc zafar can bat abit. I would prefer hasan ali over zafar in SENA.
imam up top and obviously kaptaan for now over shakeel.

 

[Arsal_AK]

Perfect. I prefer shafique to open or is he too raw you think? No Haris please. He is done. Fawad or someone new.

Actually swap abid for Imam UL Haq.

Abdulah is too raw and even then not as an opener. He can do much better in the middle order.

If Abid fails (bound to happen), then Imran gets his place. Could happen by the second test.

Imam is terrible, the only thing he has over Abid is age. Look at his test stats, there is no reason to believe he has gotten any better.

Haris and Fawad both will play. Haris comes in for Asad. He was very good actually but yeah, now his fitness (which is affecting his batting too) doesn't warrant a spot in the team. I won't be surprised if he breaks down in the middle of a test.

The question is who to play instead of Babar, if he doesn't makes the first test. The options aren't that much. Haider, Talat and Abdullah, Imran (he is an opener though) and that's pretty much it.

 

[shamaan]

Perfect. I prefer shafique to open or is he too raw you think? No Haris please. He is done. Fawad or someone new.

Actually swap abid for Imam UL Haq.

I think hes to raw pluss this series is really tough.the only way he may play is if babar is injuired for the first test if he isnt i expect him to be on the bench.as for haris or fawad they should be given this series they MUST peform same with abid i would give him this series so no one can say he wasnt given a proper chance.continuinty

 

[shamaan]

You have to select players based on their ability to play in specific condtions.

Can mubashir play swing ? Is he good on the Backfoot? That's what selectors need to look into.
Flat track bully won't work in Sena. yes they can decimate teams in Asia but you need different skillset for the different conditions.

I believe Imam should start.

Fawad or mubashir over Haris for sure. Maybe Haider? Why not? Haider is exceptionally talented imo. I think that kid has legit potential to be a gun player in the future.

Mubasir needs to play all the matches next season to let them grind out performances in doesmtic.as for haider he should play domestic games and is a starter for the t20s and odis.

I would go saud ago as he has played games in doesmtic.but in a year all of abdullah saud haider babar omair should be looking to get into the team

 

[MenInG]

Ferguson up for the fight as partial stress fracture confirmed

BLACKCAPS paceman Lockie Ferguson has been diagnosed with a partial stress fracture to his lumbar spine and will require four to six weeks of rest before returning to training.

The injury to the left-side of his back surfaced after the recent T20 series against the West Indies and subsequent scans and imaging confirmed the partial fracture.

Ferguson will not need surgery, but instead requires a period of rest and rehabilitation before considering any return to play later this summer

BLACKCAPS coach Gary Stead said it was a blow to lose Ferguson, but backed him to come back.

“We’re all really feeling for Lockie,” he said.

“Injuries are certainly part of our sport, but to get something like this when you’re at the very top of your game is especially disappointing.

“The pace and skill he’s been able to consistently produce has made him one of the very best white ball bowlers in the world and a huge asset for the BLACKCAPS.

“Lockie has a great attitude and I know he’s up for the fight so he’ll get stuck into the rehab and we’re still hopeful he may get back on the park at the back end of summer.”

Ferguson will likely miss all of the Auckland Aces Dream11 Super Smash campaign which runs from late December through to the final on February 14.

The BLACKCAPS end to the international home-season sees Australia arrive in late February for five T20 Internationals, before Bangladesh conclude the summer with three T20Is and three ODIs, the final game being played on March 28.

 

[MenInG]

Things getting easy for Pakistan?

Both Ferguson and CdG not in the series.

 

[FreePalestine]

Which channel will televize the series in the UK?

 

[KoyoAli]

Things getting easy for Pakistan?

Both Ferguson and CdG not in the series.

View attachment 105343

They have a bowling attack of Boult, Southee, Wagner, and Jamieson. Nothing is easy for Pakistan. We would be lucky to not be whitewashed especially with Babar possible out of the first test too, not that we stood a real chance even with him.

 

[MenInG]

A New Zealand A side laden with in-form personnel has been selected for the four-day match against the Pakistan Shaheens in Whangarei, starting tomorrow.

Included in the A side are Rachin Ravindra, who has already scored two centuries and taken a six-wicket bag in this season’s A programme; Michael Bracewell, who notched a century against West Indies A in Nelson, and in-form Canterbury batsman, Ken McClure.

Bracewell will captain the A side, which will be coached by Stephen Cunis and Brendon Donkers.

National selection manager Gavin Larsen said it was encouraging to see BLACKCAPS fast bowler Matt Henry playing his first game of red ball cricket since injuring his thumb in October.

"It was a difficult start to the season for Matt but he’s been making good progress since breaking his thumb and this game is another positive step in the right direction for him.

"Matt’s always been a big part of our red ball plans and having him back in long-form cricket is very heartening."

Larsen sang the praises of the A programme, saying it was a critical step in terms of preparing New Zealand’s top domestic players for international cricket.

"It’s just been invaluable," he said. "It gives completely different opportunities to different players, depending on their particular circumstances at the time.

"New Zealand has good depth in its international ranks right now and I think that’s a direct result of having a meaningful and strong A programme."

Larsen said Leo Carter and Sean Solia would act as 12th/13th men to cover for concussion and/or COVID-19 substitutes. Having played the sixth round of the Ford Trophy yesterday, both were travelling to Whangarei today.

He added that spin-bowler Ajaz Patel, who suffered a calf injury six weeks ago, will join the team and train with it, as he continues his rehabilitation ahead of the Test series against Pakistan.

No BLACKCAPS were available for selection due to the T20 series against Pakistan.

New Zealand A: Michael Bracewell (c), Joe Carter, Leo Carter, Henry Cooper, Cameron Fletcher, Matt Henry, Ken McClure, Ed Nuttall, Nathan Smith, Michael Rae, Rachin Ravindra, Michael Rippon, Sean Solia.

Match officials: Richard Hayward (match referee); Derek Walker, John Dempsey (umpires).

http://www.voxy.co.nz/sport/5/379275

 

[shaz619]

I take it this series will be on Youtube ? great for UK viewers but at the same time so sad for NZ cricket, the World Cup runners up

 

[Mobashir]

Which channel will televize the series in the UK?

De Grandhomme will be a miss but Ferguson wasn't going to play the tests anyway.

NZ has good depth as far as fast bowling is concerned these days. I think Ferguson is their 6th bowling option after : Boult, Southee, Wagner, Jamieson and Henry.

 

[Firebat]

From the backyard to Eden Park, new Black Cap Jacob Duffy follows his heroes

There was a moment on Wednesday when it all became a reality for Jacob Duffy.

The 26-year-old Southlander is preparing for a potential Black Caps’ debut on Friday night when they take on Pakistan in a Twenty20 cricket international in Auckland.

Duffy joined the New Zealand squad on Tuesday and it took little time for the reality of his selection to hit home.

“I just got my shirt today and it was pretty cool to see your name on the back of a Black Caps shirt, that was pretty awesome,’’ he told Stuff.

The rise to the Black Caps has prompted some reflection for Duffy.

His cricket playing days started out in the small northern Southland town of Lumsden, where he attended primary school before shifting to Invercargill.

He progressed through the Southland age-group ranks before emerging in 2012 as a 17-year-old star when he made his Otago Volts debut.

If Duffy is included in the playing XI for Friday night's game, he will become the first Southlander to debut for the New Zealand cricket team since Jeff Wilson in 1993.

“It is funny where your head goes when this sort of thing comes. I actually reflect a lot on playing backyard cricket with [older brother] Ryan and some of our mates.

“We would be in teams and you would be New Zealand and come out as Nathan Astle and Stephen Fleming. So I reflect on that and it’ i pretty surreal to now be part of the group.’’

Duffy has been humbled by the support he has received from his home province of Southland since being announced in the Black Caps squad on Saturday.

The first person to message him was Southland cricket coach Steve Jackson.

Jackson has followed Duffy’s progress from his days playing at Southland Boys’ High School, where Jackson was a teacher.

“It is the small community vibe you get [in Southland]. I have got messages from people in Invercargill that I have not heard from in a hell of a long time. It is nice to know that they are still following you and still care,” Duffy said.

Jackson was thrilled for Duffy.

“It is well deserved and I think it has been coming for a while.”

It was evident early in Duffy’s career that he had potential, Jackson said.

He recalls selecting Duffy to play for Southland at Hawke Cup level as a teenager. Duffy had restrictions put on him as to how many overs he could bowl because of his age.

“I think it was against Hamilton. I remember talking to the opposition and they said he was the most difficult bowler to face. He was hitting the bat hard at that age,” Jackson said.

While Duffy's selection has prompted excitement, in Southland in particular, just whether he gets his shot at playing on Friday is yet to be confirmed.

“Fingers crossed but I have honestly got no idea at the moment. I would love to get a run, have a go, and see what I have got against some of the best in the world.”

Whether Duffy is playing or not he has a big support crew of family heading to Auckland for Friday night's game.

“I don’t think they normally let [the players] have that many people but they said because it was a potential debut they will squeeze them in.”

As big of an occasion as it is, Duffy said the New Zealand players and management had helped him settle into the environment this week.

“There are a lot of friendly faces and everyone has been bloody awesome, to be honest. I think they make a bit of a deal of it when it is your first time in the group, to go out of their way and be extra welcoming.”

Friday night's New Zealand-Pakistan game is scheduled to start at 7pm.

https://www.stuff.co.nz/sport/crick...-new-black-cap-jacob-duffy-follows-his-heroes

 

[MenInG]

Devon Conway is set to be back in the middle on Friday night after spending two weeks carrying the drinks for the Black Caps.

And while his wait for a test debut is set to stretch well into 2021, if not beyond then, he is looking forward to having the chance to secure his place in the Twenty20 team.

The 29-year-old made 41 and an unbeaten 65 in his first two international matches against the West Indies last month, and now gets to pick up where he left off against Pakistan, starting on Friday at Eden Park in Auckland.

Conway and fellow big-hitter Glenn Phillips have been given the nod to carry on after impressing last time out and with Kane Williamson set to return to the fold for games two and three, pending the arrival of his first child, that has meant there is no room for Ross Taylor.

It’s a selection decision that has prompted plenty of debate – one Gary Stead has described as one of the toughest of his coaching career – and even Conway said it was “a pretty hard call”.

“We all know what a great player [Ross] is,” he added.

“We all know what he’s done for New Zealand cricket and this is not the end of him in T20 cricket.

"It's just a great opportunity for us to have another crack at T20 at international level and try to prove that we can play this level.”

Conway may be tasked with filling Taylor’s shoes over the next week or so, but so far this summer he has relished the opportunity to learn off the experienced batsman, who played his 100th T20 international earlier this year.

“We had some conversations and it was good to get to know him,” Conway said.

“I've watched him play from a young age and I've always sort of admired the way he's played his game.

“Being alongside him and having those conversations, it was pretty much me just trying to watch him and how he goes about his business.”

Conway has spent the past two weeks performing 12th man duties for the Black Caps alongside Mitchell Santner after being called into the test squad to play the West Indies as cover after initially missing out.

His first-class record with the Wellington Firebirds – 2008 runs in 21 matches at an average of 69.24 – means there are plenty of people eager to see him get a chance in test cricket.

But as things stand, he is the second backup batsman, behind Will Young and the regular top five of Tom Latham, Tom Blundell, Williamson, Taylor, and Henry Nicholls, who scored a much-needed century in the second test.

“To break into that test team initially would be a hell of a task in itself,” Conway said.

“They've got a really stable setup there, and they've got extremely experienced players playing at the moment.

“For me just to get an opportunity at some point would be a real honour.

“It's one of those things where I've just got to be patient and if an opportunity does present itself that will be a cherry on top.”

https://www.stuff.co.nz/sport/crick...ut-to-secure-his-place-in-the-twenty20-lineup

 

[omairsiddiqui]

Excessive support staff with Pakistan squad in New Zealand

Looking at Pakistan's dugout in this T20, I'm curious about why there are so many support staff members around the team. Does anyone have a list of support staffers that have traveled with the team? Do they actually have legitimate roles?

 

[Bewal Express]

And if you got rid 75% of them, it will make no difference to the results

 

[MenInG]

Please see below for vision and an interview with BLACKCAPS captain Kane Williamson on his return to the T20 squad in Hamilton after the birth of his first child.

Williamson was joined in the Seddon Park nets on Saturday by fellow Test players Tim Southee, Trent Boult, Kyle Jamieson and Daryl Mitchell ahead of the second PSO Carient T20I on Sunday night.

 

[The Viper]

Canterbury seamer Matt Henry has been brought into the BLACKCAPS squad for the second PSO Carient Test against Pakistan at Hagley Oval starting on Sunday.

Henry replaces Neil Wagner, who is recovering from undisplaced fractures in both the fourth and fifth toes of his right foot, sustained in the first Test at Bay Oval.

Wagner’s recovery is expected to be approximately six weeks.

BLACKCAPS coach Gary Stead said Henry brings Test experience and local knowledge to the squad.

“Matt has been in good form with the ball having recently taken 6-53 for New Zealand A against the Pakistan Shaheens (A side) in December,” Stead said.

“We’re still a couple of days out from the Test, so need to take a look at the surface while also assessing our options for best-possible team make-up.”


BLACKCAPS TEST SQUAD
Kane Williamson (c)
Tom Blundell
Trent Boult
Matt Henry
Kyle Jamieson
Tom Latham
Daryl Mitchell
Henry Nicholls
Mitchell Santner
Tim Southee
Ross Taylor
BJ Watling (wk)
Will Young

 

[The Viper]

Canterbury seamer Matt Henry has been brought into the BLACKCAPS squad for the second PSO Carient Test against Pakistan at Hagley Oval starting on Sunday.

Henry replaces Neil Wagner, who is recovering from undisplaced fractures in both the fourth and fifth toes of his right foot, sustained in the first Test at Bay Oval.

Wagner’s recovery is expected to be approximately six weeks.

BLACKCAPS coach Gary Stead said Henry brings Test experience and local knowledge to the squad.

“Matt has been in good form with the ball having recently taken 6-53 for New Zealand A against the Pakistan Shaheens (A side) in December,” Stead said.

“We’re still a couple of days out from the Test, so need to take a look at the surface while also assessing our options for best-possible team make-up.”

BLACKCAPS TEST SQUAD
Kane Williamson (c)
Tom Blundell
Trent Boult
Matt Henry
Kyle Jamieson
Tom Latham
Daryl Mitchell
Henry Nicholls
Mitchell Santner
Tim Southee
Ross Taylor
BJ Watling (wk)
Will Young

 

[Prince of Pakistan]

Matt Henry is a quality bowler. Love his bowling action as it reminds me of Shane Bond.

Not good for Pakistan as Henry will swing it at Christchurch.