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FEBRUARY 20, 2011

STYLE | TRENDS BOOKS | INTERVIEWS | GOSSIP | Q&A | SOCIETY

TheNation

SHAHID AFRIDI VOWS TO BRING THE CUP HOME AGAIN HOW CHIEF SELECTOR MOSHIN KHAN KNIT THE DREAM TEAM TOGETHER

FORMER PCB CHAIRMEN ARIF ALI ABBASSI, KHALID MEHMOOD & TAUQEER ZIA ON PROSPECTS OF WINNING THE CUP

ADVISES LEGEND IMRAN KHAN

BE A SPIRITED UNIT T O WIN,

SPECIAL

INDIA - BANGLADESH - SRI LANKA

FEB 19 - APRIL 02

ICC CRICKET WORLD CUP

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INTERVIEW

INTERVIEW

Q & A

INTERVIEW

PROFILE

Imran Khan speaks about Pakistani cricket team’s prospects for winning the World Cup

Boom Boom Shahid Afridi talks about hopes and aspirations to bring back the cup home again

Get close and personal with Kamran Akmal

Short accounts of our heroes on the World Cup they wish to conquer

See the profi les of the members of our dream team

INSIDE THIS WEEKFEBRUARY 20, 2011

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PROFILE INTERVIEW

INTERVIEW

PICKS OF THE WEEK

INTERVIEW ZODIAC

SOCIETY

INTERVIEW

See the profi les of the members of our dream team

Moshin Khan explains what made him select youngsters for the World Cup

Former Chairman PCB Tauqeer Zia on our teams prospects in World Cup

Go through the smart wish-list for best buys

Khalid Mehmood talks about how ad hocism has ruined Pakistan Cricket

Weekly astrological forecasts

Report on the happenings and events in your metropolis

Read analysis of former Chairman PCB Arif Ali Abbassi

3650 AUTHORITIES POLITICISED THE BOARDMAKING THE DREAM TEAMINTERVIEWINTERVIEW

SUNDAY PLUS

EDITOR’S NOTE

56

Dear readers we are back with another exciting issue of Sunday Plus. The ICC Cricket World Cup is underway. The cricket fever has gained momentum. The S + team has worked at its best to provide you with exclusive interviews of top cricket personalities and detailed overview of the tournament by the best analysts of the game. Living legend of cricket Imran Khan in his exclusive interview speaks about the prospects of Pakistan cricket team winning the world cup. Meet Shahid Afridi a skipper ready to boom boom. Get close and personal with the man behind the wicket Kamran Akmal. Chief selector of PCB Mohsin Khan explains how the dream team was knitted together. Former chairmen of PCB Arif Abbassi, Khalid Mehmood and Tauqeer Zia talk about the decline of cricket in Pakistan and current team’s chances of bring the cup home.

And don’t forget to see our section ‘Picks of the week’ for best buys.

We await your feedback [email protected]

Editor-in-ChiefMajid Nizami

Deputy Managing DirectorRameeza NizamiGroup Editor:Salim Bokhari

Editor Magazine:Emanuel Sarfraz

Editorial Staff : Bishakha Khadka Kunwar, Madiha Syedain, Sadaf Pervez & Navirah Zafar

Creative Head:Faiz-ur-Rehman

Creative Team: Shoaib Qadir, Faisal Fazal, Talal Waheed, HM. Nouman, & Sohail Abbas

Marketing: Bilal Mahmood, Muhammad Zaeem &Salman Ahmed

For advertising:0300 - 84932060301 - 84633060300 - 4116792

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February 20, 201108 SUNDAY PLUS

FASHION

Salma Turab


INTERVIEW

Emanuel Sarfraz

ADVISES LEGEND IMRAN KHAN

BE A SPIRITED UNIT TO WIN,

Imran Khan is the best cricketer Pakistan ever produced. He inspired a whole generation of bowlers to go for the fast bowling. Prior to his inclusion in the Pakistan team it was never thought that the country would become the home to the best fast bowlers in the game for years to come.

is averages (37 with the bat, 22 with the ball) put him at the top among the all rounders of his time. He proved do better than Ian Botham, Richard Hadlee and Kapil Dev. In the last 10 years of international cricket he played 51 Tests, averag-ing a sensational 50 with the bat and 19 with the ball.

Imran made his test debut against England in 1971 at Birmingham. Imran easily stands out statistically. He played 88 test matches, took 362 wickets at an average of 22, and scored 3807 runs at an average of 37 with 6 centuries. His ODI record is pretty impressive. He made his ODI debut in 1974 against England at Nottingham. He gathered 3709 runs with the bat at an average of 33. As a bowler, he hasn’t done badly, by taking 182 wickets at an average of 26, in 175 matches.

Captaincy brought the best out of Imran. He played 48 matches as a captain, scoring 2408 runs at an average of 52, and taking 187 wickets at an average of 20. He took part in 26 victories and in the matches his team won, he scored 900 runs at an average of 36 with a single century, and has taken 155 wickets at an average of 14 with 11 fi ve wicket hauls.

Away from home he has played 50 test matches. In matches away he scored 2267 runs at an average of 33 with 3 centuries, and took 199 wickets at an average of 25 with 13 fi ve wicket hauls.

Imran’s performance against the best team of his era, West Indies has been superb. He played 18 test matches against them. In those 18 matches he cracked 775 runs at an average of 27 with one century. He really preserved his

H

February 20, 2011 12SUNDAY PLUS


FEB 19 - APRIL 02


2 11best with the ball against them. He made 80 strikes against them at an average of 21 with 6 fi ve wicket hauls. As a captain he played 3 test series against the West Indies. He drew all three of the matches.

Pakistan’s fi rst test victory in Australia came in 1977, in Sydney. Imran took match fi gures o+f 12/165. Pakistan is the only team except South Africa to have white washed Australia in test cricket. It was done under Imran’s captaincy in 1982 by beating Kim Hughes Australian team 3-0. He wasn’t needed with the bat, but he took 13 wickets in 3 matches at an average of just 13. His best performance with the bat came against Australia, in Adelaide where he scored a match saving 136 in 1990. Imran’s best per-formance with the ball 8/58 came against Sri Lanka at home in 1982.

As an all-rounder, Imran’s best series came against India at home in 1982/83. In a 6 test match series, he scored 247 runs at an average of 61, and took an amazing tally of 40 wickets at an average of 13; Pakistan beat India by a 3-0 margin. During the series, Imran suff ered a stress fracture, which meant that he could not bowl a single delivery in test cricket, for 3 years.

Pakistan won their fi rst ever test series in England and India, under the captaincy of Im-ran in 1987. In the series against India Imran blossomed with the bat, amassing 324 runs


in 5 matches at an average of 64. His bowling wasn’t quite up there due to injuries. He only took 8 wickets at an average of 49. The fi rst series win in England earned him the man of the series award. He gathered 191 runs in 5 matches at an average of 47, and took 21 wickets at an average of 21.

His ODIs victories as a captain are special. The 1992 world cup where he ordered his troops to fi ght like cornered tigers when they were down and out. Pakistan was almost out of the tournament once, but went on to win the world cup. He has always led from the front. In the 1992 world cup Pakistan were

struggling with their number 3 position. He promoted himself at the number 3 position.

In the semi fi nals he made a fi ghting 44 to stabilize the innings, and a match winning 72 runs off 110 balls. He also took some crucial wickets including the last one in the fi nal. Famous victories in Nehru cup fi nal against the West Indies, and Austral-Asia cup fi nal against India are the hallmarks of his captaincy. His best performance with ball, in the ODIs came in Sharjah in 1985, where he bamboozled the strong Indian Batting Line-up by taking 6/14. His best performance with the bat, in ODIs came against Sri Lanka, he

scored an unbeaten 102. Imran Khan is a living legend with huge

fan following across the globe. He is no doubt the best cricketer of the 20th century. He is considered an authority when talking about cricket. In an exclusive interview with Sunday Plus Imran Khan spoke about Pakistani cricket team’s prospects for winning the World Cup. Following are the excerpts of the interview:

Emanuel Sarfraz: What was the real motivation behind the Pakistan team win in the 1992 Cricket World Cup? Was it the team spirit, skill or the leadership?

Imran Khan: It was not one person that played the role. The whole team played the role. We used the attacking strategy that subsequently the Australians adopted. Mushtaq Ahmed and Wasim Akram were the strike bowlers while the others were playing to contain the run rate. We were not defensive and took a lot of risks. Since we were attack-ing and worked with fi rm belief we were able to win the cup.

ES: Should Pakistan cricket team adopt the same strategy for this world cup?

IK: I would not say that the same strategy should be adopted. In Australia the conditions were diff erent. Here the climate is quite hot and humid especially in Sri Lanka where we would be playing most of the matches. It may not be good for fast bowling. The strategy has to be devised keeping in mind the pitches, weather and the players available. If you make work plan according to the conditions it may work.

ES: What are the prospects of Pakistan team winning the world cup?

IK: The omission of Muhammad Amir and Muhammad Asif has made a big diff erence.

INTERVIEW


Both were strike bowlers and wicket takers. They both could break long batting partner-ships. They could move the ball around and in humid conditions they could have done a good job. Their omission has defi nitely made a dent on the Pakistan cricket team. Umar Gull is still there and he could prove to be a good strike bowler. I have seen that he makes eff orts to take wickets and not just contain the run rate. He has improved and could make a diff erence. A lot depends on how the off spinner Saeed Ajmal and slow left-arm orthodox bowler Ab-dul Rehman perform. If they bowl well things would start moving in the right direction.

There are two things that create opti-mism. One is the team’s performance in the New Zealand tour and the other comforting fact is quarter fi nals format. Pakistan cricket team is considered the underdog but they have a chance of reaching to the very end. You it all is how a team plays. They have to play as one unit. The team must combine as a fi st to make an impact. In 1987 when we lost the semi fi nal to Australia it was not that the Australian side was better. Our team was far better than the Australia. But they played as one unit. We did not play as a unit and lost the match.

ES: Do you think Pakistan team will face hostile crowd in India and Bangladesh?

IK: The question of hostile crowd aff ecting the performance should not arise. I believe it does not matter. We won the Nehru Cup in 89/90. The fi nal was with West Indies

at Eden Gardens, Kolkatta (then Calcutta). There was crowd of 90,000 and they were all supporting West Indies. We won the match. If the crowd is hostile it should serve as a factor to perform you best.

ES: Do you think Pakistan and India should resume cricket series? Is it possible?

IK: No team is ready to come to Pakistan for playing matches. Pakistan playing in India is possible but no team would like to come here. The only solution is we stop this so called war on terrorism. It is not our war and we should immediately stop it.

ES: After retiring from cricket why did you not take over the PCB so that you could restructure the game of cricket? You could have groomed the players in a better way.

IK: Once I left I said I would never go back to cricket. Taking over PCB to correct things is something that is micro level objective. I want work at the macro level and change the des-tiny of the nation. I want to fi x the root causes of things that trickle down to all institutions like the PCB.

ES: It was your idea that neutral umpires should be introduced. Do you think it has improved the quality of umpiring?

IK: Neutral umpiring is very important. The current system of referral to the third umpire that will be there in the World Cup is the best that has been evolved so far. The referral system is good.

You were great admirer of Abdul Qadir and termed him the best spinner Pakistan ever

produced. Who is the best spinner now? Internationally Muttiah Muralitharan is still

there and of course the best. Graeme Swann the English right-arm off spinner is also good. Since he will be playing the world cup he may make a diff erence.

ES: Your best performance… IK: My best performance was in West

Indies tour of 1987/88. The home record of West Indies in the 1980s was awe-inspiring. To play a team that had not lost a series in 15 years, or a Test in 10. It was the most memo-rable tour. The series ended in a draw but it was not the win or the number of wickets I took. West Indies at the time was team to be reckoned with.

The other good performance I will not forget was in a home series against the Indian team. I took 40 wickets in six tests at an aver-age of 13.95. I enjoyed that game and it could also be considered my best performance.

ES: Who do you think is the greatest cricketer of all times?

IK: I have not met Donald Bradman. He is considered all time great. Gary Sobbers I have seen. He could be the greatest cricketer of all times.

ES: Which cricketer has inspired you the most?

IK: Ian Chappel was good. Among the batsman it was Vivian Richards and among the bowlers it was Michael Holding.

INTERVIEW

No team is ready to come to Pakistan for playing matches. Pakistan playing in India is possible but no team would like to come here. The only solution is we stop this so called war on terrorism. It is not our war and we should immediately stop it.

Q & A

After the much speculated alleged involvement of Kamaan Akmal in the match fi xing scandal along with other Pakistani players last year, he has come clear with clean chits from both ICC and PCB. Sunday Plus got up close and personal with Kamran before he left for the World Cup.Born: 1982School: I have shifted many schools. So cannot name one.I was happiest when…We won ICC Champions Trophy against India in 2009 by 54 runsMy greatest fear… Is being scrutinised by the media of my own country for something that I did not do. Fear of not being included in the team for World Cup.The lowest point of my life was ….When false allegations were charged against my alleged involvement in the spot fi xing scandal when I came under

heavy fi re for deliberately dropping the catches against Hussey.The living person I admire the most…Imran KhanMy most embarrassing experience was…When we lost the 2nd Test match on the 2009-10 tour of Australia in Sydney.I would love to have dinner with…I love dining with my family.If I were Prime Minister I would…Do something for the country and end load shedding problem immediatelyThe best thing about being a Pakistani…The green shirtMy favourite place to hang out is…Where all my friends and family are togetherMy favourite cricket ground…Melbourne and Brisbane

My favourite playerInzamam-ul-Haq nad Waqar YounisThe one place I want to visit before I die is…I want to go for Hajj.

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By Bishakha Khadka Kunwar

★ ★ ★

THE MAN BEHIND THE W

ICKET


FEB 19 - APRIL 02


2 11

BRING THE CUP HOME

COMMENT


BY MALIK ARSHED GILANI

★ ★ ★

ndia takes on Bangladesh in Dakha in the opening match. This World Cup has already been aff ected by the main host altering the format of the event to safeguard against the possibility of an early exit of India as that would have had a major fi nancial impact.

Pakistan has a relatively young team that has been greatly damaged by losing some of its very talented match winning cricketers by their own stupidities. I believe the fi nal fi fteen include at least thirteen of the best players that deserve to be selected. As our middle order is lean good sense would have ensured that we had prepared Mohd Yusuf physically to become fi t enough for selection. The other passenger to some extent is Shoaib Akhter. It is my fondest prayer that this team plays to its best ability and makes the last eight. Sadly I do not see them in the fi nal four.

Australia has had a rough year. Their team has lost some great players and the youngsters have not been able to fi ll the void. That being said their series of ODI’s to fi nish off the Eng-land Tour have clearly indicated that they are a force to be reckoned with. Their batting is com-ing into form. It includes some top class players whose form was bound to change. Their pace bowling is good with a medium class spin sec-tion. Their fi elding is amongst the best in the world. I see them in the fi nal four.

The England Team has gone through a period of rebuilding. Their selectors made some conscious long term decisions and stayed with them. They obviously had the long form of the game in mind. They have a long batting line up with a great pace attack. This is backed by at least one world class spinner. Their fi elding is of a high class and I see them also amongst the fi nal four teams.

India has a great team. It includes some star

class batsmen and this is backed by some great spinners. Their pace attack is only barely adequate in comparison to its other depart-ments. They have a home advantage and just possibly can make up their shortcomings. One major reservation that I have is their injury list. They have played far too much cricket leading up to this tournament. They have a good fi eld-ing side and good fi ghting spirit. They should certainly make the fi nal four.

The New Zealand team has some good batsmen but their bowling attack is meagre. They have limited chances and will make the last eight because they should best Zimbabwe,

Canada and Kenya. I do not see them making the top four.

The Sri Lanka team is arguably the best technically sound team in the world. This is due to a school based domestic nursery. It consists of some of the greatest batsmen in the game today. Their modest men make us under rate them. They have a sound pace attack with a spin attack that borders on being great! A good to outstanding fi elding along with the advantage of playing at home certainly places them in the fi nal four.

The South African team has sadly devel-oped a history of choking at critical moments. It should, but for this, have already won at least one world cup. This has got to the point that at critical points in close games the pressure mounts almost unconsciously. They have a great well balanced team but I do not see them amongst the fi nal four.

The West Indies just have not produced the players over the last four or fi ve years to any where near the quality of greatness of their past teams. It appears to me that for economic reasons in spite of their great love for cricket their proximity to the United States have weaned their better talent to other sports. They will be in a close fi ght with Bangladesh to make the fi nal eight but I cannot see them progress beyond that point.

Finally, I will go out on a limb to forecast the winner of the tournament. This requires me to judge the ranking that will be achieved by the teams in each group which would decide who faces who in the knock out part of the tourna-ment? Keeping all the above in mind and fully realizing that after the last four it is a lottery. I believe the fi nal four will be Australia, England, India and Sri Lanka with England winning the 2011 Cricket World Cup.

I

class batsmen and this is backed by some great spinners. Their pace attack is only barely

The cricket season has arrived and we are all set for exciting matches for the upcoming Cricket World Cup. Pakistan lost the privilege of hosting this cup when in 2009 we were not able to ensure the security of Sri Lankan team in Lahore.


FEB 19 - APRIL 02


2 11

INTERVIEW

February 20, 2011 18 SUNDAY PLUS

By Sadaf Pervez

ONE DAY INTERNATION’S

MATCHES 312 BATTINGRUNS: 6583 HIGHEST: 124 AVERAGE: 23.93 STRIKE RATE: 113.75 100s: 6 WICKETS 292 BEST 6/38 AVERAGE 35.42

The success of winning the fi rst bilateral series in over two years in the preceding days of World Cup purports the unpredictability and exciting moments that Pakistan cannot be stopped. The win also proved as a yardstick to put the basis of the delayed decision. With much anticipation, Shahid Afridi gets the captaincy cap.

As dashing as he looks, he is as dangerous with hitting. His uncanny ability has made him as one of the most popular and adored players from Pakistan. He is a fi ne cricketer while outshining in bowling and fi elding de-partments. It is for the fi rst time that Pakistan is going with a fresh looking squad. Pakistan in the previous two World Cups, exited from the fi rst rounds that was backed by the senior players. This time team is reliant on the new faces under the aggressive man who can unite all and took the lead towards the dream.

Shahid Afridi needs the strategy of good luck to perform well. He wishes to be third Khan to bring the world title as Imran Khan did in 1992 and Younas Khan in 2009. “It would be a great pleasure to bring another title for the people of Pakistan; we can be one of the dangerous teams,” Shahid Afridi told in an interview with S+:

S+: What should people of Pakistan expect from Shahid Afridi and his team?

Afridi: It is the fact that Pakistan’s team does not come in the favourites. The year 2010 was the year of controversies and constant criticism for Pakistan cricket. But

we will startle this predicament with the op-timism. The win in the series of New Zealand has rebuilt expectations and so the people of Pakistan have to trust our abilities that we would not let them down.

S+: Being a captain what do you think where do the team need Afridi the most?

Afridi: There is an impression that team does not seem like to tie up in one unit. Players are separate entities, sharing their in-dividuals’ roles. This is where the captain has to intervene to instil the feel of togetherness and fi ght for a single cause.

S+: Which other teams are your favourites?

Afridi: Sri Lanka and India can be danger-ous on the sub-continent pitches.

S+: Who will be key players for you in the game?

Afridi: Cricket is not about one or two players show of the performance. My all 15 players are key players for me. The good form of each player is important to elevate the spirit of the team. If we win the cup the credit goes to the whole team and if we fail, the responsibility also has to be shared.

S+: What is area of concern that you have to put emphasis on?

Afridi: We lack the knack of utilising the power plays to the maximum. I have talked about this concern with the coach, Waqar Younis to assist the bowlers to control the opposition with the fi eld restrictions while batsmen to score quick runs. The improve-ment in the power play could prove crucial as it will help to have an upper hand in the matches with the good teams like Australia, Sri Lanka and New Zealand.

S+: One thing that makes you optimis-tic about winning the big trophy…

Afridi: After a long time, we have been able to give an identity to our team. New players came; new combinations were tried, and then dropped. We desperately needed to have right combinations with persistent performances that we could be relied on. I think now our team is balanced.

Despite the shortcomings, we Pakistanis will be looking forward for our team to be victorious and imprint the name of Pakistan another time in the history of cricket.

SUNDAY PLUSFebruary 20, 2011 19

MM

A SKIPPER A SKIPPER READY TO READY TO


FEB 19 - APRIL 02


2 11


INTERVIEW

By Sadaf Pervez

The Pakistan cricket team vice-captain for the upcoming World Cup said that all the players are united with an eye on the World Cup. “Winning against New Zealand in the Test series

and then in the ODI series has helped the team alift its confi dence before the upcoming World Cup. He further said that the team is fully unifi ed for the World Cup and he also rubbished rumours of rift among players over captaincy row. “The team is united and we all played as one unit in New Zealand series, which we eventually won. There was no grouping not the on the basis of captaincy or anything else,” he stressed. “I am enjoying my good form I would try my level best to perform well in the World Cup as well. Our morale is very high and is ready to face the competition!” he said.

Abdul Razzaq is a Pakistani right arm fast-medium bowler and a right-handed batsman, who is currently representing the Pakistan cricket team. He emerged in international

cricket in 1996, when he made his One Day International debut against Zimbabwe at his home ground in Gaddafi Stadium in Pakistan, a month before his seventeenth birthday. He has played over 200 ODIs and nearly 50 Tests for Pakistan. While talking about World Cup 2011, he said, “Probably, this is going to be my last World Cup, so I want to make it a memo-rable one like the T20 matches of 2009. This time we are going to play without any pres-sures and will perform much better than we did in 2003, 2007 World Cup Matches. Rest is upto Allah, Pray that we do well!”

Inshallah! We will win and won’t let our people down. We played excellent innings against New Zealand and look forward to give our best shots. It is the responsibility of a player to give good

performance and follow the batting order. We are very hopeful for Pakistan in the World Cup because the team is in high spirits after an im-pressive series triumph against New Zealand.

Kamran Akmal is delighted to be back among Pakistan’s World Cup probable as he was never involved in any wrongdoing. While talking to Sunday Plus, he said, “I have always played cricket the right way and when the PCB asked me to appear before the commit-tee I complied and I am happy that they have included me in the preliminary squad.”

Kamran was under suspicion of match-fi xing during Pakistan’s surprise defeat in the Sydney Test against Australia in January last year. Kamran, said he hoped Pakistan would do well in spite missing key players. “We have to play with the available players and I am sure that if we play to our potential we can win the World Cup.”

OUT ON A WINNING SPREEBefore bidding farewell to the Pakistan Cricket Team, Sunday Plus caught up with the team players to get an insight on their expectations, play of action and motivation towards ICC World Cup 2011.

MISBAH UL HAQAbdul R

ABDUL RAZZAQnshalla

KAMRAN AKMAL

SUNDAY PLUS February 20, 2011 22

Umar Akmal is very talented batsman of Pakistan Cricket Team. Umar is brother of Kamran Akmal, also a cricketer of Pakistani Team. Umar Akmal plays as a batsman and is also

very enthusiastic in the fi eld. According to him, “we are entering into World Cup 2011 with full preparation and will bring the Cup home.”

A right-hand top order batsman, Asad Shafi q is a product of the Kara-chi tape ball circuit. He stormed the fi rst-class scene in his debut season in 2007-08, scoring a double-hun-

dred. He fell short of thousand runs that sea-son, but attained the milestone two seasons later, when he scored 1244 runs in 12 games at 49.76. He made an impact as a limited-over player in 2008-09, when he scored 379 runs in seven games at 54.14. The national selectors had earmarked him as one for the future in meetings and he was rewarded him with a call-up for the Asia Cup in 2010. While talking about his aspirations he said, “I have a dream to make a cricket century in World Cup and facilitate my team in times of need. I am also thankful to the team selectors and management for giving me an opportunity to be a part of World Cup 2011 (Pakistani) team and promise not to disappoint them.”

Wahab Riaz’s left-arm fast medium has benefi ted from Pakistan’s chronic poor luck with fast bowlers. With Shoaib Akhtar and Mohammad Asif missing more than they play and

Umar Gul injury-prone, Riaz came into national reckoning earlier than he might have reasonably expected. His early start was promising though it came in ODIs against Zimbabwe and Bangla-desh early in 2008.

While commenting on World Cup 2011 he said, “I have high aspirations for World Cup 2011; to make Pakistan the World Cricket Champion 2011, plus become the best baller and a Man of Series also. I am very confi dent that we can make a ‘diff erence’ and are not facing any pressure from international community. It is my dream to bold World renowned players like Sa-chin Tendulkar, Ricky Ponting and Kevin Pieter-son.” He also said, “From Pakistan Cricket Coach Waqar Younis to the team management, every man is boasting our morale and believes that our team’s victory in the ICC World Cup 2011 will lead to the return of international cricket to the country and also redeem Pakistan’s image in the cricket world. I would like to be the next Waseem Akram and Waqar Younis of Pakistan and always dreamt of making Pakistan the World Cup Champion 2011.”

UMER AKMALright-

ASAD SHAFIQWahab

WAHAB RIAZ


FEB 19 - APRIL 02


2 11


PROFILE

MEN IN GREEN

For a start, the slant of his all-round skills only became clear ten years into his career; he is a leg-spinning

allrounder. Variety is his calling and as well as a traditional leg-break, he has two googlies, a conventional offi e and a lethal faster one, though this is increasingly rare. All come with the threat of considerable, late drift. He fairly hustles through overs, which in limited-over formats is a weapon in itself and the package is dangerous. But

forever associated with him will be his madcap batting, the prospect of which is a crowd-puller the world over. He is a compulsive basher, literally unable to control his urges to slog every ball that comes his way, and not much of it is classical. Often spectacular results are at hand; he owns, for example, two of the fastest ODI hundreds, including the fastest one ever in his fi rst innings ever at the age of 16. His career strike rates are nearly unmatched.

SHAHID AFRIDIMARCH 1, 1980, KHYBER AGENCY30 YEARS 271 DAYSASIA XI, DECCAN CHARGERS, GRIQUALAND WEST, HABIB BANK LIMITED, ICC WORLD XI, LEICESTERSHIRE, SOUTH AUSTRALIABOWLERRIGHT-HAND BATLEGBREAK GOOGLY

CURRENT AGE:

BORN:MAJOR TEAMS:

BATTING STYLE:

PLAYING ROLE:BOWLING STYLE:

Younis Khan is fearless, as befi ts his Pathan ancestry and will forever be remembered as the

second Khan to bring home a world title for Paki-stan: Younis was Pakistan’s captain in the 2009 World Twenty20, leading a successful campaign with stark similarities to the one Imran Khan had led 17 years earlier. Younis retired from the format

straight after, a graceful and dignifi ed gesture from a complex but honest man. It is as a batsman, and a fearless one, that he made his name fi rst, playing with a fl ourish. He is especially strong in the arc from backward point to extra cover. He is prone to getting down on one knee and driving extravagant-ly. But this fl amboyance is coupled with grit.

YOUNIS KHAN NOVEMBER 29, 1977, MARDAN, NORTH-WEST FRONTIER PROVINCECURRENT AGE: 33 YEARS 73 DAYSAKISTAN, HABIB BANK LIMITED, NOTTINGHAMSHIRE, PESHAWAR CRICKET ASSOCIATION, RAJASTHAN ROYALSBATSMANRIGHT-HAND BATRIGHT-ARM MEDIUM, LEGBREAK

CURRENT AGE:

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The Pakistan Cricket Team is rated amongst leading cricket teams in the world. Pakistan is a full member of the International Cricket Council (ICC) having Test as well as One-day International (ODI) status. Pakistan was granted the Test match status on 28th July 1952, and played its fi rst Test match against India in Delhi the same year in October. One of the most challenging and unpredictable teams in the cricket world, Pakistan went on to win the 1992 Cricket World Cup, fi ghting back from a position where other teams lose hope. The squad for ICC World Cup 2011 consists of Shahid Afridi (captain), Mishabh-ul-Haq(vice-captain), Muhammad Hafeez, Kamral Akmal, Younis Khan, Asad Shafi q, Umar Akmal, Abdul Razzaq, Abdur Rehman, Saeed Ajmal, Shoaib Akhtar, Umar Gul, Wahab Riaz, Ahmad Shehzad and last minute arrival Junaid Khan. Overall this team is young and inexperience as eight players are participating fi rst time in the World Cup. With this team there is little hope that Pakistan Cricket Team will do something special in the World Cup, but the anticipation of a miracle still rests with the massive fan following of the cricket team.


An opening batsman and a handy off spin bowler, Hafeez was one of the young players that the

Pakistan selectors turned to after the team’s abysmal display in the 2003 World Cup. His performances in Sharjah and in the NatWest Challenge in England indicated that Hafeez could well be a long-term pros-pect - he showed good technique and temperament

at the top of the order and bowled his off spinners tidily, but most impressive was his performance in the fi eld. Patrolling the point and covers region with feverish alertness, he saved plenty of runs and pulled off an amazing catch. His organised approach towards batting ensured that he got an opportunity in the Test team in the three-Test series against Bangladesh.

MOHAMMAD HAFEEZ OCTOBER 17, 1980, SARGODHA, PUNJAB 30 YEARS 116 DAYSAKISTAN, FAISALABAD, FAISALABAD WOLVES, KOLKATA KNIGHT RIDERS, SARGODHA, SUI GAS CORPORATION OF PAKISTANALLROUNDER RIGHT-HAND BAT

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Kamran Akmal may well be the most emphatic proof of cricket’s changed priorities post Adam

Gilchrist. Sides now search for an explosive bats-man who can change a day, an innings, a phase with the bat and so long as you can identify right wicketkeeping glove from left, the place is yours. There has been little doubt about Akmal’s batting.

The purity of his drives and the strength of his cut-ting and pulling, particularly on slower subcontinent surfaces, has always held a strong allure. And when it comes together as it did one January morning in Karachi against India - one of the Test innings of that decade - he makes it in the side as a batsman alone.

KAMRAN AKMAL JANUARY 13, 1982, LAHORE, PUNJAB 29 YEARS 28 DAYSPAKISTAN, ASIA XI, LAHORE, LAHORE BLUES, LAHORE CITY, LAHORE EAGLES, LAHORE LIONS, NATIONAL BANK OF PAKISTAN, PUNJAB WICKETKEEPER BATSMANRIGHT-HAND BAT

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The runs didn’t cease to fl ow for Umar Akmal, the younger brother of Pakistan wicketkeeper Kamran

and Adnan, in his maiden fi rst-class season. In a triumphant 2007-08 for Sui Northern Gas Pipelines Limited, Umar failed to score in his fi rst outing but then went on to amass 855 runs from nine matches in the Quaid-e-Azam Trophy, at an average of 77.72 and an

impressive strike-rate of 90.18. He showed a penchant for both brisk and big scoring, with knocks of 248 off 225 balls and 186 off 170. In January 2008, he was picked in Pakistan’s Under-19 team for the World Cup in Malaysia. He was the leading run-getter - with 255 runs at a strike-rate of 123.18 - in a tri-nation tournament involving England and Sri Lanka in the lead-up to the World Cup.

UMAR AKMALMAY 26, 1990, LAHORE, PUNJAB20 YEARS 260 DAYSPAKISTAN, LAHORE LIONS, PAKISTAN UNDER-19S, SUI NORTHERN GAS PIPELINES LIMITEDBATSMANRIGHT-HAND BATSMAN

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FEB 19 - APRIL 02


2 11

The least-hyped but most successful and assured Pakistan pace product of the last few years,

Umar Gul is the latest in Pakistan’s assembly-line of pace-bowling talent. He had played just nine fi rst-class matches when called up for national duty in the wake of Pakistan’s poor 2003 World Cup. On the fl at tracks of Sharjah, Gul performed admirably, maintaining excellent discipline and getting appre-

ciable outswing with the new ball. He isn’t express but bowls a very quick heavy ball and his exceptional control and ability to extract seam movement marks him out. Further, his height enables him to extract bounce on most surfaces and from his natural back of a length, it is a useful trait. His fi rst big moment in his career came in the Lahore Test against India in 2003-04.

UMAR GULAPRIL 14, 1984, PESHAWAR, NORTH-WESTERN FRONTIER PROVINCE26 YEARS 302 DAYSPAKISTAN, GLOUCESTERSHIRE, HABIB BANK LIMITED, KOLKATA KNIGHT RIDERS, NORTH WEST FRONTIERBATSMANRIGHT-HAND BATRIGHT-ARM FAST-MEDIUM

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The least-hyped but most successful and assured Pakistan pace product of the last few years,

Umar Gul is the latest in Pakistan’s assembly-line of pace-bowling talent. He had played just nine fi rst-class matches when called up for national duty in the wake of Pakistan’s poor 2003 World Cup. On the fl at tracks of Sharjah, Gul performed admirably,

maintaining excellent discipline and getting appre-ciable outswing with the new ball. He isn’t express but bowls a very quick heavy ball and his exceptional control and ability to extract seam movement marks him out. Further, his height enables him to extract bounce on most surfaces and from his natural back of a length, it is a useful trait.

ASAD SHAFIQJANUARY 28, 1986, KARACHI, SIND 25 YEARS 13 DAYSKARACHI BLUES, KARACHI DOLPHINS, KARACHI WHITES, KARACHI ZEBRAS, NORTH WEST FRONTIER PROVINCEBOWLERRIGHT-HAND BATBOWLING STYLE: RIGHT-ARM FAST-MEDIUM

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A right-hand top order batsman, Asad Shafiq is a product of the Karachi tape ball circuit.

He stormed the first-class scene in his debut season in 2007-08, scoring a double-hundred. He fell short of thousand runs that season, but attained the milestone two seasons later, when he scored 1244 runs in 12 games at 49.76. He

made an impact as a limited-overs player in 2008-09, when he scored 379 runs in seven games at 54.14. The national selectors had earmarked him as one for the future in meetings and he was rewarded him with a call-up for the Asia Cup in 2010.

AHMED SHEHZADNOVEMBER 23, 1991, LAHORE, PUNJAB 19 YEARS 79 DAYS PAKISTAN, HABIB BANK LIMITED, LAHORE EAGLES, LAHORE RAVI, LAHORE SHALIMAR, PAKISTAN UNDER-19SOPENING BATSMANRIGHT-HAND BATLEGBREAK

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PROFILE

At U-19 level Junaid Khan was among of a crop of the most promising young fast bowlers in recent

years, alongside Mohammad Amir. Good pace and better stamina and an ability to move the ball around if the conditions are right, Khan fi nally made it to national contention when he was called up for Pakistan’s 2011 World Cup squad as a late replacement for Sohail Tanvir. Khan is from the Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa province

and has built up an impressive domestic career with Abbottabad, for whom he debuted in January 2007. The record acquires greater sheen given that Abbot-tabad are among the weaker sides on the circuit. Those performances have led him to Pakistan A selection, for whom he has been impressive in two series now, never less than when taking nine wickets in a ‘Test’ against Sri Lanka A in Hambantota in September 2010.

JUNAID KHANBORN: DECEMBER 24, 1989, MATRA, NORTH-WEST FRONTIER PROVINCE CURRENT AGE: 21 YEARS 48 DAYSABBOTTABAD, ABBOTTABAD RHINOS, PAKISTAN UNDER-19SBOWLERRIGHT-HAND BATLEFT-ARM MEDIUM-FAST

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Abdur Rehman made his debut for Pakistan during the homes series against West Indies at

the ripe old age of 26 (old considering the subcon-tinent’s trait of ruthlessly exposing youth to the world’s best). Not a huge turner of the cricket ball, his accuracy and consistency, as well as exploiting the rough marks, does it for him not only at the elite

level but on the domestic circuit as well. Reh-man’s rise to fame goes way back to 1999 when he grabbed a fi ve-for and a six-wicket haul in succes-sive matches while representing Pakistan Under-19 against South Africa in 1999. He was picked for the side even though he only had a brace of fi rst-class outings.

ABDUR REHMANMARCH 1, 1980, SIALKOT, PUNJAB 30 YEARS 346 DAYSPAKISTAN, GUJRANWALA CRICKET ASSOCIATION, HABIB BANK LIMITED, SIALKOT, SIALKOT STALLIONSBOWLERRIGHT-HAND BATSLOW LEFT-ARM ORTHODOX

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About the worst way to assess Shoaib Akhtar would be to do so through his numbers; they aren’t

unimpressive but rarely have they revealed so little. From the moment Shoaib emerged on the scene in the late 90s, the world knew it was in for some career. First there was the extreme pace and there was also the attitude; Shoaib was the fastest bowler in the world, he knew it, he

made sure others knew it. He was a natural successor to the legacy of Imran, Wasim and Waqar. But that he will end his career an ‘if only’ or a ‘coulda been’ is the great tragedy. He had it all and he blew it. What he had was remarkable. Early on, in 1999, there wasn’t a more thrilling sight in the world than Shoaib hurtling in off an impossibly long run and beating the world’s best batsmen for pace.

SHOAIB AKHTARAUGUST 13, 1975, RAWALPINDI, PUNJAB 35 YEARS 181 DAYS

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PROFILE

ADBP, ISLAMABAD LEOPARDS, KOLKATA KNIGHT RIDERS, PIA, SOMERSET, SURREY, WORCESTERSHIRE

Saeed Ajmal, an off spinner, received a call-up to the Pakistan squad for the Asia Cup at the age of

30 after an impressive domestic season with Khan Research Labs in 2007-08, during which he took 38 wickets in 12 fi rst-class matches at an average of 29 apiece, and 12 wickets in nine list A games. He made an immediate impression with his subtle variations, unafraid to use the doosra. But his career took off with

a series of ODI performances that bewildered Australia in Dubai and Abu Dhabi; he gave away few runs and his doosra was nigh-on unreadable. The ICC called him for his action, though it was cleared soon after. The pressure didn’t get to him and immediately after, he played a crucial role in Pakistan’s drive to the 2009 World Twenty20 title, regularly bottling up the middle overs with Shahid Afridi.

SAEED AJMALBORN: OCTOBER 14, 1977, FAISALABAD, PUNJAB CURRENT AGE: 25 YEARS 227 DAYSFAISALABAD, ISLAMABAD CRICKET ASSOCIATION, KHAN RESEARCH LABS, WATER AND POWER DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITYBOWLERRIGHT-HAND BATRIGHT-ARM FAST

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Wahab Riaz’s left-arm fast medium has benefi ted from Pakistan’s chronic poor luck

with fast bowlers. With Shoaib Akhtar and Moham-mad Asif missing more than they play and Umar Gul injury-prone, Riaz came into national reckoning earlier than he might have reasonably expected. His early start was promising though it came in ODIs

against Zimbabwe and Bangladesh early in 2008. His fi rst real test came against India in Bangladesh, where after 9.2 expensive overs, he was taken out of the attack for bowling two beamers. But as Pakistan misses its leading bowlers Riaz’s brisk pace remains in national contention.

WAHAB RIAZBORN: JUNE 28, 1985, LAHORE, PUNJAB 26 YEARS 302 DAYSHYDERABAD (PAKISTAN), HYDERABAD HAWKS, LAHORE, LAHORE LIONS, LAHORE RAVI, NATIONAL BANK OF PAKISTANBOWLERRIGHT-HAND BATRIGHT-ARM FAST-MEDIUM

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An orthodox batsman with reasonable tech-nique, Misbah-ul-Haq caught the eye with his

unfl appable temperament in the tri-nation one-day tournament in Nairobi in 2002, scoring two fi fties in three innings, including one in the fi nal against Australia. But before Pakistan could hail him as a possible middle-order mainstay, Misbah’s form

slumped - he didn’t manage a single 20-plus score in three Tests against Australia and was duly dumped. Pakistan’s abysmal World Cup campaign - and the wholesale changes to the team in its aftermath - gave Misbah another chance to redeem himself, but he did little of note in the limited op-portunities he got.

MISBAH-UL-HAQ MAY 28, 1974, MIANWALI, PUNJAB36 YEARS 258 DAYSMAJOR TEAMS: PAKISTAN, KHAN RESEARCH LABS, ROYAL CHALLENGERS BANGALORE, SARGODHAMIDDLE-ORDER BATSMANRIGHT-HAND BATLEGBREAK

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PROFILE

January 30, 201128 SUNDAY PLUS

AUSTRALIA

PAKISTAN

NEW ZEALAND

SRI LANKA

ZIMBABWE

CANADA

KENYA

INDIA

S. AFRICA

ENGLAND

WEST INDIES

BANGLADESH

IRELAND

NETHERLANDS

WedThuFriSat

WedThu

Sat

March 23, 2011March 24, 2011March 25, 2011March 26, 2011

March 29, 2011March 30, 2011

April 2, 2011

Quater Final 1: A1 V B4Quater Final 2: A2 V B3Quater Final 3: A3 V B2Quater Final 1: A4 V B1

Semi Final 1: QF1 V QF3Semi Final 2: QF1 V QF3

FINALS

DhakaAhmedabadDhakaColombo

ColomboMohali

MUMBAI

GROUP MATCHES

KNOCK - OUT MATCHES

SEMI FINAL

FINAL

ICC CRICKET WORLD CUP 2011 DATE DAY MATCH CITY

GROUP A

GROUP B


FEB 19 - APRIL 02

SatSunMonMonTueWedThuFriFriSatSunMonMonTue WedThuThuFriFriSatSun

SunMonTueWedThuFriFriSatSunSunMonMonTueWedThuFriFriSatSunMonTue

Feburary 19, 2011Feburary 20, 2011Feburary 21, 2011Feburary 21, 2011Feburary 22, 2011Feburary 23, 2011Feburary 24, 2011Feburary 25, 2011Feburary 25, 2011Feburary 26, 2011Feburary 27, 2011Feburary 28, 2011Feburary 28, 2011March 1, 2011March 2, 2011March 3, 2011March 3, 2011March 4, 2011March 4, 2011 March 5, 2011March 6, 2011

March 6, 2011March 7, 2011March 8, 2011March 9, 2011March 10, 2011March 11, 2011March 11, 2011March 12, 2011March 13, 2011March 13, 2011March 14, 2011March 14, 2011March 15, 2011March 16, 2011March 17, 2011March 18, 2011March 18, 2011March 19, 2011March 19, 2011March 20, 2011March 20, 2011

India v BangladeshNew Zealand v KenyaSri Lanka v CanadaAustralia v ZimbabweEngland v The NetherlandsPAKISTAN v KENYASouth Africa v West IndiesBangladesh v IrelandAustralia v New Zealand PAKISTAN v SRI LANKAIndia v EnglandZimbabwe v Canada West Indies v The NetherlandsSri Lanka v KenyaEngland v IrelandSouth Africa v The NetherlandsPAKISTAN v CANADABangladesh v West IndiesNew Zealand v ZimbabweAustralia v Sri LankaSouth Africa v England

India v Ireland Canada v KenyaPAKISTAN v NEW ZEALANDIndia v The NetherlandsSri Lanka v ZimbabweWest Indies v IrelandBangladesh v EnglandIndia v South AfricaNew Zealand v CanadaAustralia v KenyaBangladesh v The Netherlands PAKISTAN v ZIMBABWESouth Africa v IrelandAustralia v CanadaEngland v West IndiesThe Netherlands v IrelandNew Zealand v Sri LankaBangladesh v South AfricaAUSTRALIA v PAKISTANZimbabwe v KenyaIndia v West Indies

DhakaChennaiHambantotaAhmedabadNagpurHambantotaNew DelhiDhakaNagpurColomboKolkataNagpurNew DelhiColomboBengaluruMohaliColomboDhakaAhmedabadColomboChennai

BengaluruNew DelhiKandyNew DelhiKandyMohaliChittagongNagpurMumbaiBengaluruChittagongKandyKolkataBengaluruChennaiKolkataMumbaiDhakaColomboKolkataChennai


INTERVIEW

By Aamer Waqas Chaudhary

PAKISTAN CRICKET!WHAT WENT WRONG WITH

‘ADHOCISM HAS RUINED’ P erhaps, Pakistan is the only team of the

world cricket, which stays in the news for one reason or another. In fact with each act, it puts the previous shameless doing to shame. Besides various allegations, consider

at perfect case of game – on the 2nd day of the Sydney Test against Aussies last year, Pakistan were leading the mighty Kangaroos by 235 runs, and at the end of the day four, it lost the test by 35 runs – only Pakistan

can ensure such a drama of debacles, and has the capacity to reverse the misfortunes as well. Kamran Akmal was summoned after the test series and media reported of in-fi ghting. A few players were banned, and

On decline of cricket in PakistanPrimarily, two elements caused decline. First is Pakistan’s image at international level, and conse-quently, at present its repute is touching its lowest ebb after the cricket fans have seen the glory. There was a time during the late 80s and 90s, when we were respected, and won tournaments and important matches as well. In comparison to that, we have receded to the outgoing tide now. Secondly, as far as the cricketing part is concerned, there have been unresolved issues on and off the field. The nurseries have not been developed, which could groom the budding players since Pakistan is known for talent and its continuous supply to field a bowler like Wasim Akram, who created so many records.

Currently, this reserve is no more in abundance as it used to be. Adhocism in Pakistan cricket

prevailed for quite long, and result was that no con-stitution was outlined for the Board. The authorities nominated handpicked individuals, while the real people were discouraged, who slowly and steadily got disheartened. The clubs and district associa-tions were disenchanted with the adhoc com-mittees, which were disastrous in their approach. Consequently, we don’t have many sensations like Muhammad Aamir, who has become a victim of controversy.

Succinctly, adhocism and bad approach of the heads have heavily contributed to Pakistan cricket’s decline, which is continuously becoming serious.

On unbridled indisciplinePakistani players have been undisciplined in

With on-fi eld fi ascos and off -fi eld ignominies, resulting in humiliation of the cricket eleven and the nation as a whole, the only option to redeem the lost glory is to do well in the on-going world cup in the short run. However, the unpredictable Pakistanis have the capacity to push good teams to the very brink, and that too usually in the direst off -fi eld circumstances with empty-headed sensibilities leading the Pakistan Cricket Board.

Khalid Mahmood was president of the PCB from January 1998 to July 1999, which is one of the shortest stints of any chairman. However, he was the man, who could confront the International Cricket Council by calling a spade a spade pragmatically. He is unhappy with the present state of Pakistan cricket, and candidly approached the subject in his following interview:


INTERVIEW

comparison to other teams, which is primarily due to the diff erence in background of Pakistani players and others. Education and good life is part their culture, while Pakistanis come from semi-educated families, which comprise mostly of fi nancially less beings. Resultantly, they generally failed in handling themselves at the international level.

Seeing this, the Board should have been do-ing better, since the players failed in maintaining delicate balance between playing international cricket and meeting its standards as they lack the very basic manners of life and fundamen-tals of dealing people in foreign countries. We lost outstanding cricketers due to these two extremes of being rusty at one level and being in the international limelight at the other. This certainly makes an administrator’s job very diffi -cult, but the intricacies must be understood. The classic example is of Shoaib Akhtar, who was given latitude, and even his infringements of eth-ics and rules went unpunished; hence an asset was lost because of the ‘Son syndrome’ of Board Chairman (implicitly referring to Tauqir Zia.)

Shouldering the responsibilityas Board ChairmanNo! I point out three reasons to this. First, I was

given only 15 months to serve the Board. When I was notifi ed March 1998, the team had left for Bangladesh, and I could not interact with the players for some time. In 1999, I packed up after the team qualifi ed for the world cup fi nal.

Secondly, I inherited problems since the Board secretariat had grown out of its shoes, and its head Majid Khan has become a de facto chairman. So I started facing obstacles and challenges with the word go from within the secretariat, which happened to be my major dif-fi culty. Thirdly, on the team’s front, match-fi xing controversy surfaced with Rashid Lateef making loud accusations, while the team was divided in Karachi and Lahore groups. I discussed the issue with the players and others concerned to handle the problem. Consequently, a judicial commis-sion was appointed for an independent enquiry.

Moreover, the issue of captaincy was looming large, and Wasim Akram was chosen for the slot despite lots of opposition. However, we managed to win many tournaments. I could not proceed further since I was not left with time as my tenure was cut short.

World Cup prospectsIt is a badly planned world cup as holding of 42 matches prior to the quarter-fi nals is useless,

and in the process two associate member teams from each group would be certainly bundled out. Again, the quarters will be soft in comparison to the semis.

Pakistan has a good side chosen from the best available, but preparations are dissatisfac-tory since defi ciencies have not been addressed and removed properly. Moreover, there are rea-sonable doubts about the injury-prone players, especially the bowlers, who would bowl number of wide and no balls, which matter a lot in such games. The team management has done nothing in this regard.

Secondly, we are traditionally a poor fi elding side with agility missing in most of the players.

Thirdly, Intikhab Alam’s defensive shell of keeping wickets intact till the last 10 overs and then pushing the panic button works once in a while but cannot for every match; so we can lose many matches. I am not hopeful of winning the cup.

Team’s selection I believe that the management has selected a reasonably good side. Keeping the current forms of Muhammad Yousuf and Shoaib Malik in view, these have been too erratic to be given a chance for selection.

they were back as they knew it. No doubt, Pakistan cricket team did well

during the late 80s and the decade of the 90s – including winning the world cup of 1992 – till losing the fi nal of 1999 cup ‘pretty cheaply’ to Australia after having displayed super performance in the league matches. However, after this came the exit of the golden guys in the preceding years, like Wasim Akram, Saeed Anwar, Waqar Younus, Saleem Malik and others, only leaving Inzmam-ul-Haq to carry on the bat till 2007 world cup. Who can forget the early dishonourable departure of the team from West Indies after the team failed

to cross the fi rst barrier. Succinctly, disastrous fi rst-round exits of 2003 and 2007 were compounded by the absence of new faces, with the team relying on jaded stars.

It has been observed that after the departure of Imran Khan, the team had great players, while the spirit of unit and playing for country kept thinning out, which seemed to be a case even today. Apparently, the Pakistan cricket has been damaged beyond repair in certain areas, which can take years and ear-nest eff orts to rectify the harms for which PCB Chairman Ijaz Butt has been accused of being the major player. He is still standing tall de-

spite all this! Even he was also found indulging in ego tussles with former captain Younus Khan, and for no rhyme or reason, Butt refused to give clearance to Khan to be included in the playing eleven. However, Khan later became part of the team, and if he had committed any crime or violated, he was not punished, which has always been an issue with the Board.

During Butt’s stint, the Pakistan cricket was entangled in a series of incidents, which had the highest points of terrorist attack on the Sri Lankan team, and consequent refusal of other cricketing nations to tour Pakistan, and the latest being the spot-fi xing scandal.

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January 30, 201120 SUNDAY PLUS

INTERVIEW

The team was embroiled in allegations of spot-fi xing in a match against England at Lord’s. The spirit of cricket was tarnished, and the iconic position – held by cricket in Pakistan – took a severe beating, which hurt the entire country because of the love and admiration it has for players. Moreover, the Pakistan players were refused entry into the lucrative Indian Premier League. Pakistan was made to play many of its series overseas.

Since September last year, Pakistan was in the news for all the wrong reasons. The team was beset by controversies in quick succession, which also included journey of wicket-keeper Zulqernain Haider’s to London under mysteri-ous circumstances during a series against South Africa in the United Arab Emirates. He sought asylum in the UK, while the interna-tional media created and concocted diff erent stories, while the PCB did it best to give new ideas by recklessly handling the issue. This scandal plummeted the Pakistan cricket further to its lowest ebb in the international circles,

which basically came to the fore because of the ineffi cient PCB, which is always accused of failing in implementing the strict code of ethics for all players equally, and not neglecting cer-tain players because of their political affi liations and public pressure.

Hence, the ineffi ciency, corruption, nepotism and political interference in the Board did not allow Pakistan cricket revert to normalcy. People reached the conclusion that the cur-rent state of aff airs would continue to haunt Pakistan cricket as long as Board’s incumbent old and equally fragile Chairman Ijaz Butt and his stooges remain in the offi ce.

The Chairman PCB is appointed by the president of Pakistan, who is also the Patron-in-Chief. Despite lacklustre performance of the cricket team, and spree of scandals, it seems that Asif Ali Zardari is averse to any outright change in the Board – perhaps only to be moved till the Supreme Court orders for such a thing.

The Pakistan government did not check

the deteriorating state of cricket aff airs, and decline of Pakistan cricket despite the fact that Zardari needed to seriously take steps for resolving the cricket crisis. No other Chairman has faced such a bitter criticism for running the Board and cricket aff airs, and yet the govern-ment appears to be blind to the popular public opinion. Secondly, the government did not realise the signifi cance of cricket as a tool for unifying Pakistanis since it united the nation whenever the team did well, and vice-versa.

However, now for the fi rst time – in com-parison to the last three world cup campaigns – Pakistan has entered the on-going one with a ‘fresh-looking squad’ as claimed by the present team management. But for this cup, seven out of 15-man squad have not played more than 35 ODIs, and for eight, this will be a fi rst world cup. Now the question is: Can they thrive on the unknown, and become the dangerous team? It seems to be a distant possibility since consis-tency can be in the performance of experienced and talented, but not with inexperienced and


‘AUTHORITIES POLITICISED THE BOARD’

e himself announced his resignation instead of being removed unceremoni-ously. “My decision is well-thought out and not emotional. In my tenure, I feel we have developed Pakistan cricket and

rebuilt after the recent World Cup,” he said at that time.

In this regard, he quoted himself further, “I consulted with my family and have their full support. In fact on a recent car trip I was alone with my son Junaid (he played for Pakistan during his stint) and he said, ‘Dad, you should have gone yesterday rather than today.’ I feel badly about my presence aff ecting his career, I feel his career suff ered pressure while I was chairman. Now it’s up to him to fl ourish or move onwards to studies or other pursuits.”

Junaid had made rapid strides from junior levels to the senior team, but his ascent was

tinged with controversy, with the media ac-cusing the selectors of nepotism.

His resignation was also attributed to the television-rights controversy, which required the president’s intervention. It was after the fi rst one-day match of New Zealand tour of Pakistan, which was blacked out worldwide. However, Tauqir Zia considers successful National Cricket Academy project to develop-ing grounds and coaches all over the country, his tangible achievements. After his departure, Rameez Raja was not asked to replace him.

Following are the excerpts from an inter-view with him:-

On decline of cricket in PakistanYes! The Pakistan cricket is on the decline. First, this is because of the reason that the

Lt.-Gen (retd) Tauqir Zia was Chairman Adhoc PCB Committee from December 1999 to 2003, and simultaneously completed his out-standing meritorious military service till September 14, 2003. As the Chairman for four years, he not only introduced the Vision 2005, paragon for the promotion and development of Cricket in Pakistan but also managed to implement almost 75 per cent of that Project in every part of the country, particularly in the far fl ung areas of Balochistan, Sindh and the Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa.

H

January 30, 2011 20SUNDAY PLUS

INTERVIEW


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Board did not have the vision to run cricket for today and the future simultaneously. The body just plans for today, while there is always a need for short-term and long-term visions, being materialised at the same time and in unison.

Secondly, the incidents of spot fi xing, world cup matches withdrawn from Pakistan and inat-tentiveness future strategies have played havoc with cricket in Pakistan. This has been further complicated by ICC attitude and its fi nding-fault mission, while dictating terms over everything.

The third issue is the politicisation of the Board since the authorities like to appoint their own men and their performance is seen with personal view point instead of being impartial in this regard.

However, at the moment, incumbent Chair-man Ijaz Butt should put a halt to his trips aboard, and must stay in Pakistan to see its cricket, and look for players to the likes of (Abdul) Razzaq, (Shahid) Afridi, who may not available to play in the coming years. This shows that replacements have not been made by training the youngsters. Lastly, they (men sitting at the helm) have not been able to use academies to maximum extent, and pay due attention.

On unbridled indisciplineShoaib’s example is a solitary one which people may attribute to me. A Chairman is like leader and father in a house where every child has a diff erent psychology, and all children cannot be treated equally. This is what I have learnt in my career

as a military man, and I brought wide experience with me to the Board. He (Shoaib) was a match winner, and he did so 100 per cent. Though let loose, he did not create problems during my stint. Now he should not be included in the team.

Talented boys should be handled well, and youngsters be guided by seniors. We have failed in our duties as managers, while coaches and seniors should have been there always with the players. That was the purpose of the academy, where young lads can be disciplined, taught about dealing with people at the international level and technically corrected for playing the game. We lost three best cricketers (Salman Butt, Muhammad Asif and Muhammad Aamir) because they were not guided by the seniors.

Shouldering the responsibility as Board Chairman

When I joined, Rs 430 million were in the Board kitty, and I started off by establishing National Cricket Academy, upgrading grounds and provided diff erent facilities at various levels. Impetus to the club cricket was given, while dishing out a lot of money for bettering the domestic cricket where all cricketers were called because I believed that there was nothing wrong with the structure provided it is honestly implemented without caring whether some body comes to watch the match or not.

I resigned early, and could have waited for

the implementation of Vision 2005 since we also wanted to start educational academy of an international standard.

World Cup prospectsIf the present team can gel well, and the leadership plays its due role, we can reach the semi-fi nal since the team is balanced though I have apprehensions about the fast bowling, while the opening (batting) scares me as well.

Secondly, instead of Shoaib, Sohail Tanveer should have been included.

Team’s selection It is a mega event, and Junaid Khan is too raw to be good there.

raw-talented.However, they can create a few islands of

excellence, which can astonish all. There can be days of a complete and comprehensive in-

eptitude mixed casually with moments of such force that they cannot be stopped and become invincible to the even best of the lot.

However, this nation is yearning to welcome

its heroes at any of the airports, instead of they singling themselves out to various cities for departure to their respective houses.


INTERVEW

By Bishakha Khadka Kunwar

ARIF ALI ABBASI is a name that is not unknown to the Pakistani cricket fraternity. This former Chairman of Pakistan Cricket Board exudes passion for the game of cricket. He is regarded by many as the PCB’s fi nest administrator. In conversation with Arif Ali Abbasi, he talks to the Sunday Plus, he talks about the way Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is being run and his take on the team that is set to conquer the unthinkable.

BISHAKHA KHADKA KUNWAR: Prospects of Pakistani cricket team. Are you satisfi ed with the current selection of our team?ARIF ALI ABBASI: I am afraid that the pros-pect seems very dim for Pakistan. We have a captain who chooses to use cricket ball like an apple. There is a monopoly of the brother duo behind the wicket. There is another play-er who is set to make a comeback, Shoaib Malik, who is a scandalous player. I don’t understand why his ban was lifted. With this sort of motley crowd the atmosphere of the team will never be good and this is what has been refl ected on the fi eld. I have serious doubts about the prevailing atmosphere of our team. There was a time when Pakistan had a fair share of international cricket and today we have a situation when no one wants to play with us.

There was a time when we had experi-enced captain like Younis Khan and the team was doing exceptionally well. He’s one of the few with a triple hundred in Test cricket (313, against Sri Lanka, in February 2009). Then, don’t forget he’s a World T20-winning captain. Then he was removed for no reasons and was asked to apologize. Younis Khan

MAY WE


WIN DESPITE ALL THE ODDS

was in a dilemma as to why he was forced to apologize, but he did and is back in team under an incompetent captain.BKK: What is your take on PCB, its Chairman and the way it is being run?ABBASI: We have a situation that does not speak well at all. We have a Chairman, Mr. Ijaz Butt, who has been called “A Basket Case” publicly by the previous-Chairman of ICC. Mr. Butt has installed an elevator in a two-storied building of PCB in Lahore. I don’t see the logic in the way PCB is being run. It is more of a combination of ineptitude and corrupt practices.

A temporary ad hoc committee was formed nine years ago and it’s still function-ing. How temporary are nine years? No cricket board in the world is working under these circumstances except in Pakistan. Here is a case of the country whose PCB was run democratically and our team was ranked as

one of the best in the world. And today it is in utter shambles and our team is rated below the worst. The situation of ad hocism is prevalent today and our cricket is only full of scandals and no victories at all.

The Chairman of PCB, Mr. Butt is a political appointee by our President. The PCB should start functioning like an institution with clear policies and complete account-ability.BKK: Why have the domestic crickets standards in Pakistan not improved at all? Why has the PCB not invested in domestic grounds?ABBASI: Pakistan has been a driving force in revolutionizing the scenario of domestic cricket matches in England. The English Cricket Board actually copied the format of Pakistani Cricket Board. But look where they have taken their cricket today and where we stand now. England copied us and today England has grown by leaps and bounds. We used to host two major tournaments and now we host only one.

The under-19 team players are not taken seriously. We have the vice-captain of under-19 team who is 7 years older than the

captain. Talking about the grounds, we do not have

much problem with the number of grounds. In Karachi alone, the previous city Nazim made eff orts to build many grounds. The problem is that no eff orts are not been taken by PCB to promote domestic cricket.BKK: Can you comment on the pitches of India, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka. Are they of World Cup standards?ABBASI: I think there will be good cricket in these countries as these countries have fl at wickets which are apt for one-day cricket. Unfortunately the weather in Sri Lanka might be a problem. Hopefully it will not be a rain-day instead of play-day.BKK: Are you satisfi ed with international umpiring and the system of referrals to the third umpire?ABBASI: The system of referrals to the third umpire I think is fi ne. It was Pakistan

who introduced the international panel of umpires. It was again Pakistan who proposed to re-organise the international umpiring system. Achievement wise we have made huge contributions in international cricketing. We created Asian Cricket Committee. We played a pivotal role in starting Asian Cup, the concept of ball boys was also introduced by Pakistan. The list goes on.BKK: What is your take on spot fi xing and match fi xing scandals? What steps can be taken to prevent such cases?ABBASI: I think the way ICC treated these three players is very civil. These players should have been banned for life instead. It is not a plot of any country against us, but a sheer ineptitude of PCB in handling the situation.

I’ve been amazed at the way PCB has handled the scandal. PCB should have taken actions against these players way in advance before ICC stepped in. But unfortunately Mr. Butt preferred to stay back and hide from the media. Instead Pakistan’s High Commis-sioner to the UK, Wajid Shamsul Hasan, did all the talking, which is not his job.BKK: Do you expect us to do well in battling

or bowling side?ABBASI: Looking at the pitches in India, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh, our spinners should do well. But I cannot understand why Danish Kaneria was dropped. He is the only leg-spinner who holds the record for most wickets by any Pakistani spin bowler and fourth on the list of most Test wickets over all, only behind Wasim Akram, Waqar Younis and Imran Khan. Other players like Muham-mad Taufi q Umar and Tanvir were also not included in the World Cup squad despite their fi ne performances.

The problem is that there is a case of ad hocism and there are no checks and balances in PCB. PCB still does not have an honorary treasurer as yet.BKK: Why has PCB not involved experienced players in the administration so that better decisions are taken?ABBASI: Usually previous players are never

involved in administration and management side. No international board is headed by previous cricketers. Call it Australia, England and India. But our case is diff erent and that is why we are facing this Herculean task today.BKK: What is your message for our team?ABBASI: May god help you. Looking at the prevailing situation, I’ll be surprised if we perform well. All my wishes are with the team and may you win despite of all the odds.


FEB 19 - APRIL 02


2 11

STYLE


THE TREVI EXPERIENCEThis collection refl ects an amalgamation of vibrant

embroidery, extensive usage of stones and along

with Dabka and Zardozi to give a perfect fi nish

and remarkable and unique production at the end.

Work of this duo stands out because of the variety

of fabrics used to make stylish outfi ts, inline with

the taste of so many. The designer duo has mainly

used hues of black and beige in a perfect synthesis,

harmonizing with an idiosyncratic taste.

style


styleDesigner: A

sifa & N

abeel Photographer: Faisal Farooqi at Dragonfl y Stylist: K

hawar R

iaz


TEAM


GROUP A

NEW ZEALAND’S SQUADS: Daniel Vettori (captain), Hamish Bennett, James Franklin, Martin Guptill, Jamie How, Brendon McCullum, Nathan McCullum, Kyle Mills, Jacob Oram, Jesse Ryder, Tim Southee, Scott Styris, Ross Taylor, Kane Williamson, Luke Woodcock.

New Zealand is a national cricket team that never won

a World Cup in the history. The team has also never entered in the world cup fi nals. The team’s big-gest power is their spin attack and the weakness is the fast bowling strength for the slow pitches. Dan-iel Vettori and Nathan McCullum are the best spinners of the New Zealand team who can hold the opposition off well. James Franklin is one of the best all-rounder’s in the world. The shortage of batting reliability is a big problem for the New Zealand. This time New Zealand team adds new face Luke Woodcock in the World Cup. Key performer of the New Zealand team, Jacob has great experience which will be invaluable at the World Cup. Team’s fast bowler Hamish Bennett is also included in 2011 world cup.

NEW ZEALAND

ICC CRICKET TEAMS 2 11


FEB 19 - APRIL 02

PAKISTANI SQUADS: Shahid Afridi, Mohammad Hafeez, Ahmed Shehzad, Kamran Akmal, Younis Khan, Misbah-ul-Haq, Asad Shafi q, Abdur Rehman, Saeed Ajmal, Umar Akmal, Abdul Razzaq, Shoaib Akhtar, Umar Gul, Wahab Riaz, and Junaid Khan.

Pakistan has won one ICC world cup series out of 2 fi nal ap-

pearances. This time it is not fully prepared for the World Cup. Batting part of the teams will depend on their openers Mohammad Hafeez, Younus Khan, Misbah Ul Haq and Afridi. Asad Shafi q is also the best batsman of the Pakistani Team, who is included in 15-men squads. Brothers of Akmal, Kamran and Umar will also include strength to their batting. Pakistani team will play in 2011 ICC Cricket World Cup without their key players Salman Butt, Mohammad Asif and Mohammad Aamer who were all conditionally suspended by the ICC on charges of spot-fi xing. Pakistani team is strong in bowling so World cup responsibility will depend on their bowlers like Shahid Afridi, Shoaib Akhtar, Abdul Razzaq and Saeed Ajmal.

PAKISTAN

AUSTRALIAN SQUADS: Ricky Ponting (captain), Michael Clarke (vice captain), Doug Bollinger, Brad Haddin (wicketkeeper), Brett Lee, Tim Paine (wicketkeeper), David Hussey, Mike Hussey, John Hastings, Nathan Hauritz, Mitchell Johnson, Steve Smith, Shaun Tait, Shane Watson, Cameron White.

Australian team is one of the strongest team of ICC cricket

world cup series. Since 1996, it has won 4 ICC World cup continu-ously out of 6 fi nal appearances. The team won fi rst ICC World cup against England team in 1989 by 7 runs. Australia beat India by 125 runs in the 2003 World Cup fi nal. Australian team has exciting young talent such as David Warner, Mitchell Starc, James Pattinson and Stephen O’Keefe all includes in the fi nal fi fteen squads. But now, the team does not have quality spinner to carry in Indian subcontinent. Its great spinner, Nathan Huritz is not in his best form because he was injured in Indian series. Both captain Ricky Ponting and vice captain Michel Clarke are also suff ering from minor injuries, so whole world cup batting responsibility is on Mike Hussy and Shane Watson.

AUSTRALIA


SRI LANKA SQUADS: Kumar Sangakkara (captain), Mahela Jayawardene (vice-captain), Tillakaratne Dilshan, Upul Tharanga, Thilan Samaraweera, Chamara Silva, Chamara Kapugedera, Angelo Mathews, Thisara Perera, Nuwan Kulasekara, Lasith Malinga, Dilhara Fernando, Muttiah Muralitharan, Ajantha Mendis, Rangana Herath.

Sri Lanka cricket team is second host of the 2011

ICC World Cup. It won world cup championship in 1996 against Australia team. It appeared two times in world cup fi nals and both times it was against Australian team. The batting of Sri Lanka has been a key to their successes, and the best part of the team is their spinners not only Muthiah Muralitharan and Ajantha Men-dis, but also Suraj Randiv and Rangana Herath who will create diffi culty for the opposition. This is the fi rst time Sri Lanka team comes with two all-rounder’s Angelo Mathews and Tissara Perera who can bowl fast and also excellent in batting. Ajantha Mendis bowls mixture of googlies, off breaks, top-spinners, fl ippers and legbreaks, will sure become an eye-catcher!

SRI LANKA:

ZIMBABWE’S SQUADS: Elton Chigumbura (captain), Charles Coventry, Graeme Cremer, Regis Chakabva, Sean Ervine, Craig Ervine, Gregory Lamb, Shingirai Masakadza, Edward Rainsford, Christopher Mpofu, Raymond Price, Tatenda Taibu, Brendan Taylor, Prosper Utseya, Sean Williams.

The national cricket team Zimbabwe will play its 8th ICC

World Cup in Group A. It will be one of the so-called minnows in the 2011 world Cup series, but given their recent presentations cannot be taken too unconscientiously. Zimbabwe has not won world cup trophy even once as well as not ever get fi nal and semi-fi nals appearance. But this time, Zimbabwe team is stronger more than before. The team will play their fi rst 2011 world cup match against strongest team of ICC cricket world cup, Australia. The batting of the team is expected to be opened by the experienced Brendon Taylor with Regis Chakabva. The biggest strength of the team is their spinners who are capable to get the better of many batsmen. Raymond Price is good blower of the team and this time he is standing with his best form.

ZIMBABWE:

CANADIAN SQUADS: Ashish Bagai (captain and wicketkeeper), Rizwan Cheema (vice-captain), Nitish Kumar, Jimmy Hansra, Tyson Gordon, John Davison, Harvir Baidwan, Hiral Patel, Henry Osinde, Parth Desai, Ruvindu Gunasekera, Balaji Rao, Karl Whatham, Khurram Chohan, Zubin Surkari, Hamza Tariq (stand-by).

The National cricket team, Canada will play their 4th ICC

world cup in Group A. Canada will be also so-called minnows in the 2011 world Cup series. Canada team did not ever get world cup quarter fi nal, semi-fi nals and fi nals appearance, always it out from the series in fi rst round. This time it will be standing with young squads, so let’s see they can reach at quarter fi nal or not. Ashish Bagai who is the captain and wicketkeeper of the team is returning player from the 2007 World Cup squad. Henry Osinde, Khurram Chohan, Harvir Baidwan and Rizwan Cheema are main bowlers of the Canadian team who are all included in 15-men squad. May be this time Canada team will come with its new form and make history in the cricket world, but it is all like dream so let’s see it will be true or not.

CANADA

KENYA’S SQUADS: Jimmy Kamande (captain), Seren Waters, Alex Obanda, Elijah Otieno, Rakep Patel, David Obuya, Collins Obuya, Steve Tikolo, Tamnay Mishra, Maurice Ouma, Nehemiah Odhiambo, Thomas Odoyo, Shem Ngoche, James Ngoche, Peter Ongondo.

Another national cricket team Kenya has also

got their place in 2011 ICC World Cup Championships. It is the 5th ICC world Cup for Kenya team. They have done fantastic job at the Associates cricket level, but unfortunately from the last few years, their perfor-mances have been decreased at international level. Since 1996, Kenya is participat-ing in ICC world cup series, but they have not won World Cup Championships even once. The team will be led by Captain Jimmy Kamande and experienced player Steve Tikolo. Another experienced player, Thomas Odoyo is Ke-nya’s most important assets in recent years.

KENYA


FEB 19 - APRIL 02


2 11


ICC CRICKET TEAMS 2 11


FEB 19 - APRIL 02

INDIAN SQUADS: Mahendra Singh Dhoni (captain), Virender Sehwag, Sachin Ten-dulkar, Gautam Gambhir, Yuvraj Singh, Suresh Raina, Virat Kohli, Yusuf Pathan, Harbhajan Singh, Ravichandran Ashwin, Piyush Chawla, Zaheer Khan, Munaf Pa-tel, Ashish Nehra, Praveen Kumar.

India has won World Cup championships in 1983 against

West Indies and in 2003 it got the fi nal appearance against Australia. Batting form is the strongest part of the team, so whole series most responsibility depends on their batsmen like MS Dhoni, Virender Sehwag, Gautam Gambhir, Sachin Tendulkar, and the danger blaster Yusuf Pathan and currently. India’s bowling attack for the World Cup will be considerably diff erent from their standard Test attack. Zaheer Khan and Harbhajan Singh are included as bowlers. The fast bowling pair of Sreesanth and Ishant Sharma, and Ojha has been replaced by Ravichan-dran Ashwin, Piyush Chawla and the all rounder Yusuf Pathan for ICC World Cup 2011. Despite the injuries, India’s four players including Sachin Tendulkar, Virender Sehwag, Gautam Gambhir and Praveen Kumar are

INDIA

SOUTH AFRICAN SQUADS: Graeme Smith (capt), Hashim Amla, Jacques Kallis, AB de Villiers (wk), JP Duminy, Faf du Plessis, Morne van Wyk (wk), Colin Ingram, Johan Botha, Im-ran Tahir, Robin Peterson, Morne Morkel, Wayne Parnell, Dale Steyn and Lonwabo Tsotsobe.

South Africa has not won ICC World cup Championships

and not ever get fi nal appearance too. The team had lost last ICC tournament by some huge freak shows and controversies. The big-gest strength of the team is their consistency together with their fi elding which include the likes of Herschelle Gibbs, AB de Villiers, and JP Duminy in the covers. Dale Steyn, Morkel and Tsotsobe are the keybowler of team with great form. Their inabilities against spinners will be an enormous problem for them in the upcoming tournament. Most of the oppositions possess quality spinners that could also create problems for South Africa team. Most experienced wicket-keeper Mark Boucher and dashing All-rounder Albie Morkel have been removed from the fi nal squad for the World Cup 2011.

SOUTH AFRICA

ENGLAN’S SQUADS: Andrew Strauss (captain), Matt Prior (wicketkeeper), Ian Bell, Paul Collingwood, Tim Bresnan, Eoin Morgan, Kevin Pietersen, James Tredwell, Luke Wright, Graeme Swann, Jonathan Trott, Michael Yardy, James Anderson, Stuart Broad, Ajmal Shahzad.

England Cricket team is also strong team in World cup

history. It had three times ap-peared in the world cup finals, but lost in all the finals. So this time it will jump in ICC world Cup series with full prepara-tions. The bowling of the Eng-land team is very strong. Eng-land team best bowlers Graeme Swann and Michael Yardy are standing with their best form and this time they will create more difficulties for the op-position. England team best bowlers Tim Bresnan, Stuart Broad, Graeme Swann, James Anderson, and all rounder Yardy all are included in the England team final squads. This time England team is stronger compared to other world cup cricket team.

ENGLAND

GROUP B

TEAM


WEST INDIES’S SQUADS: Darren Sammy (captain), Darren Bravo, Carlton Baugh (wicket-keeper), Sulieman Benn, Nikita Miller, Adrian Barath, Dwayne Bravo, Kemar Roach, Andre Rus-sell, Kieron Pollard, Shivnarine Chanderpaul, Ramnaresh Sar-wan, Devon Smith, Ravi Rampaul, Chris Gayle.

West Indies team had won fi rst two world cups in

1975 & 1979. And in 1983 it lost the fi nal against India, since then they never reached the fi nal of the tournament. Leg spinners Devendra Bishoo and Anthony Martin, batsmen Jonathan Carter and Kirk Edwards, and fast bowler Jason Holder are not included in the West Indies fi nal 15-men squads for ICC world Cup 2011. West Indies batting is very strong with Chris Gayle, Captain Darren Sammy, Adrian Barath and Kieron Pollard. Left-arm spinners Sulie-man Benn and Nikita Miller will be very important for the West Indies squads. Bowling of West Indies is rather fragile and easy to go after. Current form of the team is not much good, West Indies team has confi dence about making history.

WEST INDIES

BANGLADESH’S SQUADS: Shakib Al Hasan (captain), Tamim Iqbal (vice-captain), Mushfi qur Rahim (wk), Md Ashraful, Imrul Kayes, Shahriar Nafees, Juaneed Siddiqui, Roquibul Hasan, Mahmudullah Riyad, Naeem Islam, Abdur Razzak, Suhrawardi Shuvo, Shafi ul Islam, Nazmul Hossain and Rubel Hossain.

Third host of the 10th edition of world cup series, Bangladesh

had never been the champion of the world cup. It is the 4th champion-ship for Bangladesh team and in past three world cup they never reached at semi-fi nals. It is one of the weakest team in the world cup series. But in the recent series, it beat West Indies Team by 4-0 and Zimbabwe by 3-1, so we can not neglect this fact. Bangladesh’s most improved batsman of 2010, Imrul Kayes is included in the 15 men-quads, hoping that he will continue his performance in 2011 ICC world cup series. The lack of speed bowling potency and over-dependence on their main players Iqbal and Shakib al hasan will create a huge issue for them. For this world cup, Shafi ul Islam has improved a wicket taking habit. Let’s see, Bangladesh team can reach at world cup fi nals or not.

BANGLADESH

IRELAN’S SQUADS: William Porterfi eld (capt), Andre Botha, Alex Cusack, Niall O’Brien (wkt), Kevin O’Brien, George Dockrell, Trent Johnston, Nigel Jones, John Mooney, Boyd Rankin, Paul Stirling, Albert van der Merwe, Gary Wilson (wkt), Andrew White, and Ed Joyce.

2011 ICC World cup series is the second series of Ireland

cricket team. It will come in 2011 ICC world cup with their old play-ers. Ireland team is also weak team of the world cup series. The team will be led by William Porterfi eld as caption of the team. It played world cup in 2007 and took 8th place of the best team. It gave biggest shock to cricket world cup when they beat Pakistan in the fi rst round. The batting form of the Ireland team is very strong with William Porterfi eld and Niall O’Brien, both can score runs against any players. Generally Ire-land team plays their entire cricket in and around the Irish conditions, where the ball seams and swing around a lot as compared to the World Cup. In this series they will need to win at least 3 games out of six to prove themselves.

IRELAND

NETHERLAND’S SQUADS: Peter Borren, Wesley Barresi, Adeel Raja, Mudassar Bukhari, Atse Buurman, Tom Cooper, Tom De Crooth, Alexie Kervezee, Bradley Kruger, Bernard Loots, Pieter Seelar, Eric Szwarczyns-ki, Ryan Ten Doeschate, Berend Westdijk, Bas Zuiderent.

Netherland team played their fi rst world cup series

in 1996. Like other weak teams, it also has never won the world cup championship. In their all past world cup series, it was eliminated in the fi rst round. The lack of best batsmen and bowlers is the weakness of the team. Neth-erlands is one of the weakest teams in the world cup series. In 2011 ICC World cup series, the team is led by Peter Borren as captain of the team. All-rounder Ryan ten Doeschate, Westdijk, and Fast bowler Mark Jonkman are also included in the world cup series. This time Netherlands team has to give their best performance other wise they will once again beat in fi rst round.

NETHERLAND

TEAM


INTERVIEW

By Emanuel Sarfraz

bout the team selection Khan said they had put together the best team. “It is balanced and well knitted team that would try its best to come up to the expectations of the nation. Fielding has always been

our major drawback. Therefore, while selecting the team this was always in our mind.

“We decided to bring in those bats-men and bowlers who were also good fielders. They were given very good rigorous training and are prepared for the great task. But we still have to work hard on fielding.

“The standard of fielding has cer-tainly improved in the last four months. You must have seen that in the New Zealand tour the team’s fielding was good,” Khan said.

The chief selector while explaining the plus points for Pakistan cricket team said it had the batting depth that was needed to win the World Cup. “We have solid batsmen like Hafeez, Younis Khan and Misbah. Shahid Afridi comes in at number seven and Abdul Razzaq comes in at number eight. Both are match winners. So you see our batting does have the required depth.

Mohsin Hasan Khan is a former Pakistani cricketer who played in 48 Tests and 75 ODIs from 1977 to 1986 mainly as an opening batsman. Playing in this role for Pakistan against India at Lahore in 1982-83, he scored 101 not out of Pakistan’s second-innings total of 135/1. This is the lowest team score in Test cricket to have included a century. Mohsin Khan was not alone in being a Pakistani who was handsome both in appearance and in batting. But he could claim that as an opening batsman he came closer than any of his countrymen has done to mastering the extra bounce of Australian pitches: in successive Tests in 1983-84 he scored 149 at Adelaide and 153 at Melbourne. Before then he had also become the fi rst Pakistani to make a double-hundred in a Test at Lord’s. Moshin Khan is the chief selector of Pakistan Cricket Board. The team playing the Cricket World Cup is his dream team. In an exclusive interview with Sunday Plus he explains what made his select these player to play the ultimate tournament in the world of cricket.

MAKIN

G OF T

HE DR

EAM TE

AM

Full name: Mohsin Hasan KhanBorn: March 15, 1955, Karachi, SindhCurrent age: 55 years 335 daysMajor teams: Pakistan, Habib Bank Limited, Karachi, Pakistan Railways, Batting style: Right-hand batBowling style: Right-arm medium

A


“Bowling has always been our strong department. This team too boasts of very good bowlers. Shoaib Akhtar is working hard to give his best perfor-mance of life. And we should not forget he is a genuine fast bowler. Umar Gul and Wahab Riaz at the moment are one of the best medium fast bowlers. Wa-hab Riaz is improving all the time. He is getting better and accurate every day. Then we have speedster Junaid Khan. He is promising player and I believe he is going to become a star in the near future.

“The selection committee and team management has taken a very bold step by bringing in youngsters. We have given a new shape to the team. And we did it very sincerely. I believe we have knitted together the best team pos-sible,” Khan was of the view.

About the climate and playing condi-tions in Sri Lanka the chief selector was very optimistic that they would favour the Pakistan team if it adopted the right strategy. “We had an important tour before the World Cup. The experience of the New Zealand tour is definitely going to help the team. The team made a comeback at the right time. The climate is very different. I have toured Sri Lanka four times as a batsman. There is a lot of humidity in Sri Lanka. That means the pitches there are soft. The nature of soil is very important.

“The climatic conditions would favour the spinners and medium pacers. Usually in one day cricket they make batting wickets. The batsmen need to play very carefully. The seam bowlers would enjoy bowling there. Only those fast bowlers will be successful who will be able to maintain line and length. It is very important in the one day format,” Khan maintained.

He was of the view that the umpir-ing standards are very important. “One small decision can make a major impact and even put you out of the tournament. ICC has done wonderful thing to ensure that standard of umpiring remains good. They have introduced the referral system. This is a best thing for the tournament. We welcome this system,” the chief selector said.

“Fourteen teams are participating in

the tournament. Every team aspires to win the world cup. They have all come prepared for the big tournament. Teams of Sri Lanka, India and South Africa are very balanced and strong contenders for the cup. India has the home advantage as well. Indian cricket team will have the support of the home crowd. “They cover up their other weaknesses by fur-ther strengthening their batting line up. Australia has always been a favourite team. This year they may not be the favourites but one should not forget they have made a comeback just before the World Cup. You can never write off England. New Zealand and West Indies could prove to be the dark horses in this tournament.

“Pakistani cricketers are very popular in India. Pakistan will get 100 percent support from the crowds if the other team we are playing against is not India.

“Pakistan cricket team has huge po-

tential to win the world cup. The whole team is in high spirits. We all know the whole nation’s prayers are with the team. They have to give their best. I am a firm believer that good results will definitely come if they give their 100 percent best performance. I person-ally feel as a cricketer the responsibil-ity does not lie alone on the captain, coach or the manager. It lies on each player. Each player has to give his best to the nation and then leave it to Allah Almighty. God helps those who help themselves,” Mohsin Khan concluded.

He concluded well. The Pakistan team does not have the advantage of home crowds. But then we have a talented group of young players. Eight players would be playing their first World Cup tournament. It is a life time opportunity for the youngsters to prove their mettle.

“The selection committee and team management has taken a very bold step by bringing in youngsters. We have given a new shape to the team.”


FEB 19 - APRIL 02


2 11


ZODIAC

ARIES THE RAM

(21 MARCH TO 19

APRIL)

Cooperation and compromise will be diffi c

ult

to achieve in your p

rofessional life. A

clash with

authority must be avoided. You can become

suspicious, self-d

estructive and fanatical

–

however, luck favors you – you can still

accomplish

a great deal. C

areer rise is indicated nonetheless.

With Saturn retrograde till

June 12th, relationships,

close associations, friendships and marria

ges

could suff er. Financial scenario is favorable.

You will be fortu

nate in endeavors involving

writing, publishing, health

, advertising, ra

dio and

newspapers – actually in any job or career requirin

g

verbal dexterity. The head and the reproductive

organs need looking after.

TAURUSTHE BULL

(20APRIL – 20 MAY)

On the 19

th, the Sun enterin

g your 11th house

will brin

g a glamorous life with

an active

social life. Relatio

nships will be dynamic -

power struggles are in

dicated – you will h

ave

little contro

l. Your a

ssociations will h

elp in your

earnings but a hint o

f competiti

on or hostili

ty

may aff ect your fi n

ances. Your assertiveness

and lack of d

iplomacy will aff e

ct your career -

however, career ris

e is still im

minent. Home life

,

parents and family m

embers will b

e support-

ive. Children will be temperamental and ag-

gressive. Health

will improve– but w

ith Saturn

still re

trograde, avoid any changes in your d

iet

or exercise regimen.

CANCER

THE CRAB

(21 JUNE – 22 JULY)

After the 19th, the Moon will be waning –

personal issues, self-image concerns will

crop up. Avoid any unnecessary risks. With

most of the planets in the 8th house, m

at-

ters related to inheritance, joint fi nances,

taxes and your partner’s money are posi-

tively highlighted. Intimacy with your be-

loved will be enhanced. You will expand

your awareness through travel, publishing,

higher education and spirituality. You will

achieve fi nancial success via your mentor

or guru. Love scenario is highly favorable.

Career success depends a great deal on

your potential partnerships, friendships

and close associations – consequently re-

lying on your good social reputation. With

Saturn retrograde in your 4th house of

home, fam

ily and parents – your domestic

situation will experience minor m

ishaps

and trivial issues. Headaches, depression

and stress will be your health concerns.

LEO 2011

THE LION

(23 JULY – 22 AUGUST)

With Sun, your ruler entering Pisces on

the 19th, sensitivity, receptivity, escapism

and creativity are positively highlighted.

Financial scenario will entail quick money

making

schemes,

gambling

tenden-

cies and fi nancial windfalls. With your

7th house of partnership and marriage

strong – many opportunities to form

a

signifi cant relationship will be provided

to you. You will attract a strong partner

whose infl uence will cause you to change

in profound ways. Traveling plans will

be delayed due to work related issues.

Career scenario appears favorable. Skin,

kidney and reproductive organs need

looking after.

SCORPIO

THE SCORPION

(23 OCTOBER – 21 NOVEMBER)

You will love to talk, to travel and to

gather information. The position of Venus

in your 3rd house is good for writers, pub-

lishers and public speakers. Parents and

family m

embers will be aggressive. After

the 23rd, Mars moving into the 5th house

with the Sun will bring forth new love

on the horizon. Many couples will either

conceive a child or become parents dur-

ing this transit. Financial constraints will

be an issue. Competitive career scenario

is indicated. You must take an initiative

while making career m

oves. Avoid an-

ger and confrontation with your bosses,

authority fi gures and parents. Hips and

thighs need looking after. Health is gen-

erally good.

YOUR STAR

THIS WEEKDr. Zaibun NisaDr. Zaibun Nisa


ZODIACGEMINI

THE TWINS

(21 MAY – 20 JUNE)

You will thrive by traveling and learning

about the world. You may go to war for your

beliefs, and may become an active promoter

for some grand cause. Your determination to

succeed and your desire for public recogni-

tion makes you a natural leader – which are

excellent indicators of professional success.

Inheritance issues can crop up. However, re-

lationships will be diffi cult. Love will suff er.

Finances will be slow as the moon is waning

now. Health problems will be transitory. Fe-

vers, high blood pressure and migraines are

your only health concern.

VIRGO THE VIRGIN

(23 AUGUST – 22 SEPTEMBER)

You will have the power to turn your ideas

into ideals, then into the manifestation of

reality. Provocative opinions will be readily

expressed. There will be often an aptitude

for, and enjoyment of satire. Competitive-

ness will be successfully expressed through

sports. Job opportunities will be numerous.

With Sun entering your 7th house, marriage

and other partnerships will be essential to

you. Balancing power will be an issue in re-

lationships. Major fi nancial decisions should

be postponed. Head, throat, shoulder and

reproductive organs need looking after.

SAGITTARIUS

THE ARCHER

(22 NOVEMBER – 21 DECEMBER)

Till the 22nd, you will battle with siblings

and may be known on your neighbor-

hood to be be a rabble-rouser. Traveling is

in the picture. After the 23rd, a busy home

life, intellectual dinner parties and a close

tie to your parents are indicated. Property

matters will be favorable. Your m

arriage

and other partnerships will experience

passion, aggression and competitive-

ness. Avoid quarrels with your beloved.

Career progress will be quick – however,

competition could be tough. Money will

be generated – however, you can become

ruthless in your fi nances. Health issues

can occur. Don’t over exert yourself.

PISCESTHE FISH

(19 FEBRUARY – 20 MARCH)

After th

e 23rd, most o

f the planets w

ill enter

Pisces strengthening your re

solve, making you

impulsive and seeking signifi c

ant relationship.

You will consider a

ny committed relatio

nship, in

business or in love, a commitm

ent to a sparrin

g

match. You will b

e quick to argue and debate.

Financial scenario will be favorable. Career m

at-

ters can become stressful. L

egal issues re

quire

vigilance. Beware of s

ecret enemies and close

relatives. Headaches, hypertension and heart

problems can happen. Feet massage will be

therapeutic.

AQUARIUS

THE WATER BEARER

(20 JANUARY – 18

FEBRUARY)

Your aggression w

ill be evident t

o all. Till t

he

22nd, you will h

ave the stre

ngth and charisma

to make your d

reams come true. Afte

r the 23rd,

you will

be practical, and good at ju

dging the

value of things. Your possessions will r

efl ect your

deeper values. Financial stability is indicated.

Family will be a stru

ggle. Career matte

rs will be

slow and fi lled w

ith changes. Your re

lationship

will improve – heightened sensitiv

ity will defi n

e

your marriage. Health

will be delicate as the

week progresses as the moon will b

e waning.

LIBRA THE SCALES

(23 SEPTEMBER – 22 OCTOBER)

Saturn being retrograde in your 1st house

will continue to challenge your outlook

on life and demand self-discipline. You

may asked to prove to the world that you

are not nearly as gloomy as you show. Is-

sues regarding family, hom

e and parents

can become overwhelm

ing. With your

5th house of love and children strong,

there will be an emphasis on fun, leisure

activities, romantic adventures, and cre-

ativity. Speculation gains and fi nancial

windfalls are indicated. After the 23rd,

most of the planets will shift into your

work sector – there will be many job op-

portunities – but with the moon waning,

career caution is required. You tend to be

a perfectionist. Though you worry about

your health, it is usually good.

CAPRICORN

THE GOAT

(22 DECEMBER – 19 JANUARY)

You will continue to exhibit kindness,

charm, and often extravagance. Obsta-

cles with regards to your home life can

crop up. You will have little control related

to family m

embers. After the 22nd, Mars,

Mercury moving into your travel house

along with the sun will bring forth com-

munication endeavors, sibling concerns

and traveling opportunities. Financial

matters are favorable but overwhelm

ing.

Traveling will be lucrative fi nancially. Feet

and imm

une system will be sensitive af-

ter the 22nd.

Abrar-ul-Haq presents a shield to teachers for winning the 3D model competition.

SOCIETY

Solid waste management model by school

School children presenting a play about wetlands. 3D Model of an organic garden by school children.

CELEBRATING NATURE, CELEBRATING HOPE

Just talking about issues of the environment isn’t enough. Direct action is required. And the message came loud and clear from the youngest and shortest people nobody really takes as being this aware: our children. February 13 saw a congregation of thousands, most of them children from various schools and colleges, teaching their elders why it is imperative for them to leave them a wholesome and whole planet to inherit. From climate change to water pollution, from species conservation to deforestation, there was no topic too big for these children’s vocabulary at WWF – Pakistan’s Nature Carnival 2011 in Lahore. And they did it better than any scientist could have done it. Bravo!

LAHORE:

1

1

2 3

4 5

2

3 4 5 Recycling


children.

plant model by school children.

15

SOCIETY

6

7

9

8

7

98

6


WWF - Pakistan and Allied Bank Teams at the concluding ceremony of the Carnival. A sustainable city as imagined by students.

Thousands of participants were entertained by Students did live presentations on critical environmental issues for judges.

DJ Shahrukh.

SOCIETY

The Asim Jofa recently showcased the fi rst lawn show of the year. JOFA stands for Jewelery of Asim, named after the founder Asim Jofa, a designer of Premium Jewelry who has now designed Jofa Premium Lawn Collection. The event was created by the talented Catwalk team. Event PR handled by Catalyst.

LAWN SHOW KARACHI:

1

2

3

5

6 7

10 11

Nomi Ansari & Faiza Freiha Altaf & Naznin Maliha, Fezan, Anoushay & Farheen1 2 3 Anita Ayub4


4

8

9

Maheeda, Roze, Nargis & Anoushay5 Sara with sister76 Maheen, Fatima & Saima Iman Ali & Asim Jofa8

12

Asim & Sana9 10 11 12Mr Kalim Siddiqui, CEO BYCO Zahid Nadeem Khursheed Mirza, Asif Bilwani & Iqbal

SOCIETY

Recently Propaganda was launched by Architects INC. Propaganda captures the joy, humour and love of life by carefully choosing materials, colours and sophisticated production techniques that transforms a wide range of familiar household and personal items into treasured possessions. Propaganda does so in a way that engages users intellectually and challenges perceptions without losing sight of global trends, design sensibilities and market demands. PR of this event was handled by Bilal Mukhtar Events & PR.

TECHNIQUEPROPAGANDA

LAHORE:

3

5 6 7

10

Ali Saleem Lubna, Huma & Bilal Mukhtar Vasay Ch1 2 3 Sana & Arbab Khan4 Abeer & Mustafa5


4

8

9

2

1

Aabroo & Maram76 Sara & Zainab Tania8 Misha & Anushka9 10 Raza, Saad & Kamran Sheikh

MUSIC


To set up a platform for the under-appreciated musical talents in Pakistan, and provide them with a chance to prove them globally and

gain international recognition in a way it had never been done in Pakistan before, Purple Arts Communications along with Mvergence and Walnut media and Stage Monks recently organized MUSIC LATTE, a live concert. The event was sponsored by Depilex, Cream and Radio1 FM 91.

The venue, Gloria Jeans Upper Mall, reso-nated with the performances by young talents like Jimmy James, AlterNation, and SYMT who performed on diff erent genres ranging from country to rock. And boy, did they rock the night! It was a non-stop extravaganza of gifted vocals, thundering drums, and rumbling bass playing by every band till the curtain call!

The chilly night did not deter music lovers to come out and show their love and appreciation for the music. The gathered audience swayed to the tunes and savored every moment of the event. They made the perfect start as the night unfolded. Though the audience seemed just warming up and non-responsive for a while, the group did raise their enthusiasm as the performance progressed.

The evening started with Jimmy James who played music with country fl avours such as Jack Johnson and Johhny Cash’s Ain’t no sunshine when she’s gone. His vocal was exceptionally vibrant and soulful. Following him was AlterNation who mesmerized the crowd with rocking songs by Nickelback. The event took everyone by spell when SYMT took to the stage. Sustaining the energy was the group who came after them and was simply ballistic with their performance, raising the tempo up a notch. SYMT fi nally entered the fray and produced a show to wow the crowd. The young musicians didn’t disappoint the awaiting crowd. The crowd was enticed for about one hour with beautifully orchestrated gig.

Music-latte was a massive success! The concert was broadcasted live in the internet and set up for the whole world to see and enjoy. The show was streamed live to over 3.7 million Facebook Users which made us believe that the future of our music industry isn’t as dark as it seems but it just needs additional channel to make things louder and global – but virtually!

BY MADIHA SYEDIAN

YOUNG MUSICIANS’ PLATFORM: MUSIC LATTE

JIMMY JAMES

SALMATURAB

ALTER NATION

PRESENTER

Tucked away in a cozy niche in D.H.A market is “Tempting Treats”, a speciality bake shop. Off ering a range of scrumptious and beautifully decorated cupcakes, pastries and tarts that simply melt in your mouth. Tempting Treats is also stocking on a selected range of cakes, famous and renowned in diff erent regions of the world. A must mention is their health breads and granola bars, chocked with nutrition! Located behind Shell Petrol Pump, Masjid Chowk, this is one place not to be missed!!

Tempting Treats

PICKS OF THE WEEK


Stoneage is a brand identifi ed by its progressive, cutting edge borderline funk that has been inspired by the growing need for an urban youth trend movement. For Cricket World Cup 2011, StoneAge has specially designed World Cup 2011 edition outfi ts and accessories with a creative edge while focusing on modern lines and sleek fi ts. They are off ering a wide range of jackets, polos, blazers, trousers, shirts, cricket passion tees and a whole range of cricket accessories that will help you glide through this world cup and support our team in style.

Cricketline by StoneAge

Ever show up to a wedding with a yellow bouquet? Or bring white roses to a babyshower? All too often we fi nd ourselves between the mercy of street vendors stuffi ng you with cheap roses or upscale brands hoping to take your pocket for a ride sans the je ne sais quoi of sentimental expression. ‘Forget Me

Not’ is dedicated to arm-ing the customer with the right fl owers for the right moment. They help you diff erentiate your do’s from your dont’s when picking up fl owers and arrangements for special occasions, be they public or private in nature. Their products include signa-ture bouquets, custom bouquets, automobile accessorizing & detailing, wedding décor and event consultancy.

Forget Me Not!

L’Oreal Paris introduced Chrome Intensity in 182 Blue Jean shadow that

is a metallic-tinged Prussian blue or navy,

if you want to be non-fancy about

it. This shade glides seamlessly over

the eyelid for smooth, com-fortable wear. I like it for a night-time

smoky or just worn up to the crease and blended above it with a brush to take the hard edges off . Put a bit of

primer on beforehand and it’ll stay in place all day (or night) too.

We at Sunday Plus have brought a smart wish-list for all our readers that are the best buys which range from the trendiest brands to the most delicious palate to à la mode popular gateways. So get ready as we present our picks for the week. There’s something for everyone.

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