South Africa announced ODI squad | Elgar to make debut

The uncapped left-handed batsman Dean Elgar is selected in 14-man squad for first two ODI matches against Sri Lanka. Seamer Rory Kleinveldt also succeeded to make his place in the squad. This will be the first chance for AB de Villiers to serve as a captain after injury meant he missed the matches against Australia.

Elgar, the opening batsman of Knights is the only rookie in the squad, while Kleinveld has represented South Africa in two Twenty20 internationals, he played last T20. Three changes are made in the squad. de Villiers will take over the wicketkeeping duties from Mark Boucher alongside his captaincy duties, while Elgar replaces David Miller. The third change came in shape of Kleinveldt selection who attract the selectors to replace him with the leg spinner Imran Tahir.

Andrew Hudson, the Cricket South Africa's selection convener, said; "We have chosen a squad of 14 for the first two games only. Those members of the squad who are not involved in the final Test match in Newlands next week will be released to play for their franchises before the squad assembles on January 9".

Andrew Hudson said that he had many options for the squad from domestic cricket but preferred the best performer. Elgar deserve to be selected as he had was the leading run-scorer in the One-Day Cup.

"There have been a number of batsmen showing good form in domestic cricket, and Elgar fully deserves his opportunity," he added. "He was the leading run-scorer in the One-Day Cup (567 runs) and also had the best average (81). In addition he gives us very useful bowling options as a left-arm spinner."

Hudson said; "Kleinveldt played an important role with the ball in helping the Cobras to win the One-Day Cup and he also has a lot of potential as a lower-order power hitter." Kleinveldt was the second-highest wicket-taker for the Cobras, taking 13 wickets in nine matches" he added. "We feel we won't need three frontline spinners in South African conditions, so it makes sense to change the bowling balance of the squad slightly." 

SOUTH AFRICA ODI SQUAD: 

AB de Villiers (capt & wk), Hashim Amla, Johan Botha, JP Duminy , Faf du Plessis, Dean Elgar, Jacques Kallis, Rory Kleinveldt, Morne Morkel, Wayne Parnell, Robin Peterson, Graeme Smith, Dale Steyn, Lonwabo Tsotsobe

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Sri Lanka choked them really nicely - Jayasuria

Former Sri Lanka batsman Sanath Jaysuria believes Sri lanka's historic win against South Africa is the same victory as they had against England at Oval. The 13 years ago win against England is the most significant victory for Islanders outside the subcontinent. Former captain Jaysuria scored a double hundred, while Muttiah Muralitharan took 16 wickets in that match, Ranatunga was leading the side.

Tilkaratne Dilshan made his first win in test cricket as a captain. Adding to this, the Kingsmead win is the first Sri Lankan win in test cricket since Muralitharan retired 16 months ago. Jaysuriya told Cricinfo regarding this win;

"This win is very important because of all these dramas the cricketers have gone through," he said. "The team has not been doing well and they have had some administrative problems and mentally, they were quite down. They have done a very good thing now and they are on a high."

Jayasuria said; "It was exactly what I said before. We needed partnerships and one of the top six to get a hundred. That was the key, once we were able to put on more than 300, it gives the bowlers something to work with."

Kumar Sangakara back to form with a century that took the match away from South Africa, the last 3 innings of the matches were not satisfactory for the left handed batsman, he scored 1,2 and 0 runs in previous 3 innings. Jayasuria said about Sangakara;
"Any batsman will hurt a lot after going through a bad patch," said Jayasuriya. "But he got a chance and capitalised on it. When Sanga gets a start, he goes on to make big runs." he said about Chandimal "I am very happy for him, The selectors gave him an opportunity and he used it well."

"We choked them really nicely," Jayasuria using this word will no doubt cause the South African squad to bristle. "We've seen with their history when it comes to crunch situations they don't do well." He added;  "They won't want a flat wicket, so they will probably prepare something with pace and bounce."

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Big Bash | Renegades finish the year with a thrilling win

Melbourne Renegades ended a thrilling contest in their favor, beat Sydney Thunders by 6 runs. Boom Boom Afridi was the difference who won the man of the match award.

After losing the first 2 matches, Renegades meet Thunders with a hope of win to finish the year in better way. Renegades captain McDonald won the toss and elected to bat first. Changes take place in the batting order, so as Finch and Hodge were sent to start the inning for the Renegades.

Both the batsmen started very well and laid a partnership of 82 runs for the 1st wicket on 63 balls, but it was Doran who got rid of both openers in 11th over. Finch scored 41 runs from 34 balls including 4 fours and a six while Hodge score 44 runs from 31 balls including 5 fours and a huge six. The upcoming batsmen couldn't get the advantage from a super first wicket start, Afridi did try to set a huge total on the board but failed. At the end of 1st innings, Renegades put a total of 140 in 20.0 overs after losing 8 wickets. Hodge was the top scorer for Renegades (44 runs) while in bowling department Abbot leaded for Thunders with his 21/2 in 4.0 overs.

Chris Gayle and Cruickshank were sent to opened the innings for Thunders in chasing, Gayle started from where he left the last match. Both the batsmen batted very well but it was Afridi who broke the first the partnership of first wicket. Cruickshank was the man to go, he scored 15 runs from 22 balls, total was 59. Khwaja with the help of Gayle added another 42 runs to the total in 2nd wicket partnership but became the 2nd victim of Shahid Afridi so as Renegades. Wickets start falling but the man on target for Renegades was Chris Gayle, he kept dominating with his aggressive batting style.

Although Gayle was batting well but there were no other batsman to support him. At a time when 19 runs from 11 balls were required, Gayle got out and from there the Renegades held the match position, 9 runs were made in the last over when 16 runs were required to win. The Thunders managed to score 134 runs in 20.0 overs after losing 7 wickets. Shahid Afridi took 3 for 21 runs in 4.0 overs, while Chris Gayle, the top scorer for Thunders made 76 runs from 54 balls (3 fours, 5 sixes).

Melbourne Renegades won the match by 6 runs, with this win the Renegades made their first win in the tournament. The difference in the match was Afridi performance who failed in first 2 matches, he also received man of the match award for his bowling performance. Thunders will face unbeaten Hurricanes on 1st January Renegades match is on 2nd January of next year against Sixers.



Match Summary:
Melbourne Renegades: 140/8 in 20.0 overs
Sydney Thunders: 134/8 in 20.0 overs 

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KIRK EDWARDS BATS FOR CAPTAIN SAMMY

Bridgetown, Barbados -- Newly-appointed Barbados captain Kirk Edwards has described his West Indies skipper Darren Sammy as a "fighting cricketer who gives his all".

Edwards, one of the West Indies batting successes on the recent Test tours to Bangladesh and India where the side had mixed fortunes, said Sammy needed as much support as possible.

“Sammy is a fighter. He is a cricketer that everybody has a lot of negatives to say. He is always under pressure but I kind of admire the guy for the fact that he still goes out there and gives his all,” Edwards told reporter here at the annual Barbados Cricket Association Christmas luncheon and awards ceremony.

“What else can you ask for from a fellow other than giving a hundred percent effort and fighting for his team each and every time? You can't ask for more than that. It is tough for Sammy and I try to lend my support,” Edwards said.

West Indies won the two-Test series against Bangladesh 1-0 but were beaten 2-0 in the three-Test rubber against India, who also captured the subsequent five-match One-day series 4-1.

Sammy, a 28-year-old St. Lucian, has been criticised by many former cricketers and the media for his handling of the side as well as personal performance in recent months. He took over the captaincy from veteran opening batsman Chris Gayle for the tour to Sri Lanka late last year.

The 27-year-old Edwards said critics should be mindful of the fact that there are several young players in the current West Indies side and they needed time to develop.

“There are a lot of positives. As you could see, we are a fighting team and we are developing a relatively young team. To play the type of cricket we played, I was proud about that. It is all a learning curve. You don't just wake up and be the ultimate Test cricketer,” he asserted.

Edwards was recently appointed captain of the Barbados team for the 2012 Caribbean Twenty20 championship to be played at the Sir Vivian Richards Stadium in Antigua and Kensington Oval in Barbados from January 9 to 22.

He is to also lead the Barbados team in the WICB's regional four-day championship, which begins February 3.

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Big Bash | Scorchers didn't disappoint home crowds

Perth Scorchers beat Brisbane Heat by 10 runs on their home ground WACA. With this win Perth Scorchers won two matches out of 3 matches they have played.

Perth Scorchers faced Brisbane Heat on their home ground at Western Australia Cricket Association Ground, Perth.  A huge spectators make their way towards the ground to support their sides. Scorchers captain "North" won the toss and elected to bat first.

In the absence of Shaun Marsh, the home side opened innings with Gibbs and North, both the batsmen showed their strength from the start and start playing strokes every where. On one side, Gibbs was not allowing a bowler to dominate so as on other side North was showing the boundaries to the bowlers. The first wicket fell on 80 runs when Gibbs tried to play a bouncer towards off side, unluckily the bowl touched the toe of the bat and hit the wickets. Gibbs scored 38 runs, North was bowled by van der Merwe on 40 runs.

Mitchell Marsh with two huge sixes took the score to 138 runs and got out on 33 runs. At the end, the Scorchers managed to score 162 runs after losing 8 wickets, Neser was the top bowler took 2 for 23 runs.

In reply, Lynn failed to impress in the absence of Brendon McCullum and got out on 4 runs. After losing 1st wicket, Hyden and Forrest built 43 runs partnership for the 2nd wicket. Hyden was the 2nd batsman got out on 33 runs, Forrest innings got to an end with a beautiful delivery of Edmondson, he scored 59 runs. The upcoming batsmen failed to make it Heat day, Brisbane Heat managed to scored 152 in 20.0 overs after losing 6 wickets.

Perth Scorchers won the match by 10 runs and with this win they added their 2nd win to the point table. Scorchers played 3 matches in which they won 2 matches, with 4 points they are at No. 2 on point table. North was given man of the match award for his brilliant knock of 40 runs.

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Bowlers lead the series for Australia

One of the most awaited series "Border-Gavaskar Trophy" started from the first test match at Melbourne, December 26, 2011. Australia won the match by 122 runs, the rising star Pattinson was given man of the match award for his brilliant performance. 

Australian captain Michael Clark won the toss and elected to bat first, Warner and Cowan opened the inning for Australia. Both the openers built 46 runs partnership for the first wicket, although Marsh failed to score at one down but it was Ricky Ponting who built 113 runs partnership with Cowan.

Ponting got out on 62 runs, the talented bowler of India "Yadav" took his wicket. Cowan was the sixth batsman, who got out on 68 runs, total was 214/6. After Cowan departure, Hidden and Siddle took the score to 286 runs. Siddel was the 8th wicket for India, got out on 41 runs, tail-enders added 42 more runs and helped Australia to end the total on 333. Zahir Khan made an impressive comeback and took 4 wickets in 1st inning.

In reply, the Indian start was not good, Gambhir got out on 3 runs, total was 21. After Gambhir fall Sehwag and Dravid 75 runs partnership for the 2nd wicket, Shewag scored 67 while Dravid scored 68 runs. Tendulkar was looking in great form and was expected to score a century this time. When he was on 70's, fans start celebrating his 100th hundred but he failed to achieve the landmark. Siddle was the bowler who bowled him on 73 runs, total was 214 runs when he got out. No other batsman could try to score against Australian pacer after the top order but Ashwin, he was the last batsman got out on 31 runs. India scored 282 runs in 1st inning, trailed by 51 runs, Helfinhaus took 5 wickets for Australia.

Australia 2nd inning was not good, only 4 players crossed the double figures in which two were bowlers. Ricky Ponting kept going with same form and scored another fifty in the match, he scored 60 runs at a time when Australian batting line up collapsed badly. Mr. Cricket was the 2nd batsman to score 50 for Australia in 2nd inning, he was also the top scorer for his side who scored 89 runs. Later on Pattinson and Helfinhaus added 43 to the total, Pattenson remained unbeaten on 37 while Hilfenhaus scored got out on 14 runs. Australia bowled out on 240 runs in 2nd inning and gave 292 runs target to India, Yadav took 6 wickets for his side.

In receiving target of 292 runs, Indian batsmen failed to achieve the target. Sehwag was the first victim of Kangaroos. Aussie pacers started from where they stopped in the first inning, Pattinson, Helfinhaus and Siddle took the responsibility of destroying the top order of India. Although, the Indian captain Dhoni endured to save the team from lose but there were no other batsman to stay with him.  Indian team bowled out on 169 runs, Ashwin was the top batsman for India who scored 30 runs from 36 balls. Yadav was the last batsman to go, he scored 21 runs.

Australia won the first match by 122 runs, Pattinson for his brilliant performance was given man of the match award. Little master, who was expected to score a century failed to do so, he scored 32 runs in his 2nd inning.


MATCH SUMMARY:

AUSTRALIA: 333/10 & 240/10
INDIA: 282/10 & 169/10
MAN OF THE MATCH: PATTINSON

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Big Bash League | Hurricanes third consecutive win in the tournament

Hobart Hurricanes won their third match of tournament by 14 runs, XJ Doherty  for his brilliant bowling was given man of the match award.

Adelaide host a big match of home team Adelaide Strikers against Hobart Hurricanes. After winning the toss, the guest team captain Doherty decided to bat first. The decision worked for Hurricanes, openers Wells (31) and Jacques (41) laid a partnership of 64 runs for the first wicket. After openers depart, Shah and Birt did the same for the third wicket and took the score to 136 runs where wicket of Birt fell on 44 runs. Shah batted till the end and helped his team to score 171 runs in 20.0 overs. Botha was the top bowler for Strikers took 2 for 28 in 4.0 overs. 

In reply, the Hurricanes bowlers dominated and didn't allow the Strikers batsmen to built partnerships. Hurricanes captain "XJ Doherty"  leaded from the front and took 4 wickets for 17 runs in 4.0 overs. Although Borgas (31) and Cooper (43) did built a partnership but it was too late, no other upcoming batsmen reached to double figure. Rana Naveed-ul-Hassan also showed his presence in the match and took 2 for 37 runs in 4.0 overs. 


Hurricanes won the match by 14 runs, Doherty for his awesome bowling was given man of the match figure. With this win, the Hurricanes won all three matches of the tournament and remained unbeaten. 

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The Professor - Mohammad Hafeez

History of Pakistan cricket is full with unmatched players. Pakistan have produced some such talented and legendary cricketers, whose replacement could never be found. Production of such great players hasn't stopped yet. In current time too, Pakistan cricket team is having some great players. Shahid Afridi, Abdul Razzaq and Younis Khan are among the world's best cricketers. 

Along with these players, one of the name is of Muhammad Hafeez too. Yes! Right arm all-rounder spin bowler is one of the best cricketers of current cricket age. The man has the capability of making runs and as well as of stopping runs, with his off spin bowling.

31 years 72 days old, Muhammad Hafeez, was born on October 17, 1980 in Sargodha, Punjab. He used to play for SNGPL and Faisalabad Wolves. Muhammad Hafeez has played 90 ODIs and has scored 2319 runs with an average of 26.26. Along with this, Hafeez has taken 77 wickets with an average of 31.14. His best batting figure is 139*, whereas best bowling figure of 3/17. Muhammad Hafeez has also scored 3 centuries and 12 half-centuries in his career.

Since his comeback in 2010, Muhammad Hafeez's performance is incredible. His batting, as well as bowling efforts are incomparable to anyone. His performance are going upward day-by-day. He has scored 1353 runs with an average of 39.79 runs since his comeback. This includes 3 centuries and 5 half-centuries.

This year has been very pleasant and memorable for Muhammad Hafeez as well as his fans. His performance in this year has remained a symbol of excellence and hard work.

Another admirable thing about Muhammad Hafeez is that he has never been part of any controversy. Either it is spot-fixing, or captaincy issues, Muhammad Hafeez has nothing to do with that. He keeps his eyes on his performance and fitness. That is the key for his success, and that is why his teammates call him a "PROFESSOR".

Mohammad Hafeez completed 1000 ODI runs this year. He is the only 2nd Pakistani batsman to achieve this feat. Other batsman to do so is Mohammad Yousuf. He is also the vice-captain of Pakistan's team and a prominent option for the captaincy in future.

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Big Bash | Thrill ended in Sixers favor

Sydney Sixers won the nail-biting match by 2 runs against Melbourne Stars, Bravo for his brilliant batting was given man of the match award.

 
Sydney Sixers and Melbourne Stars met at Sydney stadiums, the home side won the toss and elected to bat first. From the start it was Bravo day, he dominated the opposite team bowlers with his stylish strokes. He scored 52 runs from from 39 balls, including 4 fours and 3 sixes. Later on, Thornely also scored 29 runs from 13 balls and helped the team to end the inning on 166 runs. David Hussey was the top bowler for Stars who picked 2 for 25 runs in his 4 overs.

In reply, the stars start was not good and lost 2 wickets on 18 runs. David  Hussey and Bailey built 59 runs partnership for 3rd wicket, both the batsmen built 59 runs partnership for the third wicket. After Bailey (33), Voges tried to make it Stars day with Hussey co-operation but failed.

The Melbourne Stars team managed to score 164 in 20.0  overs after losing 8 wickets. Sydney Sixers won the match by 2 runs, Hussey was the top scorer for Stars scored 42 runs, included 5 fours and 1 six. For Sixers, Smith was the top bowler who took 2 for 27 runs in his 4 overs. Bravo for his brilliant performance with bat was given man of the match award.

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Umer, Wahab and Junaid retained, Malik dropped

Pakistan Cricket Board's selection committee has announced the Pakistan's squad for the test series against England. Most debated, Shoaib Malik has beendropped, whereas Umer Akmal has been recalled.
Along with Umer Akmal, fast bowlers Wahab Riaz and Junaid Khan have also made their comeback.

 PCB also announced the "PCB-XI" which will play a tour game against England before start of Test series. PCB XI's squad is:- Nasir Jamshed, Afaaq Raheem, Haris Sohail, Mohammad Ayub Dogar, Usman Salahuddin, Sarfaraz Ahmad (captain), Raza Hassan, Mohammad Khalil, Fawad Alam, Talha, Ali Imran Pasha, Yasir Shah. 1st test match will be started from 17th January 2012.

Full squad:- Taufeeq Umar, Mohammad Hafeez, Imran Farhat, Azhar Ali, Younis Khan, Umer Akmal, Misbah-ul-Haq (captain), Asad Shafiq, Adnan Akmal (wk), Junaid Khan, Saeed Ajmal, Abdul Rehman, Mohammad Talha, Wahab Riaz, Aizaz Cheema, Umer Gull.

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PIA owned the seventh title of Quaid-e-Azam Trophy

PIA won the final match by nine wickets, Pakistan International Airline 300 ( Sarfraz 70, Iftikhar 4-78) and 110 for 1 (Sabir 40*) beat Zarai Taraqiati Bank Limited 337 (Haris Sohail 112, Anwar Ali 4-55) and 70 (Anwar Ali 4-31, Ali Imran 3-16) by nine wickets.

On the final day of the Quaid-e-Azam Trophy division two, the Pakistan International Airlined had 21.4 overs to claim the victory in the final. After bowling out the Zarai Taraqiati Bank on 70 runs, the openers went out to chase the target and made it possible in no time. 

Pakistan International Airline chased the target in 21.2 overs after losing the opener Kamran Sajid. ZTBL was failed to add more score to day 4 scorecard, Iftikhar was caught on the final day and it helped Anwar Ali to get his 8th wicket of the match.In reply,

Agha Sabir and Kamran Sajid were looking in hurry, both the openers made the start of 48 runs. Kamran Sajid scored 34 runs from  29 balls, later on Sheharyar Ghani and Agha Sabir made the day for Pakistan International Airline in 21.2 overs. Agha Sabir remained not out on 40 runs while  Sheharyar Ghani scored 36 runs from 34 balls including 8 fours.

AWARDS OF THE TOURNAMENT

Player of the match Anwar Ali (PIA)
Batsman of the series Afaq Raheem
Bowler of the series Ali Imran (PIA)
Fielder of the series Shahid Yousuf (ZTBL) 

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PCB Offers Whatmore 'Head-Coach' Role

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has invited Australia's Dav Whatmore to Pakistan to discuss the terms of becoming their next head coach, a board official has said. Whatmore will arrive in Pakistan in the second week of January next year. Along with Whatmore, Julian Fountain, will also come. Julian is might be given the charge of the new fielding coach.

Whatmore, who led Sri Lanka to victory at the 1996 World Cup, is currently in charge of the Kolkata Knight Riders in the Indian Premier League. Whatmore have already coached Bangladesh's national cricket team.

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CCC TURN TO YOUTH FOR CT20

Bridgetown, Barbados -- Three promising, young players are set to make their Caribbean Twenty20 debuts for the Combined Campuses & Colleges when the tournament is contested next month.

Jamaicans Jason Dawes and Akeem Dewar, two former West Indies Under-19 players, as well as Barbadian all-rounder Kyle Mayers, a current West Indies Under-19 player, have been named in the 14-member squad that will take part in the tournament to be staged in Antigua and Barbados from January 9. Both fast bowler Dawes and leg-spinner Dewar have played at the senior regional level previously.

Dawes has played nine first-class matches for Jamaica and has also represented the CCC in the Regional Super50 tournament, while Dewar has played for West Indies Under-19 and CCC in the Rs. 50.

Mayers, too, has played for CCC previously, appearing in three RS50 matches last October in Guyana.

There is one other newcomer in the side. He is the little-known Jamaican Herman Henry, a student at The Mico University College.

Henry was a member of the squad during the RS50, but did not play. He was discovered through the intercollegiate competition organized by the University of the West Indies, and impressed with his fast-medium bowling and lower-order batting.

The side also contains Jason Holder and Kevin McClean, two graduates of the West Indies High Performance Centre, as well as overlooked Barbados batsman Kyle Hope and Chadwick Walton, who has been displaced from the Jamaica national side by West Indies wicketkeeper/batsman Carlton Baugh.

Romel Currency will again lead the side with regular faces like the spin twins Ryan Austin and Kavesh Kantasingh part of the squad, along with player/coach Floyd Reifer.

CCC has been drawn in Group B of the tournament with Jamaica, Sussex Sharks, Netherlands and co-hosts Barbados. They open the tournament against the Jamaicans on January 10 at the Vivian Richards Cricket Ground in Antigua.

Squad: Romel Currency (captain), Ryan Austin, Jason Dawes, Akeem Dewar, Herman Henry, Jason Holder, Kyle Hope, Kavesh Kantasingh, Kyle Mayers, Kevin McClean, Yannick Ottley, Floyd Reifer, Chadwick Walton, Ryan Wiggins.

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Big Bash League | Gayle show helped Thunders to win easily

Sydney Thunders beat Adelaide Strikers by 6 wickets, Chris Gayle dominated in the match with his bat and remained unbeaten with his 100 runs.

Sydney Thunders meet Adelaide Strikers on their home ground in Sydeny. Strikers was failed to impress in the start, wickets kept falling from the third over of the match. At a time when score was 52 with 4 wicket fall, Botha and Borgas built partnership of 49 runs and took the score to 101 runs. After wicket fall of Borgas, upcoming batsmen couldn't do well, Botha remained the top scorer for his side who scored 41 runs. Abbott was the top bowler for Strikers who picked 2/20 runs in his 4 overs.

After receiving target of 156 runs, Gayle and Smith opened the innings for his side but it was not a successful decision as D. Smith wicket fall in 4th over, he scored only 6 runs. Gayle was enough for the opposition bowlers and he showed the way of boundaries to all bowlers.

Although, long partnership didn't take place but Gayle innings was enough to win the match for his side. Gayle completed his century in 18 over with a single, he scored unbeaten 100 runs from 54 balls which included 3 fours and 11 sixes.

Thunders won the match by 6 wickets, they achieved the target in 18.3 overs. Chris Gayle for his brilliant hundred was given man of the match award.

Adelaide Strikers: 155/8 in 20.0 overs
Sydney Thunders: 156/4 in 18.3 overs

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Big Bash League | Marsh made the day for Scorchers

Perth Scorchers beat Melbourne Renegades by 8 wickets, Shaun Marsh remain unbeaten on 99 runs.

Melbourne Renegades after first beat meet Perth Scorchers on their home ground "Etihad stadium". The Renegades captain McDonald won the toss and elected to bat first. Finch and McDonald opened the inning with aggressive start for their side and built 91 runs partnership, Finch scored 49 runs, McDonald 57 runs. Maxwell, Reardon and Abdul Razzaq also scored some quick runs at the end, Renegades scored 118/3 in 20.0 overs.

 After receiving the target of 189 runs, Shaun Marsh and Gibbs opened the inning with bang performance. Both the openers built a solid partnership and scored quick runs. At a time when the match was going in favor of Scorchers, Renegades captain took the wicket of Gibbs which helped Renegades to come back in the match but the Renegades bowlers couldn't get the advantage from the wicket. Shaun Marsh kept dominating with some chances that were given by Renegades fielders. Shahid Afridi and Shaun Tait who were expected to be the term cards of Renegades in bowling failed to impress.

In last over when 4 runs were required from 6 balls, the captain of Renegades McDonald gave bowling to Abdul Razzaq who had already given lots of runs in his first 2 overs. Shaun Marsh hit six on 2nd ball of Abdul Razzaq 3rd over and won the match for his side. He remain unbeaten on 99 runs from 52 balls, including 5 sixes and 9 fours. Marsh was given man of the match award for his brilliant inning.


Melbourne Renegades: 188/3 in 20.0 overs
Perth Scorchers: 192/2 in 19.2 overs

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The remarkable story of Afghan Cricket through the eyes of an Afghan

By: Khushal Azam

Thursday, December 22, 2011

Afghanistan's cricketing journey, in many ways a truly Afghan story, starts in 2001 when it was first formed and became the affiliate member of the International Cricket Council (ICC) the same year and a member of Asian Cricket Council (ACC) in 2003.

 

In this astonishing journey plots and sub-plots include loyalty, politics, emotions, tragedy (a former Afghan cricketer Rahmat Wali was killed at Khost province in a night raid when US forces suspected him as Talibans' fighter in 2008). The Afghan players are a bunch of immensely naturally gifted, motivated, charismatic and proud individuals.

The main part of this journey starts from Jersey, where they first participated in the lowest division (Division 5) of World Cricket League in 2008 to within touching distance of qualifying for World Cup 2011 in 2009, Afghan cricket has indeed gone through several notches of transformation within a short span of four years.

Their skills have now shaped so well that it's very hard to even imagine that some of these players never held a hard cricket ball (they played only tape-ball cricket) seven years ago, doesn't this seem quite impossible to believe?

They naturally had self-belief, but a professional personality had to be found as a guide, given the demands of international cricket. Aggression, which to our players come naturally, had to be harnessed and handled. They were emotional individuals considering how proud they were to represent their country.

This is where one of the foremost characters in this enthralling story, Kabir Khan comes in. Now coaching the UAE, the former Pakistani Test cricketer was perhaps the right kind of guide our players needed. Kabir Khan hailed from Peshawar, which meant ethnically, culturally and linguistically, there weren't going to be any problems and that cricket could now take over.

He took over as a coach from Taj Malik Alam, despite the latter playing a major role in Afghanistan winning its first international tournament, the World Cricket League (Division 5). Taj Malik was a very good person who was instrumental in getting the side together. But unfortunately, he didn't have a proper plan for the team and was too emotional. He believed that hitting boundaries was the most important thing, and that singles and twos weren't.

When Kabir took over as coach, Afghanistan was a team of sheer contrasts - an extraordinary bowling line-up capable of defending the lowest of targets and sadly, a batting order, high on talent, but lacking in maturity, often dismissed before their allotted 50 overs. Their attitude was top class, but though work had to be done on their mental and tactical side of cricket and that's all what Kabir Khan as a good coach worked on and improved them.

Today, Afghanistan is a team with ODI and Twenty20 International status, with a more than impressive show in the four-day competition, ICC Intercontinental Cup, a level below Test cricket, a first-class tournament for top Associate and Affiliate teams which they won at their first attempt, which included a successful run-chase of 494 runs against Canada in about one day in the competition and went undefeated till the end.

As an Afghan cricket fan I feel it is important one of the Asian boards adopts Afghanistan as a pet project and start helping in its growth. If England can help and support the likes of Holland, Scotland and Ireland, why can't the asian boards think of Afghanistan? And this isn't even about money, but opportunity that should be given to our players.

Conflict, they say, gives birth to great stories - Afghanistan's rise in cricket is quite the folklore cricket desperately desired and as fans we must cherish this for as long as possible. In a matter of four years, Afghanistan demonstrated not just the sheer power of cricket, but what individuals as a whole could achieve.

A near heartbreak in South Africa in 2009 World Cup Qualifiers aside, where our team failed to make it to the World Cup 2011, today, they've played the World Twenty20 in the Caribbean, won the ICC Intercontinental Cup at their first attempt, clinched the silver medal in Cricket at the Asian Games in Guangzhou in 2010 and is even more successful in ACC tournaments by winning all the to tournaments they take part. All this, for a nation which has suffered from decades of war. Sadly, I think the likes of Hamid Hassan, Mohammad Nabi or Nawroz Mangal may never get to play Test cricket, but I feel as long as they get more moments to cry with pride and more victories, cricket will be the richer sport.

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Analysing the 2011's performance of Pakistan Cricket Team

Finally, Pakistan ended the year 2011 without any series loss. Pakistan did not lost any series this year. This year has become a great milestone for a team, who was in the process of rehabilitation after getting a number of controversies, specially spot-fixing controversy.

Pakistan cricket team was in a great trouble after spot-fixing case. Pakistan cricket board was in search of a permanent captain. Salman Butt was made the captain at that time. Similarly, after Waqar Younis and Wasim Akram, Pakistan was in search of a bowling pair and this space was filled by Mohammad Asif and Mohammad Amir. In this process of rehabilitation, Pakistan was doing a great work and was about to get out of these problems. But, all the problems increased in a while, when Pakistan's Salman Butt, Mohammad Asif and Mohammad Amir were caught for being involved in spot-fixing. Hence, all the hopes of a better and stronger side were ruined.

After that, a number of critics stand against the Pakistan. Even some of the critics were asking to ban Pakistan cricket teams. At that time, Pakistan had only a single weapon for their defence and that was their performance in international cricket.

Pakistan then played a 5 match ODI series against South Africa at UAE. Pakistan performed quite good in that series, but unfortunately lost the series by 3-2. This series was ended with one more controversy. Pakistan's wicket-keeper Zulqarnain Haider ran away to England just before the 5th ODI was to start. This thing created more criticisers of Pakistan cricket. But the team made their focus on their performance and did not listen to their critics.

After South Africa, Pakistan visited New Zealand for a full series. Pakistan won the 6-match ODI series by 3-2. This victory was a great achievement for Pakistan cricket team. In the same tour, Pakistan won the test series by 1-0.

After beating New Zealand, Pakistan's next goal was to play well in the ICC World Cup 2011. Pakistan fulfilled the expectations and performed very well in the mega event. But unfortunately, Pakistan was knocked-out after being defeated by India in the semi-final after a tough match. But reaching in the semi-final after beating Sri Lanka and Australia in the other matches of the tournament was itself a pride.

Pakistan than visited West Indies, where they played a full series against them. In that series too, Pakistan beat West Indies by 3-2. But in this tour too, Pakistan cricket got a little shock, when Pakistan's captain, Shahid Khan Afridi announced a 'conditional retirement' after misunderstanding with the coach over selection issues. This thing did not effected the team's performance as Pakistan drew the 2 match test series by 1-1. Before returning to home Pakistan played 2 one-day matches against Ireland, and won both of them. Hence Pakistan indicated a great comeback to international cricket.

After the retirement of Shahid Afridi, Misbah-ul-Haq was made the captain for all formats. Misbah-ul-Haq was already captaining his side in test cricket. After giving a full captaincy, Misbah visited Zimbabwe with his team, where Pakistan beat Zimbabwe by 3-0 in ODIs and by 1-0 in tests.

Pakistan then played their home series in UAE against Sri Lanka. Pakistan maintained their unbeaten record, as they beat Sri Lanka by 1-0 in the 3 matches test series. Before the Pakistan could play ODIs against Sri Lanka, PCB chairman Ejaz Butt's chairmanship ended and Shahid Afridi was re-selected in the Pakistan squad for Sri Lanka. Along with Afridi, Razzaq was also selected. Hence, a great potential was seen in the team. And Pakistan beat Sri Lanka by 1-0 in test series and by 4-1 in the ODI series. Pakistan, who's first goal was to improve its ranking, moved on to 5th slot in the ICC's ODI rankings. This was a great milestone for Pakistan cricket in the process of retaining lost status.

After a successful series against Sri Lanka, Pakistan's next opponent was Bangladesh, which was a quite easier as compared to their previous opponents. And as per expectations, Pakistan easily won the T20, ODI test series. Pakistan also beat Bangladesh in ODIs and test matches by 3-0 and 2-0, respectively. After beating Bangladesh in T20i, ODIs and test, Pakistan climbed to 5th rank in the ICC's rankings of all formats.

Hence, Pakistan ended their international cricket activities of 2011 successfully. No series loss was faced by the men in greens. Along with superb team performance, Pakistan players individual performance was also admirable. Pakistan's Mohammad Hafeez scored 1075 runs and took 45 wickets in ODI cricket this year. Saeed Ajmal was the highest wicket-taker of the year in test cricket and took 50 wickets, whereas Shahid Afridi was the 2nd highest wicket-taker of the year in ODIs. Azhar Ali and Asad Shafiq scored their 1st maiden test century. Saeed Ajmal also achieved 1st, 9th and 2nd rank in ICC's ODI, test and T20 bowling rankings, respectively.

Hence, a year full of happy moments have passed. And new challenges are to be faced in new year. Pakistan will have to play against England as the 1st series of 2012. The series would be the 'real test' of Pakistan cricket team. It is to be observe that whether Pakistan cricket team continues their winning streak or not.

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Rana Naveed destroys the Sixers as Hurricanes extend their unbeaten streak

In another packed full-house encounter of Big Bash, Hobart Hurricanes beaten the Sydney Sixers to climb up the top of the Points Table.

After winning the toss, the stand-in captain Xavier Doherty chosen to bat first.

Hurricanes were going quite slow in the PowerPlay overs when their first wicket: Jonathan Wells got deceived by a slow delivery and bowled on the final ball of the powerplay.

Though it proved to be the Blessing in Disguise as incoming Travis Birt set the match with his century stand with Phil Jacques. Jacques smacked 6 boundaries and a six while Birt's innings include 4 boundaries and 3 powerful blows way beyond the boundary.

Hurricanes finished at 169 for 3 meant that Sixers had to achieve exactly 170 to top the table.

Sixers, who were already not been done any good by the departure of Brad Haddin to the test squad for Boxing Day Test went further in trouble when both their openers got bowled on the consecutive deliveries within first 15 deliveries of the innings.

Any chance of coming back in the game kept on sliding with the falling wickets and Rana Naveed put the icing on the cake with his reverse-swinging yorkers, slower balls and effort balls. It was a spell every fast bowler would be proud of.

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Pakistan ended the year with another series win

Journey towards Glory

Teams:
Bangladesh: Mushfiqur Rahim (captain & wk), Mahmudullah, Tamim Iqbal, Nazimuddin, Shahriar Nafees, Shakib Al Hasan, Nazmul Hossain, Nasir Hossain, Elias Sunny, Shahadat Hossain, Robiul Islam.

Pakistan: Mohammad Hafeez, Taufiq Umar, Younus Khan, Misbah-ul-Haq (captain), Azhar Ali, Asad Shafiq, Adnan Akmal (wk), Saeed Ajmal, Abdur Rehman, Umar Gul, Aizaz Cheema.

Toss : Misbah-ul-Haq won the toss and decided to put Bangladesh into bat.

Day - 1
First day of the 2nd test match started with Bangladesh's top order collapse. Once again Aizaz Cheema clearly showed his bowling skills and had reduced them to 43 for 4 in helpful morning conditions. From the start Bangladesh never looked into the game But Shakib Al Hasan and Shahriar Nafees superb batting proved it wrong and rescued Banladesh. Nafees and Shakib played country's first century partnership without throwing away their wickets.

Misbah decided to use his spinners after seeing positive and aggressive batting display from Nafees and Shakib but there was not much help for them from a pitch that had now revealed itself to be a typical flat first-day subcontinent pitch. Shakib continued to play positively faced Saeed Ajmal and Abdur Rehman. A back-foot punch off Ajmal brought up his 50 and he stepped out next ball to caress a flighted delivery to the extra-cover boundary to bring up the century partnership. Both Bangladesh batsmen to implode after reaching half-centuries, they continued in the same vein after getting to their landmarks.

With the light fading in the Dhaka winter, Shakib cut Gul for two boundaries in an over to move to 99 and brought the appreciative crowd to its feet with a characteristic chop through point to reach his second Test hundred. Nafees clattered Ajmal through extra cover to move to 97 but Gul sent down an accurate bouncer in his
next over to have him gloving it to the wicketkeeper. By then, though, Bangladesh had restored their pride.

For the first time in three weeks on this tour Misbah and his players had looked clueless. The
first day was totaly Shakib and Nafees day. Bangladesh could have been decided by the first innings, but for Nafees and Shakib.

Bangladesh 234/5 (Shakib 108*, Nafees 97, Cheema 3-52) vs Pakistan 

Day - 2
Shakib's powerful batting had already made Pakistan trouble after first day game as the final five wickets went down for 33 runs after which Pakistan's top order responded strongly. Shakib and Mushfiqur start facing Pakistan with Slow and Steady formula. Shakib scored his highest first-class score and was headed for Bangladesh's record individual Test effort when he was
run-out. Mushfiqur took a few quick steps before stopping and sending Shakib back, but a direct hit from Taufeeq Umar, running in from mid-on, was enough to snap the partnership at 82. Shakib walked off, after several glares at his captain over the poor calling. The innings ended in a hurry, though, as Saeed Ajmal's doosra proved too much for the tailenders, and a run-out curtailed Nazmul Hossain's first Test knock in seven years to a single delivery.

From Pakistan's side Muhammed Hafeez and Azher start their game in a positive way, But Hafeez failed to stay in for long time and dismissed by Nazmul for only 14 runs. Taufeeq Umer joined the Azher Ali. As compared to Azher, Taufeeq Umer was more confident.
He picked up eight boundaries on his way to 44 and here they closed the game of 2nd day at the score of 87 for 1.

Pakistan 87/1 (Taufeeq 44*, Azhar 26*) trail Bangladesh 338 (Shakib 144, Shahriar 97) by 251 runs

Day - 3
Third day of the second and final Test was a bright day for pakistan. Taufeeq Umar and Azhar Ali hit half-centuries as Pakistan reached 139-1 in their first innings before lunch in reply to Bangladesh's 338.

Left-handed opener Umar was unbeaten on 66 at the break for his second successive Test half-century while Azhar was 52 not out as the tourists added 52 runs to their overnight total of 87-1 after a delayed start due to fog The pair Taufeeq and Azhar looked more confident this day. Azher who hit fast bowler Shahadat Hossain for two fours in the opening over of the day, reached his 12th Test half-century with a boundary off left-arm spinner Elias Sunny in the last over of the morning session.

Bangladesh's bowlers couldn't stop Taufeeq Umar to mark his seventh Test century to help Pakistan post 217-2 in their first innings. He played some aggressive shots after reaching his century. Bangladesh missed a chance to remove Umar on 56, but wicket-keeper Mushfiqur Rahim did not even try to effect a stumping off left-arm spinner Shakib Al Hasan whil confidently appealing for a catch down the leg-side. Bangladesh, who went wicketless in the opening session, got their first wicket in the fourth over after lunch when Shakib had Azhar caught behind with a delivery that turned away sharply. Bangladesh's spirits were sapped further when both Younis and Taufeeq were given lives in the first two overs after tea.

Younas put down at deep midwicket by Shahadat Hossain, while Taufeeq offered a tough bat-pad chance that Shahriar Nafees couldn't latch on at short leg. Bangladesh managed to dismiss Taufeeq on 130. After his dismiss Mibah ul Haq joined Younas Khan. Their partnership raised 47 at a decidedly brisk 3.76 before play was called off with Pakistan closing in towards 300. Shakib was the most impressive bowler, conceding just 28 runs in his 18 tight overs.

Pakistan 292 for 3 (Taufeeq 130, Azhar 57) trail Bangladesh 338 by 46 runs

Day - 4
Fourth day of the second and final test became Shakib Al Hasan's day again as this day he took five wickets. He became the first Bangladesh's player to score a hundred and take a five-for in the same Test. Shakib, who cracked a career-best 144 in the first innings, also impressed as a left-arm spinner as he finished with 6-82. Bangladesh was easily able to put pressure on Pakistan when Elias Sunny delivered the goods by dismissing Younas Khan on 49 runs. After Younas Khan's dismissal, Adnan Akmal joined Misbah on crease. Adnan Akmal scored his maiden Test half-century and Misbah-ul-Haq marked his seventh Test fifty of the year.

Asad Shafiq (42) and Abdur Rehman (24) were the other main scorers as Pakistan batted steadily in the opening two sessions to strengthen it's position. With Pakistan leading by 132 runs after getting bowled out. Bangladesh then proceeded with their second innings, looking to play positively but once again it was a typical beginning of the inning from Bangladesh side. Tamim Iqbal's wicket falled before tea on only 21 runs. Umar Gul made it more worst when he dismissed Shahriar Nafees lbw for a golden duck on the very next ball and he was on Hat-trick. Gul got the new ball but he couldn't complete the hat-trick after tea. Fourth day ended with Nasir Hossain and Mushfiqur Rahim not out, while Bangladesh trail by 18 runs with 5 wickets remaining.

Bangladesh 338 and 114 for 5 trail Pakistan 470 (Taufeeq 130, Misbah 70, Azhar 57, Akmal 53, Shakib 6-82) by 18 runs

Day -5
The last day of the 2nd test totally belonged to the green shirts, first with ball and later on with bat. Bangladesh kept struggling in their second inning. Nasir Hossain and captain Musfiqur-Rahim did try to save the team from lost but failed. Bangladesh bowled out on 234 runs in 2nd inning, Nasir Hossain was the top scorer who scored 79 runs, while Abdul Rehman picked 4 wickets for Pakistan.

In reply, Mohammad Hafeez and Azhar Ali made it easy for Pakistan to win after losing early wicket of Taufeeq Umar. Mohammad Hafeez was the top scorer for Pakistan in 2nd inning who scored 47 runs and couldn't save his wicket in chasing the target. After losing the third wicket, the captain himself came out for batting and hit a final shot for his team. Pakistan won the match by 7 wickets, so as sealed the series victory by 2-0.

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Mohsin Khan Retained As Interim Pakistan Coach

Mohsin Khan to continue as interim Pakistan coach for next month's England series. Pakistan will play three Tests, four one-day internationals and three Twenty20s on their two-month tour of the UAE.
Pakistan Cricket Board Chairman Zaka Ashraf has confirmed that in a news conference on monday in Lahore,"There will be no change in the team management or national selection committee for the England series," He also added, "We have yet to take a decision on the appointment of the new coaching staff. It is not my call to name a coach. PCB has appointed an expert team of former test cricketers to decide. I have told them to find the best candidate. We will look at hiring a fulltime coach after the England series,"

The former Test batsman Mohsin Khan has coached Pakistan to series wins over Sri Lanka and Bangladesh since taking charge. The coming up England series will be Mohsin's third assignment as national coach. Zaka Ashraf told the media that We have officially invited the Bangladesh board to send It's team. A security delegation from Bangladesh will be visiting Pakistan next month to inspect the security arrangements and conditions in Pakistan.

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Alastair Cook | The Gladiator of England Cricket Team in 2011

ALASTAIR COOK:
Alastair Cook is an England opening batsman and ODI captain of England cricket team. Cook is one of the main player of his team, he also play for Essex in county cricket. Although in start of his career, he didn't perform well but in last 2 years he improved his batting skills and played vital role in the victories of his team many times. Cook is not only a good player of his team but he is also one of the finest player in cricket.

REPRESENTED TEAMS:
Bedfordshire, England Lions, England Under-19s, Essex, Marylebone Cricket Club.

USEFUL PLAYER:
Cook is a very useful player, he is a type of player who can score with better strike rate so as at a time of need he play like steel wall. Alastair Cook batting has been improved for the last couple of years, his batting played a vital role especially in series against India he score lots of runs. Along with his batting abilities he is also a good leader and lead the team at a time of need.

COOK IN 2011: 
 2011 was the year of Cook when it comes to England Cricket Team, he received many awards for his performance in the same year. Cook performance in 2011 was on peak whether he played against Australia, India or other teams. Also due to his brilliant performance England got the No. 1 position in Test cricket..

   
OVERALL PERFORMANCE WITH BAT:
TEST: Cook has played 72 test matches in which he scored 5868 runs with an average of 49.72. He scored 19 hundreds and 26 half hundreds, his best score in test cricket is 294 runs.
ODI:  Cook has also outstanding record when it comes to ODI cricket. He scored 1458 runs in 41 matches with an average of 37.38. In his short ODI career he made two 100's and ten 50's, his best score in ODI cricket is 119 runs.
T20: Cook has played 4 T20 matches in international cricket in which his record is not that impressive. He scored 61 runs with an average of 15.25 and his highest score in T20 cricket is 26 runs.

FAN POWER:
Like other gladiators, Cook has also fans around the world who follow him for his batting style. His series against India and Australia played a vital role in making him popular amongst the cricket lovers of other countries.

HONEST PLAYER: 
Alastair Cook is one of the honest player in England cricket who focus on his cricket inside the field room. He is a type of player who feel proud on his country flag and always in search of making big score to win the match for his side.

QUOTES ON COOK:

• Alastair Cook has played some outstanding innings in the past, and I've got no [sic] confidence whatsoever that he'll come back and play very well in the near future.”Andrew Strauss
• Alastair Cook presence in the team motivate the other players to perform well for his country. YOC quote

ALASTAIR COOK QUOTES:

• “Never in my wildest dreams did I think I would be heading to Pakistan,”
•   “Sometimes opportunities come and you've got to try and take it.”

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Big Bash | Stars encounter begin with Heat defeat

Melbourne stars won a nail-biting match against Brisbane Heat by 8 runs, Quiney 97 runs played a vital role in the win for Stars. Almost 30,000 fans attended the match at the stadium.

The Big Bash show started with the battle of two strong teams leaded by C. White (Stars) and P. Forrest (Heat). Melbourne Stars start was not impressive and lost 2 wickets early, but it was David Hussey and Quiney who holded the match position and made 105 runs partnership for the 3rd wicket, Hussey got out on 45 runs. Quiney was expected to score the maiden hundred of the tournament as he was looking in full form but failed and was caught on 97 runs. The stars managed to score 177/7 in 20.0 overs, Quiney was the top scorer for Stars, Hauritz took 3/18 in 4.0 overs and was the top bowler for Heat.

After receiving 178 runs target in 20.0 overs, two aggressive batsmen "Hayden" and McCullum opened the inning with flying start for Heat. The first wicket fell on 39 runs in 3.1 overs, and the wickets start falling. Warne showed his presence with his magic delivery that bowled Brendon McCullum who was looking very danger, McCullum scored 36 runs. A partnership of 55 runs were seen for 8th wicket but it was not with the strike rate that was required. Brisbane managed to score 169 runs in 20.0 overs and lost the match by 8 runs. McKay was the top bowler for Melbourne Stars who picked 3 for 22 runs in 4 overs.

Melbourne started their encounter in Big Bash with win against Brisbane, the first two matches result was not good for Brisbane Heat as they lost their second match in the tournament. MJ Quiney for his brilliant batting was given man of the match award.

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Pakistani Players Barred From Playing Bangladesh Premier League

Bangladesh's Dhaka Premier League that is going to start soon which is a one-day tournament and a lot of Pakistani players were taking part in that But they have been refused permission to play in Bangladesh's Dhaka Premier League by the PCB in order to help concentrate their energies on next month's Test series against England in Dubai and Abu Dhabi. PCB in order to help concentrate their energies on next month's Test series against England in Dubai and Abu Dhabi.

PCB media manager Nadeem Sarwar Repoted, "All players who are in contention for selection for the England Test series are barred from playing the league starting in Bangladesh from December 26th". PCB gave a clear message to all the players who were to join the Bangladesh event that they are barred. The PCB does not want to take a risk on their fitness as Pakistan has to play a very important series next month. Board declined to name the players disallowed from playing in the Bangladesh domestic competition. Nine Pakistan players - Younis Khan, Shoaib Malik, Kamran Akmal, Mohammad Hafeez, Abdur Rehman, Imran Farhat, Wahab Riaz, Umar Akmal and Sohail Tanvir had reportedly been offered contracts by different clubs in the limited-overs league that begins on December 26 in Dhaka, Bangladesh

Pakistan Players are already in Bangladesh and returning home next week before leaving Dubai in January for Pakistan - England Series. The first of three tests against England starts on January 17 in Dubai and warm-up matches will start from 7th January ahead of test matches.

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Pakistan - England Series | Mushtaq Predicts A Tough Fight

The former Pakistan leg spinner Mushtaq Ahmed, Who is now working on a major department as a bowling Coach role with England, has predicted a battle of spin between Pakistan and England, when they meet next month.

He has played down the home advantage Pakistan will enjoy during the series against England in the UAE, saying his team has grown used to playing on pitches that are slower than the ones at home. England and Pakistan will play three Tests, four ODIs and three Twenty20 internationals in Abu Dhabi and Dubai in January and February 2012.

"England have been preparing hard for this series and I have tried to convince them that they must learn to depend on spin if they want to win in the Asian region," Mushtaq said. "I see this series as a big challenge for the English and Pakistan's spinners and there is going to be tough competition between Graeme Swann and Saeed Ajmal, who are the best off-spinners in the business today.

Spinners have played a significant role in Pakistan's performances in 2011 and they are likely to hit England with a strong attack. Saeed Ajmal, Abdur Rehman and Mohammad Hafeez in the Tests, as well as Shahid Afridi and Shoaib Malik in the limited-overs matches. England may play just one spinner, Graeme Swann, in the Tests, but Mushtaq didn't think the mis-match in slow-bowling resources was a problem. Mushtaq has played 52 Tests and 144 one-day internationals. Mushtaq said, He enjoyed working with the English cricket set-up as they had a very disciplined system.

"For me, coaching is a profession and my first job is to see in this series that the English spinners do well. Emotions become secondary when you are working as a professional," he said added.

Warm up matches between Pakistan and England will start from January 7th, ahead of the test.

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Umpire Harrison dies at age 77

Bridgetown, Barbados -- Former Barbadian first-class umpire Nigel Harrison has died after a brief illness at the age of 77.

Harrison stood in several matches in the 1980s in the Shell Shield and Red Stripe Cup championships, as well as regional one-day matches. He was also a former president and treasurer of the Barbados Cricket Umpires Association (BCUA). 

Harrison played cricket for one of Barbados’ most celebrated clubs, Spartan, in the Barbados Cricket Association (BCA). Harrison was also a former Managing Director of Corbin Compton, a leading local advertising company. Former international umpire and long-time close friend Lloyd Barker, described Harrison as a “good umpire” who was “approachable and very knowledgeable”.

“As umpires, we started our first-class careers the same year in 1981 and would travel to different locations. We were both on the Board of the BCUA during the time I was president and when I gave up that post for two years he took over before I returned,” Barker said.

“Nigel was always my personal friend and we discussed intimate details of cricket. He was approachable and very knowledgeable on matters surrounding the game. He seemed to have solutions for what appeared to be big problems.

“He was a good umpire. I don’t think he ever had a bad report. He knew the game and was always very involved in the training of new umpires,” Barker said.

Harrison leaves to mourn his wife Marjorie and sons David and Adrian. David was a hockey player for Spartan while Adrian played cricket for Wanderers.

The funeral will be held on Monday, December 19.

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Preview | Australia vs India test series

The countdown has already began to one of this year’s biggest test series as India will take on Australia on Australian home grounds.
The series is a much hyped one as Australia have fallen down from their pinnacle and India have been an ever improving side except for the England series which they lost very badly. Australia go into this series with a lot of new comers in the team who have much to prove and create a permanent place in the side, on the other hand Ricky Ponting who is an all time great is under immense pressure to keep his place in the side.

With Mitchell Jonshon out with an injury it will give a chance to a new comer to show his credentials. On the other hand India, having done so badly in the England series will have a lot to prove in this series. And this series will give Tendulkar another chance to score his 100th 100 that too at the Melbourne Cricket Ground.

India has been hit by injuries to key bowlers-Zaheer and Ishant,both of whom are doubtful starters for the 1st test. It all begins at the MCG from the 26th December(Boxing Day) and with thousands of spectators filling up the stadium it should be one great match to start off the tour.

By: Saumanka Datta

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Sehwag | The modern day Terminator

Breaking record is not an easy job whether you are playing against a top class team or a weak team. Sehwag is amongst those players who have ability to break any record in cricket, in its all formats.

Virender Sehwag, hailed as the Vivian Richards of the modern time, lived up to his reputation by scoring 219 runs of 149 balls against West indies. His inning included 25 boundaries and 7 sixes. the interesting fact is that no one was  surprised by his inning on getting a double ton in ODI's. All believed, he is the one to do such things (though Sachin Ramesh Tendulkar was the first to get it).

All the shots played by Shewag were risk free except the loft over covers which  get dropped by Sammy on 170. Both Sehwag and Gamhir started off well, as Gambhir got run-out due to Sehwag's error in judgement, sure Gambhir would not have complained later as shewag went to make a  double hundred.. Sehwag took only 69 balls to reach his hundred.and get to his  double-hundred in 140 balls with a fierce cut shot through point for a boundary.

 It was merciless bashing by Virender Shewag as he tore into the West indian attack into bits of pieces.. The Highlight of his innings were the cuts through backward point, reason with ease he did it by hand and eye co-ordination is. You can't teach a younger Shewag's any technique because he work only his timing and placing along with eye co-ordination. The Cricketing world hailed Virender Sehwag and have asked for the next big one but this time in test cricket in shape of daddy 400 record(which Brian Lara hold). 

It was Virender Sehwag fireworks which finished the highest ODI total for Indian cricket team. India have crossed the 400 digits in ODI cricket for 4 times, over all this was the 10th time that a team score more than 400 score in ODI cricket. Sehwag is a type of player who can change a match position at any stage, he is a fearless player. The aggressive batsman for India have also scored 300+ runs in test cricket against Pakistan at Multan.

According to former player of South Africa "Gary Kirsten", Sehwag is a type of player who know how to thrash a bowling line up with his batting skills. Sehwag is the most dangerous player not only in ODI and T20 cricket but also in test cricket. According to him, Sehwag has ability to break any record in international cricket whether it is test cricket or other two formats.

Players like Sehwag are founds in century, a player who is not only serving for his country but also trying to achieve records whether it is international cricket or domestic. Sehwag can bat in all format of cricket with same passion and that's why he is called the modern day Terminator of modern day cricket.

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Adelaide Strikers Outstrip Melbourne Renegades While Hobart Hurricanes Thrash Scorchers

Adelaide Strikers 5 for 189 (Harris 49, Klinger 46) beat Melbourne Renegades 122 (Maxwell 46, Richardson 3-27) by 67 runs.

In a match which everyone awaited to our resentment Melbourne Renegades Lost by 67 runs. Both Razzaq and Afridi were unsuccessful with the bat. The Adelaide Strikers scored a high 189 for 5 wickets. The outstanding opening pair of Klinger and Harris made 46 of 35 and 49 of 33 balls respectively. The Renegades were unsuccessful and made only 122 all out from 17.5 overs. The Man Of The Match was Klinger.

Hobart Hurricanes all out for 140 (Birt 40, Edmonson 4-40) beat Perth Scorchers all out 109 (Marsh 35, Hilfenhaus 2-10)

While on the other hand Hobart Hurricanes defeated Perth Scorchers by 31 runs. Hobart made 140 all out from 19.3 and got themselves all out. The one of the most successful batsman made 40 runs of 30 balls which was Birt. In reply the Scorchers made 109 of 19.5 overs all out with no one shining for them The Man Of The Match Was Hilfenhaus

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1st test | Once again philander show, de Villiers nervous-nineties

Sri Lanka's bad performance continues as South Africa crashed them in the 1st test match by an innings and 80 runs, at centurion. Philander for his 10 wickets haul the match gave him man of the match award.

The match was started at 15th December and ended within 3-days.The match was ended in 3 days only, because of Islanders bad performance. Sri Lanka, batted first and was bowled out at 180 runs in 47.4 overs. The highest scorer was Mathews, who scored only 38 runs, Samaraweera also scored 36 runs. No other batsman could play a prominent inning. Vernon Philander took his 3rd five-fer in his 3rd test match.

In reply to Sri Lanka's 180 runs, South Africa set a reasonable score on score board. South Africa was bowled out at 411 runs in 122 overs, and took a lead of 231. AB de Villiers was the prey of Nervous-nineties, as he got out after scoring 99 runs. Parera and Kapugedera took 3, 3 wickets.

In order to save a defeat with an innings margin, Sri Lanka had to score at least 231 runs. But Sri Lanka's batting line-up failed once again due to cracking bowling of Vernon Philander. Philander took his 4th 5-wicket haul, also took 10-wicket haul in match. The islanders got out on 150 in 2nd inning.Hence, South Africa won the match by an innings and 80 runs, along with this South Africa leaded the series by 1-0. Next match of the series will be played on boxing day.

By: Syed Kashan Ali Shah

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Daniel Vettori | The Gladiator of New Zealand Cricket Team in 2011

DANIEL VETTORI:
Daniel Vettori is the youngest debutant of New Zealand cricket team, represented New Zealand in 1996/97 for the first time. He is the eight player in test cricket to score 3,000 runs and took 300 wickets. He is a bowling all rounder and one of the most consistent batsman in New Zealand cricket. Daniel Vettori is called one of the best fighter in cricket world, he saved his country in many difficult occasion when it comes to bowling or batting, so as fielding.

REPRESENTED TEAMS:
Delhi Daredevils, ICC World XI, Northern Districts, Nottinghamshire, Queensland, Royal Challengers Bangalore, Warwickshire


USEFUL PLAYER:
Vettori is amongst those players who involved in all departments of cricket instead of keeping. He is not only a good bowler but also a good batsman. He can show his availability at any stage of the game whether it's bowling, fielding or batting department. To utilize the talent of Vettori, Royal Challenger Bangalore gave him the job of captaincy. Captain of any team who have players like Vettori playing for his side will receive good tips.

VETTORI IN 2011:
Although Vettori is known as for his bowling but the left arm bowler didn't disappoint his fans with bat. Few year back Vettori was known as a bowler but today his batting skills proved that he is ability to surprise the cricket lovers. In 2011, his batting against Australia was highly appreciated when the team was down and major players back to the dressing room. Vettori stood like a wall and scored 96 runs, unfortunately they lost the match.

OVERALL PERFORMANCE WITH BAT:
TEST: Vettori has played 107 test matches in which he scored 4351 with the average of 30.64. He scored 6 centuries and 23 fifties, his highest score in test cricket is 140 runs.
ODI: The former black caps captain has 17.39 average in ODI Cricket including 4 fifities. He played 272 matches and his best score in ODI cricket is 83 runs.
T20: Vettori played 28 matches in T20 format, his average is 13.35 runs with the total score of 187 runs. His best in T20 cricket is 38 runs.

OVERALL PERFORMANCE WITH BALL:
TEST: Vettori picked 355 wickets with 33.67 average, and his best figure in test cricket is 12/149 in a match.
ODI: Vettori picked 282 wickets in ODI cricket with an average of 31.48 and his best in ODI match is 5/7.

T20: Vettori best figure in T20 cricket is 4/20, picked 35 wickets with an average of 16.57.

FAN POWER: 
Like other gladiators, Vettori has also fans around the globe. The left handed all-rounder is not only followed by his playing ability but also his style became famous amongst the cricket fans. His glasses style has followed by fans in all over the world and spectators also come with his style glasses to a match for supporting.


HONEST PLAYER:
Vettori is one of the honest cricketer, Also his honesty has been appreciated by many cricket legends. He is a true lover of his country along with cricket. His name was never alleged with any controversy in cricket or any other field, which is a wide evidence of his honesty.

QUOTES ON VETTORI:

• Vettori is handsome and a great player. He gives a lovely intellectual feel to the sport. - Neha Dhupia
• 
  Vettori is not only followed by his playing abilities but also his style attract fans to follow him. YOC quote

VETTORI QUOTES: 

• “I think the x-ray came back all-clear but when you field first slip you don't want to have bruises.
• I really enjoyed it, actually 

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