Shahid Afridi Criticizes Selection Committee Over Captaincy Decisions and ODI Series Loss Former Pakistan cricket captain Shahid Afridi has strongly criticized the country’s selection committee, accusing them of failing to make informed decisions about team captaincy and contributing to Pakistan’s 2–1 series defeat by Bangladesh. Afridi, who played a pivotal role in Pakistan’s cricket history, took aim at the committee’s approach to player selection, arguing that their choices have led to inconsistent performances on the global stage. Afridi pointed out that despite Pakistan’s strong showing in the 2026 T20 World Cup, the team’s subsequent loss to Bangladesh highlighted a lack of strategic clarity. “You still don’t seem to have the idea of who should be the captain for which format,” he said, emphasizing that the committee’s decisions have failed to align with the needs of different formats of the game. He criticized the repeated reliance on “surgery” as a justification for selecting young players with limited experience, arguing that this approach has undermined the team’s stability. The former skipper also highlighted the absence of opportunities for senior players who have demonstrated their capability in One Day Internationals (ODIs), despite their lack of standout T20 performances. “The senior players who actually deserved their place—despite not having strong T20 records—had solid ODI records,” Afridi said. He accused the committee of sidelining these experienced players in favor of younger talents who have not yet proven themselves at the highest level. Afridi further criticized the standard of domestic cricket in Pakistan, claiming it is not sufficient to consistently produce players ready for international competition.#pakistan #selection_committee #bangladesh #shahid_afridi #odi_series
Salman Agha's bizarre run-out during Pakistan vs Bangladesh ODI series sparks viral reaction Salman Agha's unusual dismissal during the second match of the three-game ODI series between Pakistan and Bangladesh has become a talking point on social media. The incident, which occurred on March 13, saw the Pakistan batsman run out in a comically awkward manner, prompting both fans and authorities to share humorous takes. The Rawalpindi police even joined the fun by posting a lighthearted message about the event, emphasizing the importance of safety and awareness. The run-out happened during Pakistan's innings in the second match. As Mohammad Rizwan bowled to Mehedi Hasan Miraz, the ball appeared to be dead, leading Salman Agha to step out of his crease to retrieve it. However, the ball did not reach him, and Miraz swiftly removed the stumps, resulting in Agha's dismissal. The moment was captured on video and quickly went viral, with Agha himself appearing visibly frustrated in the footage. The incident added to the excitement of a closely contested series that is currently tied at 1-1. Bangladesh had won the first match by eight wickets, while Pakistan secured a dramatic victory in the second game under the Duckworth-Lewis-Stern method after rain interrupted play. The police's response to the run-out highlighted a broader message about personal responsibility and vigilance, both on and off the field. The viral post from Rawalpindi police included a photo of Agha's dismissal, accompanied by a caption urging individuals to prioritize safety and make informed decisions. The message, translated into English, read: "Whether on the road or on the playing field, safety begins with personal responsibility. Trust yourself, stay alert, and make wise decisions to keep yourself and others safe.#mohammad_rizwan #mehedi_hasan_miraz #odi_series #salman_aga #rawalpindi_police
Nohid Rana becomes second Bangladeshi bowler to take 5-wicket haul in ODI against Pakistan Bangladeshi fast bowler Nohid Rana made history by claiming five wickets in a One Day International (ODI) against Pakistan, becoming the second Bangladeshi to achieve this feat in a match against the arch-rivals. The 24-year-old took 5/24 in the first ODI of the bilateral series, dismissing key Pakistan batters including Mohammad Rizwan and Sahibzada Farhan. His performance marked a significant milestone in his ODI career, which has seen him accumulate 10 wickets in six matches so far. Rana’s five-wicket haul came in a crucial phase of the innings, as Pakistan’s batting lineup struggled to cope with his pace and accuracy. The hosts managed only 114 runs in their allotted 50 overs, with Fazalhaq Farooqi scoring the highest of 37. Despite the low total, Pakistan’s top order managed to stay intact for most of the innings, with Farhan scoring 27 off 38 balls. Bangladesh’s pace attack, led by Rana, restricted Pakistan’s scoring opportunities effectively. This achievement places Rana in an exclusive club of Bangladeshi bowlers who have taken five or more wickets against Pakistan in ODIs. The previous record holder was Mustafizur Rahman, who achieved the feat in 2016. Rana’s performance also highlights his growing reputation as a key player for Bangladesh, with his career figures including 27 Test wickets at an average of 41.66 and 2 wickets in T20 internationals. The match result underscored Rana’s impact on the game, as Bangladesh’s bowlers restricted Pakistan to a low total. Rana’s ability to maintain pressure and deliver crucial breakthroughs has positioned him as a vital asset for the national team.#pakistan #bangladesh #mustafizur_rahman #nohid_rana #odi_series
