Shamyl Hussain addresses critics after slow start to international career Pakistan’s young opener Shamyl Hussain has defended his approach to cricket amid criticism of his recent performances, stressing the importance of self-evaluation over external opinions. The 21-year-old spoke during a post-match press conference following the Pakistan Super League (PSL) season 11 clash between Karachi Kings and Quetta Gladiators. He acknowledged the scrutiny he has faced but emphasized his focus on personal growth rather than public feedback. Hussain, who made his international debut earlier this month in a three-match One Day International (ODI) series against Bangladesh, described the transition to professional cricket as challenging. He noted that while his domestic performances had not drawn criticism, recent results in international matches have led to increased scrutiny. “As a cricketer, we are always trying to improve. No one has a perfect technique, especially at the start, so you learn gradually,” he said. “When I performed well in domestic cricket, no one questioned my batting. Now, if it doesn’t work in a couple of innings, it is suddenly seen as bad.” The left-handed batsman highlighted the need for mental resilience and self-assessment in navigating the pressures of a professional career. “Public opinion keeps changing. My job is to assess myself and understand what is working. If I feel something won’t work in the future, I will change it. If something is going well, I will continue with it,” he explained. He also reiterated his commitment to maintaining focus on his own development rather than external criticism. “ As a professional, I cannot change my batting based on people’s opinions. I did not reach here because of them, and I will not be dropped because of them.#pakistan_super_league #one_day_international #quetta_gladiators #karachi_kings #shamyl_hussain

BAN vs PAK: Salman Agha and Mehedi Hasan Miraz's Controversial Run-Out Sparks Debate During the second One-Day International (ODI) against Bangladesh, a heated argument between Pakistan opener Salman Agha and bowler Mehedi Hasan Miraz erupted after a disputed run-out. The incident, which occurred in the 39th over, has since sparked discussions about cricketing ethics and on-field conduct. Agha claimed the run-out was not intentional, asserting that the ball had already touched his pad and bat before Miraz attempted to dismiss him. "I had no intention of running, and the ball was dead," Agha stated. "I was just trying to return the ball, not take a run. But Miraz decided to run him out anyway." The umpires ruled the dismissal valid, but Agha argued that the ball was no longer in play after it struck his equipment. "I followed the rules, but Miraz acted without considering the situation," he added. Despite his frustration, Agha emphasized that both players adhere to cricketing principles. "We’ve never done anything like this before, and we won’t in the future." The altercation escalated on the field, with Agha reportedly throwing his gloves and helmet after the incident. He admitted the exchange was fueled by anger but insisted it was a momentary lapse. "Those were just heated words. If you ask me what I did, I’d do it differently now," he said. The match ended with Pakistan securing a thrilling 128-run victory under the DLS method, leveling the three-match series at 1-1. Bangladesh had earlier defeated Pakistan in the first ODI. The final match of the series is set for March 15. The incident has reignited debates about on-field discipline and the interpretation of "dead ball" rules in cricket.#one_day_international #mehedi_hasan_miraz #salman_aghaz #cricketing_ethics #dls_method

Bangladesh Head Coach Phil Simmons Announces Litton Das to Bat at No. 5 in ODIs Against Pakistan Bangladesh head coach Phil Simmons has confirmed that Litton Das will open the batting order in the One Day International (ODI) series against Pakistan, starting on March 11. The decision comes after the team overhauled its middle order, with regulars Shakib Al Hasan and Mahmudullah no longer in the squad. Das, who has struggled to score consistently in ODIs since December 2023, is returning to the ODI side after a nine-month absence. Simmons highlighted Das’s ability to counter spin bowling as a key factor in the move. “First of all, it is very difficult to keep [wicket for] 50 overs and then come and open the batting,” Simmons said. “[Litton] is also one of our better players of spin bowling. The middle order has been one of our Achilles heels. So, him going down there with his experience and his skills, hopefully we can get what we need there.” Das’s inclusion at No. 5 marks a significant shift from his usual position in the top four. The wicketkeeper, who last batted at No. 5 during the 2019 ODI World Cup, has faced challenges in recent matches, failing to reach double figures in eight ODIs since December 2023. However, Simmons emphasized that Das’s adaptability and willingness to take on the role were not issues. “He has been comfortable batting anywhere,” Simmons said. “I think he’s a lot more relaxed with his game and he sees it as an opportunity to do what the team needs of him. We didn’t have to convince Litton for anything. All we asked was, ‘this is what the team needs,’ and he was happy to do it. He is happy to do anything for the team, when he is captain, he’s happy to do it for us now. So, we didn’t have to convince him for anything.#pakistan #phil_simmons #litton_das #bangladesh_cricket_team #one_day_international