The list of Pakistan fast bowlers continues to grow—Shaheen Shaha Afridi, Naseem Shah, and Haris Rauf have been ripping apart batting line ups all year.
Join us as we explore the mesmerizing realm of Pakistani fast bowlers – where passion meets skill and legends are born. Who are the greatest? The unluckiest? Who took the most wickets?
By the Numbers: Which Pakistani Fast Bowlers Have Taken the Most Wickets Across Formats?
The land of Pakistan is a factory that unearths gem of fast bowlers year in and year out.
Wasim Akram (916), Waqar Younis (789), Imran Khan (544), Shoaib Akhtar (438), and Umar Gul (427) are the Top 5 wicket-takers in Pakistan cricket history across formats.
Here is the complete list of the most wickets by Pakistani fast bowlers or medium pacers – all formats combined (Test/ODI, T20Is).
Most Wickets by Pakistan Fast Bowlers
Player
Wickets
Wasim Akram
916
Waqar Younis
789
Imran Khan
544
Shoaib Akhtar
438
Umar Gul
427
Abdul Razzaq
388
Mohammad Amir
259
Shaheen Shah Afridi
253
Sarfraz Nawaz
240
Wahab Riaz
237
Aaqib Javed
236
Hasan Ali
229
Mohammad Sami
227
Junaid Khan
189
Mudassar Nazar
177
Azhar Mahmood
162
Mohammad Asif
160
Fazal Mahmood
139
Haris Rauf
137
Naved-ul-Hasan
133
Sohail Tanvir
130
Mohammad Irfan
109
Sikander Bakht
100
Naseem Shah
98
Mohammad Abbas
91
Faheem Ashraf
86
Shabbir Ahmed
84
Azeem Hafeez
78
Rao Iftikhar Anjum
78
Rahat Ali
76
Saleem Jaffar
76
Asif Iqbal
69
Mahmood Hussain
68
Tahir Naqqash
68
Mohamad Wasim Jr.
61
Ata-ur-Rehman
58
Shahid Nazir
55
Khan Mohammad
54
AizazCheema
51
Saleem Altaf
51
Sohail Khan
51
Usman Shinwari
48
Others: Asif Masood (43), Manzoor Elahi (36), Mohammad Akram (36), Anwar Ali (28), Yasir Arafat (29), Imran Khan (29), Rashid Khan (28), Jalal-ud-Din (25), Mohammad Zahid (25), Rumman Raees (22), Kabir Khan (21), Mohammad Farooq (21), Bilawal Bhatti (17)
Top 35 List of Greatest Pakistan Fast Bowlers (Ranked)
Some aspects we considered while ranking these bowlers were (1) longevity, (2) Test match impact, (3) World Cup heroics, (4) other international match-winning performances, and (5) pace/talent/swing.
The New Generation: Up and Coming Pakistani Fast Bowlers
First up, we begin with the youth of Pakistan. These youngsters will inevitably rise up the list in the future, but for now, we are putting them here.
*Note: Youngsters like Shaheen Shah Afridi & Naseem Shah are further down below since they have already taken more than 100 international wickets in their short careers.
1975 ODI WC: Asif Iqbal,Sarfraz Nawaz, Imran Khan, Naseer Malik, Asif Masood, Pervez Mir
1979 ODI WC: Asif Iqbal, Sikander Bakht, Imran Khan, Mudassar Nazar, Hasan Jamil
1983 ODI WC: Imran Khan, Mudassar Nazar, Rashid Khan, Sarfraz Nawaz, Shahid Mahboob, Tahir Naqqash
1987 ODI WC: Imran Khan, Manzoor Elahi, Saleem Jaffar, Wasim Akram
1992 ODI WC: Imran Khan, Aaqib Javed, Wasim Akram, Wasim Haider
1996 ODI WC: Wasim Akram, Aaqib Javed, Ata-ur-Rehman, Waqar Younis
1999 ODI WC: Wasim Akram, Waqar Younis, Azhar Mahmood, Abdul Razzaq, Shoaib Akhtar
2003 ODI WC: Waqar Younis, Abdul Razzaq, Azhar Mahmood, Mohammad Sami, Shoaib Akhtar, Wasim Akram
2007 ODI WC: Azhar Mahmood, Mohammad Sami, Naved-ul-Hasan Rana, Rao Iftikhar Anjum, Umar Gul, Yasir Arafat
2011 ODI WC: Abdul Razzaq, Shoaib Akhtar, Umar Gul, Wahab Riaz, Junaid Khan (replaced Sohail Tanvir)
2015 ODI WC: Wahab Riaz, Sohail Khan, Rahat Ali (Junaid Khan Withdrawn), Mohammad Irfan, Ehsan Adil
2019 ODI WC: Hasan Ali, Mohammad Amir, Mohammad Hasnain, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Wahab Riaz
T20 World Cup
2007 T20 WC: Iftikhar Anjum Rao, Mohammad Asif, Sohail Tanvir, Umar Gul, Yasir Arafat
2009 T20 WC: Rao Iftikhar Anjum (replaces Shoaib Akhtar), Mohammad Amir, Shoail Tanvir, Umar Gul, Yasir Arafat (replaces Abdul Razzaq)
2010 T20 WC: Abdul Razzaq, Mohammad Amir, Mohammad Asif, Mohammad Sami, Hammad Azam
2012 T20 WC: Yasir Arafat, Umar Gul, Abdul Razzaq, Mohammad Sami, Sohail Tanvir
2014 T20 WC: Bilawal Bhatti, Junaid Khan, Mohammad Talha, Sohail Tanvir, Umar Gul
2016 T20 WC: Anwar Ali, Mohammad Amir, Mohammad Irfan, Wahab Riaz, Mohammad Sami
2021 T20 WC: Shaheen Shah Afridi, Hasan Ali, Haris Rauf, Mohammad Wasim Jr., Shahnawaz Dahani (Reserve)
2022 T20 WC: Shaheen Shah Afridi, Mohammad Hasnain, Haris Rauf, Naseem Shah, Mohammad Wasim Jr., Shahnawaz Dahani (Reserve)
Final Thoughts
We have all heard the phrase, “Pace is pace.”
Pure pace can wreak havoc for the opposition teams while providing moments of beauty for the audience.
Pakistan cricket has been a blessing to the cricketing world due to the fast bowlers talent they produce. It was Sarfraz Nawaz & Imran Khan early on, Fazal Mohammad & Khan Mohammad even earlier. The trio of Wasim Akram-Waqar Younis-Shoaib Akhtar took the legend of Pakistani fast bowling to new heights.
Each generation since, Pakistan continues to find raw talent like Shaheen Shah Afridi, Haris Rauf, and Naseem Shah today, and I hope they continue to produce such gems for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) – Greatest Pakistan Fast Bowlers
Why do Pakistan produce so many fast bowlers?
Pakistan produces so many fast bowlers due to their cricketing culture. In the early days of Pakistan Test cricket, the likes of Fazal Mahmood, Mahmood Hussain, and Khan Mohammad set the tone. This was taken to another level by the duo of Imran Khan & Sarfraz Nawaz and then solidified in their cricketing DNA by Waqar Younis and Wasim Akram.
Who are some of the most famous fast bowlers from Pakistan?
Sarfraz Nawaz, Imran Khan, Wasim Akram, Waqar Younis, Shoaib Akhtar, Mohammad Asif, Umar Gul, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Mohammad Amir, and Wahab Riaz are some of the most famous fast bowlers from Pakistan.
Which bowlers have taken the most wickets in Pakistan cricket history?
Wasim Akram (916), Waqar Younis (789), Imran Khan (544), Shoaib Akhtar (438), and Umar Gul (427) have taken the most wickets in Pakistan cricket history across formats.
Who has taken the greatest number of wickets in the Cricket World Cup (ODI)? Here’s a quick preview: Glenn McGrath has taken the most ODI World Cup wickets (71). Both McGrath & Mitchell Starc have dominated World Cup bowling from every measure.
The World Cup is closer than it appears. Less than 30 days to go for the 2023 Cricket World Cup now, can you believe it?
So, let’s dive right in and find out all about the greatest World Cup wicket-takers.
ODI Cricket World Cup Wicket Takers – By the Numbers
The top 5 wicket takers in the ODI Cricket World Cup (CWC) are Glenn McGrath (71), Muttiah Muralitharan (68), Lasith Malinga (56), Wasim Akram (55), and Mitchell Starc (49).
From the Top 20 wicket-takers in the ODI CWC, nations most represented are as follows: Australia (5), New Zealand (4), Sri Lanka, Pakistan (3), South Africa, India (2), and Bangladesh (1). Surprisingly, the West Indies do not make the Top 30 in this list.
Mitchell Starc has the best average (14.81), bowling strike rate (19.12), and most occurrences of 4 wickets or more (6: 3 – 4-fers, 3 – 5-fers). On the other end of the spectrum, Shakib Al Hasan has the worst average (35.94) and strike rates (42.14).
The best figures from this group of 20 are Glenn McGrath (7/15), Tim Southee (7/33), Chaminda Vaas (6/25), Mitchell Starc (6/28), and Lasith Malinga (6/38). Note that Shane Bond also has World Cup figures of 6/23, but his overall wicket tally of 30 ranks him at #26 in this list.
Mitchell Starc (49), Trent Boult (39), Tim Southee (34), and Shakib Al Hasan (34) are the only active players still in this list who are expected to play in the 2023 ODI World Cup.
The ODI Cricket World Cup: Who Has Taken the Most Number of Wickets?
Honorable Mentions: Shane Warne – 32, Chris Harris – 32, Mohammad Shami – 31, Anil Kumble – 31, Shaun Pollock – 31, Shane Bond – 30, Ian Botham – 30, Shoaib Akhtar – 30, and Shahid Afridi – 30.
Final Thoughts
Although these players have taken the greatest number of wickets in the Cricket World Cup, but more than the numbers, they have given us plenty of memories to remember them by.
Think Wahab Riaz vs Watson, Chaminda Vaas’s hat-trick, Boult vs Starc at Eden Park, Wasim Akram in the final, that Shane Bond spell, Imran Tahir’s celebrations, and much more.
I will leave you with this question for the 2023 ODI World Cup is, “Can Mitchell Starc break the World Cup record for the most wickets?”Comment below!
The top 5 wicket takers in the ODI Cricket World Cup (CWC) are Glenn McGrath (71), Muttiah Muralitharan (68), Lasith Malinga (56), Wasim Akram (55), and Mitchell Starc (49).
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) – Most Number of Wickets in the Cricket World Cup
Who has taken the most wickets in World Cup?
Glenn McGrath (71), Muttiah Muralitharan (68), Lasith Malinga (56), Wasim Akram (55), and Mitchell Starc (49) have taken the most number of wickets in the Cricket World Cup.
How many World Cup wickets does Mitchell Starc have?
Mitchell Starc has taken 49 ODI World Cup wickets from just 18 matches. He boasts an absurd bowling average of 14.18 & strike rate of 19.12. He has taken 4-wickets thrice and 5-wickets thrice as well.
Can Mitchell Starc break the World Cup record for the most wickets?
Yes he can. If he is fit and plays in all the games on India’s pitches, then he can take 23 wickets to break Glenn McGrath’s record of 71 wickets. In case Australia reaches the final, he may have as many as 11 matches to break the World record (otherwise, he can play a maximum of 9 matches in the group stage).
Pakistan Cricket Schedule 2023 Cricket World Cup—The Complete Guide.
Pakistan has been a team on the rise. They are the #1 ODI ranked team, have gotten a stable unit & mix of experience and youth. With Babar Azam scoring centuries for fun, they seem to have got it all!
But first, can they get out of the group stage? Let’s discuss Pakistan’s World Cup schedule and their chances.
Key Takeaways
Pakistan begin their opening match against Netherlands on October 6, 2023 and play their last group stage match against England on November 11, 2023.
The high stakes Pakistan vs India match is scheduled on October 14, 2023 at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.
All of Pakistan’s matches are Day-Night affairs, scheduled to begin at 2 PM local time.
Pakistan Cricket Schedule 2023 Cricket World Cup: List of Pakistan’s World Cup Fixtures
1. Pakistan vs. Netherlands – Oct 6, 2023
Pak vs Neth 2023 ODI World Cup Details
Venue: Hyderabad
Stadium: Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium, Uppal
Time: 2:00 PM Local (8:30 AM GMT)
Pak vs Neth 2023 Preview
Pakistan’s World Cup journey begins against the Netherlands, a team known that is a disciplined unit. Pakistan will need to start strong to set the tone for the tournament but should win this.
2. Pakistan vs. Sri Lanka – Oct 10, 2023
Pak vs SL 2023 ODI World Cup Details
Venue: Hyderabad
Stadium: Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium, Uppal
Time: 2:00 PM Local (8:30 AM GMT)
Pak vs SL 2023 Preview
The second match for Pakistan is versus Sri Lanka, recently renowned for their unpredictable gameplay. Pakistan has the edge, but Sri Lanka can surprise anyone on their day.
3. Pakistan vs. India – Oct 14, 2023
Pak vs Ind 2023 ODI World Cup Details
Venue: Ahmedabad
Stadium: Narendra Modi Stadium
Time: 2:00 PM Local (8:30 AM GMT)
Pak vs Ind 2023 Preview
The third fixture sees Pakistan pitted against arch-rivals India. The stakes will be high in this match, given the historical rivalry between the two nations.
Pakistan then faces Australia, a team that is always the toughest World Cup competitor. At Bengaluru, expect a high scoring run fest. Maybe a Fakhar Zaman double?
Pakistan’s fifth match is against Afghanistan. One of the underrated rivalries. In Chennai, Afghanistan’s spin quadruplets of Rashid-Mujeeb-Noor-Nabi could turn over Pakistan.
Bangladesh may have the support in Kolkata. Shakib is a favorite son of the city, having been with KKR for a number of years. Expect this to be a close fight.
After a long time, New Zealand look like the weaker side, while Pakistan has some ounce of stability. Will give the edge to Pakistan on this one.
9. Pakistan vs. England – Nov 11, 2023
Pak vs Eng 2023 ODI World Cup Details
Venue: Kolkata
Stadium: Eden Gardens
Time: 2:00 PM Local (8:30 AM GMT)
Pak vs Eng 2023 Preview
Pakistan’s final group-stage match is against England, a formidable team known for their all-round performance. Pakistan will need to stay focused to conclude the group stage on a positive note. Adil Rashid vs Babar Azam could decide the match.
Pakistan are now the #1 ICC side. Babar Azam & Shaheen Shah Afridi are on the Top of their games.
And these conditions will suit Pakistan.
One of the favorites to win the whole tournament. What do you say?
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) – Pakistan Cricket Schedule 2023 Cricket World Cup
Who are the key players for Pakistan in the ODI World Cup 2023?
Pakistan’s performance in the ODI World Cup 2023 will largely depend on the performance of their key players, such as Babar Azam, Shadab Khan, and Shaheen Shah Afridi. Their contribution in terms of batting and bowling respectively could be game-changers for Pakistan.
What are the challenges for Pakistan in the group stages of the ODI World Cup 2023?
Pakistan faces several robust teams in the group stages, including arch-rivals India, unpredictable Sri Lanka, and the formidable England. Each of these matches will require strategic gameplay and consistent performance.
What needs to be Pakistan’s strategy for the ODI World Cup 2023?
Pakistan should focus on maintaining their form and playing to their strengths. Top order batting, fit fast bowlers, and disciplined spinners will help Pakistan cross the line.
Let’s breakdown Pakistan World Cup 2023 squad, which is basically Pakistan’s 18-member preliminary World Cup 2023 squad.
Here is a quick preview: Pakistan is banking on youth to help them go all the way in this upcoming World Cup.
Let’s dive right in.
Key Takeaways from Pakistan’s World Cup 2023 ODI Squad Announcement
The average age of Pakistan World Cup 2023 squad is 26.9. Pakistan is going with a young squad, especially in the pace department. They have youngsters like Naseem Shah (20), Mohammad Wasim (21), Mohammad Haris (22), and Shaheen Shah Afridi (23). Fakhar Zaman is the oldest member of squad at just 33.
The 18-member Pakistan’s preliminary World Cup squad has average ODI match experience of only 41 ODIs (607 ODIs among 15 players). Babar Azam (108), Fakhar Zaman (78) & Imam-ul-Haq (66) are their most experienced players.
Pakistan’s squad composition is as follows: 6 proper batters (1 part time), 4 all-rounders, and 5 proper bowling options. In total, Pakistan has 10 bowling options (2 off spin, 1 left arm pace, 2 left arm spin, 2 leg spin, and 3 right arm pace) in their squad if absolutely needed.
Pakistan has 4 left-handed batting options (Imam, Fakhar, Saud Shakeel, Nawaz) and one wicketkeeping option.
Pakistan’s fast bowling unit has always been good, but this time they also have a stable top order, an in-form keeper, variety of spin options, and a Babar Azam.
Oh yes, and in Shadab Khan, they have one of the best fielders going around.
Take Pakistan lightly at your own peril.
What do you all think? How far can Pakistan go in the upcoming Asia Cup and the 2023 ODI World Cup?
Related ODI World Cup Articles
If you liked this article, be sure to check some of the other World Cup content:
What is the average age of Pakistan’s 2023 Cricket World Cup squad?
The average age of Pakistan Asia Cup 2023 squad is 26.9. Pakistan is going with a young squad. They have youngsters like Naseem Shah (20), Mohammad Wasim (21), Mohammad Haris (22), and Shaheen Shah Afridi (23). Fakhar Zaman is the oldest member of squad at just 33.
Who is selected for Pakistan’s 2023 Cricket World Cup squad?
Imam-ul-Haq, Mohammad Rizwan (WK), Fakhar Zaman, Babar Azam (C), Iftikhar Ahmed, Faheem Ashraf, Shadab Khan, Mohammad Nawaz, Naseem Shah, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Haris Rauf, Mohammad Wasim, Mohammad Haris, Tayyab Tahir, Saud Shakeel, Agha Salman, Abdullah Shafique, and Agha Salman are selected for Pakistan’s 2023 Cricket World Cup squad.
Who is selected for Pakistan Asia Cup 2023 squad?
Imam-ul-Haq, Mohammad Rizwan (WK), Fakhar Zaman, Babar Azam (C), Iftikhar Ahmed, Faheem Ashraf, Shadab Khan, Mohammad Nawaz, Naseem Shah, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Haris Rauf, Mohammad Wasim, Mohammad Haris, Tayyab Tahir, Saud Shakeel, Agha Salman, Abdullah Shafique, and Agha Salman are selected.
Can Pakistan win the 2023 ODI World Cup?
Yes, Pakistan have it in them to win the 2023 ODI World Cup. They have a strong core that has been playing since the 2017 Champions Trophy as well as some new faces. Their pace bowling is as good as it gets, and this time they have the batting to back it up.
India and Pakistan have gone head-to-head 7 times in the ODI Cricket World Cup (Men’s). India has won all 7 out of 7 (1992, 1996, 1999, 2003, 2011, 2015, 2019).
Sachin Tendulkar (313), Virat Kohli (193), Saeed Anwar (185), Rohit Sharma (155), and Misbah-ul-Haq (132) are the highest scores in Ind-Pak ODI WC matches. On the other hand, Venkatesh Prasad (8), Javagal Srinath (7), Wahab Riaz (7), Anil Kumble (5), and Mushtaq Ahmed (5) have taken the most wickets in these contests.
The highest score in Indo-Pak matches is Rohit Sharma’s 140, followed by Virat Kohli’s 107, Saeed Anwar’s 101, and Sachin Tendulkar’s 98. On the bowling side, Venkatesh Prasad’s 5/27, Wahab Riaz’a 5/46, Sohail Khan’s 5/55, and Mohammad Shami’s 4/35 are the best figures.
In each of the seven occasions, the team that won the toss chose to bowl first and six times, it was won by the team batting first. Only in 2003, did a team win chasing.
Sachin Tendulkar has won the player of the match award in India-Pakistan World Cup matches thrice, while Navjot Sidhu, Venkatesh Prasad, Virat Kohli, and Rohit Sharma and have each won the award once.
Ground: Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG), Sydney, Australia
Toss:, India won the toss and chose to bowl first
The Story & Memorable Moments
This match will forever be remembered for Javed Miandad’s jumping imitation of Kiran More. Other than that, it was a slow-moving affair. Young Tendulkar’s match-winning fifty and Kapil Dev’s finishing prowess did the job for India despite Mushtaq Ahmed’s double wicket over. Pakistan responded with a slow but steady 88-run partnership between Miandad & Sohail but would collapse from 105/2 to 173 all out.
This game provided us with one of the most iconic India-Pakistan memories: Venkatesh Prasad vs Aamer Sohail.Chasing 289 in the World Cup quarterfinals on the back of Sidhu’s brilliance and steady contribution from the rest of India’s Top 6, the match hung in balance after Pakistan had 84 runs on the board after just 10 overs. After Saeed Anwar departed, Sohail was still looking aggressive.
Sohail vs Prasad ball 1 – hit through the covers and Sohail pointed to Prasad where the ball went. The next ball, CLEAN BOWLED! This is what India-Pakistan games are for. Memories we will cherish forever.
Yet another Venkatesh Prasad special. Dravid, Azharuddin, and Tendulkar each played decent knocks, and Srinath-Prasad’s eight wickets together sealed the victory in a low-scoring contest.
Toss: Pakistan won the toss and chose to field first
The Story & Memorable Moments
If I had to pick one shot from an India-Pakistan World Cup match, it is Sachin Tendulkar’s epic upper cut against Shoaib Akhtar for a six! This time, Pakistan put int one heck of a battle. Saeed Anwar led the charge with a century, but India chased 275 with 4 overs to spare thanks to Tendulkar’s tremendous knock. Yuvraj Singh & Rahul Dravid did the rest and took India home with a steady 99-run partnership.
Virat Kohli’s love affair with Adelaide & Australia continued. Kohli’s century as well as India’s crunch ICC players – Dhawan & Raina came to the party with quick 70s. Sohail Khan starred with the ball for Pakistan with 5 wickets, but no one apart from Misbah stood up with the bat as India won by a mammoth 76 runs. It was also the beginning of the brief but brilliant bowling partnership between Umesh-Mohit Sharma, and Mohammad Shami.
Toss: Pakistan won the toss and chose to field first
The Story & Memorable Moments
We can safely say that this was one of the more one-sided India-Pakistan matches. When Kuldeep Yadav bowled one of the balls of the tournament to dismiss Babar Azam for 48, it was all but over in the 24th over.Earlier, India had bludgeoned 336 runs with the help of Rohit Sharma’s magnificent 140, Kohli’s 77, and KL Rahul’s 57. Although Amir took 3 wickets, it just wasn’t the same as the 2016 T20 Asia Cup and 2017 Champions Trophy battle. Oh yeah, and all the rain delays took away from the drama as well.
Who has Scored the Most Runs in India Pakistan ODI World Cup Matches? Top 10 Run Scorers in Ind-Pak CWC Matches
Player
Country
Matches
Runs
Best
100s/50s
Average/Strike Rate
Sachin Tendulkar
India
5
313
98
0/3
78.25/83.24
Virat Kohli
India
3
193
107
1/1
64.33/91.03
Saeed Anwar
Pakistan
3
185
101
1/0
61.66/91.58
Rohit Sharma
India
2
155
140
1/0
77.50/116.54
Misbah-ul-Haq
Pakistan
2
132
76
0/2
66.00/82.50
Mohammad Azharuddin
India
2
118
59
0/1
39.33/80.27
Aamer Sohail
Pakistan
2
117
62
0/2
58.50/82.97
Suresh Raina
India
2
110
74
0/1
110.00/115.78
Rahul Dravid
India
2
105
61
0/1
105.00/63.63
Ajay Jadeja
India
3
97
46
0/0
32.33/83.62
Who has Taken the Most Wickets in India Pakistan ODI World Cup Matches? Top 10 Wicket-Takers in Ind-Pak CWC Matches
Player
Country
Matches
Wickets
Best
4-fer/5-fer
Average/Economy
Venkatesh Prasad
India
2
8
5/27
0/1
9.00/3.69
Javagal Srinath
India
4
7
3/37
0/0
25.14/5.00
Wahab Riaz
Pakistan
3
7
5/46
0/1
23.71/5.53
Anil Kumble
India
3
5
3/48
0/0
28.40/4.73
Mushtaq Ahmed
Pakistan
2
5
3/59
0/0
23.00/5.75
Sohail Khan
Pakistan
1
5
5/55
0/1
11.00/5.50
Zaheer Khan
India
2
4
2/46
0/0
26.00/5.24
Mohammad Shami
India
1
4
4/35
1/0
8.75/3.88
Ashish Nehra
India
2
4
2/33
0/0
26.75/5.35
Waqar Younis
Pakistan
2
4
2/67
0/0
34.50/7.39
Ind vs Pak 2023 World Cup Match
When is Ind vs Pak 2023 World Cup Match?
India vs Pakistan will be held on Saturday, 14 October, 2023 at 2 PM local time. Mark your calendars.
Where will be the 2023 World Cup Ind vs Pak match be held?
The Ind-Pak 2023 WC match will be held in Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, India.
Final Thoughts
Let’s be honest. India-Pakistan WC matches have rarely been competitive. There have been moments of enertainment – think Venkatesh Prasad-Sohail, Tendulkar vs Shoaib, Kohli & Rohit’s hundreds, and Wahab Riaz’s 5-fer.
The new generation of Pakistan cricket promises to make this a more even contest – Babar Azam, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Rizwan, Shadab, Rauf, and more. For India, this may be the final chance for the likes of Rohit Sharma & Virat Kohli.
Whatever happens, whatever the result, I hope the game is played in great spirit, the crowd has a good & safe time, and we get to see a competitive, edge-of-the-seat contest.
That’s all from me. What do you think? Type your prediction below – who do you think will win this upcoming 2023 ODI World Cup match, Pakistan or India?
Pakistan vs India World Cup – Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
When is India vs Pakistan in the 2023 Cricket World Cup?
India vs Pakistan will be held on Saturday, 14 October, 2023 at 2 PM local time
Who has scored the most runs in India-Pakistan World Cup matches?
Sachin Tendulkar (313), Virat Kohli (193), Rohit Sharma (185), Rohit Sharma (155), and Misbah-ul-Haq (132) are the highest scores in Ind-Pak ODI WC matches. On the other hand, Venkatesh Prasad (8), Javagal Srinath (7), Wahab Riaz (7), Anil Kumble (5), and Mushtaq Ahmed (5) have taken the most wickets in these contests.
Who has taken the most wickets in India-Pakistan World Cup matches?
The ODI World Cup 2023 schedule have finally been announced!
The ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023 is just around the corner and cricket fans all over the world are eagerly awaiting this grand event.
Scheduled to take place in India between 5 October and 19 November 2023, this will be the 13th edition of the tournament. With teams from all over the world competing for the coveted title, it promises to be an exciting tournament full of thrilling matches and nail-biting finishes. So, get ready for some serious cricket action as we bring you a complete guide to the 2023 ODI Cricket World Cup Schedule!
England and New Zealand play the first match of the 2023 ODI World Cup, marking the repeat of the iconic 2019 World Cup Final.
Some of the marquee matches are as follows: October 8 (India vs Australia), October 13 (Australia vs South Africa), October 15 (India vs Pakistan), October 22 (India vs New Zealand), October 23 (Afghanistan vs Pakistan), October 29 (India vs England), October 31 (Pakistan vs Bangladesh), and November 4 (Australia vs England)
India, Pakistan, and South Africa will play all 9 of their matches as Day-Night (D/N) matches. Bangladesh will play the least with 6 D/N matches.
India & England will play in 9 separate venues, while Pakistan will only play in five different venues.
If India make the semi-finals, they will play in Mumbai. However, if it is an India vs Pakistan match, then it will be held in Kolkata.
The World Cup will run from October 5, 2023-November 19, 2023.
Fixtures & Schedule: ICC 2023 ODI Cricket World Cup
*Note: Qualifier 1 & Qualifier 2 denotes the two teams that will qualify from the 2023 ODI World Cup Qualifier held in Zimbabwe. The six candidates at the moment are: Zimbabwe, Sri Lanka, Scotland, Netherlands, West Indies, and Oman.
India Fixtures Overview
Number of Day Night Matches: 9/9
Most Frequent Venue: None (each stadium used one for hosts India)
Shortest Gap Between Matches: 2 Days (between matches 1 & 2)
Longest Gap Between Matches: 6 Days (between matches 5 & 6)
ODI World Cup 2023 Schedule – India Team (Hosts)
vs Australia: October 8, 2023, Chennai (D/N)
vs Afghanistan: October 11, 2023, Delhi (D/N)
vs Pakistan: October 15, 2023, Ahmedabad (D/N)
vs Bangladesh: October 19, 2023, Pune (D/N)
vs New Zealand: October 22, 2023, Dharamsala (D/N)
vs England: October 29, 2023, Lucknow (D/N)
vs Qualifier 2: November 2, 2023, Mumbai (D/N)
vs South Africa: November 5, 2023, Kolkata (D/N)
vs Qualifier 1: November 11, 2023, Bengaluru (D/N)
Most Frequent Venue: Hyderabad, Chennai (twice each, back-to-back), Kolkata, Bengaluru (twice)
Shortest Gap Between Matches: 2 Days (between matches 4 & 5)
Longest Gap Between Matches: 7 Days (between matches 8 & 9)
ODI World Cup 2023 – Pakistan Team Schedule
vs Qualifier 1: October 6, 2023, Hyderabad (D/N)
vs Qualifier 2: October 12, 2023, Hyderabad (D/N)
vs India: October 15, 2023, Ahmedabad (D/N)
vs Australia: October 20, 2023, Bengaluru (D/N)
vs Afghanistan: October 23, 2023, Chennai (D/N)
vs South Africa: October 27, 2023, Chennai (D/N)
vs Bangladesh: October 31, 2023, Kolkata (D/N)
vs New Zealand: November 4, 2023, Bengaluru
vs England: November 12, 2023, Kolkata (D/N)
South Africa Fixtures Overview
Number of Day Night Matches: 9/9
Most Frequent Venue: Mumbai (twice, back-to-back)
Shortest Gap Between Matches: 2 Days (between matches 4 & 5, between matches 5 & 6)
Longest Gap Between Matches: 5 Days (between matches 1 & 2)
ODI World Cup 2023 – South Africa Team Schedule
vs Qualifier 2: October 7, 2023, Delhi (D/N)
vs Australia: October 13, 2023, Lucknow (D/N)
vs Qualifier 1: October 17, 2023, Dharamsala (D/N)
vs England: October 21, 2023, Mumbai (D/N)
vs Bangladesh: October 24, 2023, Mumbai (D/N)
vs Pakistan: October 27, 2023, Chennai (D/N)
vs New Zealand: November 1, 2023, Pune (D/N)
vs India: November 5, 2023, Kolkata (D/N)
vs Afghanistan: November 10, 2023, Ahmedabad (D/N)
Qualifier 1 Fixtures Overview
Number of Day Night Matches: 8/9
Most Frequent Venue: Hyderabad (twice, back-to-back), Lucknow
Shortest Gap Between Matches: 2 Days (between matches 1 & 2, between matches 5 & 6, between matches 8 & 9)
Longest Gap Between Matches: 7 Days (between matches 2 & 3)
ODI World Cup 2023 – Qualifier 1 Schedule
vs Pakistan: October 6, 2023, Hyderabad (D/N)
vs New Zealand: October 9, 2023, Hyderabad (D/N)
vs South Africa: October 17, 2023, Dharamsala (D/N)
vs Qualifier 2: October 21, 2023, Lucknow
vs Australia: October 25, 2023, Delhi (D/N)
vs Bangladesh: October 28, 2023, Kolkata (D/N)
vs Afghanistan: November 3, 2023, Lucknow (D/N)
vs England: November 8, 2023, Pune (D/N)
vs India: November 11, 2023, Lucknow (D/N)
Qualifier 2 Fixtures Overview
Number of Day Night Matches: 8/9
Most Frequent Venue: Lucknow (twice, back-to-back), Delhi (twice)
Shortest Gap Between Matches: 2 Days (between matches 6 & 7, between matches 8 & 9)
Longest Gap Between Matches: 4 Days (between matches 4 & 5)
ODI World Cup 2023 – Qualifier 2 Schedule
vs South Africa: October 7, 2023, Delhi (D/N)
vs Pakistan: October 12, 2023, Hyderabad (D/N)
vs Australia: October 16, 2023, Lucknow (D/N)
vs Qualifier 1: October 21, 2023, Lucknow
vs England: October 26, 2023, Bengaluru (D/N)
vs Afghanistan: October 30, 2023, Pune (D/N)
vs India: November 2, 2023, Mumbai (D/N)
vs Bangladesh: November 6, 2023, Delhi (D/N)
vs New Zealand: November 9, 2023, Bengaluru (D/N)
2023 ODI World Cup Knockout Matches
November 15, 2023, Kolkata (D/N)
November 16, 2023, Mumbai (D/N)
November 19, 2023, Ahmedabad
Final Thoughts
The ODI World Cup 2023 schedule promises to be a rollercoaster ride of emotions for cricket fans across the globe.
With the best teams battling it out on the field, we can hope that several matches are a nail-biting experience. The ODI Cricket World is more than just a sport. It is a unifying force that brings people together from all corners of the world.
Mark your calendars and get ready to witness history in the making as the world’s best cricketing nations compete for the ultimate prize- the ODI World Cup trophy!
Frequently Asked Questions
When will the India vs Pakistan match be in the 2023 ODI World Cup?
The much awaited India vs Pakistan match will take place on October 15, 2023 in Ahmedabad.
How many matches will be played in the 2023 ODI World Cup?
48 matches will be played in the 2023 ODI World Cup (45 group stage matches, 2 semi-finals, and one final).
When will the ICC 2023 ODI World Cup be played?
The 2023 ODI Cricket World Cup will be held between October 5, 2023 and November 19, 2023.
2021 T20 World Cup Team Review Time. Here is the complete dissection of every team. The best moments, analysis, stats, and what changes need to be made for each team to succeed in the upcoming 2022 T20 World Cup. Comment below on your favorite moment of this T20 World Cup and what you think about their prospects in the 2022 T20 World Cup in Australia.
Australia—a name so synonymous to Cricket World Cups it is not even a surprise they somehow managed to win this one. Unlike most times, though, they were not even in Top 5 Favorites this time around. Even Bangladesh & Afghanistan were fancied more since Australia has lost their last 4 T20I bilateral series and were hammered 4-1 in Bangladesh.
Lots of good stories for Justin Langer’s group. A group of lovely characters, marked by Stoinis, Zampa, Wade, Maxwell combined with their star power in Warner-Smith-Cummins-Hazlewood-Starc deliver unlikely victory. Hazlewood’s accuracy, Zampa’s wicket-taking abilities, Warner’s consistency, Mitchell Marsh’s coming of age, Steve Smith’s boundary catching, and Stoinis-Wade’s finishing combined to make this a dangerous T20 side.
Now Australia has won everything—Women’s ODI & T20I World Cups, U-19 World Cups, Men’s ODI & T20 World Cups & Champions Trophy. Looks like life is all good for Australia and free of Paine…
Mitchell Marsh’s Dream Final, Matthew Wade-Marcus Stoinis Partnership, Cummins at the Death
Luck Factor (Or the Lack of)
Aaron Finch Wins All the Tosses
Broken Dreams
Starc 4-0-60-0 in the Final. Does he merit a place in the 2022 T20 World Cup Squad?
What Does Australia Need to Do For the 2022 T20 World Cup?
Home World Cup, expectations on them. No team has won two consecutive T20 World Cups or a T20 World Cup at home. Now, they have a good T20 core group from which they can challenge the rest of the world. The real question here is—Can Australia continue playing the same brand of cricket?
2. New Zealand 2021 T20 World Cup
New Zealand are the best all-format team to beat at the moment, aren’t they? 2 ODI World Cup finals in a row (2015, 2019), current World Test Championship holders, and now the runners up in a T20 World Cup. Just like Australia, not many expected them to get to semi-finals, let alone the finals. With an early loss to Pakistan, things did start positively for them. Credit to them, they strangled India, survived threat against Namibia, and continued on their marching way before the Neesham-Mitchell assault shocked England.
Positives? Mitchell’s inspirational promotion & Top 3’s solo performances (Mitchell’s 72*, Williamson’s 85, & Guptill’s 93, Southee’s economical World Cup, shining Boult & Sodhi (if we take out Sodhi’s final), roaring Milne in his comeback, and Neesham, who finally gets his revenge.
Negatives? Conway-Phillips-Seifert had been one of the reasons for NZ’s success in T20I’s over the past year, but none of them had a stellar performance. Conway played a crucial recovery innings in the semi-finals, Phillips (once a keeper) bowled some tight off spin and hit Zampa for a six in the final, but other than that, nothing much of note. Also Guptill’s 27 (35).…say no more.
Kane Williamson (216) Martin Guptill (208) Daryl Mitchell (208)
Highest Wicket Takers
Trent Boult (13)
X Factors
Daryl Mitchell – the Opener, Neesham – the Finisher, Fielding Unit, Southee Reinvents Himself
Broken Dreams
Lockie Ferguson ruled out before the WC; Devon Conway injures himself by punching his bat after his semi-final dismissals; Misses the Final; New Zealand struggle early on and ends up on the runners up podium again.
What Does New Zealand Need to Do For the 2022 T20 World Cup?
New Zealand made it to the final on the back of good strategy and smart cricket. However, it is unlikely that this squad will succeed again in 2022 in Australian conditions. Do all three of Ish Sodhi-Todd Astle-Mitchell Santner fit in the 15? Does Martin Guptill continue or will Finn Allen be given a chance? Can both Adam Milne & Lockie Ferguson make the XI? Where does Tim Seifert fit in the equation? So many questions, less than 335 days, as Jimmy Neesham puts it.
3. Pakistan 2021 T20 World Cup Team Review
Will Pakistan get a better chance? World Cup in the UAE, Babar Azam & Mohammad Rizwan in the form of their lives, bowling good as usual, fielding better than ever, Asif Ali finally coming into his own, and the 40 year youngsters Hafeez and Malik matching everybody else.
5 group matches, 5 different player of the match awards. Shaheen Shah Afridi, Asif Ali, Haris Rauf, Mohammad Rizwan, and Shoaib Malik. And the most runs of the tournament by their captain Babar Azam?
How did they get here? By completely dominating the match against India (via Shaheen’s opening spell including that ball to KL Rahul), completed a low scorer against NZ, crushed Afghanistan with Asif Ali’s 4 sixes, and brushed Scotland & Namibia by batting first.
Pakistan, who have been disappointed by NZ and England cricket boards, were writing a lovely beautiful story. However, just as in the 2010 T20 WC semi final against Australia, the story went off track. A left handed middle order batter finished it off with consecutive sixes against Pakistan’s best bowler. It was Mike Hussey Vs Saeed Ajmal 11 years ago. It was Matthew Wade Vs Shaheen Shah Afridi this year.
Shadab Khan (9) Haris Rauf (8) Shaheen Shah Afridi (7)
X Factors
Haris Rauf’s death bowling, Shaheen Shah Afridi in the Powerplay, Imad Wasim-Shadab Khan’s miserly spells, Babar-Rizwan partnerhship, Malik-Asif Finishing
Broken Dreams
Hasan Ali’s Form Lose a Close Semi-Final After Winning 5/5 Group Matches and dominating 35 overs of the semi=final
What Does Pakistan Need To Do For the 2022 T20 World Cup?
Although Pakistan were possibly the best team throughout this year, they will have to make several changes next year due to conditions. A 150-160 score may not be defendable, the bowling combinations might need to be tweaked, and some young aggresive batters like Haider Ali will need to be placed in the XI.
4. England 2021 T20 World Cup Team Review
I have two points of view on this England campaign. One can say that just like Pakistan, it was an underwhelming campaign since they dominated the group stages and failed to finish the semi-final like the Carlos Brathwaite final 5 years ago.
On the other hand, England were already missing Ben Stokes, Jofra Archer, and Sam Curran. During the tournament, they lost Tymal Mills, their best death bowler, and Jason Roy. The fact that they still dominated the tournament shows the marvelous depth in English cricket right now.
The positives? Moeen Ali’s all round package, Chris Woakes’ opening spells, Tymal Mills’ international comeback, Adil Rashid’s magic, Livingstone’s off-spin/leg-spin, and Jos Buttler’s century.
Adil Rashid (9) Moeen Ali, Tymal Mills, Chris Woakes (7) Liam Livingstone, Chris Jordan (6)
X Factors
Tymal Mills’ death bowling, Moeen Ali’s all-round show; The Beast that is Buttler
Broken Dreams
Favorites fail to lift the T20 World Cup again; Tymal Mills & Jason Roy out injured mid-tournament; Morgan-Livingstone underwhelm with the bat
What Does England Need To Do For the 2022 T20 World Cup?
Given Eoin Morgan’s batting form, he is almost nearing the end of his England journey although his captaincy was still top notch. Ashes is around the corner, and it is too soon to predict squads since injuries/retirements/mental health breaks are around the corner due to their grueling schedule. Malan & Moeen might stay, but Morgan might not make the XI if Stokes is back. If England can find depth & consistency in their death bowling (need to look past Jordan & Tom Curran), then this golden generation might have lift the T20 World Cup trophy.
5. South Africa 2021 T20 World Cup Team Review
One of the two teams that would go back with positives. Despite the Quinton de Kock Controversy early on, South Africa held themselves up nicely under captain Temba Bavuma.
Anrich Nortje was devastating throughout the tournament, even a sub-par Kagiso Rabada got a hat-trick, Killer Miller came back to win a thriller against Sri Lanka, Rassie Van der Dussen-Aiden Markram made huge strides, and spinners Markram-Maharaj tied down the opposition. The peak of their journey was the final match where they defeated tournament favorites England, and dented their confidence going to the semi-finals.
The only two blips? The narrow loss against Australia in the opening game of the Super 12s and the slow chase against Bangladesh meant they finished they barely failed to qualify due to net run rate.
I had anticipated South Africa would miss ABD, Faf, Tahir, and Morris but evidently they made it work.
Nortje-Shamsi brilliant with the ball, Markram-van der Dussen brilliant with the bat, The Return of Killer Miller, and Temba Bavuma’s captaincy
Broken Dreams
Quinton de Kock & Cricket South Africa’s miscommunication and mini-scandal Failing to Qualify for the Semi-Finals on NRR again
What Does South Africa Need To Do For the 2022 T20 World Cup?
South Africa need more stability in their middle order. The bowlers can defend middling scores in all conditions, but inconsistency in batting and lack of death is holding them back. They have a good core, if they do not get the Group of Death again, they will definitely be semi-finalist contenders.
6. Sri Lanka 2021 T20 World Cup Team Review
The most improved and watchable team of the T20 World Cup. Sri Lanka was the only team in the first week to look a class apart. In the Super 12s, they began positively with an improbable chase against Bangladesh and pushed England to the edge. However, they never really recovered from their last over loss against South Africa.
Asalanka & Rajapaska were the pick of the batters, opposition had no clue for their mystery spin, and Lahiru Kumara’s aggressive attitude and speed took opposition by surprise.Wanindu Hasaranga is having a dream year, and he was one of the standouts of this World Cups, both with the bat and the ball.
Wanindu Hasaranga’s All-Round Show, Lahiru Kumara’s aggression, Nissanka-Asalanka-Rajapaksa form core for the future
Broken Dreams
Lose Steam Towards The End After Winning 5 Overall
What Does Sri Lanka Need To Do For the 2022 T20 World Cup?
From 2015, Sri Lanka had been in grave transition. They finally found a group of players they can persist with in the near future.Hasaranga, Asalanka, & Rajapaksa defined this team with their positive brand of cricket. Finally opener Pathum Nissanka and mystery spinner Theekshana are really good prospects for Sri Lanka. If the seniors—Kusal Perera, Dhananjaya de Silva, captain Dasun Shanaka, (maybe Chandimal & Matthews as well?) and the pacers Chameera-Kumara can come together, they might be the dark horse for the next World Cup.
Unfortunately just failed the direct qualification to the Super 12s, so have to go through the double qualification once again.
7. India 2021 T20 World Cup Team Review
A tough tournament for Indian fans.
A dismal loss against Pakistan, a week long break, no intent against their WC arch-nemesis, New Zealand, and three spirited efforts against Afghanistan, Scotland, and Namibia to boost their net run rate. However, NZ’s victory against Afghanistan ensured India was never really in the tournament apart from outside mathematical calculations. It was the vulnerability against left arm seamers and good fast bowling once again that left India on the backfoot against Pakistan & NZ respectively.
Ravichandran Ashwin’s control in the middle overs and the intent shown by KL Rahul & Rohit Sharma at the end were some positives for India.
Jasprit Bumrah, Ravindra Jadeja (7) Ravichandran Ashwin, Mohammad Shami (6)
X Factors
R Ashwin’s economical middle overs; Rahul-Sharma opening partnership (when they played with freedom)
Broken Dreams
India loses against arch-nemesis NZ; First WC Loss to Pakistan; Favorites crash out without a fight; Shami suffers social media abuse; Kohli’ bows out captaincy career without a title
What Does India Need To Do For the 2022 T20 World Cup?
Revamp their whole squad might be a rash decision, but something out of the ordinary is needed. Although some bold decisions were taken for this tournament, more game time is needed for a new-look T20I team. KL Rahul & Rohit Sharma should stay opening partners, Suryakumar, Pant, Bumrah, & Jadeja should remain in the fray, but the rest is up in the air, especially for Australian conditions.
Does Kohli fit in or do India do what England did to Root? Ashwin has been good, but Chahal definitely merits a place back. What about the Hardik Pandya problem? Can India find batters that in the top 4 that can bowl? India have the players, but maybe it is a curse rather than a blessing in ICC tournaments for this immense depth.
8. Afghanistan 2021 T20 World Cup Team Review
Afghanistan did not have the worst of tournaments and were in contention till the very last day of the Super 12s, but there is a feeling that they could have done better.
In these conditions, Rashid-Mujeeb-Nabi were devastating individually but could not all fire together. The openers gave them spark, but not consistently. Najibullah Zadran was in his peak for, Hamid Hassan was back, and captain Mohammad Nabi batted with responsibility. Muscular Gulbadin Naib had a decent outing, and so did Naveen-ul-Haq. The only team to bat first with confidence and defend scores, their change of strategies in the crunch game against India did not work out for them.
Post the Pakistan game, it all just fell apart. 4 sixes in a row prompted freak retirement announcement by senior batter Asghar Afghan in the middle of the tournament. They could not manage to upset India or NZ, which is all that was needed.
Mystery Spinners; Nabi-Najibullah late order hitting; Zazai-Shahzad provide some good starts
Broken Dreams
Did not upset any of the big 3 in the group—NZ, Pakistan, & India Tough close loss against Pakistan and subsequent retirement of Asghar Afghan in the middle of the tournament derailed their campaign
What Does Afghanistan Need To Do For the 2022 T20 World Cup?
First they need to ensure no administrative turmoil. For the last two World Cups now, they have had captaincy changes right before the tournament. Afghanistan might be upbeat for next year since many of their players have BBL experience in Australia. All they need ais a couple of fast bowlers and Qais Ahmed back, and this team can outdo any other on a given day.
9. Namibia 2021 T20 World Cup Team Review
The story of the tournament by far.
First time qualifying for a cricket world cup since 2003 and guess what? Not only winning one game but THREE GAMES! Defeated the European trio of Ireland (full member), Netherlands, and Scotland and got a direct entry to the 2022 T20 World Cup.
The middle order, led by David Wiese, was their saving grace but their disciplined bowling, led by Trumpelmann & Wiese, kept them in the game, even against the likes of Pakistan and New Zealand. Trumpelmann’s 3-wicket opening over & JJ Smit’s finishing heroics over Scotland was the highlight of their tournament. Kudos to captain Erasmus for playing the tournament with a broken finger.
Jan Frylinck (9) David Wiese (6) Ruben Trumpelmann (6)
X Factors
Lower Middle Order Trumpelmann’s Opening Spells
Broken Dreams
None Really. Except for their opening game against Sri Lanka, they competed well throughout the tournament even against Full Members
What Does Namibia’s Need To Do For the 2022 T20 World Cup?
If Namibia need to improve and go one step further, they need to add a bit of spice to their bowling attack. For their first 10 overs, they are good but need to keep opposition down at the death.Can they make it to the Super 12s again?
10. Scotland 2021 T20 World Cup Team Review
Scotland experienced high highs and suffered low lows.
From 53-6 in their opening game against Bangladesh, a Chris Greaves inspired victory gave them victory over Bangladesh. They dominated the early groups with 3 wins in 3 matches. They nosedived with a 130-run loss against Afghanistan’s spin in the first match of the Super 12s and never recovered. Their only hope was against Namibia which they made a game out of, but still lost.
The bowlers came to the party, especially Mark Watt (1/19, 1/23, 1/23, 1/23, 1/22, 1/13, 1/20, 0/41) but their famed batters let them down.
Richie Berrington (177) George Munsey (152) Matthew Cross (135) Michael Leask (130)
Highest Wicket Takers
Josh Davey (9) Safyaan Sharif, Brad Wheal (8) Mark Watt (7) Chris Greaves (6)
X Factors
Watt’s Economical (6.13) Consistency, Berrington’s Fifties, Fast Bowlers Accurate, Leask’s Power Hitting, The Rise of Chris Greaves, Matt Cross’s Commetnary Behind the Stumps
Broken Dreams
Kyle Coetzer & Heralded Top Order Suffer Collective Failure
What Does Scotland Need To Do For the 2022 T20 World Cup?
Are Scotland’s golden era ageing or was it just the conditions? The good thing is they have qualified for the 2022 T20 World Cup by the virtue of qualifying for the Super 12s. They need batting depth and power hitters to complement their bowlers. Should still make it past the early group into the Super 12s next year.
11. West Indies 2021 T20 World Cup Team Review
Well the Last Dance was not meant to be. Only one win overall, and that too by 3 runs.
Not only did West Indies not qualify for the semi-finals, they had a horrible time. Bundled out for 55 against England, they never really figured out what their approach will be. Go all guns blazing like Lewis tried or hang in there like Lendl Simmons? Gayle-Pollard-Russell were almost no shows, and Jason Holder as replacement (who should have been in the squad in the first place) was the only spark.
Akeal Hosein was the find for West Indies, filling Fabian Allen’s left arm spin shoe perfectly as were Pooran-Hetmyer briefly. It was good to see Bravo & Gayle having fun in what may be their last T20I.
55 All Out Obed McCoy Injury Lendl Simmons’ Slow Show Dwayne Bravo Retires Chris Gayle (almost) retires Horror show for T20 stars Gayle, Pollard, Russell Hat-trick Dream Unfulfilled
What Does West Indies Need To Do For the 2022 T20 World Cup?
A completely rejig of the squad is needed. Hetmyer, Pooran, Lewis, Holder, Fabian Allen, Akeal Hosein, and even Kieron Pollard might stay but it is the end of the road for Gayle, Bravo, Russell? and Rampaul. It would be interesting to see if Roston Chase stays and if ‘rotating the strike’ will come into their T20 philosophy. West Indies of the 2010s changed T20 cricket with their boundary hitting but they need to move on with the times.
12. Bangladesh 2021 T20 World Cup Team Review
Where do I even start?
I was a fan of the rising Bangladesh ODI team and had them as a semi-finalist possibility, but this team was a complete no-show. Expected to do well in spinning UAE conditions and after dominating Australia & New Zealand at home in dust bowls, this was a huge let down.
For the first time in recent WCs, the seniors did not stand up (Shakib in the first few games apart) which exposed the gaps in the rest of the team. The likes of Liton Das, Soumy Sarkar, and Afif Hossain have not really become consistent cricketers that Bangladesh needed.
The worst part was the last couple of games. Losing a WC happens, but giving up without a fight was truly disappointing as they were skittled for 73 and 84 respectively against Australia & South Africa.
Taskin Ahmed’s comeback spirit and Mahedi Hasan were the only positive.
Shakib Al Hasan (11) Mahedi Hasan, Mustafizur Rahman (8)
X Factors
Taskin Ahmed’s Energy Mahedi Hasan Shakib Al Hasan in the early stages
Broken Dreams
Mahmudullah’s captaincy decisions Mushfiqur Rahim’s lack of form Liton Das’s Horror Show Youngsters Fail To Rise to the Occasion Mustafizur Expensive Shakib Al Hasan’s Injury
What Does Bangladesh Need To Do For the 2022 T20 World Cup?
The next generation of Bangladesh cricket need to come in. Already the likes of Saif Hasasn, Najmul Hossain Shanto, leg spinner Aminul Islam, U-19 winning captain Akbar Ali among others have been selected for the Pakistan T20I series while Mushfiqur Rahim is dropped. I expect the Fab 4 to be in the squad in Australia, but maybe not a regular XI spot. This is the step in the right direction, but one year is too less for a T20I team to develop. It may take a few years to bounce back.
13. Oman 2021 T20 World Cup Team Review
Oman will have mixed feelings from this World Cup.
First of all, they were wonderful hosts and made sure the tournament started off the right foot (beautiful background as well). After winning the first game against PNG comfortably, they would have felt they are almost into the Super 12s, but they let the tense game against Bangladesh slip.
Bilal Khan, Zeeshan Mazsood (5) Kaleemullah, Fayyab Butt (4)
X Factors
Jatinder Singh-Aqib Ilyas Opening Partnership
Broken Dreams
Had a foot in the door early on, but could not maintain momentum; This was a good chance to qualify to the next round since all matches were at home
What Does Oman Need To Do For the 2022 T20 World Cup?
They need to go back and qualify for the 2022 T20 World Cup. They need to make sure their middle order batters can endure pressure moments. Qualification cycles can be difficult, so we do not know if we will see them again. With Zimbabwe back in the qualifiers, it will just be harder.
14. Ireland 2021 T20 World Cup Team Review
All was well and good with the world when Curtis Campher took 4 wickets in 4 balls and Ireland hammered the Netherlands. However, Sri Lanka’s big defeat rocked their NRR and a rising Namibia overthrew them as the ‘Associate giant.’
It was just destiny. Ireland upset the big teams 15 years ago to gain respect for the Associate nations, and now when they are a Full Member, a stronger set of Associate nations are beginning to upset them.
Josh Little the only positive for them apart from Campher.
Curtis Campher, The Double Hat-trick Man (or 4-in-4?)
Broken Dreams
Full Member Ireland seem to be regressing in T20Is despite strides in ODI cricket
What Does Ireland Need To Do For the 2022 T20 World Cup?
Ireland’s golden generation has ended, and it will take a while for the young guns to pick up but T20 cricket is just not suited to their styles.Probably the end of the road for Kevin O’Brien. Honestly, I do not see Ireland see improving much unless T20 franchise leagues start acquring talent like Paul Stirling and Josh Little.
15. Papua New Guinea 2021 T20 World Cup Team Review
Papua New Guinea brought the world to the Cricket World Cup. Although they did not win any games, their family-like spirit took the fans by delight.
The partnership between Assad Vala and Charles Amini against Oman displayed that these bunch of players possess a lot of talent if they are given the environment to flourish. Some good hitting at the end by Doriga as well against Scotland to keep the game interesting.
Charles Amini-Assad Vala show the flair in their side Brilliant diving catches and disciplined fielding throughout
Broken Dreams
Go Home With No Wins
What Does Papua New Guinea Need To Do For the 2022 T20 World Cup?
They have to go through qualification again. The next World Cup is near their home in Oceania, but is their World Cup qualification dream too far?
16. Netherlands 2021 T20 World Cup Team Review
Netherlands were a rising team over the last couple of years, but questionable selections and lack of preparation due to COVID-19 meant they could not carry their form in the tournament.
106/10, 44/10 and losing to Namibia after scoring 164/4. Not much of note apart from Max O’Dowd’s form. They came in with good form and called upon RTD & RVDM, but performances did not add up.
Netherlands’ World Cup In A Nutshell
Result
4th in Group A
Wins/Losses
0/3
Best Match
None
Highest Run Scorers
Max O’Dowd (123)
Highest Wicket Takers
Pieter Seelar, Fred Klaassen, Brandon Glover (2)
X Factors
Max O’Dowd continues his good form
Broken Dreams
The great Ryan Ten Doeschate retires without a proper sendoff (does not get selected for the last match)
What Does Netherlands Need To Do For the 2022 T20 World Cup?
They just need to play more between World Cups. They have a South Africa tour coming up. Hopefully they can gain good experience and build confidence. Will need to qualify again however.
Pakistan Vs Australia Semi Final #2 Quick Review – Marcus-Matthew match winners for Australia.
Almost identical to the first semi final – 170ish score, team batting first starts slow & accelerates at the death. Bowls well in the second innings and takes out the top order before some recovery work and a cinematic finish from the chasing team.
Brilliant semi-finals these two games. Rarely do we get to see one close game. Now, we have seen two in two days.
Mohammad Rizwan had been hospitalized for two days. He had been in the ICU for 2 days, recovering from a “severe chest infection” but had a speedy recovery. At the beginning, Babar Azam was at his silky best, but poor Rizwan could not connect. He was struggling initially, but later Babar slowed down. After Babar got out, Rizwan 2.0 took action, ending at 67.
Fakhar Zaman was one of the two players in the XI who had not yet made a significant contribution thus far in Pakistan’s campaign. Today he was magnificent, especially against Mitchell Starc. To dig up yorkers with full swing bat at that speed is insane skill. He built on Rizwan’s knock and got Pakistan to a par score of 176.
Australia’s Inning
The first over by Shaheen Shah Afridi was the best over of the tournament. First ball, beats Warner. Then, a nervy single. 3rd ball – perfect good length delivery to LBW Aaron Finch for a golden duck. The 4th ball was my favorite – swinging toe crushing yorker with the appeal of the ages. Unfortunately it was not given out by the umpire, and it was umpire’s call on review. Mitchell Marsh got a close one a ball later. Beat his bat and close to the stumps. Pakistan ahead, crowd on fire.
Then came David Warner’s time, a man under pressure by his IPL team who has devoted half a decade to. Having already scored a couple of fifties, he was on song today. Despite Shaheen’s wicket up front, he made sure the pressure does not build up. A brilliant 49 with a couple of interesting moments (look at the videos below).
The Finish
Then came the finishers, Stoinis and Wade. Both have excelled in the BBL as openers, but Australia do not have space up top. Although Stoinis sharpened his finishing skills at the IPL, Wade was not a recognized finisher. They had come together earlier against South Africa to win a close game together, but this chase was a different beast altogether.
96/5 after 12.2 overs with in-form Maxwell gone. Pakistan has one foot in the finals. Wade was nudging the singles as Stoinis took control. 13 runs in the 17th over off Haris Rauf. Stoinis 38* (27), Wade 8* (9).
Then Hasan Ali’s over came and Wade fired 15 including a six. Got his timing back. Now 22 off two with Shaheen in, Pakistan still marginally ahead. Third ball, Wade hits it and is dropped by Hasan Ali. Next 3 balls,
Scooped for 6!
Huge six over – Magnificent (especially with Ian Bishop’s voice in the background)
Another scoop! Australia win.
Why not have a look below yourself!
Matthew Wade's 3 consecutive sixes which eliminated Pakistan from T20 World Cup. pic.twitter.com/XFzsC77a7n
For comparison, here is the Michael Hussey sixes a decade earlier in a similar scenario. Pakistan Vs Australis semi-final in the 2010 T20 World Cup Semi-Final. 50 needed in the last 4 and 17 in the final over. Hussey seals it in style.
Funny Moments of the Day – Feat David Warner
Here are two of the most peculiar moments you will see in cricket – (1) A double bounced ball (that was called a no ball) and Warner hits it for six, and (2) Warner walks…with no ultraedge.
Broken Cricket Dream of the Day: Hasan Ali Feels The Heat
Hasan Ali’s dropped got some harsh words from captain Babar Azam after the game and even worse, by the social media community. Some of his family members, especially his wife, received abuse and threats due to their nationality and religious beliefs.
Cruel world we live in. Broken dream…everyone goes through tough phases. Hasan Ali is a legend. He will remain one.
In any case, Congratulations to the Pakistan cricket team and Pakistan fans for the wonderful memories! This has been an amazing tournament for Pakistan, especially after the cancellations that came earlier (from England and NZ).
Matchwinners throughout, great fielders, and youth galore. Positive future for this team. Keep the hopes up.
Image Courtesy: Graphic (original work), Kyle Coetzer – Photo by Francois Nel-ICC/ICC via Getty Images, Mahmudullah – Photo by Mike Hewitt-ICC/ICC via Getty Images
Toss: Pakistan won the toss and chose to field first.
Venue: Sharjah Cricket Stadium, Sharjah, UAE
Umpires: Rod Tucker & Paul Wilson
What Actually Happened
Winner: New Zealand won by 72 runs
Scores: Pakistan189/4Scotland 117/6
Player of the Match:Shoaib Malik 54* (18)
Best Figures
Hamza Tahir (4-0-24-1)
Shadab Khan (4-0-14-2)
Most Runs
Babar Azam 66 (47)
Richie Berrington 54* (37)
Moments of The Day: Babar-Malik-Shadab Demolish Scotland
Pakistan now have had 5 different Player of the Match awards—Shaheen Shah Afridi, Haris Rauf, Asif Ali, Mohammad Rizwan, and now Shoaib Malik. Pakistan’s captain Babar Azam so far? 68*, 9, 51, 70, & 66. Highest run-scorer of the tournament, 4 fifties, and has not been their most important player yet. Wow.
Shoaib Malik has been playing international cricket for 22 years, about the age of several Pakistani players in this young side. Today, he showed the world why he is one of the best players against spin. Six sixes and one four as Pakistan scored 77 in the last 5.
Richie Berrington had made a 50 in the qualifying stages but an unbeaten fifty today ensured Scotland do not suffer a repeat of the Afghanistan game (Afghanistan had scored around 190 and routed Scotland for 60). Good knock.
Pakistan’s spinners were ultra impressive. Imad Wasim scored 4-0-17-0 and Shadab Khan with 4-0-14-2. Miserly spells. Tied down George Munsey for 17 (31). Strike rate of 54.83. The reason of this slowdown was brilliant captaincy. See the graphic below.
George Munsey – sweep shot percentage, #T20WorldCup
v #BNG 40% v #PNG 60% v #OMA 16% v #AFG 50% v #NZ 14% v #IND 41% v #PAK 5% <— #PAK deployed four men on the sweep at times during that Munsey innings. They choked his favourite shot & he was dismissed for 17 (31).
Kyle Coetzer has been synonymous with Scotland Cricket for more than a decade now. One of the stars of the mammoth ODI victory against England.
Lot was expected of the captain but scores of 0, 6,41, 10, 17, 1, & 9 do not inspire much confidence. 84 runs at an average of 12, from which 41 runs came in one match. For a top order batter, that is way too low.
In any case, hope Scotland bounces better in the 2022 T20 World Cup, which they have already qualified for since they made it to the Super 1ws this time.
T20 World Cup Points Table, Most Runs, Wickets, Catches, Dismissals
No need to go elsewhere for thePoints Table, Highest Run Scorer, Highest Wicket Taker, Most Catches, and Most Dismissals. We will keep updating it in every article!
Image Courtesy: Graphic (original work), Kyle Coetzer – Photo by Francois Nel-ICC/ICC via Getty Images, Mahmudullah – Photo by Mike Hewitt-ICC/ICC via Getty Images
Toss: Pakistan won the toss and chose to field first.
Venue: Zayed Cricket Stadium, Abu Dhabi, UAE
Umpires: Chris Brown & Chris Gaffaney
What Actually Happened
Winner: Pakistan won by 45 runs
Scores: Pakistan 189/2Namibia144/5
Player of the Match:Mohammad Rizwan 79* (50)
Best Figures
David Wiese (4-0-30-1)
Imad Wasim (3-0-13-1)
Most Runs
Mohammad Rizwan 79* (50)
David Wiese 43* (31)
Moments of The Day:
Rizwan & Babar rise again. A 113-run partnership. They are now establishing an iconic T20I opening partnership.
Pakistan took more positives – Hafeez finished with 32* (16) & Hasan Ali returned with spells of 4-0-22-1.
David Wiese’s 43* ensured Namibia did not collapse for a low score and got 144.
If only they had restricted Pakistan earlier….
Broken Cricket Dream of the Day: Namibia Fail To Take Advantage
Pakistan had an uncharacteristically slow start. At the end of the Powerplay, Pakistan were 29/0, the fourth lowest of all time in T20Is, without losing a wicket. By the end of the 8th over, Pakistan were 45/0 with Babar Azam 33 (27) & Rizwan 12 (21).
T20 World Cup Points Table, Most Runs, Wickets, Catches, Dismissals
No need to go elsewhere for thePoints Table, Highest Run Scorer, Highest Wicket Taker, Most Catches, and Most Dismissals. We will keep updating it in every article!
Image Courtesy: Graphic (original work), Kyle Coetzer – Photo by Francois Nel-ICC/ICC via Getty Images, Mahmudullah – Photo by Mike Hewitt-ICC/ICC via Getty Images
