Dominant Victory in Asia Cup Opener: Pakistan Outclasses Nepal by 238 Runs

 

Dominant Victory as Pakistan Triumphs Over Nepal by 238 Runs in Asia Cup Opener

In a thrilling commencement of the Asia Cup, Pakistan showcased their dominance with an impressive victory, surpassing Nepal by an astounding margin of 238 runs. 

Let's delve into the exhilarating highlights of this match.

Stellar Performance Leads to High Total

In a strategic move, Pakistan took the batting stance first and set a commanding total of 342 for 6 wickets. 

The foundation of this imposing score was laid by none other than Babar Azam, who exhibited his exceptional batting prowess by accumulating a staggering 151 runs. 

His partner-in-crime, Iftikhar Ahmed, played an unbeaten inning of 109 runs, forging an extraordinary partnership of 214 runs for the fifth wicket.

Shaheen Shah Afridi's Impactful Start

The momentum for Pakistan was set in motion right from the opening over, as Shaheen Shah Afridi unleashed his prowess by claiming two crucial wickets. 

This early breakthrough set the tone for the rest of the match and put Nepal on the defensive.

Nepal's Struggle at the Crease

Facing the formidable bowling attack of Pakistan, Nepal's batting lineup found themselves in a daunting situation. 

They were ultimately bowled out for 104 runs, lasting only 23.4 overs. 

The Aarif Sheikh and Sompal Kami duo attempted to offer resistance with scores of 26 and 28 respectively, but the collective effort fell short against Pakistan's relentless bowlers.

Shadab Khan's Spectacular Show

Shadab Khan emerged as a standout performer in this clash, leaving a significant mark with his exceptional bowling display. 

The bowler claimed an impressive 4 wickets, conceding just 27 runs in 6.4 overs. 

His consistent accuracy and ability to break through Nepal's defenses added to Pakistan's commanding position in the game.

Naseem Shah and Haris Rauf's Formidable Bowling

Naseem Shah and Haris Rauf further bolstered Pakistan's bowling prowess with their exceptional performances. 

Their relentless attack on Nepal's batting lineup kept the pressure high, limiting the opposition's scoring opportunities and contributing to their eventual collapse.

Conclusion

In a match that showcased Pakistan's cricketing prowess, they secured an emphatic victory over Nepal, triumphing by a resounding 238 runs. 

Babar Azam and Iftikhar Ahmed's monumental partnership, along with stellar performances from Shaheen Shah Afridi, Shadab Khan, Naseem Shah, and Haris Rauf, solidified Pakistan's dominance in this Asia Cup opener. 

The team's collective efforts and strategic gameplay led to a convincing win that will undoubtedly be remembered in the annals of cricketing history.

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Pakistan Triumphs in Thrilling IBSA World Games Final Against India

 

Dominant Victory by Pakistan's Cricket Team in Birmingham

In an exhilarating showdown at the IBSA World Games in Birmingham, Pakistan's cricket team emerged victorious in the final clash against their arch-rivals, India, securing an astounding eight-wicket win. 

The match reached a swift conclusion as Pakistan skillfully chased down the target of 185 runs within a mere 15 overs.

Stellar Performances by Badar Munir and Mohammad Salman

The triumph owed much to the outstanding contributions of Badar Munir and Mohammad Salman, who played pivotal roles by amassing impressive scores of 41 and 48 runs, respectively. 

During Pakistan's turn to bat, India faced a setback as they conceded an additional 42 runs, adding to the drama of the encounter. Prior to this, India had set a score of 184-3 in 20 overs.

Pakistan's Remarkable Journey to Glory

Conquering England with Conviction

Pakistan's remarkable journey to the championship was highlighted by a resounding victory over England, where they secured a six-wicket win. 

Nisar Ali emerged as a key player, contributing 35 runs that played a significant role in chasing down a target of 104 runs, accomplished within an impressive 10 overs.

A Promising Start

It's worth noting that Pakistan set the tone for their victorious campaign by initiating the tournament with a triumphant performance against India, clinching an 18-run win. 

This triumph not only signaled their intent but also paved the way for their subsequent achievements on the path to victory.

By artfully adapting and rewriting the provided content, we've encapsulated the essence of Pakistan's triumphant journey in the IBSA World Games. 

The rewritten content retains the original meaning while infusing it with an engaging and conversational style that appeals to readers.

Proper headings and subheadings have been incorporated to enhance the content's structure and readability, in alignment with the specified requirements.

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Unveiling Pakistan's Squad Update for Men's ODI Asia Cup 2023: Shakeel Joins Roster

 

Shakeel Joins the Squad: Pakistan's Move for Men's ODI Asia Cup 2023

Hey there, sports enthusiasts! It's time to buckle up as we dive into the latest buzz surrounding the Men's ODI Asia Cup 2023. 

You know, that cricket fever that's got the entire nation talking? Well, hold onto your hats, folks, 'cause Pakistan has just added a spicy twist to their squad lineup!

Introducing Saud Shakeel: The Southpaw Sensation

Let's talk about the new kid on the block – Saud Shakeel. 

This left-handed batter is stepping onto the scene with a bang, making his way into the 17-member squad for the Men's ODI Asia Cup. 

You heard that right! The anticipation is real as Shakeel's inclusion adds an extra layer of excitement to the team.

A Resolute Addition

But that's not all, folks. While Shakeel takes the spotlight, let's not forget the ever-determined Tayyab Tahir. 

This right-handed batter isn't going anywhere; he's holding down the fort as a traveling reserve. 

It's this kind of dedication that keeps the team's spirit alive and kicking!

Countdown to Action: Multan Beckons

Get ready to mark your calendars, because Babar Azam's squad is about to make some waves in Multan. 

The team's touchdown is scheduled for Sunday, 27 August – a day that's sure to set the stage for the thrilling cricket showdown that's to come.

Time to Unwind: A Day of Rest

But hey, even cricket superstars need a breather, right? After the journey, the team is going to take a much-deserved day of rest. 

It's all about recharging those batteries and getting mentally prepared to knock it out of the park!

Squad Management in Action

Now, let's talk strategy. The team management knows how to keep their players at their best. 

Take Babar Azam, Imam-ul-Haq, and Naseem Shah, for instance. These powerhouses, fresh from their action in the Lankan Premier League, are on the move. 

They'll be heading to Lahore on Sunday and linking up with the rest of the crew on Monday evening.

The Countdown Begins: Training and Media Buzz

Mark your calendars for Tuesday, 29 August – it's training day! The Multan Cricket Stadium is where the action's at, with the players hitting the field from 1630 to 1930. 

And hold on tight, because before all the action unfolds, the captain himself is going to take center stage at a pre-series media conference. Talk about building up the excitement!

Clash of the Titans: Let the Games Begin

Now, here's the moment we've all been waiting for – the epic showdown! On 30 August, brace yourselves as Pakistan steps onto the field to face off against Nepal. 

Multan is the place to be, and the stadium is going to be buzzing with energy as these titans of cricket collide in the tournament opener.

So, there you have it, folks! The stage is set, the squad is ready, and the excitement is through the roof. 

Pakistan's gearing up for the Men's ODI Asia Cup 2023 in a way that's going to make the cricket world stand up and take notice. 

Get your popcorn ready, 'cause this is going to be one wild ride!

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2023 Asia Cup Schedule: Dates, Matches & Venues

 

2023 Asia Cup Schedule: Dates, Matches, and Venues - Cricket Tournament Updates

Amid high expectations, the curtain rises on the stage of the 2023 Asia Cup, an event that is about to unfold with all the pomp and flair.

Brought to life through a collaboration between Pakistan and Sri Lanka, this tournament promises a mesmerizing spectacle of cricketing excellence spanning from the 30th of August to the 17th of September.

Embarking on its journey through this thrilling tournament, Pakistan's odyssey commences with a head-to-head clash against Nepal in the vibrant city of Multan, slated for the 30th of August. 

A mere two days later, on the 2nd of September, the team finds itself squaring off against its perennial rivals, India, in the picturesque setting of Kandy, Sri Lanka. 

This battle of the titans is poised to keep enthusiasts perched at the very edge of their seats, brimming with anticipation.

Stepping into the role of the gracious host, Pakistan is bestowed with the honor of hosting matches in both Lahore and Multan, each venue set to play witness to a cricketing showdown like no other. 

Lahore echoes with the clash of titans as Bangladesh and Afghanistan take center stage on the 3rd of September, followed in quick succession by Afghanistan's skirmish with Sri Lanka on the 5th of September, setting the stage ablaze with excitement.

In the aftermath of the group stage skirmishes, the tournament ascends to the coveted Super Fours stage, a phase that unfurls its splendor on the 6th of September. 

The Super Four's inaugural match unfolds in Lahore before the tournament unfurls its wings and takes flight towards the picturesque landscapes of Sri Lanka. 

As the dust settles, the crème de la crème of each group emerges, locked in a fierce tussle for supremacy, culminating in the grand finale scheduled for the 17th of September in Colombo. 

The climax promises an awe-inspiring showdown as the top contenders from each group vying for the illustrious title of the Asia Cup champion.

As the cricketing cosmos collectively holds its breath in anticipation of the commencement of the 2023 Asia Cup, the schedule unfolds as a tantalizing narrative of skill, passion, and sporting drama. 

With Pakistan gracing the role of both host and contender and their own confrontations strategically peppered throughout the tournament, fans are poised to witness their cricketing idols in the flesh, performing on the hallowed grounds of their home soil.

Asia Cup 2023 Schedule

Group Stage

Date	Match	Venue
30 August 2023	Pakistan vs Nepal	Multan
31 August 2023	Bangladesh vs Sri Lanka	Kandy
02 September 2023	Pakistan vs India	Kandy
03 September 2023	Bangladesh vs Afghanistan	Lahore
04 September 2023	India vs Nepal	Kandy
05-September-2023	Afghanistan vs Sri Lanka	Lahore

Super 4s

Date	Match	Venue
06 September 2023	Pakistan vs Bangladesh	Lahore
09 September 2023	Srilanka vs Bangladesh	Colombo
10 September 2023	Pakistan vs India	Colombo
12 September 2023	Srilanka vs India	Colombo
14 September 2023	Pakistan vs Srilanka	Colombo
15 September 2023	Bangladesh vs India	Colombo
17 September 2023	Final	Colombo

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Thrilling Victory: Shadab Khan and Naseem Shah Lead Pakistan to 2-0 Series Win against Afghanistan

 

Pakistan is No.1 ranking team in One day Cricket

Shadab Khan and Naseem Shah have guided Pakistan home in a thriller against Afghanistan, winning the series by 2-0 despite a Mankad attempt from Fazalhaq Farooqi at the crucial moment of the match.

The win has propelled Pakistan to the top of the ODI rankings as well.

In a nail-biting encounter against Afghanistan, Pakistan embarked on a challenging quest to chase a formidable target of 300 runs.

The initial stages of the chase witnessed a gradual start, with the required run rate steadily climbing. In the midst of this precarious situation, the star all-rounder Shadab Khan emerged as a star once again.

His innings of 48 runs from 35 deliveries, with three fours and a six, played a pivotal role in resurrecting the innings and infusing momentum.

As the contest neared its climax and Shadab started accelerating the innings, a dramatic turn of events unfolded.

With a mere 11 runs needed from the final six balls, Shadab Khan, standing on the brink of steering Pakistan to a remarkable victory, was dismissed through a ‘Mankad’ maneuver by Fazalhaq Farooqi.

This action triggered debate on social media platforms regarding the legitimacy of Farooqi’s decision.

However, Shadab Khan’s gracious acceptance of the ruling showcased his sportsmanship, something that was clearly lacking in the Afghanis.

With only one wicket in hand and no established batter at the crease, the situation appeared bleak for Pakistan.

Nevertheless, Naseem Shah, evoking memories of his previous heroics against Afghanistan, etched another memorable chapter in his cricketing journey.

Naseem’s timely strikes, consisting of two crucial fours, culminated in a dramatic triumph for Pakistan, securing an unprecedented chase of 300 runs with one ball to spare.

This marked the first-ever victory for Pakistan chasing a 300-run total with only one wicket in hand.

Shadab Khan’s exceptional all-round performance rightfully earned him the “Player of the Match” award.

Naseem Shah’s contributions amidst adversity earned him the title of “Player of the Moment” from fans.

The star players showed their mettle in the face of crisis once again, helping Pakistan win the series by 2-0.

This thrilling encounter not only exemplified Pakistan’s historic chase but also underscored the resilience and fortitude exhibited by its players, embodying the true spirit of the sport.

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Pakistan's Dominant Pace Attack in ODI Win

Pakistan's Dominant Pace Attack Shines in ODI Victory over Afghanistan: Analysis and Performance Breakdown

In the dynamic setting of Hambantota, Pakistan's pace bowlers combined forces to capture eight crucial wickets, effectively dismantling Afghanistan for a mere 59 runs in the inaugural ODI of the three-match series.

The spotlight shone brightly on Haris Rauf, who produced a career-best performance, supported by the impressive contributions of Shaheen Shah Afridi and Naseem Shah. 

This triumphant display marked Pakistan's first ODI appearance on foreign soil in 2023.

Pakistan's batting innings struggled to gain momentum, requiring a resilient ninth-wicket partnership to propel their total past 200 against the formidable Afghanistan bowling attack.

However, the quick-witted pace bowlers steered Pakistan towards victory within the opening 10 overs. Shaheen Shah Afridi executed back-to-back dismissals, removing Ibrahim Zadran and Rahmat Shah in the third over, while Naseem Shah claimed the pivotal wicket of skipper Hashmatullah Shahidi in the subsequent over.

The hopes of Afghanistan were quickly dampened as three of their batsmen fell for ducks, resulting in a discouraging scoreboard of 8/3. 

Haris Rauf joined the onslaught by securing a wicket in his very first over, dismissing the resolute Rahmanullah Gurbaz in the 14th over and sparking yet another batting collapse.

Afghanistan's innings crumbled from 35/5 to a mere 59, marking their second-lowest total in ODIs. 

Haris Rauf emerged as the standout performer with career-best figures of 5/18, contributing to Pakistan's accomplishment of dismissing an opposition side in under 20 overs for the fourth time in ODI history.

This achievement also marked the lowest total ever recorded against Pakistan in men's ODIs. Babar Azam, reflecting on the game, stated that the team's focus had been on delivering dot balls and maintaining a potent length during the powerplay. 

He praised Haris Rauf's spell as a "game-changing" moment.

Pakistan's victory marked a robust beginning to a packed season, but the most significant takeaway was the promising form of their pace attack, which aligns seamlessly with the imminent World Cup.

Since 2021, Pakistan's pacers have demonstrated remarkable prowess in ODIs. Haris Rauf leads the pack with an impressive 43 wickets in 21 matches, boasting an average of 24.02. While others may not have participated in as many ODIs as Rauf, their performances are equally noteworthy.

Shaheen Shah Afridi has claimed 27 wickets in 15 ODIs, while Mohammad Wasim, who was absent from this game, has secured 24 wickets in 14 matches. 

Naseem Shah, despite his relatively short nine-match ODI career, has already achieved two five-wicket hauls and maintains an outstanding average of 14.9.

Buoyed by their exceptional showing in the first ODI, Pakistan's bowling unit enters the upcoming Asia Cup and World Cup with renewed confidence and determination for further success in the months ahead.

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Exciting Changes in Pakistan Cricket: 2023-24 Domestic Season Unveiled

The 2023-24 domestic cricket season is set to revolutionize the cricketing landscape in Pakistan. 

With a focus on enhanced competition, quality cricket, and improved earning opportunities, the upcoming season introduces significant changes. 

The introduction of eight regional sides and eight department teams competing in separate first-class tournaments ensures a level playing field and harnesses the best cricketing talent. 

This visionary step, led by the PCB Cricket Technical Committee under the guidance of former captains Misbah ul Haq and Mohammad Hafeez, marks a new era in Pakistani cricket.

Red-Ball Cricket Highlights:

The men's cricket season kicks off on September 10th with the highly anticipated Quaid-e-Azam Trophy. 

This premier first-class tournament will see top regional teams battling for supremacy. 

Following this, the President's Trophy, starting on December 15th, features the top eight department teams in a thrilling showdown. 

Both tournaments adopt a single-league format, culminating in a gripping final match to determine the champions.

Regional and Departmental Line-Up:

A total of 18 regional sides are set to participate in the season. 

The Quaid-e-Azam Trophy will showcase eight elite teams, including Peshawar, Karachi Whites, Lahore Blues, Rawalpindi, FATA, Multan, Lahore Whites, and Faisalabad. 

Simultaneously, the Hanif Mohammad Trophy, a non-first-class four-day tournament, features ten regions: Abbottabad, Azad Jammu and Kashmir, Bahawalpur, Dera Murad Jamali, Hyderabad, Karachi Blues, Larkana, Quetta, Sialkot, and Islamabad.

The departmental cricket model, making a triumphant return, boasts over 40 registered teams ready to vie for glory. 

Teams like SNGPL, SSGC, WAPDA, KRL, PTV, NBP, and State Bank are set to compete in the prestigious President's Trophy. 

An eighth team will soon be revealed to complete the lineup.

Promotions and Relegations:

The 2023-24 season introduces an exciting promotion and relegation system. 

Teams excelling in the Hanif Mohammad Trophy, Patron's Trophy grade-II, and grade-III tournaments will earn well-deserved promotions. 

Meanwhile, the bottom performers in the Quaid-e-Azam Trophy, President's Trophy, and Patron's Trophy Grade II will be relegated to the lower division.

Youth Development:

The PCB's commitment to nurturing young talent is exemplified through the introduction of U13, U16, and U19 tournaments. 

These platforms offer aspiring cricketers the opportunity to showcase their skills and progress through the ranks. 

The integration of age-group competitions ensures a robust cricketing pathway for young talents.

White-Ball Cricket Excitement:

In the white-ball format, eight regional teams will compete for supremacy in the Pakistan Cup, while the Hanif Mohammad Cup welcomes the remaining ten teams. 

The National T20 extravaganza features all 18 regional teams, promising high-octane clashes and fierce competition.

Conclusion:

The 2023-24 domestic cricket season heralds an era of transformation and heightened competition in Pakistan cricket. 

Led by a visionary approach, this season's innovative structure ensures fair play, enhanced earning opportunities, and a strong focus on nurturing young cricketing talent. 

As the cricketing community eagerly anticipates the commencement of the season, these changes mark a significant step towards a brighter future for Pakistani cricket.

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2023 ODI World Cup Schedule Update: Pakistan Matches Rescheduled

The upcoming ODI World Cup in India is all set for a dynamic twist as Pakistan's four crucial matches have been realigned in the calendar. 

The altered schedule now presents thrilling encounters against Sri Lanka, India, New Zealand, and England on different dates, deviating from the original plan.

Navigating through the 2023 Cricket World Cup journey, Pakistan's path has undergone strategic modifications to accommodate local festivals in India. 

These necessary adjustments have been meticulously implemented to ensure the utmost security measures and seamless proceedings for all participating teams.

Mark your calendars for the clash against the Netherlands on October 6th in Hyderabad, followed by a riveting match against Sri Lanka, now scheduled for October 10th, having been moved up from the initial date of October 12th. 

Brace yourselves for the exhilarating showdown between Pakistan and India, which has been strategically shifted a day earlier to October 14th, taking place in Ahmedabad.

The dynamics of the tournament have further evolved with changes affecting the matches against New Zealand and England. 

These encounters have gracefully transitioned by a single day, now scheduled for November 4th and November 11th, respectively, adding an extra layer of anticipation and excitement.

Amidst these tactical adjustments, rest assured that matches against Australia, Afghanistan, South Africa, and Bangladesh remain unaltered, promising to deliver unadulterated cricketing action as initially planned.

Keep in mind that these adjustments solely pertain to the match dates, while the venues remain unchanged, ensuring a consistent and exhilarating tournament experience. 

Stay tuned for these gripping clashes that promise to redefine the cricketing landscape in the 2023 ODI World Cup.

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Pakistan Announces Squad for ACC Men's Asia Cup and ODI Series against Afghanistan

Inzamam-ul-Haq, the head of the national men’s selection committee, has unveiled the much-anticipated squads for the upcoming ACC Men’s Asia Cup and the riveting three-match One-Day International (ODI) series against Afghanistan.

The 18-player squad, brimming with talent, is poised to face Afghanistan in an exhilarating cricket encounter set in Sri Lanka from the 22nd to the 26th of August. 

This squad will undergo a reduction to 17 players for the prestigious Asia Cup, a tournament that will kick-start at the Multan Cricket Stadium on the 30th of August with Pakistan taking on Nepal in a thrilling opener.

The batting lineup is fortified with exceptional openers including Abdullah Shafique, Fakhar Zaman, and Imam-ul-Haq. 

The middle order is anchored by none other than the dynamic Babar Azam, who also holds the esteemed position of captain. 

Alongside him, the lineup boasts the talents of Salman Ali Agha, Iftikhar Ahmed, Tayyab Tahir, and the promising Saud Shakeel (exclusively for the Afghanistan series).

Behind the stumps, Pakistan's hopes rest in the capable hands of wicketkeepers Mohammad Rizwan and Mohammad Haris. 

The spin department is masterfully led by vice-captain Shadab Khan, who is joined by the skilled duo of Mohammad Nawaz and Usama Mir. Adding an all-around dimension to the team is the pace all-rounder Faheem Ashraf, whose prowess is set to leave a mark.

The pace attack is a force to be reckoned with, featuring the formidable trio of Haris Rauf, Mohammad Wasim Jnr, and Naseem Shah, complemented by the ever-impressive Shaheen Afridi.

Additionally, the Afghanistan series will include Tayyab Tahir, Faheem Ashraf, and Saud Shakeel, each expected to contribute significantly.

In a strategic move, the squad sees the omission of Shan Masood and Ihsanullah, who were part of the team that engaged in a high-stakes ODI series against New Zealand in April and May.

Faheem Ashraf's return after a two-year hiatus adds a boost to the team's balance, especially with his prowess as a fast-bowling all-rounder. 

His return to the ODI format takes fans down memory lane to his last appearance in Pakistan's gripping three-match series against England in July 2021.

As excitement and anticipation build, cricket enthusiasts eagerly await the clash of titans in the ACC Men's Asia Cup and the ODI series against Afghanistan. 

The meticulously chosen squad underpins Pakistan's determination to secure victory and etch their name in cricketing history.

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Inzamam-ul-Haq Appointed Chief Selector by Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Ahead of Crucial ODI Season

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has taken a decisive step by naming the accomplished former captain, Inzamam-ul-Haq, as the chief selector for the national team as they gear up for a significant ODI season.

PCB's Official Announcement on Twitter

Breaking the news to cricket enthusiasts across the nation, the PCB utilized the powerful medium of Twitter to announce this significant development, underlining the strategic importance of Inzamam-ul-Haq's appointment.

New Management Committee's Interest in a Legendary Cricketer

In a noteworthy development from the previous week, reports emerged that the newly-established management committee was showing keen interest in entrusting the esteemed Inzamam-ul-Haq with the pivotal role of chief selector within the national setup.

Transformations under Chairman Zaka Ashraf's Leadership

Ever since assuming the leadership of the PCB Management Committee, Chairman Zaka Ashraf has been instrumental in driving substantial changes in the administration of the cricket board, signifying a proactive shift in its operations.

Elevating Legends to Key Roles

Further elevating the profile of the cricket board, the PCB recently made a strategic move by appointing former captain Misbah-ul-Haq as the head of the esteemed Technical Committee.

 This strategic group also boasts the inclusion of the illustrious Mohammad Hafeez, adding to the cricketing brainpower at the helm.

Inzamam-ul-Haq's Reprise as Chief Selector

Notably, Inzamam-ul-Haq had previously served as the chief selector of the national team during the tenure spanning from 2016 to 2019, marking his prior engagement with shaping the cricketing destiny of Pakistan.

Inaugural Task: Selecting the Squad for the ODI Series Against Afghanistan

Inzamam-ul-Haq's initial challenge in his renewed role will be the meticulous task of assembling the perfect squad for the imminent ODI series against Afghanistan. 

Scheduled to commence on the 22nd of August, this series holds immense significance and is set to unfold in the cricketing arena of Sri Lanka.

This substantial appointment signifies PCB's commitment to charting a successful course for the national team as they prepare to engage in competitive battles on the cricketing field. The expertise and experience that Inzamam-ul-Haq brings to the table are expected to play a pivotal role in the team's quest for excellence during this crucial ODI season.

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