Champions Trophy 2025

A Game or a Political Battleground for India?

• November 16, 2021: The ICC officially announces the return of the Champions Trophy, with Pakistan selected as the host nation for the tournament in 2025. This marks Pakistan's first major ICC event since the 1996 ODI World Cup.
• January 6, 2022: The Pakistani government approves the construction of a new cricket stadium in Islamabad, which is expected to be completed by 2025 to facilitate the tournament.
• April 28, 2024: The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) proposes using three major venues—Karachi, Lahore, and Rawalpindi—for hosting matches during the tournament.
• November 11, 2024: The ICC is expected to announce the schedule for the Champions Trophy, but ongoing discussions about India’s participation create uncertainty.
• December 2, 2024: Reports indicate that matches will take place from February 19 to March 9, 2025. The tournament will feature two groups of four teams each, with a highly anticipated match between Pakistan and India scheduled for March 1, 2025.
• December 5, 2024: A tentative match schedule is leaked, confirming key matches including the opening match between New Zealand and Pakistan on February 19 and the final on March 9 in Lahore.
• December 10, 2024: As less than 100 days remain until the tournament begins, reports highlight ongoing disagreements between the PCB, ICC, and BCCI regarding schedule finalization and venue arrangements.

 

The 2025 ICC Champions Trophy will mark the ninth edition of this esteemed One Day International (ODI) cricket tournament. Organized by the International Cricket Council (ICC), it will feature the top eight ranked men's national teams from the 2023 Cricket World Cup. 

Group A	Group B
1. India	1. Afghanistan
2. Pakistan	2. Australia
3. New Zealand	3. England
4. Bangladesh	4. South Africa

The tournament is set to be hosted by Pakistan from 19 February to 9 March 2025, with Pakistan entering as the defending champions, having claimed victory in the 2017 edition.

On 16 November 2021, Pakistan was announced as the host, making it the first global tournament hosted by Pakistan since the 2009 attack on the Sri Lankan team. The last major cricketing event in the country was the 1996 Cricket World Cup, co-hosted with India and Sri Lanka. In December 2022, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) received government approval for constructing a new cricket stadium in Islamabad for the tournament. By 28 April 2024, three existing venues—Karachi, Lahore, and Rawalpindi—were proposed, with India slated to play its matches exclusively in Lahore. However, the exact distribution of matches across these venues remains uncertain due to India's refusal to travel to Pakistan.

The Champions Trophy 2025 promised to be a significant event, offering cricket fans the much-anticipated prospect of a Pakistan-India clash. Enthusiasts worldwide eagerly awaited the tournament, envisioning it as a celebration of cricket’s unifying spirit. However, India’s refusal to participate in Pakistan has cast a shadow over this event, leaving millions of fans disappointed and raising profound questions about the interplay between sports and politics.

India’s Withdrawal: Security or Politics?

India’s decision not to participate in the Champions Trophy hosted in Pakistan has escalated into a serious issue for international cricket. The Indian government has cited security concerns as the primary reason, arguing that the safety conditions in Pakistan are inadequate to ensure the well-being of their players. Additionally, India’s Sports Minister publicly declared that participation would remain off the table until Pakistan’s security situation shows marked improvement.

While these concerns appear legitimate on the surface, the decision is not devoid of political undertones. The fraught history between Pakistan and India, characterized by decades of diplomatic tensions and conflict, has frequently spilled over into the sports arena. India’s refusal to play in Pakistan reflects the broader narrative of political disputes overshadowing the purity of sports. This decision has not only strained cricketing ties further but also highlighted the enduring complexity of their bilateral relations.

Efforts to Bridge the Divide: PCB’s Role

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and the Pakistani government have made multiple attempts to persuade India to reconsider its stance. Central to these efforts has been the tireless advocacy of Mohsin Naqvi, a respected figure in the cricketing world. Known for his commitment to fostering sportsmanship, Naqvi has consistently championed the idea of separating politics from sports. He views cricket as a bridge capable of connecting the people of Pakistan and India, transcending their political differences.

The PCB extended numerous invitations to India, emphasizing the tournament’s potential to promote goodwill and mutual respect. He articulated a vision where cricket serves as a medium to reduce hostility and deliver a positive message to both nations. Despite his relentless efforts, India’s stance remained unchanged, underscoring the formidable challenges posed by security and political considerations.

The Significance of Cricket in Pakistan

Cricket holds unparalleled significance in Pakistan, serving as a source of national pride and unity. For Pakistan, hosting the Champions Trophy was more than just a sporting event; it was a golden opportunity to showcase its cricketing prowess on a global stage and boost the nation’s morale. The event promised to invigorate not only the sport but also other sectors, including tourism and the economy.

Fans in Pakistan, known for their fervent passion for cricket, had pinned high hopes on the tournament. They envisioned it as a chance to demonstrate the country’s readiness to host international events and to reaffirm Pakistan’s standing in the cricketing world. The anticipation surrounding the Champions Trophy reflected the deep emotional connection Pakistan’s people have with the sport, viewing every match as a significant cultural moment.

What Lies Ahead for the Champions Trophy?

India’s withdrawal has placed the future of the Champions Trophy 2025 in jeopardy. Without India’s participation, the tournament’s allure and competitive spirit risk being diminished. The International Cricket Council (ICC) and PCB face the daunting task of addressing this impasse. Possible solutions include relocating the tournament to a neutral venue, but such a move raises concerns about undermining its original intent—showcasing Pakistan as a capable and secure host for international cricket.

The absence of a high-profile India-Pakistan clash would inevitably detract from the event’s appeal, impacting its viewership and sponsorship potential. More broadly, it raises critical questions about how cricket can navigate the delicate balance between political tensions and the sport’s unifying essence.

Separating Sports from Politics: A Global Imperative

Globally, the principle of keeping sports independent from political disputes is widely acknowledged. Figures like Mohsin Naqvi have tirelessly advocated for this principle, arguing that cricket possesses a unique ability to foster understanding and bring people together. The India-Pakistan cricketing rivalry, despite its intensity, has historically provided moments of unity and shared passion.

Had India agreed to play in Pakistan, the Champions Trophy 2025 could have been a historic occasion—not just for cricket but for bilateral relations as well. It would have symbolized a step toward healing and cooperation, reminding the world of sports’ power to bridge divides. Instead, India’s decision underscores the growing intrusion of political considerations into the domain of sports, a trend that risks eroding the very spirit of the game.

What is the Fusion Model?

The "fusion model" proposed for the ICC Champions Trophy involves a hybrid approach to hosting matches between India and Pakistan.

The fusion model is a hybrid arrangement where matches between India and Pakistan in ICC events are played at neutral venues instead of the home country of the opposing team. This model aims to address security concerns and logistical challenges that have previously hindered bilateral cricketing ties between the two nations.

Why is it Called the Fusion Model?

The term "fusion" suggests a blending or merging of elements from both sides to create a mutually agreeable solution. In this context, it means combining the interests of both cricket boards to ensure that matches can take place without either team having to travel to the other's country.

The term "fusion" in the context of the cricket fusion model refers to the merging or combining of two different approaches to hosting ICC events involving India and Pakistan.

Here's a breakdown of the two models and how they are combined in the fusion model:

1. Hybrid Model:

• This model was preferred by India.

• It involved India hosting its matches in India, while Pakistan's matches would be shifted to a neutral venue.

2. PCB's Proposed Model:

• This model was proposed by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB).

• It involved a reciprocal arrangement where both India and Pakistan would play their matches at neutral venues when either country is hosting an ICC event.

Key Points of the Fusion Model:

The fusion model is a compromise between these two approaches. It combines elements of both models:

• India's Matches: India will play its matches at a neutral venue when Pakistan is the host country.

• Pakistan's Matches: Pakistan will play its matches at a neutral venue when India is the host country.

• Financial Considerations: The PCB proposed organizing additional tournaments, like a tri-nation series, to offset any financial losses due to matches being played outside Pakistan.

This model aims to maintain the competitive spirit of cricket while ensuring the safety and convenience of both teams.

This arrangement ensures that both countries get to participate in ICC events, while also addressing the political and security concerns associated with bilateral series between the two nations.

PCB's Offer and India's Trouble

Discussions regarding the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 are ongoing. The PCB is advocating for a fair and long-term agreement that extends beyond the tournament, allowing Pakistan to play at neutral venues during global events held in India. The timeline for these provisions is still under consideration, whether for three years or until the end of the current rights cycle in 2031.

India is set to host multiple significant tournaments, including the 2026 T20 World Cup with Sri Lanka, the 2029 Champions Trophy, and the 2031 World Cup with Bangladesh, alongside the women’s ODI World Cup in 2025. While co-hosted events may offer a solution, any matches between India and Pakistan will still present challenges. Additionally, the Asia Cup scheduled for October 2025 will take place in India, further complicating matters.

Beyond the Headlines

India’s refusal to participate in the Champions Trophy 2025 will be more than a setback for cricket; it’s a reflection of the broader challenges facing international sports in politically charged environments. While millions of fans in both countries mourn the missed opportunity for a thrilling contest, the situation underscores the urgent need for dialogue and cooperation. Leaders exemplify how cricket can serve as a platform for fostering goodwill, but their efforts must be met with reciprocal openness.

Moving forward, it is imperative for cricketing authorities and governments to work collaboratively, ensuring that the game remains a source of joy, connection, and unity. Only then can cricket fulfill its potential as a true global sport that transcends borders and rivalries.

Ramiz Raja: A Crow Tries To become Swan

Ramiz Raja: A Case of Chasing the Wrong Formula

Home Ground Advantage—or Not?

After 3.5 years, Pakistan has finally won a Test series on its home ground, this time against England—a remarkable feat considering the difficult start of losing the first Test in Multan. Since Test cricket returned to Pakistan, winning at home had almost become a distant memory. Even on pitches where Pakistan was historically unbeatable, losses kept mounting. Bangladesh came and left with a clean sweep against Pakistan, leading to widespread skepticism about frequent captain changes and the management’s approach, nearly affecting the fate of players like Shan Masood. It seemed that the real issue went unaddressed.

 

At last, however, after enduring failures for 3.5 years, Pakistan Cricket Management has made a 180-degree shift, restoring the pitch conditions to their traditional state. England, which had previously reached towering totals of 800, struggled to even cross the triple-digit mark. This left even cricket icons like Brendon McCullum and Michael Atherton amazed, remarking, "It took Pakistan 3.5 years to figure this out?"

 

The Decline of Pakistan's Home Advantage

Before Test cricket’s hiatus in Pakistan, the last home series was played against Sri Lanka in 2009. Both games were drawn, and then a decade passed before Test cricket returned in 2019, once again with Sri Lanka. Pakistan drew the first game and won the second to secure the series. In 2020, Pakistan defeated Bangladesh in Rawalpindi. Early 2021 saw South Africa come to Pakistan, where Pakistan triumphed in Karachi and Rawalpindi.

 

Then came the turning point in September 2021 when Ramiz Raja became PCB Chairman, ushering in the era of green pitches—a tactic that quickly backfired. Raja’s choice to tailor pitches to unfamiliar conditions for Pakistan, much like attempting to grow pomegranates in the heat of Multan, derailed Pakistan’s home advantage. The following year, Pakistan's home ground record began to falter:

 

| Opponent       | Year | Winner | Result |

|--------------------|----------|------------|------------|

| Australia          | 2022     | Australia | 1-0 (3)    |

| England            | 2022     | England    | 3-0 (3)    |

| New Zealand        | 2023     | Drawn      | 0-0 (2)    |

| Bangladesh         | 2024     | Bangladesh | 2-0 (2)    |

| England            | 2024     | Pakistan   | 2-1 (3)    |

 

Australia won their 2022 series, and England dominated later that year with a 3-0 sweep. Pakistan managed to draw with New Zealand in 2023, only to suffer a historic whitewash by Bangladesh in 2024. Later that year, Pakistan became the first team to lose after scoring 500 runs at home, while England scored an unprecedented 800 runs against Pakistan. Amid this losing streak, Pakistan tried everything, from playing with four fast bowlers and no spinner—a decision unheard of in 28 years—to continuously changing captains. Still, victory eluded them. In these 10 matches, Pakistan failed to secure a single win. Ramiz Raja’s experiment yielded no success and proved disastrous for Pakistan's Test cricket at home.

 

Learning from International Strategies

Globally, teams leverage home conditions for an advantage. Australia, for instance, often opens Test series against Asian teams at Perth, where the high bounce proves challenging for players accustomed to low-bounce pitches. This strategy has contributed to Pakistan’s poor record in Australia, with only four Test wins in 39 matches, and no series victory.

 

| Pakistan's Record in Australia |

|------------------------------------|

| Total Tours: 12               |

| Series Wins: 0                |

| Series Draws: 1 (1976-77)     |

| Test Matches Played: 39       |

| Wins: 4                       |

| Losses: 28                    |

| Draws: 7                      |

 

India exemplifies how to maximise home ground advantage. From February 2013 to October 2024, they won 18 consecutive Test series on home soil. Pakistan could certainly learn from its neighbours and their strategic use of home conditions.

 

Ramiz Raja’s green-pitch experiment only reminds one of the sayings, “the crow tried to walk like a swan and forgot his own gait.” But thankfully, after 3.5 years of missteps, Pakistan Cricket Management has finally come to its senses. Better late than never.

Pakistan's Path to the Semifinals

World Cup 2023: 
Favoritism and Pakistan's Path to the Semifinals

As the World Cup 2023 unfolds, discussions around the likely semifinalists have taken center stage. Three teams consistently top most predictions: India, England, and Australia. However, the fourth spot remains an open question.

 

Contenders for the Fourth Spot:

Regional experts are leaning towards Pakistan as the potential fourth contender, largely due to its history and fan base in the region. However, New Zealand has emerged as a strong candidate following its impressive victory over England.

After a win against the Netherlands, Pakistan still needs to secure victories over Afghanistan, Sri Lanka, and Bangladesh, but that alone may not be enough. To solidify its position, Pakistan would need to defeat at least two of the major teams to avoid falling into a precarious "if and but" situation.

The Major Teams:

The top teams have entered the tournament with full strength and balance. England, in particular, has been in exceptional form, bolstered by additions like Moeen and Adil, creating a nearly unbeatable side. Australia, a traditional powerhouse in one-day cricket, has also arrived with a well-rounded roster.

India has always been known for its formidable batting line-up, complemented this year by a strong spin attack. Their all-rounders further enhance the team’s stability, with Hardik Pandya adding exceptional depth. While India’s fast bowling has historically lagged, Mohammad Siraj's recent Asia Cup performance may have finally given Jasprit Bumrah the ideal partner. Together, these factors have positioned India as one of the tournament's favorites.

Beyond these three, New Zealand and South Africa stand out as Pakistan’s primary rivals for the fourth semifinal slot. Pakistan must secure a win against one of these two teams to maintain realistic hopes of advancing.

Challenges for Pakistan:

Pakistan has entered the World Cup not at full strength. The Asia Cup exposed several weaknesses, leading to a drop in their world ranking. The absence of fast bowler Naseem Shah due to injury disrupted Pakistan’s bowling attack, forcing them to rely on disciplined line and length instead of sheer pace.

Spin bowling remains another area of concern, with Pakistan choosing all-rounders and part-time spinners over specialist spin bowlers. Most teams in the tournament feature at least one specialist spinner, while Pakistan continues to rely on Shadab Khan and Mohammad Nawaz, whose styles may be better suited to the fast pace of T20 rather than the 50-over format. Some experts have suggested replacing Shadab with Usama Mir or giving up Nawaz in favor of an alternative, particularly as neither has been able to contribute consistently.

After Pakistan’s recent loss to Sri Lanka, fans on social media called for Imad Wasim in place of Nawaz. Imad’s confidence in batting could add value to the team, but his spin capabilities might not suffice in ODI cricket, where batsmen can settle in for longer innings.

Opening Woes:

A strong opening partnership has always been a rare luxury for Pakistan. Recent matches have exposed Fakhar Zaman's struggle for form, dropping him to 11th in the ODI rankings from his career-high of No. 2. Despite this, his potential as a match-winner means Pakistan continues to give him chances, hoping he will deliver. However, a stable batting lineup requires more than individual brilliance; consistent contributions from all players are essential.

Rizwan at No. 4 adds stability, while Saud Shakeel, included at the last minute, brings depth to the batting order. Initially left out in favor of Agha Salman’s part-time bowling, Saud’s solid performances have now made him an essential part of the lineup. The only weak link remains the opening pair, which needs to find its footing for Pakistan to perform consistently.

Leadership Questions:

Babar Azam's leadership often comes under scrutiny when Pakistan falters. In team selection, he has been accused of favoritism, and on the field, his captaincy sometimes appears more focused on completing overs than setting attacking strategies. That said, Babar's personal performances elevate team morale, giving Pakistan an edge.

Ranked as the world’s No. 1 batsman since April 2021, Babar faces a pivotal World Cup. While his consistency has held this ranking, a slip-up could not only cost him the top position but might also open the door for Shaheen Afridi to take over as captain.

Pakistan's World Cup Journey So Far:

This is Pakistan's 13th World Cup. Of the previous 12 tournaments, Pakistan reached the semifinals four times, finished as runners-up once (1999), and claimed the title in 1992. Their worst performances were in 2003 and 2007 when they ranked 10th. In 2019, although they failed to make the semifinals, their overall performance was commendable, with notable victories against some strong teams.

Pakistan’s Road to the Semifinals:

The tournament features 10 teams, each playing 9 matches. A team that wins all its games will end up with 18 points, with 16 and 14 points typically sufficing for the top three spots. A fourth-place finish could be secured with around 12 points. If no major upsets occur, the top 6 teams are expected to accumulate at least 8 points each by winning against the lower 4 teams, making the remaining points contested within the top teams.

Key Matches for Pakistan:

One of the most anticipated games of the World Cup will take place on October 14 between Pakistan and India. Set in Gujarat’s Narendra Modi Stadium, this match promises an electric atmosphere with over 132,000 fans expected. Despite Pakistan leading their head-to-head record overall, they have yet to defeat India in a World Cup encounter.

Pitch Analysis:

The Narendra Modi Stadium offers a balanced pitch that starts with bounce but slows down as the game progresses. Dew could be a factor in the second innings, favoring teams that bat first. While the pitch has supported scores as high as 365, India once successfully chased down 325 here in 2002, indicating that both teams will need to adapt to changing conditions.

Prospects for Pakistan:

Statistically, Pakistan’s chances may seem slim, but confidence is running high after their historic win against Sri Lanka. If they can weather the pressure in their upcoming matches, especially against India, they may ride this momentum deep into the tournament.

Cricket vs Football, Which is Better

Cricket or Football?

While the entire world is going crazy over football, here we are, content with our test matches.

Qatar splashed a staggering $220 billion on football, while we spent five whole days playing with just five or six leather balls. It's hard not to feel a bit inferior in such a scenario.

Test cricket—what is it really? A supreme test of patience. A long, monotonous game that demands endurance. But where's the fun once boredom sets in? After all, the essence of sport is excitement, energy, and action. Picture this: a bowler runs in from 30 meters away, puts all his strength into hurling the ball like a bullet towards the batsman, and what does the batsman do? Casually leaves it alone. For someone unfamiliar with cricket, watching that scene again might make them want to tear their hair out. Yet, hats off to our patience and passion as we eagerly await the next delivery. Test cricket is boring, long, and after five days of struggle, there’s still no guarantee of a result. Sometimes, even a draw feels like a victory. Is that really the spirit of the game? Can a sport celebrate timidity as an admirable quality?

Looking at the format and length of a Test match, it seems like a game for people with too much time on their hands—people without real work to do. And yes, you're right: cricket was indeed a game for the idle rich. They weren’t concerned about making a living, just passing the time with grace. The elites would play while their servants did the fielding, and all the lords had to do was hit boundaries.

The United Kingdom of Great Britain was the largest empire in recorded human history and, more significantly, a self-proclaimed harbinger of modern civilization across the East and West. Many tend to dismiss the British as mere greedy invaders and looters, thereby oversimplifying the narrative. However, the other side of the picture is equally compelling and worth examining. Yes, the British plundered vast resources across the globe, a tragic chapter in itself, but what they contributed to the world—education, science, technology, industry, and economics—deserves reflection as well. Our focus here is on sports, a domain where Britain’s influence has been profound. Indeed, most of the sports that are popular across the world today owe their origins to British colonialism.

Britain ruled the Indian subcontinent for nearly 200 years. So, why did the British only leave us with cricket and not football? Why did they not pass on the latter, equally thrilling game?

Football, a sport with a rich and long history, dates back to the 13th century when it was first played in the meadows and fields across England. When the British first arrived in India, their national and favorite sport was already cricket. In the 1700s, they introduced cricket to the subcontinent, and by around 1720, the first cricket match in India was played. The first cricket club in India was established in 1792. India played its first international Test match in 1932, becoming the sixth nation to join the Test-playing world.

Football, on the other hand, only gained widespread popularity in Britain after 1863, by which time cricket had already established deep roots in the subcontinent.

Football only gained popularity in Britain after 1863, by which time cricket had already established itself firmly in the Indian subcontinent. As a result, football never quite took root in the region.

Secondly, the ruling elite were the ones who ventured into the colonies, and cricket was their sport of choice. Wherever the British elite went, cricket followed. On the other hand, football was considered the sport of Britain’s middle-class workers. These workers, involved in fields like science, education, industry, and railways, carried football with them to whichever part of the world their work took them. Consequently, football flourished in Europe and other regions where British workers traveled, while the colonized nations continued to see cricket as the prime and prestigious sport, following in the footsteps of their former rulers.

Cricket has become the religion of the subcontinent and its star god

When comparing cricket and football in terms of the resources required, football players need only a field and a single ball to play, while cricket demands not only a field but also an expensive ball, costly bats, and even more expensive cricket gear. Thus, cricket is often seen as the sport of the wealthy, while football, being less costly, is regarded as the game of the middle class and the poor.

A small ground suffices for football, but in cricket, a well-hit shot can break a neighbor’s window. Weather also has a lesser impact on football, while cricket is highly sensitive to the elements, with many matches falling victim to rain.

From a technical standpoint, a midfielder in football runs approximately 7 kilometers during a 90-minute match, whereas a fast bowler in T20 cricket runs about 700 meters. Much of the footballer’s running often goes unrewarded, while in cricket, almost every ball leads to some action. Despite covering 7 kilometers, football matches often end in a draw, whereas the chances of a draw in cricket, especially in shorter formats, are almost negligible.

Two of the greatest stars of the modern world of football

Although cricket is a longer game than football, the excitement in cricket reaches its peak during the final moments when only a few runs are needed from the last few balls. Football lacks this particular intensity; penalty shootouts are merely a straightforward method to decide the outcome of a match.

In football, all players get ample opportunities to showcase their skills throughout the match, while in cricket, stars like Babar Azam or Virat Kohli often end up dominating the game single-handedly. Additionally, football allows substitutions during the game, offering tactical flexibility, while in cricket, once you're out, there’s no second chance.

From the perspective of fitness and physical exertion, football provides nearly all its players with continuous, rigorous physical activity, whereas in cricket, only a few players are actively engaged at any given time.

Football may involve constant tussles and body contact, but cricket injuries, caused by the hard ball, can sometimes be far more severe. Handling a cricket ball isn’t easy, and injuries from it can be quite serious.

When it comes to skill and technique, footballers display mastery with their feet—swinging the ball, creating angles, and executing long-range kicks.

And from his head too, he gets applause. 

Cristiano Ronaldo, the world's greatest and most popular soccer player, with a flying head kick of about 10 feet.

On the other hand, there are more factors involved in cricket, the toss, the area, the weather of the area, the pitch etc. are very important.

Shoaib Akhtar bowling the fastest ball in the world of cricket at a speed of 161.3 km

Let’s talk about the art of fast bowling in cricket, its passion, and the sheer skill it demands—speed, fitness, and swing. When a fast bowler charges towards the crease from his run-up, the intensity builds with every step. Then there's the magic of a slow bowler’s googlies and spin. Imagine facing a ball delivered at 160 km/h—evaluating its trajectory in a split second and launching a powerful stroke that can send it soaring over 90 meters. Every ball bowled at the batsman could be his last, leaving almost no room for error.

Brett Lee: Consistently attacking batsmen at speeds above 150 km/h.

In comparison, Cristiano Ronaldo’s kick is considered one of the fastest in football, reaching speeds of around 130 km/h.

Football is played and watched almost everywhere in the world, while cricket’s popularity is limited to specific regions. The FIFA World Cup has become a global celebration, where the entire world comes together in a single moment of collective excitement. The level of celebration and energy generated during the tournament captivates the entire globe, even countries without world-class teams get swept up in the media hype and influence. If you remove Indian fans from cricket’s fanbase, its global following would drop to less than half.

Football, having transcended any single nation or region, doesn’t fall prey to the kind of political manipulation that cricket often does. In particular, India has used cricket as a political tool, casting a shadow over the notion of cricket as a "gentleman’s game."

From a fanbase perspective, football is far ahead. It boasts around 3.5 to 4 billion fans, whereas cricket struggles to reach 2.5 billion at most.

Cristiano Ronaldo, one of the most famous footballers, has an estimated net worth of $500 million. His charitable contributions, such as funding a child’s medical treatment with $100,000, add to his global appeal. Football transfers, such as Neymar’s record-breaking $230 million deal, are unmatched in the cricketing world. 

 Similarly, when it comes to money, football is far ahead

Virat Kohli's net worth is estimated to be around $127 million. While according to Forbes report, French star Kylian Mbappe will earn 128 million dollars this season.

The French footballer who beat Messi and Argentina Mbappe was born in Bondi, a small town north of Paris. His father from Cameroon was the coach of the local club. His son was not interested in anything except football. Mbappe had a football match going on in his mind while he was awake.

His bedroom had posters of Ronaldo and Zidane, whom he has been a fan of since childhood.

At a young age, it began to appear that Kalyan had a talent. At the age of 10, word got around Paris that a kid from Bondi was a pretty good footballer.

Similarly, the football trophy made of gold is the most expensive trophy in the world.

If we talk about the Muslim community, is Pakistan the only Muslim country that has won the World Cup?

Morocco's victory over Spain in the World Cup 2022 is being hailed as their victory by Muslims and Arabs, although Morocco is not an Arab but an African country, but all this is a reason to be proud.

The best performance by a Muslim country in the FIFA World Cup so far is Turkey’s third-place finish in 2002. In contrast, Pakistan has not only won the Cricket World Cup but also holds numerous global cricket records.

Pakistan played its first international cricket match on November 22, 1935, in a match between Sindh and Australia. Here are Pakistan's major achievements in cricket:

• 1992 One Day World Cup: Winner
• 1999 One Day World Cup: Runner-up
• 2009 T20 World Cup: Winner
• 2007 T20 World Cup: Runner-up
• 2022 T20 World Cup: Runner-up
• 2017 Champions Trophy: Winner

Sialkot and Football

Although Pakistan’s global football ranking is 194, it is ranked number one in the world for manufacturing footballs. This is due to Sialkot's historical connection with football. Sialkot is known as the "football manufacturing capital of the world"! It is the official football supplier for the FIFA World Cup and the largest producer of hand-stitched footballs globally. Local factories in Sialkot produce 40-60 million footballs annually, which accounts for around 60% of the world’s football production.

Sialkot is a relatively wealthy city compared to the rest of Pakistan, with a GDP of $13 billion and an estimated per capita income of $18,500 in 2021.

Sialkot first became a hub for sports equipment manufacturing during the colonial era. In British India, footballs for the English players were shipped from Britain. On one occasion, the shipment was delayed, and the players had to use old footballs. An Englishman, in need of repair for his worn-out football, took it to a market in Sialkot. Impressed by the high-quality repair, the English began ordering footballs directly from Sialkot.

Today, Sialkot produces a wide range of sports equipment, including footballs, hockey sticks, cricket gear, and gloves, which are used in international events such as the Olympics and World Cups.

The heart says cricket, but the mind says football.

Pakistan and Afghanistan Cricket War

How Did Cricket Become Politicized in the Subcontinent?

Cricket, often referred to as the "gentleman's game," has taken on an entirely different identity in the subcontinent, morphing into a battleground of politics and diplomacy. What once symbolized sportsmanship has, over time, been weaponized by India against Pakistan, and now, Afghanistan has become embroiled in this complex rivalry. Tensions between these nations are no longer confined to political arenas—they are playing out visibly on cricket pitches across the region. 

When we think of Afghanistan, certain stereotypical images often come to mind, largely shaped by the media: a woman in a burqa, a bearded man with a Kalashnikov, and barren landscapes. Rarely do we view Afghanistan in its full complexity, with its rich ethnic and religious diversity. The country, with its layered history, is far more than these limiting representations.

For decades, Pakistan and India were the traditional cricketing rivals in the subcontinent. But in recent years, this rivalry has extended to include Afghanistan, which has emerged as a new contender. The question arises: how did Afghanistan, a nation whose cricket program was once nurtured by Pakistan, become its adversary on the field?

The irony is unmistakable. Many of Afghanistan's star cricketers were born in Pakistan, raised there, and learned to play the sport in its fields and stadiums. Pakistan played a crucial role in building Afghan cricket from the ground up—supporting its infrastructure, providing financial aid, and even supplying its first coach.

However, as Kabul's political alignment shifted, so did its cricket board's loyalties. India, seeking to expand its influence in Afghanistan, built cricket stadiums there and began financially backing the Afghan cricket board. The lure of the Indian Premier League (IPL) also pulled Afghan players toward India. This geopolitical maneuvering caused a rift between the cricket boards and administrations of Pakistan and Afghanistan.

There’s an Afghan proverb that sums up the harsh realities of history: "May God save you from the venom of a cobra, the teeth of a lion, and the vengeance of an Afghan." 

Afghanistan's historical legacy is steeped in tales of plunder, and for centuries, its tribes survived by raiding wealthier lands. In fact, every time a tribal army set out for Punjab, countless Afghan tribes joined in, driven by the necessity of survival, as their barren lands offered little by way of agriculture.

کھادا پیتا لاہے داتے باقی احمد شاھے دا 

In modern times, the game of cricket became another front in this regional struggle. The turning point in recent Afghan-Pakistan relations came when the Soviet Union raised the red flag over Kabul, marking the beginning of a new era. The winds of history blew in a new direction, one that sought to rewrite old narratives and forge new alliances. Anti-Pakistan movements took root, and now, some in Kabul seek to reignite these hostile winds from the West toward the East.

Afghanistan's geographic location—rugged, mountainous, and perilous—has earned it the moniker "graveyard of empires." British forces learned this the hard way in the Anglo-Afghan wars, and the Russians and Americans faced similar fates. While the region may have seemed unconquerable at times, historical conquerors like the Persians, Mongols, and Alexander the Great managed to subdue it briefly. Yet, in the end, it was conflict and chaos that endured, as locals resisted both foreign invaders and their own rulers, preventing any one faction from holding power for long.

A Brief Timeline of Afghanistan's History:

• Alexander the Great, Genghis Khan, Timur, and the Mughals: Afghanistan's strategic location made it a crossroads for some of history's greatest empires. Alexander spent three years leading his army and elephants through its treacherous terrain.
• 1219: Genghis Khan's forces ravaged Balkh and Herat, erecting towers made of human skulls.
• 1500: Babur left the Ferghana Valley to conquer Kabul, laying the groundwork for the Mughal Empire.
• 1747: Ahmad Shah Durrani, appointed Afghanistan's first king at the Loya Jirga, would go on to defeat the Marathas and capture Delhi and Kashmir.
• 1880–1901: Amir Abdur Rahman, known as the "Iron Amir," ruled Kabul, negotiating the infamous Durand Line with the British.
• 1926: Amanullah declared himself king and introduced progressive reforms, but his efforts were met with resistance, leading to his eventual ouster.
• 1979: The Soviet invasion triggered decades of war, displacing millions and setting the stage for the rise of the Mujahideen.
• 1989: The withdrawal of Soviet forces marked a victory for the Mujahideen but also left Afghanistan in chaos, as competing factions vied for power.

1989-1992: Aftermath of Soviet Withdrawal

• February 15, 1989: The Soviet Union completes its withdrawal from Afghanistan after nearly a decade of military involvement, leaving a power vacuum and escalating civil conflict among various factions
• April 1992: The Mujahideen, a coalition of anti-communist factions, oust President Mohammad Najibullah, leading to the establishment of a transitional government. However, internal rivalries soon erupt into civil war1992-1996: Rise of the Taliban

• 1994: The Taliban emerge as a significant force, gaining control over Kandahar and promising to restore peace and security through strict Islamic law
• September 1996: The Taliban capture Kabul, imposing a harsh interpretation of Sharia law and significantly restricting women's rights and freedoms2001: U.S. Invasion

• October 7, 2001: Following the September 11 attacks, the U.S. launches Operation Enduring Freedom, targeting the Taliban regime for harboring al-Qaeda leader Osama bin Laden. The Taliban are quickly ousted from power2001-2014: Reconstruction and Ongoing Conflict

• December 2001: A new interim government led by Hamid Karzai is established with international support
• 2004: Afghanistan adopts a new constitution, establishing itself as an Islamic republic with democratic elections
• 2014: NATO formally ends its combat mission in Afghanistan, transitioning security responsibilities to Afghan forces amid ongoing insurgency challenges from the Taliban and other groups2020-2021: U.S. Withdrawal and Taliban Resurgence

• February 29, 2020: The U.S. and Taliban sign the Doha Agreement, stipulating the withdrawal of U.S. troops in exchange for Taliban commitments to prevent terrorist activities
• August 15, 2021: The Taliban recapture Kabul as U.S. forces complete their withdrawal, marking a dramatic return to power after two decades of conflictPost-2021 Developments

• 2021-Present: Following the Taliban takeover, Afghanistan faces significant humanitarian crises, with reports of human rights violations and resistance movements emerging against the new regime. The situation remains unstable as international recognition and aid are heavily debated

Throughout its history, Afghanistan has been a land where empires rise and fall, often at the mercy of the forces that sweep through its mountainous terrain. Today, it remains a focal point of geopolitical tension, and cricket has become an unlikely stage for this ongoing saga. The game is no longer just a sport but a reflection of the broader struggles for influence and power in the region.

Afghanistan’s Dual Ideological Divide: A Struggle Between Religion and Nationalism

In recent events, Afghanistan's ideological landscape is often seen as divided into two distinct schools of thought. On one side is the religious ideology, which has been nurtured and cultivated over the years. On the other side is nationalism, which, at various points in history, has been promoted as a counterbalance to religious dominance. Despite the political influence of religious groups that has grown since the Afghan Jihad, the nationalist faction seizes any opportunity to challenge this dominance and attempt to reshape Afghanistan’s national narrative. Figures like Hamid Karzai and Ashraf Ghani are recent examples of leaders who tried to push this nationalist agenda. However, the religious faction, significantly supported by Saudi money over the decades, remains the more dominant force. This dominance persists because U.S. dollars have largely failed to influence the broader Afghan population, being funneled instead toward the elite, who rarely have the people's interests at heart. The elite and the masses, as is often the case, have conflicting interests.

Throughout the 20th century, Afghanistan has been a battleground for the world's superpowers. Yet, due to its unique geography, economic structure, and social fabric, the country has always resisted foreign invaders. In times of war, the Afghan people have little to lose, while the invading forces stand to gain almost nothing. This imbalance has made Afghanistan an exceptionally challenging adversary.

Given these realities, Afghanistan has always been a difficult partner in any relationship. For Pakistan, navigating its relationship with Afghanistan requires careful, deliberate steps.

Yoga!

Yoga: The Path to Inner Peace and Self-Mastery

Yoga is the practice of transcending the physical to reach a state of inner tranquility. Its roots stretch back to prehistory, with evidence of yoga found in the ancient Indus Valley civilization. Over time, yoga was incorporated into Hinduism, but today it belongs to no single religion and is practiced by people worldwide, embracing all races and cultures. Yoga, in essence, is rooted in science. The word “yoga” in ancient Sanskrit translates to “union,” symbolizing the connection between body, mind, and spirit.

Practitioners adopt specific postures, focusing their minds to connect deeply with their inner selves. Through this practice, one learns self-control and the power of discipline, building confidence to overcome life’s challenges. Yoga is, in fact, a path to truth, encouraging individuals to relinquish worldly desires, quiet the mind, and foster a relationship with the divine. For many in India, yoga has become a cultural emblem, celebrated globally on June 21 each year, a tradition formally established by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in 2014 through a United Nations resolution.

Yoga, a time-honored tradition in India, fosters mental and physical resilience. In today’s fast-paced, technology-driven world, as anxiety rises, yoga offers a refuge, helping people reconnect with their emotions and cope with rapid changes. The complexity of modern life often leaves humans struggling to integrate thousands of years of mental evolution with recent technological advances. 

Today, we face unprecedented societal, environmental, and economic uncertainties, and in such times, yoga offers a key to mental, spiritual, and physical tranquility.

The Eight Limbs of Yoga

Yoga encompasses eight foundational principles:

1.    Yama (Restraint): Cultivating self-discipline and ethical behavior.

2.    Niyama (Observance): Setting principles and intentions to guide one’s actions.

3.    Asana (Posture): Achieving a position that brings physical and mental ease, promoting tranquility.

4.    Pranayama (Breath Control): Mindful breathing that provides mental clarity and vitality, with figures like Gautama Buddha practicing focused breathing to enhance insight and creativity.

5.    Pratyahara (Withdrawal of Senses): Resting the senses, which rejuvenates the mind and body.

6.    Dharana (Focus): Concentrating thought and directing the mind toward a single point, which develops self-control.

7.    Dhyana (Meditation): Deep, uninterrupted focus leading to a meditative state where one feels enveloped by a powerful inner energy.

8.    Samadhi (Enlightenment): The pinnacle of yoga, where the practitioner transcends time and space, experiencing a profound connection with the divine. Buddha referred to this state as Nirvana.

Yoga is much more than physical exercise;

it is a way of life that leads to self-discovery, inner peace, and a deeper understanding of existence. Through this transformative journey, yoga invites individuals to reconnect with their spirit, embrace their humanity, and find solace in a world of constant change.