Pakistan vs. India: The Greatest Rivalry in Cricket

Few sporting rivalries in the world command as much passion, anticipation, and intensity as India vs. Pakistan cricket. With a combined fanbase of over 1.65 billion, this historic contest transcends the boundaries of sports, steeped in shared history, cultural ties, and political narratives.

But is this legendary face-off still the ultimate cricketing battle? Or has it become a lopsided affair, more about nostalgia than competition? Recent results suggest a dramatic shift—one that raises crucial questions about the future of this once-thrilling rivalry.

History of Rivalry

Before 1947, India and Pakistan were part of the same cricketing ecosystem under British rule. However, partition not only divided the land but also fueled an intense, emotionally charged rivalry. Over the decades, cricket has served as both a battlefield and a bridge, keeping the connection alive through fierce yet captivating encounters.

This rivalry has been amplified by the sheer magnitude of its fanbase and its portrayal as a ‘war minus the shooting,’ a term coined by George Orwell to critique excessive nationalism in sports. Political undertones and high-stakes encounters have often defined India-Pakistan matches, turning them into global spectacles.

But is it still a contest of equals, or has one side pulled too far ahead?

The Changing Competitive Landscape

There was a time when Indo-Pak clashes were neck-and-neck encounters, with Pakistan often holding the upper hand. During the 1980s and 1990s, legends like Imran Khan, Wasim Akram, Waqar Younis, and Javed Miandad gave Pakistan an edge. Their fast-bowling dominance and fearless batting lineup made them a formidable opponent, often outclassing India in high-pressure games.

Fast forward to today, and the balance has shifted dramatically. India’s cricketing infrastructure, financial muscle, and strategic planning have propelled them to the top. The emergence of the Indian Premier League (IPL) has provided a world-class platform for talent development, while Pakistan has struggled with inconsistent performances, administrative hurdles, and a lack of international exposure.

Head-to-Head Record: A Statistical Perspective

Format	Total Matches	Pakistan Wins	India Wins
Test	59	12	9
ODI	136	73	55
T20I	14	3	11

While Pakistan leads historically in ODIs and Tests, India's dominance in modern-day cricket—especially in T20Is and ICC events—tells a different story.

Recent Head-to-Head (Last Decade):

Format	Total Matches	Pakistan Wins	India Wins
ODIs	10	1 (2017)	9
T20Is	10	3	7

Key Takeaways:

• Tests: No matches since 2007-08 due to political tensions.
• ODIs: Pakistan’s lone win in the last decade came in 2017.
• T20Is: India dominates with 7 wins in 10 matches, including critical World Cup clashes.

 

Pakistan's Performance in ICC Tournaments

Over the years, Pakistan has had moments of glory in ICC tournaments, with significant victories and deep runs in multiple events. However, recent performances indicate a decline, making their future prospects uncertain against a consistently improving Indian side.

Tournament	Winner	Runner-up	Semi-Finalist
ICC Cricket World Cup	1992	1999	1979, 1983, 1987, 2011
ICC T20 World Cup	2009	2007	2010, 2012, 2021
ICC Champions Trophy	2017	N/A	2004, 2009

Pakistan's struggles in ICC tournaments further highlight this downward trend. In recent years, the team has failed to reach the final four in multiple World Cups, crashed out of the T20 World Cup group stages, and even missed out on hosting the Champions Trophy—an alarming decline for a cricketing powerhouse.

Pakistan's Decline in Recent Years

In recent years, Pakistan’s cricket team has been struggling. The last Test series between the two sides took place in 2007-08, after which political tensions halted bilateral cricketing ties. In ODIs, India has convincingly won most encounters in the past decade. Pakistan’s only win in the last ten ODI meetings came in the 2017 Champions Trophy final. In T20Is, India has been dominant as well, winning 7 out of the last 10 encounters.

Pakistan’s failure to qualify for the semi-finals in the last three ODI World Cups and its group-stage exit in the latest T20 World Cup highlight its ongoing struggles. On the other hand, India has emerged as a global cricketing powerhouse with a robust domestic structure and the world’s richest T20 league, the IPL.

 

The Business of Indo-Pak Cricket: A Financial Juggernaut

Despite the one-sided results, an India-Pakistan match remains the most-watched event in international cricket. Why? The answer lies in the economics of the game.

Broadcasters and sponsors recognize the unmatched commercial potential of this rivalry. The 2023 World Cup clash between the two nations shattered viewership records, with over 600 million people tuning in via digital streaming alone. Ticket sales for these matches still sell out within minutes, demonstrating the unwavering demand.

Revenue Breakdown:

• The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) signed a $720 million broadcast deal for 88 home matches—an average of $8.1 million per match.
• In contrast, Pakistan Cricket Board’s (PCB) entire 60-match broadcast deal for the next two and a half years is valued at just $9 million—less than what a single Indian match generates.
• The IPL alone commands a per-match broadcast valuation of $13.1 million, more than Pakistan’s entire Pakistan Super League (PSL) season.

This financial disparity directly impacts player development, infrastructure, and overall competitiveness, further widening the gap between the two cricketing giants.

The Psychological Battle: Is It More Mental Than Technical?

Beyond statistics and finances, the psychological aspect of this rivalry cannot be ignored.

Veteran cricket analysts believe that while Pakistan still possesses raw talent, the mental edge has shifted in India's favor. The fearsome aura that once surrounded Pakistani fast bowlers has faded, and India's batting lineup, now bolstered by world-class talent and experience, no longer crumbles under pressure.

Even in ICC tournaments, where Pakistan used to be India's biggest challenge, the script has changed. Since the 2011 World Cup semi-final defeat, India has dominated their arch-rivals across all ICC events, winning 10 consecutive tournament encounters.

Is the Rivalry Overhyped?

With such a one-sided trend, some critics argue that the Indo-Pak cricket rivalry is losing its competitive relevance. But does that mean it's any less exciting?

Despite Pakistan’s struggles, the anticipation for their matches remains sky-high. The passion, emotions, and sheer spectacle of an India-Pakistan game make it an unmissable event, regardless of recent results.

And as history has shown, cricket is unpredictable. One game, one breakthrough performance, or one tactical shift could reignite this battle and restore its former glory.

The Rivalry Needs a Competitive Spark

For Indo-Pak cricket to regain its edge, Pakistan needs a revival—both structurally and mentally. Strengthening domestic cricket, improving administration, and providing players with consistent international exposure are crucial steps.

Until then, the rivalry remains alive, but the competitiveness is undeniably tilted in India’s favor. However, as long as fans keep watching, broadcasters keep investing, and players keep dreaming, this rivalry will continue to be the heartbeat of cricket.

After all, in sports, tides can turn in an instant. The only question is: When will Pakistan rise again?

 

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 Cricket and 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.

The After Affects of Politics over 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.

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.

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.

The Role of Broadcaster Star Sports  in Deal

Not PCB, Not BCC, Not ICC, it is Star Sports who made possible this deal, at last.

Broadcasters, notably Star Sports, have played a crucial role in shaping the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy's planning. Their significant investments in broadcasting rights have influenced decisions regarding the tournament's schedule and venues. The potential loss of high-revenue matches, especially those between India and Pakistan, has led broadcasters to urge the International Cricket Council (ICC) and the respective cricket boards to find solutions that ensure these matches occur. This dynamic highlights the intricate relationship between commercial interests and sports diplomacy in international cricket.

India's Dominance in Cricket: Unprecedented Influence and Controversies

India has emerged as a significant market for cricket, primarily due to its vast fan base. While this has been beneficial for the sport in certain ways, it has also brought to light some negative aspects. For instance, India has become more influential than even the International Cricket Council (ICC), exerting its dominance and pursuing its own interests in global cricket. Recently, it reportedly made extensive efforts to undermine the Champions Trophy scheduled to take place in Pakistan. However, it was eventually compelled to compromise under pressure from Star Sports and agreed to a fusion model. Such unprecedented actions in cricket are unheard of in any other sport worldwide.

Does this not reflect India's domineering and negative approach? Does it not validate the concerns raised by Jinnah and Pakistanis in the past?

In the intricate world of international cricket, India's dominance has become a subject of intense debate, with critics arguing that such influence is unparalleled in any other sport. A recent report by the British newspaper 'The Telegraph' highlights how the International Cricket Council (ICC) has allegedly compromised the sport's integrity to favor Indian interests, particularly concerning the 2025 Champions Trophy scheduled in Pakistan.

India effectively use the power to stop Pakistan from hosting a final, it is unprecedented across sport

Initially, Pakistan was awarded the hosting rights for the 2025 Champions Trophy, with all 15 matches slated to be played on its soil. However, in a surprising turn of events, the entire tournament was rescheduled just two months prior, ostensibly to accommodate India. Under this revised 'hybrid model,' India will play all its matches in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), and if India reaches the final, the venue will shift from Lahore to the UAE. This last-minute uncertainty leaves teams and organizers in a state of flux, undermining the event's credibility.

This scenario is not without precedent. The report cites instances from previous ICC events where schedules were ostensibly manipulated to benefit India. For example, during the 2019 World Cup, India played its initial matches after a significant gap, ensuring players had ample rest post the Indian Premier League (IPL). Similarly, in the 2021 and 2022 T20 World Cups, India's final group matches were scheduled later than other teams, providing them with a strategic advantage regarding net run rates. Moreover, India's concluding matches in these tournaments were often against comparatively weaker teams, potentially easing their path to the knockout stages.

The report also touches upon the political dimensions influencing cricketing decisions. Jay Shah, son of India's Home Minister Amit Shah, served as the Secretary of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) since 2019 and recently assumed the ICC Chairmanship. His ascent is seen as emblematic of how cricket holds significant importance for India, intertwining sports administration with political influence.

These developments have sparked concerns about fairness and equity in international cricket. The special arrangements for India in the upcoming Champions Trophy not only appear unjust to other participating teams but also amplify India's chances of success, casting a shadow over the sport's competitive integrity.

In conclusion, the growing influence of India within the ICC raises critical questions about the governance of cricket. The sport's global appeal hinges on fair play and equal opportunity, principles that seem increasingly compromised by the disproportionate sway of a single nation.

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.