ISLAMABAD: On Saturday, Zaka Ashraf, the Chairman of the Management Committee of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), extended his congratulations to Pakistan for regaining the leading position in the One Day International (ODI) rankings.
The PCB has posted the press release on its X (previously referred to as Twitter) account. The release includes a statement from Mr. Ashraf, which says: “This achievement reflects the hard work, dedication, and unity exhibited by our talented players and their unwavering focus on excellence”.
“It is a proud moment for all of us as the Pakistan cricket team reclaims the top spot in the ODI rankings,” said Mr Ashraf.
Yesterday, Pakistan achieved a historic milestone by securing a resounding 3-0 victory over Afghanistan.
This remarkable triumph marked a whitewash in the series. Pakistan outperformed their opponents by a 59-run margin in the third ODI held at Hambantota.
Afghanistan, tasked with chasing a target of 269 runs, faced a swift defeat as they were dismissed for 209 runs.
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In a parallel development, the Pakistan national cricket team is scheduled to depart from Colombo to Multan on August 27.
As part of the upcoming Asian marquee tournament on August 30, the Nepal cricket team is set to arrive in Multan from Karachi. They will face the home team there.
On August 28, Afghanistan will arrive in Lahore via a commercial flight. Bangladesh and Sri Lanka are scheduled to reach Lahore on September 1 through charter flights.
Among the 14 matches of the Asia Cup, Pakistan is designated to host four matches. One match is scheduled in Multan while the remaining three matches to be held at Gaddafi Stadium on September 3, 5, and 6.
Significantly, this marks the first instance where multiple countries are co-hosting the prestigious Asian premier tournament.
In a separate move aimed at bolstering Pakistan’s performance in the Asia Cup, the team has introduced a new addition to the squad.
Left-handed batter Saud Shakeel has been included in the 17-member squad, while Tayyab Tahir has been named as the travelling reserve for the tournament.
The national team’s cricketers are set to commence their training at the Multan Cricket Stadium on August 29. They will be conducting sessions from 4:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
