A Decade in Shadows: Pakistan's Journey Back to Hosting Cricket

 In the annals of cricketing history, there are few stories as poignant and tumultuous as Pakistan's decade-long exile from hosting international cricket. The historic stadiums of Lahore, Karachi, Rawalpindi, and Multan—once alive with music, vibrant colours, and fervent crowds—fell into silence. For ten years, Pakistan's cricket-loving nation endured an unrelenting void, a gaping wound inflicted by tragedy and geopolitical strife. 

The catalyst for this dark chapter was the harrowing attack on March 3, 2009. That morning, as the Sri Lankan cricket team bus made its way to Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore, masked gunmen launched a coordinated assault. Bullets tore through the air, piercing the sanctity of sport. Six valiant police officers and a driver lost their lives, while seven Sri Lankan players and staff sustained injuries. Among them, legends like Mahela Jayawardene and Kumar Sangakkara bore the physical and emotional scars of a day that would redefine Pakistan’s cricketing destiny. 

The world recoiled. Tours were cancelled, and Pakistan's once-thriving cricket grounds became desolate. A nation that had long been a cornerstone of the cricketing world was cast into isolation. The decision to relocate Pakistan's "home" matches to the Middle East was pragmatic but bittersweet. The UAE's sterile arenas lacked the soul-stirring energy of Pakistani crowds. For fans, it was a cruel compromise—watching their team from afar, yearning for the electrifying atmosphere of a home Test. 

The Lost Generation 

This enforced exile created what can only be described as a lost generation of cricket fans. Those who had grown up witnessing epic encounters on home soil—Javed Miandad’s last-ball six, Wasim Akram’s reverse-swing masterclasses—were left reminiscing about a bygone era. Younger fans, however, had no such memories to cling to. The idea of cheering their heroes from packed stands was almost mythical for them. 

The financial toll was equally devastating. Empty stadiums meant lost revenue, while diminished grassroots engagement threatened the future of the sport in Pakistan. PCB CEO Wasim Khan summed it up aptly: “Both participation and those supporters who have become distant because they couldn't just go along and watch their heroes—it’s a loss you cannot quantify.” 

A Glimmer of Hope 

Despite the odds, Pakistan's resilience shone through. As the country painstakingly clawed its way back to stability, its cricketing community left no stone unturned in advocating for the return of international tours. Diplomats negotiated tirelessly; PCB officials extended countless invitations. For years, those efforts were met with reluctance, frustration mounting with each hesitant reply. 

But Pakistan’s unyielding spirit began to bear fruit. Zimbabwe dared to tread where others would not, followed by a brave West Indies contingent. A limited-overs series against Sri Lanka further bolstered hopes. Yet, the ultimate litmus test—a Test series—remained elusive. 

Test cricket is the heartbeat of the sport, its purest and most revered form. Without it, the resurrection of Pakistan as a cricketing host was incomplete. A staggering 460 Tests were played globally between March 2009 and December 2019, but not one on Pakistani soil. This glaring void lingered as a painful reminder of the nation’s estrangement. 

December 11, 2019: A New Dawn 

Finally, the unthinkable became reality. Sri Lanka, the very team whose tragedy had marked the beginning of Pakistan's isolation, became the harbinger of its redemption. On December 11, 2019, Rawalpindi hosted a Test match, symbolizing not just the return of cricket but the resilience of a nation. 

For the players, it was a chance to perform in front of their own—Azhar Ali, Babar Azam, and Shaheen Afridi felt the roar of their people in the stands. For the fans, it was more than a game; it was a reclamation of identity, a reaffirmation of the undying bond between Pakistan and cricket. 

The Road Ahead 

The road to Rawalpindi was paved with sacrifice and unrelenting effort. From Prime Minister Imran Khan’s political influence to the collective prayers of millions, Pakistan’s journey back to hosting cricket exemplifies what passion and persistence can achieve. 

Yet, the scars of those lost years remain. Pakistan must rebuild its cricketing culture, re-engage its youth, and re-establish itself as a premier host. Wasim Khan captured this sentiment perfectly: “Having the likes of Azhar play at home, in front of their fans in rocking stadiums with thousands watching, will only drive the players on to bigger and better things.” 

The return of Test cricket is not just a victory for Pakistan but for the sport itself. As the sun rises over Rawalpindi, the echoes of the past fade, replaced by the promise of a vibrant, cricket-filled future. Let the festivities begin, and may the passion of Pakistani fans inspire the cricketing world for generations to come. 

Thank You

Faisal Caesar

Bob Willis is Dead: Cricket has lost a Friend

 Bob Willis was a force of nature. In the 1970s, he carved out his niche as a tearaway fast bowler, often overshadowed by contemporaries like John Snow, Dennis Lillee, Jeff Thomson, and Andy Roberts. Yet, Willis—unfazed by the lack of limelight—relentlessly charged in, hurling cannonballs at astonishing pace. His courage was unmistakable; he bowled fearlessly at legends like Clive Lloyd, Viv Richards, Greg Chappell, Ian Chappell, Majid Khan, and Zaheer Abbas. Even when Viv or Greg hooked his venomous bouncers, Willis would respond with another, aimed right at the head. The man had unshakable resolve and the heart of a warrior.

They say firecrackers lit up whenever John Snow approached the popping crease, but the same could be said for Bob “Goose” Willis, nicknamed for his loose-limbed, almost languid approach to the crease. When it came to unleashing hostility with the ball, Willis was in the league of Snow, Fred Trueman, and Frank Tyson. His six-foot-six-inch frame, coupled with his flowing auburn curls, created an imposing sight as he charged in. Injuries frequently interrupted his career, but Willis’s mental fortitude ensured he always came back stronger, ready to hunt his prey. In the 1970s, as cricket began to thrive on television, Willis emerged as one of the game’s most captivating figures, earning respect from peers and opponents alike.

Willis cemented his place in cricketing folklore during the fabled Headingley Test of 1981. On that dramatic day, he dismantled Australia for 111, sealing an 18-run victory that remains one of cricket’s greatest comebacks. While Ian Botham’s heroics with the bat gave England a glimmer of hope, it was Willis’s extraordinary spell of 8 for 43 that ensured Botham’s effort would not go in vain. It was a performance that epitomized Willis’s grit and tenacity.

The following year, Willis was appointed England captain, succeeding Keith Fletcher ahead of tours to Sri Lanka and India. He inherited a weakened side, with stars like Graham Gooch and Geoff Boycott absent due to their participation in rebel tours to South Africa. Despite these challenges, Willis led England to victories against India and Pakistan at home and competed valiantly in the 1982-83 Ashes, losing 2-1 in another gripping series. As captain, he also guided England to the semifinals of the 1983 World Cup, only to be eliminated by eventual champions India. His tenure ended on a sombre note with the infamous “Blackwash” by the West Indies in 1984. The third Test of that series, fittingly at Headingley, marked the end of his illustrious career.

By the time Willis retired in 1984, he was England’s leading wicket-taker and second only to Dennis Lillee in the world. His tally of wickets and his indomitable spirit left an enduring legacy in English cricket.

Post-retirement, Willis seamlessly transitioned to the commentary box, where he became one of cricket’s most incisive voices. At the BBC and later Sky Sports, his analysis was sharp, his critiques fearless, and his observations laced with wit and wisdom. Willis’s straightforwardness earned him admiration and respect, even when his opinions ruffled feathers. He remained, above all, a staunch advocate for the integrity of the game.

In 2016, Willis was diagnosed with prostate cancer, a battle he faced with characteristic courage. On December 4, 2019, the cricketing world mourned his passing. His death marked the loss of a proud Englishman, a legendary cricketer, and a true friend of the sport.

Bob Willis was more than just a fast bowler; he was a symbol of resilience and passion. His contributions to cricket, both on and off the field, will forever be remembered. With his departure, the game has lost a cherished guardian of its spirit.

Thank You

Faisal Caesar 

A Tale of Missed Opportunities: New Zealand vs. England Test Series

As rain swept across Hamilton on the final day of the second Test, bringing an end to the series, it left behind a lingering sense of incompleteness. Kane Williamson and Ross Taylor, ever the consummate professionals, had already ensured their centuries were etched into the scorecard, but the weather’s intervention robbed the contest of its natural conclusion. New Zealand’s stellar home record remained intact, yet one couldn’t help but wonder: did such a high-quality series deserve to be confined to just two matches? 

The Case for a Longer Series 

Neither New Zealand nor England are strangers to the upper echelons of Test cricket. Both teams have historically provided thrilling moments in the longest format, and their recent encounters have been no exception. Yet, to reduce this contest to a mere two matches feels like a disservice to the quality of cricket on display. 

In an era where bilateral Test series often face the axe due to the demands of white-ball cricket, it is perplexing that this series was not part of the World Test Championship (WTC). While logistical explanations may exist, the exclusion remains baffling. A contest of this calibre deserved the stakes and recognition that come with being part of the WTC. 

Moreover, a third Test could have offered a fitting climax to what was shaping up to be an enthralling battle. With the series poised delicately, a decider would have provided the thrills and drama that Test cricket thrives on. 

Joe Root: A Captain’s Redemption 

The series also marked a pivotal moment for Joe Root. Under scrutiny for both his batting and captaincy, Root faced mounting pressure to deliver. Since his ascension to the captaincy in 2017, questions have lingered about whether the burden of leadership was affecting his form. The lean patches had begun to overshadow his undeniable talent, casting doubts on his ability to remain among the elite batsmen of his generation. 

Root answered his critics emphatically in Hamilton. His double century—a patient, gritty 226—was a masterclass in perseverance. As ESPNcricinfo aptly noted, “No hundred had taken him longer—259 balls—and at one stage, he went more than 30 overs without a boundary.” This innings not only ended an eight-month drought without a Test century but also reminded the cricketing world of Root’s importance to England’s fortunes. 

Statistically, the impact of Root’s centuries is undeniable. England has lost only once in 16 Tests where he has reached three figures. His ability to anchor the innings and lead by example remains a cornerstone of England’s Test setup. 

England’s Bowling and Fielding Woes 

While Root’s heroics provided a silver lining, England’s overall performance was marred by lapses in fielding and the inability to extract life from docile pitches. 

The Hamilton pitch, in particular, defied expectations. Historically, New Zealand has been synonymous with challenging conditions for batsmen—green tops, swing, and seam. However, the track at Seddon Park offered little assistance to bowlers. As renowned cricket writer Scyld Berry observed in The Telegraph, “England have never conceded more runs per wicket than in this series, 56, but their seamers can hardly be faulted.” 

Despite the unresponsive surface, England’s bowlers toiled admirably, with a half-fit Ben Stokes exemplifying their determination. However, the effort was undermined by subpar fielding. Key moments slipped through England’s grasp, quite literally. Kane Williamson was dropped twice on the final day—first by Ollie Pope and then by Joe Denly. Such lapses proved costly, allowing New Zealand to dictate terms. 

 The Numbers Tell the Story 

England’s bowling statistics from the series make for grim reading. Their average of 115.7 balls per wicket was the worst in their Test history, while their collective bowling average of 55.8 runs per wicket was the second-worst. 

Yet, these numbers do not tell the full story. The bowlers’ struggles were as much a reflection of the conditions as they were of England’s shortcomings. Sporting pitches are the lifeblood of Test cricket, and the placid surfaces in this series did little to enhance the contest. 

The Need for Sporting Pitches 

New Zealand has long been a bastion of challenging cricketing conditions. From the green tops of the 1980s to the swinging tracks of the 2000s, the country has produced some of the most memorable Test battles. However, the placidity of the Hamilton pitch was a stark departure from this tradition. 

To maintain the integrity and appeal of Test cricket, pitches must offer a fair contest between bat and ball. Nations like England, Australia, South Africa, and New Zealand have historically set the standard in this regard. It is imperative that they continue to do so, not just for their own cricketing legacies but for the survival of Test cricket itself. 

Conclusion 

The New Zealand vs. England series was a tale of missed opportunities—missed catches, missed victories, and the missed potential of what could have been a classic three-match series. While the rain may have had the final say, the series highlighted the enduring appeal of Test cricket and the areas that require attention to ensure its future. 

For England, the lessons are clear: sharpen the fielding, adapt to conditions, and build on the promise shown by players like Root and Burns. For New Zealand, the challenge lies in preserving their reputation for producing competitive pitches while continuing to dominate at home. 

As cricket fans, we can only hope that future encounters between these two sides receive the attention and format they deserve. After all, Test cricket thrives on context, competition, and the promise of a fitting finale—none of which should be compromised. 

Thank You

Faisal Caesar 

Pakistan’s Downunder Dilemma: The Unbroken Streak of Defeats

For Pakistan, a nation steeped in cricketing history and moments of brilliance, Australia has become a graveyard for Test ambitions. With 13 consecutive Test defeats in Australia stretching back to 1999, the situation borders on tragic. This run equals the ignominious record set by Bangladesh, a team whose Test credibility has often been questioned. But for Pakistan—a team that has produced legends, lifted the ICC Test mace and defined eras of dominance in the subcontinent—the streak is an indictment of a lack of vision, preparation, and intent. 

The narrative of this tour was eerily familiar. From Brisbane to Adelaide, Pakistan played like a ship adrift, with no radar to guide its course. The captaincy lacked direction, the bowling was erratic, and the batting order, barring a few individual sparks, crumbled under pressure. The story, unfortunately, was not new. 

The Mentality: A Mere Formality 

Over the last two decades, Pakistan’s tours of Australia have seemed more like a reluctant obligation than a campaign designed to achieve meaningful results. In stark contrast, teams like India, England, and New Zealand approach these tours as a challenge to conquer. Meticulous planning, careful squad selection, and rigorous conditioning define their preparation. Yet, even with such diligence, victories in Australia remain hard-fought. 

Pakistan, by contrast, seems content to rely on its “unpredictable” reputation—a double-edged sword that has often hindered its evolution into a consistently competitive unit. The unpredictability that once startled opponents now acts as a shackle, with the team oscillating between moments of brilliance and mediocrity. 

The Tactical Failures 

Bowling: Fast but Flawed 

Pakistan’s young and inexperienced pace attack embodied raw talent but lacked tactical discipline. In the words of Mark Taylor, the bowlers focused solely on speed, neglecting the nuances of line and length required in Australian conditions. The absence of a coherent bowling strategy was glaring. Fields were set without purpose, and runs were leaked freely. 

“The ball pings off the bat so they tend to stay back a bit,” Taylor observed. “Even when they pushed the field back, it didn't stop the boundaries, so they've really got to come up with a better strategy with the ball and in the field to limit the runs.” 

Pakistan’s historic strength in fast bowling, personified by legends like Imran Khan and Wasim Akram, seems like a distant memory. While individuals like Shaheen Afridi and Naseem Shah have shown promise, their potential remains untapped due to poor guidance and lack of experience. 

Fielding: The Eternal Achilles Heel 

Fielding remains Pakistan’s perennial weak point. The inability to save crucial runs or seize opportunities is a recurring theme. Poor positioning, sluggish reactions, and dropped catches have cost the team dearly, and this tour was no exception. Fielding, long neglected as a core skill in Pakistan, continues to haunt their performances on the international stage. 

Batting: Brief Sparks, Dim Outcomes 

Pakistan’s batting woes were predictable. Except for Day 1 at Brisbane, the top order folded under the pressure of Australia’s relentless pace attack. The intent to grind out runs and bat time was largely absent. While players like Shan Masood, Babar Azam, and Mohammad Rizwan showed glimpses of brilliance, their contributions were isolated, serving more as personal milestones than meaningful team efforts. 

Even the lower order’s valiant resistance at Adelaide, though commendable, felt more like an anomaly than a calculated effort. Such moments only reinforce Pakistan’s reputation for unpredictability, offering little solace in the context of another dismal tour. 

Lessons Never Learned 

The recurring failures in Australia point to systemic issues in Pakistan cricket. Every tour Downunder ends with the same refrain: “A learning curve.” Yet the lessons seem perpetually ignored. Strategic planning, mental fortitude, and adaptability to challenging conditions remain elusive. 

Cricket is a game that demands evolution, and teams like India have shown how consistent investment in preparation and player development can bear fruit. Pakistan, meanwhile, clings to its legacy without addressing the fundamental flaws that prevent it from breaking this cycle of defeat. 

The Way Forward 

To reverse this trend, Pakistan needs more than just hope.  

1. Strategic Planning: A focused, long-term approach is essential. Squads must be selected based on the demands of Australian conditions, with an emphasis on adaptability and resilience. 

2. Bowling Discipline: Young pacers need guidance to channel their raw talent into controlled aggression. Legendary former players should be brought in as mentors to instill the tactical acumen necessary for success. 

3. Fielding Revolution: Fielding cannot remain an afterthought. A cultural shift is required, with rigorous training and accountability to improve this crucial aspect of the game. 

4. Mental Toughness: Pakistan must shed its reliance on unpredictability and cultivate a culture of consistency. This requires not just physical preparation but mental conditioning to handle high-pressure situations. 

Conclusion 

As another tour of Downunder ends in familiar disappointment, Pakistan must confront the harsh realities of its approach to Test cricket. For a nation with such a rich cricketing heritage, the current state of affairs is unacceptable. Change is not just necessary—it is overdue. Only with a commitment to self-reflection and evolution can Pakistan hope to reclaim its stature as a formidable force in world cricket. 

Until then, the streak of defeats in Australia will remain a painful reminder of what could have been.  

Thank You

Faisal Caesar 

The Ballon d’Or Debate: A Question of Merit and Prestige

The Ballon d’Or, conceived by the visionary Gabriel Hanot and awarded by *France Football*, has long been regarded as one of football’s most prestigious honours. Since its inception in 1956, the award has evolved, expanding its eligibility criteria from European players to all players in European clubs in 1995, and eventually to global recognition in 2007. While its illustrious history and rigorous voting process—now involving journalists, national team coaches, and captains—have cemented its reputation, the 2019 award sparked controversy, casting a shadow on its credibility. 

A Legacy of Excellence 

The Ballon d’Or is more than just an accolade; it is a symbol of excellence, awarded to players who define footballing greatness in a given season. Over the decades, it has celebrated legends who have delivered when it mattered most—on both club and international stages. Yet, as with any award, its history is not without contention. The 2019 Ballon d’Or, awarded to Lionel Messi, reignited debates about fairness and the criteria for selecting the best player in the world. 

The Case Against Lionel Messi 

Lionel Messi, often hailed as one of the greatest players of all time, undoubtedly possesses an unparalleled skill set. His ability to mesmerize with the ball at his feet and his knack for producing moments of magic are unmatched. However, the Ballon d’Or is awarded for a specific season’s performance, and Messi’s 2018–19 campaign fell short of the standards typically associated with this honour. 

Club Performance: A Season of Contradictions 

At the club level, Messi’s Barcelona won La Liga, but their season was marred by a catastrophic collapse in the UEFA Champions League. After a commanding 3-0 first-leg victory against Liverpool in the semifinals, Barcelona capitulated at Anfield, losing 4-0 in one of the most shocking comebacks in football history. Messi, despite his brilliance in the earlier stages, failed to inspire his team when it mattered most. 

Critics argue that Messi’s success in La Liga alone does not justify the award. The Champions League, widely regarded as the pinnacle of club football, saw him falter under pressure. Since Neymar’s departure, Messi has struggled to replicate the European dominance Barcelona once enjoyed, raising questions about his ability to lead the team in the post-Xavi and Iniesta era. 

International Performance: A Familiar Struggle 

In the national colours of Argentina, Messi’s woes continued. The 2019 Copa América was another missed opportunity. Argentina’s campaign ended in disappointment, with Messi receiving a red card in the third-place play-off against Chile. His post-match comments blaming officials for Argentina’s failure did little to endear him to neutrals, especially given the country’s controversial footballing history. 

The Overlooked Contenders 

Virgil van Dijk: The Defensive Maestro 

Virgil van Dijk’s 2018–19 season was nothing short of extraordinary. The Dutch defender was the cornerstone of Liverpool’s UEFA Champions League triumph, leading a backline that conceded just 22 goals in the Premier League. His unmatched defensive prowess saw him go an entire season without being dribbled past, a feat that underscored his dominance. 

Van Dijk’s contributions extended beyond defence; he provided crucial goals and assists, stepping up in key moments for both club and country. As the runner-up in the UEFA Nations League with the Netherlands, Van Dijk demonstrated his ability to shine on the international stage. Many argue that his all-encompassing impact deserved the Ballon d’Or, making him the most deserving defender since Fabio Cannavaro in 2006. 

Cristiano Ronaldo: The Eternal Competitor 

Cristiano Ronaldo, Messi’s perennial rival, also had a compelling case. Leading Juventus to the Serie A title and Portugal to the inaugural UEFA Nations League crown, Ronaldo showcased his enduring ability to deliver at the highest level. His goal-scoring exploits, both domestically and internationally, surpassed Messi’s, with 49 goals in 2019 compared to Messi’s 45. 

Alisson Becker: The Guardian of Glory 

Alisson Becker’s role in Liverpool’s success cannot be overstated. As the winner of the Champions League, Copa América, and multiple individual awards for goalkeeping, Alisson was the backbone of every team he represented. Yet, like many goalkeepers before him, his contributions were undervalued in the Ballon d’Or voting—a recurring theme that has seen legends like Manuel Neuer and Iker Casillas overlooked in the past. 

The Verdict 

The 2019 Ballon d’Or decision has divided the footballing world. While Messi’s brilliance is undeniable, his performances in the 2018–19 season did not align with the award’s criteria. The snub of Van Dijk, Ronaldo, and Alisson raises questions about the voting process and the weight given to individual versus team achievements. 

The Ballon d’Or’s prestige lies in its ability to honour the best performer of the year, but when the award appears to prioritize reputation over results, its credibility suffers. Football fans, especially neutrals, expect fairness and consistency. For many, the 2019 Ballon d’Or was a missed opportunity to celebrate the true standout performers of the season. 

In the end, the Ballon d’Or remains a symbol of excellence, but its legacy depends on the integrity of its decisions. As football evolves, so too must the criteria and transparency of its most coveted awards.

Thank You

Faisal Caesar