Even the PM’s a fast bowler: Pakistan cricket’s need for speed

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“Teenager Naseem Shah is the latest quick bowler to roll off the Pakistan production line . ©AFP” /> Karachi (AFP) – To understand the culture of fast bowling in Pakistan, look no further than Imran Khan — once a feared quick, and now the country’s prime minister. Not all of Pakistan’s pacemen will fly so high, but Khan’s rise underlines a tradition where speed is king, and blistering pace is essential for any team. As if to reinforce the point, Pakistan have eight quicks in their 20-man squad for the…

Pakistan fast bowlers Amir, Riaz lose central contracts

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“Pakistan paceman Mohammad Amir has lost his central contract. ©AFP” /> Karachi (AFP) – Pakistan fast bowlers Mohammad Amir and Wahab Riaz have lost their central contracts after the pair decided to focus on white-ball cricket, officials said Wednesday, as selectors promote younger pacemen. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) also confirmed Azhar Ali as Test captain and Babar Azam as one-day and Twenty20 captain for the upcoming season starting in July. Eighteen players in three categories received central contracts guaranteeing their monthly salaries and benefits for 12 months. The exclusion…