Anas Imtiaz

Thoughts On The Game & Final XI

// June 4th, 2009 // 6 Comments » // Pakistan

It was undoubtedly a lacklusture display of cricket by Pakistan today, but we must also understand what exactly was the purpose of a warm-up game. The fans of the green camp were expecting the team to go all out and probably come close to winning the game. The expectations were very high and the team should have displayed some will to play.

From the word go, there was lack of seriousness, perhaps the very fact that it wasn’t a competitive game was playing on their minds. Also, there was clear evidence of the lack of match practice. To be fair to the captain, he doesn’t have a lot of opportunities to have a look at his players under match conditions and that is why the bowlers were given the ball in a weird manner despite getting hit all over the park. I’m not a fan of YK’s captaincy, but obviously there is no one else suited to do the job, and now that he IS the captain, there is no point in asking for a change.

Another point to note is that there was no plan to conduct the match, against the opposition. If at all there was any plan, it was to give exposure to all men and if the performance is bad, let them continue so that they may improve in time for the real games.

If anything was disappointing, it was the fielding. The extreme lethergy and repulsion from the ball is a worrying sign because the warm-up game should have been used to improve agility in the field too.

The final playing XI to step on the ground to play against the hosts is almost clear. Ahmed Shehzad seemed very confident and will probably open Salman Butt. Kamran Akmal can also be used to open the innings. Younis Khan, Misbah ul Haq and Shoaib Malik will be the sensible batsmen who will try to stabilise the innings when things go wrong. Shahid Afridi will feature in all games but his batting will be nothing to count on. So we have seven confirmed players here. Saeed Ajmal, the spinner, is also likely to be guaranteed a place, given the fact that slow bowlers are very useful in this format of the game. The trio of Ajmal, Afridi and Malik will do the spin job. The inclusion of Fawad Alam is unlikely in the main XI. The problem area is three seamers – Gul and Tanvir will make it for their experience while Arafat may have an edge against Mohammed Amir due to his allround abilities and experience too. The final problem to deal with is the batting order and the bowling order too.

Tanvir must open the bowling but who shall be his newball partner? Arafat? A big NO! Gul can do the job, but as a captain I’d love to use Gul’s 4 overs at the end. If they go with the latter option then maybe Amir will be used instead to open the attack with Tanvir. Again, two left armers isn’t a great option.

The batting is also complicated. Who shall open with Ahmed Shehzad? Akmal, Butt? I’d love to use Afridi there, but I really don’t know why he doesn’t open the innings (as if he scores lots of runs down the order).

My playing XI in order will be:

Ahmed Shehzad
Salmab Butt
Kamran Akmal
Younis Khan
Shoaib Malik
Misbah ul Haq
Shahid Afridi
Yasir Arafat
Sohail Tanvir
Umar Gul
Saeed Ajmal

But given a situation the batting order should be flexible enough to move around the players to suit the requirement.

The final point to note for the game today is that Team India is coming out of IPL, and have a lot of match experience in their bag. The team Pakistan as facing today was much stronger and experienced than the one they faced 2 years ago in the finals. So despite the fact that Pakistan performed badly, credit must be given to the Indians for making a mockery out of Pakistan’s bowling attack.

With that, lets hope the Greens will learn the lesson and make us proud in the coming days!

Another Bomb, Another Failure: When Will This End?

// May 27th, 2009 // 4 Comments » // Pakistan

I walked in to my department building today, entered the door and glanced at the huge television screen on my left as I always do. Out of the four screens, one is always tuned to BBC News. That particular screen was flashing images of wreckage, and a red label of breaking news bearing the words Pakistan. I stood there gawking at the screen for a few minutes when a stranger asked me, worriedly:

“Are you from Pakistan?” I replied in affirmative.

He went on to offer some words of condolences for what happened earlier today and that has been happening for quite some time.

This was not the first time I’ve seen such an image. In fact, most Pakistanis have seen much worse. But perhaps having such news early morning, half-awake, is a bit difficult to digest. I couldn’t stop thinking about it for a long time. The confusion is immense, actions unclear and destination undefined.

The whole incident will, again, be blamed on some faction of governance and lapse in security. There may be a few blame games too followed by a vow to crush out the militants by the impotent minister of interior affairs. I’m not blaming the government for the myriad attacks in Pakistan. True that it has become almost impossible to curtail the widespread militancy in the country. What perturbs me most is the lack of action on the government’s side. Shouldn’t the authorities have been prepared after the start of operation in Swat? And what the hell is an intelligence agency for? The people of this country need assurances, not by words but by actions.

It is saddening to see that one politician attempted to lay this on the government by calling it a reaction to Swat operation. If it is a reaction (which it probably is) the need for operation is even more important.

Another aspect of governance (or the lack of it) is that the interior minister should resign not because of this attack in Lahore, but because of his inability to stop anything and the increase in terrorism since his taking over. I do understand that there is no culture of taking responsibility and resigning in Pakistan, but an utter failure of certain minister cannot be overlooked.

Let us hope and pray that the operation in Swat ends soon, successfully and that the IDPs can return to their homeland and save themselves from the disgrace which certain provinces have shown.

Islamabad’s Policy Shift?

// April 8th, 2009 // 6 Comments » // Pakistan

The international media is beating the drums on the newly acquired confidence of Pakistan’s Foreign Minister, Shah Mehmood Qureshi, that he flaunted at the joint press conference with Admiral Mullen and Richard Holbrooke. Some analysts are cautiously claiming it to be the end of US-Pak marriage and that the relations are likely to sour further.

The BBC, in an article titled ‘Tensions emerge in Pakistan-US relations’ began with the following lines.

The body language said it all.

The normally urbane and mild-mannered Pakistani Foreign Minister, Shah Mahmood Qureshi, was firm and spoke in categorical terms.

Meanwhile, Richard Holbrooke chatted quietly with Admiral Mike Mullen – an act that, whatever the intention, was perceived as rude and contemptuous by those present.

Whereas, despite ISPR’s denials of ISI chief’s refusal to meet the American guests, the US think-tank Stratfor has called it a “carefully stage-managed snub..” There are also reports that Pakistan has made it clear that drone attacks must stop, while the US administration rebuked that demand.

The visit by Admiral Mullen and Richard Holbrooke was expected to be a crucial one where Pakistan was expected to be asked to, yet again, “do more.” Instead, it turned out to be complete shock for the Americans.

Pakistan has also demanded to be given the drone technology in order to do more. Meanwhile, according to BBC’s sources “Americans had been given a sharp message to back off” on the issue of maligning the ISI.

Now where has this sudden change of tone come from? Is it just symbolic or does it really have weight? Also it is interesting to note the timing of the recommendations made by the Parliamentary Committee regarding national security. Apparently, the government, Parliament and the army are finally thinking on the same lines. It may be the case that they have decided to shun the differences in order to present a united, brave face to the US.

While commending the government and the army, lets hope that this little hope of policy change doesn’t blow up in the air.

In The Aftermath Of Lahore Shootout

// March 5th, 2009 // 9 Comments » // Pakistan

I couldn’t muster the strength to express my feelings yesterday following the Lahore attacks. I felt absolutely terrible after looking at the images of the bodies of poor policemen who sacrificed their lives to save the Sri Lankan cricketers. I was disappointed, angered and terrified. I still am. These policemen and the driver deserve to be saluted for showing the derring-do at a time of chaos and terror.

Now that almost 2 days have passed since the incident the people of Pakistan deserve to know who are responsible for killing the sport of cricket in Pakistan. Immediately after absorbing the news I expected the two mainstream political parties to try and win points over this incident. The Lanka-Pak match was called off, but another new match had already started. I will talk about the political side later but first I’d like to commend the Sri Lankan team for their cool response to such an enormous attack of terror. They remained calm with Sangakkara going to the extent of saying he had no regrets coming to Pakistan. While the Sri Lankan players demonstrated a magnanimous response, some other cricketing captains who were not even involved in the incident chipped in with disappointing comments. No surprises as the FM of the neighbouring country came out in the media, and instead of expressing grief, used the opportunity to blast Pakistan. Again, I don’t blame him, but it was disappointing.

There were some hints of foreign hand expressed in non-official statements. But what exactly is the official statement? Assume, for a minute, it was India who was behind the attacks, or any other country/organization for that matter. Where was the law-enforcing agency? What is the job of Interior Ministry? Wasn’t the SL team promised presidential-level security? Does the president travel like this? Obviously, if there is an impending attack, it is our country’s job to stop it. If the relevant department fails, it should accept the responsibility? And how many times will this department fail? In September, the same department failed to prevent Marriott attacks, and no one was tried or brought to justice. I did plead for the resignation of Interior Minister at that time, and I do so again. Isn’t it time to accept the responsibility now and step aside? If not now, then when? (more…)

So What If Sharif Brothers Are Disqualified?

// February 26th, 2009 // 9 Comments » // Pakistan, Politics

I fail to understand why a ‘popular’ person cannot be disqualified in Pakistan. Why can’t a two-time Chief Minister and a two-time Prime Minister, elected with two-third majority, be disqualified? What is the fuss about the recent decision of the Supreme Court? So, what if Nawaz Sharif has been disqualified? People should know that he was already ineligible and the court has just witheld the previous verdict. Any why not? A sitting PM, who conspired against the army chief and tries to sack him in-air, doesn’t even deserve to taste power again.

A goon from this very party stated on TV that a politician cannot be disqualified by court. He can only be rejected by the awam. Yeah, and that will never happen in feudal politics! How conveniently he managed to score a point! If the courts cannot disqualify a politician, cannot try an armyman so what the heck is it for?!

Obviously, the current decision is politically motivated but I feel this should have happened long ago. Indeed, it did. There is no place for such a man in the politics of Pakistan.

We should all thank the Almighty that the crooked court has made a landmark decision to get rid of the second most corrupt man in Pakistan (after Zardari). The only thing to lament about here is that the two stooges (Sharifs) will now get lots of media attention and will continue to speak in the emotional, cry-baby style.

I, however, believe that Shahbaz Sharif may still make a comeback in the power politics. As for the elder Sharif, the doors are closed. He will remain as the head of his party, but hold no official post.

Now, coming to the political side of it, I believe this is a very risky move by the man who inherited the country from his wife’s will. Contrary to what others think, I’ve a feeling that this move has worked nicely so far. I saw Saad Rafique saying that the Long March of lawyers will now be transformed in to Pakistan Bachao Movement. This effectively will bring PML-N in to the limelight and the lawyers will take the backseat. There may be a ‘race condition’ as to who leads the movement and what is the objective of it putting everyone in confusion. This decision is also an attempt to restrict the support from Pubjab for the Long March.

PML-N have also called for mid-term elections, again which is something not required. Any sort of election at this point in time will result in a similar result as before. PML-N will not win anything in Sindh and Baluchistan, while PPP may lose ground in Punjab.

In conclusion, my view is that Shahbaz Sharif has become a victim of political vandetta while Nawaz Sharif got what he deserved.

Are They Qualified?

// January 12th, 2009 // 18 Comments » // Pakistan

Talk about a PhD doctor performing brain surgery. This is precisely what is happening in Pakistan. Unfortunately the condition is worse, the surgeon in question here isn’t even a PhD doctor. Perhaps, the doctor is totally uneducated and illiterate.

When any of us apply for a job, the first question to consider is whether the job is suitable for us or not. Obviously holding a degree in electronics engineering I cannot go for a job in structures and construction. Even if I do apply, there is no way of getting accepted.

This makes me wonder what exactly is the criteria for the ministers. Take an example, Raja Pervez Ashraf, the minister for Power and Electricity holds a bachelors degree in an unknown discipline (law is the popular guess). With that knowledge and background, how can he even claim to root out loadshedding in one year? The man has an agricultural background and should know that electricity doesn’t grow on trees. It sounds almost comical when he makes those claims. There is a counter argument that it is not his fault because this is what his team tells him, most of whom are assumed to be qualified in the relevant field. Now this argument doesn’t hold because the team leader should have the knowledge (even if he doesn’t do the work) so that the members of his team are not able to deceive him. (more…)

One Year Old!

// December 27th, 2008 // 22 Comments » // Life

Shuffling through my previous posts to find when exactly I started blogging on this platform, I found to my utter surprise, that my first post is dated 27th December 2007. I’d like to thank the government of Pakistan for having a national holiday for my blog’s birthday celebrations

I had been blogging on and off on other platforms earlier, but serious blogging began on this historic day. I think completion of my undergraduate degree just before that and having a lot of free time contributed most to this activity. So beginning with an activity just to kill free time, blogging is now an integral part of my daily life and I try to update this space even when I am utterly busy.

I’d like to take this opportunity to thank…:P

On a serious note, it has been a momentous journey of one year where I’ve learned a lot about web development, some PHP programming, learning about other people and yeah earning some adsense money
I don’t remember posting it here but I did get about $110 last month which were accrued over a period of four months.

To celebrate this auspicious occasion (ufff!!) I have ordered myself a gift which I shall be receiving tomorrow and then brag about it henceforth. So get ready

One last thing, a year before Pakistan was facing a hostile situation and on this day our dear nation is also threatened both on internal and external fronts. Let us all hope and pray for the safety, security, development and advancement of our country – and me and my blog

Pakistan Paindabad

[Liked the speech?]

Pakistan Cricket Suffers Another Blow By BCCI

// December 20th, 2008 // 15 Comments » // Sports

Army-Government Confrontation

// December 16th, 2008 // 15 Comments » // Pakistan

The armed forces of Pakistan and the democratic government spearheaded by Zardari may be on the same ground visibly but their actions reflect a completely contrasting and horrifying picture. With the international pressure mounting and extreme threats on most of Pakistan’s border, the need of the hour is a show of unity. Instead the differences are now out, open in air. Gilani and Kiyani may have repeatedly said that there are to differences, but the facts that I pen below proves just the opposite.

When the government took over and made an attempt to bring the ISI under interior ministry, the army used its iron hand to force the government to withdraw. Later came the lame excuses from the government. This was an extreme example of an attempt to gain the high ground by the government which failed.

When President Zardari rescinded his promise of first official visit to China and instead preferred a pilgrimage to the White House, the COAS (Kiyani) flew to China on the same day that Zardari went to USA and also stayed for an exactly same number of days (maybe one less, I can’t remember exactly now). This showed where the government’s inclination was in the developemnt of foreign policy while the army preferred an opposite track.

The defense minister claimed that Pakistan was incapable of hitting down the US drones. Immediately came out the Chief of Air Staff with an in-your-face response that the PAF is fully capable and waiting for a green signal from the government. Again, both parties were at odds.

President Zardari promised never to use the nukes first (changing the policy which the former President framed when he said that the nukes were not made to be shelved). This provoked a reaction not only from the establishment but also the nuclear scientist Dr. Samar Mubarakmand voiced his dissent against this policy. Not surprisingly, the army never agreed and this message was also forwarded to the presidency.

Immediately after the Mumbai attacks PM Gilani acceded to send the ISI chief to India. He was forced on the back foot, bringing shame to Pakistan, only to realize later what he had done (this couldn’t be unintentional). Later, the government tried to save face by claiming that any director-level rep of ISI would be sent and there was some lack of communication. Again, the ISI/army refused.

And now when the IAF jets violated Pakistani airspace, the PAF reacted strongly while the government seems apologetic saying it was an honest mistake. Who are they actually representing? Which side are they on?

It is this internal conflict that makes the enemies brave enough to attack a country. In this in-fight is suffering the sovereignity of Pakistan. If a choice has to be made between the current government and the army, even the harshest critics of army will be forced to reconsider.

Pakistan Zindabad!

Its getting hot in South Asia!

// November 30th, 2008 // 19 Comments » // Pakistan

Blaming Pakistan, directly or indirectly, for the terrorist attacks in India is nothing new and not something to become a cause of concern. Similarly, blames have been directed from Islamabad for the unrest in Pakistan, and it is as banal as waking up in the morning.

The major contributor this time in the escalation of tensions is the Indian media and the government of Pakistan, to an extent.

Analysing the situation that emerged immediately after the deadly attacks, the Indian PM and army hastily labelled Pakistan as the culprit. Now this was expected for some reasons:

1) Governments are always wary of the public sentiment and what better way to diverge attention by blaming it on archrivals?

2) Elections are approaching in India and the Congress is being portrayed by the BJP as overly firendly towards Pakistan. So this can easily benefit the Congress politically. (Politicians will NEVER miss an opportunity to gain)

3) The unrest and the known presence of terrorists in Pakistan can easily explain the influx from Pakistan and hence hides the fact (as some analysts say) that Islamic extremism is growing in India (for whatever reasons).

4) The failure of intelligence agencies to uncover the attacks can also be hidden by taking a tough stance against Pakistan.

The Indian media went to great lengths in claiming that India possesses solid proofs against Pakistan which can’t be denied. There have even been talks of potential battles and cutting off diplomatic ties. Were these confidence building measures in the previous years so shallow? I do think so!

The government of Pakistan loves to be good to everyone. So when the distressed PM of India requested our PM to send the DG ISI, Gilani immediately agreed, without even thinking the implications of such an action in a country ruled exclusiuvely by the army. Manmohan Singh was blaming the ISI, which the dummy PM of Pakistan didn’t even realise!

Even if the Pakistani PM made this decision as a gesture of goodwill, the news that came out was that “ISI chief summoned to India.” What does that sound like?

When the decision was reversed, probably after Mukherjee used some strong language, the obvious news was that “Pakistan U-turns on ISI commitment.” So that almost looks like accepting the blame. There are certain diplomatic norms of handling such situations and clearly the newly (not so new) elected government is unaware of them.

Temperatures have already gone up. The deciding factor may, as always, turn out to be US intervention. Indian government can benefit from the escalating tensions but this will force Pakistan to move its troops from Afghan border to the Indian border which the ISI has already mentioned. This can hurt US’s war against terror. Barack Obama may be the one person wondering the most at the moment. He will be having some tough jobs ahead. Similarly, Zaradri’s presidency will also face a tough test of character.

Meanwhile, the next 2 or 3 days will be very crucial. I hope the two countries learn to live with peace and harmony.