In our latest Cricket Conversations episode, former Pakistan pacer Rao Iftikhar Anjum and Mohammad Aizaz discuss various topics including the emotional scars of the 2007 World Cup & a brief of preview of the tragedy that unfolded, coaching Lahore Whites’ rising stars, career highs and lows and more.   

By Mohammad Aizaz (March 29, 2025)

Key topics include:

You Can't Imagine the Players' Condition": Rao’s Memories of Bob Woolmer’s Death and the 2007 World Cup Collapse

The sudden death of Pakistan’s coach Bob Woolmer during the 2007 World Cup left the cricketing world in shock. Found lifeless in his hotel room after Pakistan's unexpected loss to Ireland, Woolmer’s passing cast a dark shadow over the tournament. The players, already reeling from their early exit, faced immense emotional turmoil.

Transitioning from Player to Coach: Nurturing Lahore Whites’ Next-Gen Talents

Rao has embraced a new role as a mentor for Lahore Whites, focusing on grooming young talents like Muhammad Faik and Hassan Rizwan.

"People Want to See More Runs": The Decline of Fast Bowling

Modern cricket rules and flat pitches have shifted the game toward higher scoring, diminishing the dominance of fast bowlers. Rao critiques this trend, arguing that it undermines the art of pace bowling, which was once a cornerstone of Pakistan cricket.

Shaheen, Naseem, Haris: Can Pakistan’s Pace Trio Regain Dominance?

Pakistan’s pace trio—Shaheen Afridi, Naseem Shah, and Haris Rauf—faces challenges in reclaiming their dominance amid injury rehabilitation.

"It Is Too Early to Say Whether It Is Valid or Not": Faik’s Viral Hype and Social Media Pressure

The rising hype around Muhammad Faik, fueled by social media, has sparked debates about whether such attention is justified. Rao emphasizes caution, highlighting the need for young players to focus on performance rather than external pressures.

Lahore Whites’ Hidden Gems: Future Match-Winners for Pakistan

Lahore Whites boast several promising players who could become future match-winners for Pakistan. With proper guidance and opportunities, these hidden gems have the potential to shine on the international stage.