Pakistan skipper Babar Azam is hopeful for better luck in the upcoming Twenty20 World Cup aiming to improve upon their previous performances as losing semi-finalists in 2021 and runners-up in the following year.
Despite a turbulent build-up, marked by Azam taking over the captaincy from Shaheen Shah Afridi just three months before the tournament, Pakistan managed a 2-2 T20 series draw against a weakened New Zealand in April. Their preparation continued with a series win against Ireland after a defeat in the opener.
Known for their inconsistency Pakistan’s unpredictable nature makes them a wildcard in the 20-team event set to commence on June 1 in the United States. Placed in Group A alongside India, co-hosts United States, Canada, and Ireland, Pakistan faces a crucial match against India on June 9, a team they have struggled against in T20 World Cup encounters.
With only one win in seven matches against India, Pakistan’s final group game against Ireland on June 16 in Florida could potentially become a knockout match depending on earlier results.
Azam expresses confidence in Pakistan’s chances this time, aiming for victory in the upcoming T20 World Cup. The team has undergone significant changes since their exit from the 50-over World Cup, including coaching staff alterations and captaincy switches.
The PCB, under Mohsin Naqvi’s leadership, has implemented various measures to enhance the team’s performance, such as training camps and recruiting Gary Kirsten as the white-ball coach. Players like Mohammad Amir and Imad Wasim have returned from retirement to strengthen the bowling lineup, complementing Shaheen and Naseem Shah.
Shaheen remains optimistic about their prospects despite the captaincy controversies, emphasizing teamwork and motivation. Naqvi’s announcement of a $100,000 bonus for each player if they win the World Cup further incentivizes the team. With a balanced squad, including spinners like Abrar Ahmed and Shadab Khan, Pakistan aims to address their batting inconsistencies, particularly in achieving high totals.
The team relies on partnerships between Azam, Rizwan, and others, but newcomers like Saim Ayub aim to inject dynamism into the lineup. For Pakistan to succeed, their batters must match the performance of their bowlers.
