Islamabad, Sep 9: Iftikhar Ahmed, an all-rounder for Pakistan, has sparked debate by characterizing his position on the national cricket team as a “tailender” as opposed to a middle-order batsman.
His remarks were made prior to the Champions One-Day Cup, which is scheduled to happen in Faisalabad. Iftikhar will play for the Wolves team, which is led by Muhammad Rizwan.
The 34-year-old all-rounder gave his opinion in a recent interview with the media, saying, “I don’t see myself as a middle-order batter or an all-rounder.” When you compare it to other all-rounders, who frequently bat at Nos. 4 or 5, I bat at Nos. 7 or 8. I consider myself to be a tailender.
Iftikhar’s comments may come as a surprise to some considering his versatility on the Pakistan team. He batted at No. 7 in the 2024 T20 World Cup match against India, adding to his 55 T20I innings. He has played a variety of positions, including multiple stints further down the order and 25 innings at No. 5.
In spite of his self-portrayal, Iftikhar has demonstrated versatility in a variety of media. He has batted at varied positions in One Day Internationals, where he has mostly finished his innings at No.6, and in Tests, he has mostly occupied No. 6 and on occasion No. 7.
Pakistan’s best cricket talent will compete in the Champions One-Day Cup, which will be held at Faisalabad’s Iqbal Stadium from September 12 to September 29. Experienced coaches like Misbah-ul-Haq and Waqar Younis will be leading the sides.
