Ahead of the highly anticipated T20 World Cup, Pakistan’s cricket squad is intensifying its preparations, with a particular focus on refining the roles of its batters and bowlers. Notably, seasoned cricketers Iftikhar Ahmed and Fakhar Zaman have shed light on their preparedness to adapt to any role assigned to them, underlining the significance of aligning the team’s strategy with the demands of modern cricket.
In a recent media interaction, Iftikhar Ahmed drew from his extensive experience in domestic cricket, where he has showcased his skills across various batting positions. He emphasized his versatility and comfort in slotting into any batting combination dictated by the team management.
“I’ve been through the ranks in domestic cricket, batting at every position including numbers 4 and 5. In the national team, it’s about fitting into the best combination. I trust my capabilities to deliver for Pakistan regardless of the batting order or the conditions. After discussions with the management, it’s been decided that I’ll bat post the 12th over,” stated Iftikhar.
Elaborating on his batting approach, Iftikhar highlighted the adaptability required to thrive in different scenarios. “My style suits the latter part of the innings. I prefer facing a few deliveries before launching into my shots. Timing is crucial, considering both the match dynamics and the pitch conditions,” he added.
Similarly, Fakhar Zaman echoed a similar sentiment regarding his flexibility within the batting lineup. “Our head coach has outlined clear roles for both batters and bowlers. As a professional, I’m ready to slot in wherever required. With the volume of cricket we’ve played, the batting position doesn’t faze me much. According to discussions with the management, I’m slated to bat at number four,” remarked Fakhar.
Expressing his aspirations for consistent performances, Fakhar acknowledged the inherent risks in T20 cricket and emphasized the importance of quick scoring. “Every match presents an opportunity to contribute to our victories, but T20 cricket demands taking calculated risks, often influenced by luck. My aim is to accelerate the scoring rate further. We’re cognizant of our middle-order challenges and are striving to adjust our mindset to sync with the demands of modern cricket,” he explained. Iftikhar Ahmed Fakhar Zaman
As Pakistan gears up for the T20 World Cup, the team will undergo rigorous preparations, including a series of T20Is against Ireland and England followed by the tournament in the United States. The squad, currently comprising 18 players, will be trimmed down to 15 for the World Cup, commencing on June 1 after the conclusion of the T20I series against England starting on May 22.
In summary, Pakistan’s cricketers are honing their skills and mindset, aiming for a cohesive and adaptable approach to tackle the challenges of the upcoming T20 World Cup.
