On Saturday, former Pakistan all-rounder Shahid Afridi underscored the need for the national men’s team to enhance its strike rate during the middle overs to bolster its chances in the upcoming ICC T20 World Cup, set to commence from June 1 in the West Indies and USA. Pakistan, grouped with arch-rivals India, Ireland, USA, and Canada in Group A, will kick off their campaign against the USA on June 6, followed by a much-anticipated clash against India at New York’s Nassau County International Cricket Stadium.
Afridi stressed the importance of Pakistan aiming for eight to nine runs per over during the crucial seven to thirteen over phase. He expressed optimism about Pakistan’s prospects while acknowledging the significance of captain Babar Azam leading by example. While refraining from singling out a specific player for success, Afridi emphasized Azam’s pivotal role and urged him to deliver both on the field and in decision-making.
Babar Azam, having led Pakistan in 80 T20I matches, boasts a winning record of 46 victories, 26 losses, with seven matches ending in no result, reflecting a commendable winning percentage of 57.50. Additionally, Azam ranks as the third-highest run-scorer in T20Is, amassing 3,955 runs at an impressive average of 41.19 and a strike rate of 129.97, with three centuries and 36 fifties.
In other cricketing news, Pakistan is currently facing England in the second T20I of a four-match series at Birmingham, following the abandonment of the first match due to rain. Meanwhile, Pakistan announced their 15-player squad for the T20 World Cup 2024, with Babar Azam leading the team, and unveiled the player support personnel for the marquee event, including head coach Gary Kirsten and assistant coach Azhar Mahmood.