(Source Insidesport)
Shahid Afridi has emphasized the urgent need for Pakistan to revamp their batting order following their recent loss to India in the T20 World Cup 2024 on June 9th, led by Babar Azam. Despite a commendable performance by their pacers Haris Rauf and Naseem Shah, who secured six wickets against India, Pakistan’s batting lineup struggled during the chase.
Expressing his disappointment with their batting display, Afridi suggested a strategic change, advocating for Fakhar Zaman to replace Babar Azam as the opener. According to the ICC, Afridi stated, “Most importantly, I believe Fakhar Zaman should be elevated to open alongside Mohammad Rizwan, while Babar should move down to number three.”
Afridi’s discontent with Pakistan’s performance in the ongoing T20 World Cup is palpable. The former champions have faced early setbacks, losing both of their initial matches in the USA. Witnessing a series of subpar performances from the traditionally strong team, Afridi urged Pakistan’s coach and captain to consider making significant adjustments.
“I think now is the time for Gary Kirsten and Babar Azam to make some changes. I would like to see Salman Ali Agha [not part of the official World Cup squad] come into the side in place of Usman Khan and Abrar Ahmed to come in for Shadab”, Afridi said as per ANI.
Despite Pakistan’s disappointing start to the T20 World Cup 2024 in the United States, Shahid Afridi remains optimistic about their prospects for a comeback. He emphasized the importance of forthcoming discussions regarding potential squad changes in the days ahead. However, Afridi also urged fans to maintain faith in their team until any decisions are made.“There are some tough conversations and choices to come but we need to remember that there is still hope: Pakistan are not out of the tournament yet,” Afridi concluded.
Pakistan’s initial defeat in the tournament occurred at the hands of the co-hosts, USA, at the Nassau County International Cricket Stadium. With a subsequent loss to India, the 2009 champions are teetering on the brink of an early exit from the tournament. Now, Pakistan’s hopes for advancement hinge on their rivals’ missteps. For Pakistan to progress to the Super 8 stage, either India or the USA must suffer two defeats.
In their upcoming fixture today, June 11, Pakistan will face Canada in a crucial match. The encounter, slated to take place at the Nassau County International Cricket Stadium in New York, is a must-win for the former champions.
