NEW DELHI: Pakistan's captain
Babar Azam
is optimistic about his team's chances at the upcoming
Twenty20 World Cup
, despite their recent runner-up and semi-finalist finishes in the previous two editions.
The team's preparation for the tournament has been tumultuous, with Azam replacing
Shaheen Shah Afridi
as captain just three months before the event.
Also See: T20 World Cup Schedule | T20 World Cup Points Table
Pakistan's recent performances have been inconsistent, drawing a T20 series against a weakened New Zealand side at home and losing the opening match of their series in Ireland before bouncing back to win the series 2-1. The team's unpredictability makes them a wild card in the 20-team event, which begins in the United States on June 1.
Semi-final and then final, so it's our turn to win the trophy this time," he said before leaving for Ireland.
Placed in Group A alongside India, co-hosts United States, Canada, and Ireland, Pakistan will need to finish in the top two to qualify for the Super Eight round in the West Indies.
A loss to India in their highly anticipated clash in New York on June 9 could make their final group game against Ireland a must-win situation.
Despite the challenges, Azam remains confident in his team's ability to succeed. The Pakistan Cricket Board has undergone significant changes, including the appointment of a new chairman, selection committee, and white-ball coach Gary Kirsten. The return of fast bowler
Mohammad Amir
and spinner
Imad Wasim
from retirement has further strengthened the bowling attack.
However, Pakistan's batting approach and lack of consistency remain a concern. The team heavily relies on the opening partnership of Azam and Mohammad Rizwan, and they have struggled to post totals above 200 in T20Is.
The inclusion of left-hander
Saim Ayub
and the presence of a strong middle-order consisting of
Fakhar Zaman
,
Usman Khan
, Azam Khan, and Iftikhar Ahmed could provide the necessary firepower, but they will need to perform consistently for Pakistan to "return with the trophy."
(Inputs from AFP)
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