Babar Azam Stresses the Importance of Versatile Players and Strategic Selection
LAHORE: Today marks the start of Pakistan’s quest for their second T20 World Cup title as they take on hosts United States at the Grand Prairie Cricket Stadium in Dallas.
Leading the charge is Captain Babar Azam, who is eager to learn from past experiences and guide a dynamic team blending seasoned players and fresh talent. This tournament represents Babar’s third attempt at T20 World Cup success. The team came close in 2021, losing to Australia in the semi-finals, and in 2022, they were narrowly defeated by England in the final. This year, the team is more determined than ever to clinch the title.
Pakistan’s journey in the group stage includes crucial matches against India (June 9th), Canada (June 11th), and Ireland (June 16th). Key players like Fakhar Zaman, Mohammad Rizwan, Shaheen Shah Afridi, and Haris Rauf are set to return. The squad also sees the return of veterans Mohammad Amir (a 2009 champion) and Imad Wasim, who has not played since 2021. New talents such as Abrar Ahmed, Azam Khan, Mohammad Abbas Afridi, Saim Ayub, and Usman Khan will make their T20 World Cup debuts. However, Imad Wasim will be absent for the first match due to medical advice.
The 2009 victory under Younis Khan remains a significant milestone for Pakistan, especially following their defeat to India in the 2007 final. The T20 format has evolved dramatically since then, with high strike rates and scores above 180 becoming the norm. Innovations and data-driven strategies have transformed the game, making non-traditional teams like the USA formidable opponents, as evidenced by their recent win over Bangladesh.
Babar, who was an emerging talent in 2009, draws inspiration from past victories and his experience from the 2017 Champions Trophy. His goal is clear: to bring the T20 World Cup trophy back to Pakistan. “I am extremely confident,” says Babar, “We will work hard, give our best, and hope our preparations pay off.”
Facing unique conditions in the USA and unfamiliar opponents, Babar emphasizes a strategic “horses-for-courses” selection policy and the necessity for adaptable players. He also acknowledges the USA’s recent successes and stresses the importance of respecting all opponents throughout the tournament.
Pakistan has an impressive T20 World Cup track record. They have reached the final three times (2007, 2009, 2022) and the semi-final four times (2010, 2012, 2021), underscoring their consistent performance. With a success rate of 60.63%, they are among the top performers in the tournament’s history.
Under Babar Azam’s leadership, Pakistan embarks on their T20 World Cup campaign with a mix of experience, young talent, and unwavering determination. The challenging yet exciting tournament journey begins today in Dallas.
SQUAD: Babar Azam (captain), Abrar Ahmed, Azam Khan, Fakhar Zaman, Haris Rauf, Iftikhar Ahmed, Imad Wasim, Mohammad Abbas Afridi, Mohammad Amir, Mohammad Rizwan, Naseem Shah, Saim Ayub, Shadab Khan, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Usman Khan.
