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Pakistan have a storied history in the T20 World Cup, having played in three finals and claimed victory in 2009. In 2022, under Babar Azam‘s leadership, they finished as runners-up after a narrow five-wicket defeat to Jos Buttler‘s England at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. Although Babar couldn’t secure the title in Australia, he now has another chance to lead Pakistan to glory in the upcoming T20 World Cup 2024.
Pakistan’s T20 World Cup 2024 campaign
Pakistan will start their T20 World Cup campaign on Thursday (June 6) against the co-host United States of America (USA) at the Grand Prairie Stadium in Dallas. Despite a recent 0-2 series loss to England in T20Is, which was heavily affected by rain, Pakistan are preparing diligently for the tournament. While the USA is not a top-ranked team, Pakistan will remain cautious, especially after the USA’s 2-1 series win over Najmul Hossain Shanto‘s Bangladesh and a subsequent victory in their first game in the ongoing tournament against Canada by eight wickets in a high-scoring match.
Also READ: Pakistan’s record in ICC Men’s T20 World Cup history
Rashid Latif’s proposed playing XI for the match against the USA
Former Pakistan cricketer Rashid Latif has proposed a strategic and balanced playing XI for Pakistan’s first match against the United States. The team is anchored by the reliable and consistent openers Mohammad Rizwan and Babar Azam, who are known for their ability to set a strong foundation. Notably, there is no place for Azam Khan, another wicketkeeper-batter. This implies that Rizwan will most likely handle the wicketkeeping duties in Latif’s XI.
Usman Khan and Fakhar Zaman bring aggressive batting capabilities to maintain momentum through the middle overs. In the middle order, Iftikhar Ahmed offers stability and the capacity to accelerate the scoring when needed. Imad Wasim brings additional batting depth and valuable left-arm spin, enhancing the team’s versatility. Shadab Khan, a crucial all-rounder, contributes with both the bat and leg-spin, making him an indispensable asset.
The bowling attack is led by Shaheen Afridi, whose pace and swing are vital, and Mohammad Amir, whose experience and skill provide a formidable edge. Haris Rauf, known for his pace and effectiveness in the death overs, complements the pace attack. Lastly, Abrar Ahmed‘s leg-spin introduces variety and the potential to exploit any turn on offer.
