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In anticipation of the T20 World Cup 2024, Misbah-ul-Haq, the former head coach of Pakistan, shared his vision for the team’s batting order.
Ultimate clash against arch-rivals India:
The tournament, set to take place in the West Indies and the United States of America (USA) from June 1, will commence with an exciting clash between the USA and Canada in Dallas. Pakistan’s journey begins on June 6 against the USA, with a highly awaited encounter against India scheduled for June 9 at Eisenhower Park in New York.
Misbah’s insight on Pakistan’s T20 World Cup 2024 batting order
During a discussion on a local sports channel, Misbah delved into the dynamics of the middle order, emphasizing the pivotal roles of Agha Salman, Azam Khan, Iftikhar Ahmed and Shadab Khan. These players were singled out as potential assets to fortify Pakistan’s middle-order, a crucial aspect contributing to the team’s success in the tournament.
“Potentially the names I’m seeing are simple. Agha Salman is there, Azam Khan is there, Iftikhar Ahmed is there, and Shadab Khan is there. Regarding Fakhar, you’re already thinking about him,” Misbah said.
The strategic considerations also extended to the top-order configuration. Misbah expressed a strong inclination towards Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan and Saim Ayub. However, the key revelation was Misbah’s proposal for a potential reshuffle, advocating for Ayub as the opener alongside the seasoned duo of Azam and Rizwan. According to Misbah, Saim’s ability to provide a left-hand, right-hand combination makes him an ideal choice for the opening position.
“You know the top three: Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan, and Saim Ayub. I think Saim is at the top, then you should either place Babar at three or open with him, or let Rizwan play at three or open. Saim should be the opener because you need a left-hand, right-hand combination,” the 49-year-old concluded.
Also READ: Shaheen Afridi names the best bowler of Pakistan ahead of the T20 World Cup 2024
Pakistan’s journey in the T20 World Cups so far:
Pakistan encountered a challenging start in the inaugural global showpiece event in 2007 under the captaincy of Shoaib Malik, culminating in a final showdown against arch-rivals India. Unfortunately, they faced defeat in the hands of India, missing out on the coveted trophy. Nevertheless, redemption came swiftly as Pakistan bounced back to claim the T20 World Cup title in 2009. In a thrilling summit clash against Sri Lanka, they emerged victorious, showcasing their prowess in the shortest format.
Despite this initial success, Pakistan has faced a trophy drought in T20 World Cups since their 2009 triumph. In the last edition of the tournament in 2022, the team displayed exceptional skills, securing a spot in the finals. Nonetheless, their quest for the trophy was thwarted by England, who emerged victorious by five wickets in a closely contested final.
