On February 19, Pakistan, the reigning champions, will play New Zealand at the National Stadium in Karachi to begin the ninth Champions Trophy. The renowned Wasim Akram voiced his reservations regarding Pakistan’s squad composition prior to the major tournament.
Taking a cue from India, the former speedster believes that Pakistan need to have added more spin-bowling options to their lineup. As the team’s sole front-line spinner, Abrar Ahmed may occasionally be replaced by batting all-rounders Khushdil Shah and Salman Ali Agha. However, the Indian team has selected Kuldeep Yadav, Washington Sundar, Axar Patel, and Ravindra Jadeja. The selection of all-rounder Faheem Ashraf was also criticised by Akram, who brought up his dismal recent performance statistics.
“The team announcement is still something I haven’t considered. I have, however, considered a few things. Faheem Ashraf is one member of the team, for example. My best wishes are with him. A gifted cricketer, [he is]. His average bowling and batting over the past 20 games, however, have been 100 and 9, respectively. Both he and Khushdil’s appearances were unexpected. And one spinner—a good spinner—is what we are taking. I believe that India has ordered three or four spinners for their team. They chose this decision for a purpose. In any case, the squad has been decided. Akram told reporters on the sidelines of the DP World ILT20 2025, “I wish the Pakistani squad the best.
Fakhar Zaman’s selection in the starting lineup thrilled Wasim Akram.
According to the former cricket player who is now a broadcaster, Babar Azam need to bat first. Mohammad Rizwan, the captain, had to bat in the middle order, Akram added.
And now, opening will also be a challenge. Thanks to his selection, Fakhar Zaman is back in the team. [He is] one of the key figures in white ball cricket worldwide. You must now play in the middle order as a consequence. In my opinion, [Mohammad] Rizwan should be a middle-order hitter. Tell Babar Azam to open, perhaps. Babar has a fantastic technique. Babar will score 100 or 125 runs if he plays 50 overs, and the team’s batting will proceed after that. I think this,” Akram stated.
In addition, all of the fast bowlers are present, including [Mohammad] Hasnain, Shaheen [Afridi], Haris [Rauf], and Naseem [Shah], who has returned. While he is not a member of the team, [Aamer] Jamal was present if you want to make a long-term investment in someone. He continued, “I hope there’s a mentality behind this.
In reference to Pakistan’s prospects of winning the title again, Akram stated that the Men in Green should at least advance to the semifinals and then watch how events unfold.
I’m a Pakistani, so it goes without saying that I would want to see Pakistan win. But it will not be simple. It’s the world cricket top eight. They are also engaged in a number of games. India is playing Pakistan in Dubai.
Additionally, the Dubai wicket is devoid of grass. The ball [will be] grasping, then. Making the difference will be a part-time spinner. However, you will face a challenge in contrast if you are a typical team with three spinners. I have the hunch that we (Akisht) ought to advance to the semifinals. He came to the conclusion, “Then we’ll see what happens.”
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