• Sportzyverse
• Cricket news
• 05/26/2024
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Veteran Pakistan cricketer Shoaib Malik did not hold back in his criticism of the Pakistan team management following their 23-run defeat to England in the second T20I in Birmingham. This loss leaves Pakistan trailing 0-1 in the four-match series after the first T20I was washed out. Malik’s strong comments come at a crucial time as the team prepares for the upcoming T20 World Cup.

Malik’s Proposed Changes to the Batting Order

Malik observed the team’s performance and suggested several key changes to the batting order, emphasizing that the approach to international cricket should differ significantly from that in domestic leagues like the Pakistan Super League (PSL). He proposed that Fakhar Zaman should open the innings with Mohammad Rizwan, followed by Babar Azam, Iftikhar Ahmed, Imad Wasim, and Shadab Khan.

“This is not PSL, this is international cricket that too, just before the T20 World Cup. IMO, the batting order should be… Fakhar, Rizwan, Babar Azam, Iftikhar, Imad, Shadab. Captain needs to utilize the options on the bench wisely.”

Malik also stressed the importance of providing enough time in the middle for finishers like Azam Khan and Iftikhar Ahmed. He argued that it is unrealistic and unfair to expect them to start scoring at a high rate immediately without giving them adequate time to settle.

“Moving forward, the captain should give time & enough overs to Azam & Iftikhar to settle first, expecting them to score 12-14 right away is unfair. All the best for the remaining matches!!!” Malik added.

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Implications for Future Matches

As Pakistan prepares for the remaining matches in the series and the T20 World Cup, Malik’s comments underscore the need for strategic adjustments to enhance the team’s performance on the international stage. His suggestions aim to address the gaps in the batting order and the utilization of key players, which could be crucial for Pakistan’s success in forthcoming tournaments.

Malik’s pointed criticism serves as a call to action for the team management and players to re-evaluate their strategies and make necessary changes to compete effectively at the international level.