NEWS
Follow UsEarlier in the month, Pakistan made three changes to their final World T20 squad, with the addition of Haider Ali, Fakhar Zaman, and Sarfaraz Ahmed into the setup. Post that, Pakistan also replaced the injured Sohaib Maqsood with Shoaib Malik, leading to multiple questions on the management’s approach to the squad.
"Some players were not in a fine touch during the domestic tournament. Changes were made to the squad since some players were not able to perform well," said Babar Azam in a virtual press conference organised by the ICC.
"Ya definitely he (Shoaib) is one of the fittest guys and he has huge experience but let see how things pan out," said Babar.
When asked about the top batter and the bowler to look forward to in the tournament, the Pakistan skipper stated that Kane Williamson with the bat and Hasan Ali with the ball might have a successful tournament.
"Kane Williamson as batter and Hasan Ali will be the bowler who would have a successful T20 World Cup 2021," said Babar.
On the conditions in play, Azam was confident that Pakistan could be one of the favourites, with them having past experience at the venue. The Pakistan skipper also insisted that it would be a new challenge for him, leading the side in a World Cup but promised that he will give his best.
"We have played a lot of cricket UAE and the conditions suit us and we have to be best in all departments. Representing my country is an honour for me and I feel proud to sit here as the captain. It is a new challenge and I believe we will do better.”
"Definitely good performances give you confidence. And it's good to know that I am in good form before the World Cup and I just need to be confident," he added.
"We will try our best to recapture that moment again," he said.