Former Pakistan captain Shahid Afridi has suggested some changes for the Babar Azam-led side as their chances of advancing in the T20 World Cup hang in the balance.
Pakistan has struggled to find the right balance and combination, leading to consecutive defeats in the tournament.
The team’s recent performances include a five-run defeat in the Super Over against co-hosts USA and failing to chase a 120-run target against India on a tricky New York surface.
Afridi has recommended that Fakhar Zaman should open alongside Mohammad Rizwan, with Babar Azam moving to the number three spot to add depth to the batting lineup.
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“I think now is the time for Gary Kirsten and Babar Azam to make some changes. I would like to see Salman Ali Agha [he is not part of the T20 World Cup squadi come into the side in place of Usman Khan and Abrar Ahmed to come in for Shadab Khan. Most of all, I believe Fakhar Zaman should be promoted to open the innings alongside Mohammad Rizwan, with Babar dropping down to number three,” Shahid wrote in the ICC column.
Pakistan’s hopes of making it to the Super 8 hinge on the USA losing their next two games. Furthermore, Pakistan must win their remaining two games by significant margins to improve their net run rate.
Afridi has urged fans to remain hopeful, as Pakistan still has a chance to progress to the next round.
“There are some tough conversations and choices to come but we need to remember that there is still hope: Pakistan are not out of the tournament yet,” Afridi added.
