Former Pakistan head coach Misbah-ul-Haq has disclosed the potential candidates for Pakistan’s middle-order positions ahead of the ICC T20 World Cup 2024.
During an interview on a local sports channel, Misbah underscored the importance of identifying players who could bolster Pakistan’s middle-order batting, which is crucial for the team’s success in the tournament.
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“The names that I see as potential candidates are straightforward. We have Agha Salman, Azam Khan, Iftikhar Ahmed, and Shadab Khan. As for Fakhar, he’s already under consideration,” Misbah stated.
Furthermore, Misbah delved into the dynamics of the top order, expressing a clear preference for Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan, and Saim Ayub, while also hinting at potential lineup adjustments.
When it comes to the top three positions, it’s clear: Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan, and Saim Ayub. I believe Saim should open, and then you can either place Babar at number three or have him open, while Rizwan can either bat at three or open. It’s important to have a left-hand, right-hand combination at the top,” he elaborated.
It’s worth noting that the ICC T20 World Cup 2024 is scheduled to kick off on June 1, 2024, with the USA and West Indies co-hosting the event. The highly anticipated clash between Pakistan and India is set to take place on June 9 at Eisenhower Park in New York.
Leading up to the World Cup, the Pakistani team is slated to participate in 12 T20Is. They will host New Zealand for five T20Is in Pakistan and then embark on tours to Ireland and England for three and four T20Is respectively.