The second T20 international match between Pakistan and England was also thrown into the visitors with a loss of 23 runs in the chase at Birmingham. This has placed the Babar Azam-led side in sight of danger in the four-match series, as the first T20I match was washed out by the rain and the two sides remain equal to zero.
This match emerged as a typical Pakistan versus England cricket game in which Pakistan failed to achieve the anticipated target of beating the England team, revealing areas that the team needs to work on.
Malik’s Observations and Criticism
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Former Pakistan cricketer Shoaib Malik often does not shy away from whipping out his mic and has used this opportunity to criticize the team management. Malik further said that one has to think all differently at the international level since it is not PSL here or any other domestic league.
He took time to explain to her that the technique that can be used in PSL is not the same that can be used when it comes to playing on the international level.
Suggested Changes in the Pakistan Batting Order
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Among them, one topic was particularly undeniable for Malik, namely, the current batting order. He proposed a re-formation in a manner that would put into practice the talent that was available on his team. In his prediction, Malik gave an ideal combination in the first eleven by stating that Fakhar Zaman should open for Pakistan along with Mohammad Rizwan, who is left-handed.
This should be done after having captain Babar Azam at number 3 so that he can set the foundation for the team.
A little lower, Malik suggested bringing Iftikhar Ahmed, who is promoted to be the number four batter, as he brings solidity to the middle order. Pakistan now has an ideal chance of introducing two aggressive players, such as Imad Wasim and Shadab Khan. They should follow in the team’s set-up as a bowling all-rounder and an attacking batsman, respectively.
“This is not PSL; this is international cricket, too, just before the T20 World Cup. IMO, the batting order should be: As Mohammad Rizwan, Fakhar Zaman, Babar Azam, Iftikhar Ahmed, Imad Wasim, and Shadab Khan are part of the team whose performance should be improved in upcoming matches, the captain needs to utilize the options on the bench wisely,” Malik stated.
Emphasis on Utilizing Finishers Effectively
Malik also insisted that finishers are an important part of any T20 squad and named Azam Khan and Iftikhar Ahmed as good examples.
He argued that expecting these players to start hitting boundaries from the moment they arrive at the crease is unrealistic and unfair. Instead, they should be given enough time and overs to settle in before being expected to accelerate.
“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.
The current team strategy has come under scrutiny, especially in light of the upcoming T20 World Cup. Malik’s comments reflect a broader concern about the team’s preparation and adaptability in high-pressure situations. His insights suggest that the management needs to be more flexible and responsive to the demands of international cricket.
Malik’s suggestions are not just about changing the batting order but about creating a more resilient and strategically sound team. He believes that with the right adjustments, Pakistan can significantly enhance its performance and become a formidable force in the T20 World Cup.
Also read: Babar Azam Surpasses Rohit Sharma to Become Second Leading Run-Scorer in T20Is
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