Synopsis
In a recent statement, Pakistan's head coach, Aaqib Javed, confirmed that the defending champions will maintain a familiar lineup for their crucial Champions Trophy match against India, barring one change due to Fakhar Zaman's injury. The match is set to draw a large crowd at the Dubai International Stadium.Key Takeaways
- Aaqib Javed maintains a stable playing eleven for the match.
- Fakhar Zaman is ruled out due to injury.
- Pakistan relies on its strong fast-bowling options.
- Confidence in pace trio: Shaheen Shah Afridi, Naseem Shah, Haris Rauf.
- Pressure is part of the game, but opportunities remain.
Dubai, Feb 22 (NationPress) The head coach of Pakistan, Aaqib Javed, has indicated that the lineup for the defending champions in their highly awaited Champions Trophy Group A match against India will remain largely unchanged from the squad that faced defeat against New Zealand in their opening match.
This thrilling India-Pakistan encounter is set to take place in front of a packed audience at the Dubai International Stadium on Sunday. Pakistan aims to steer clear of an early exit from the tournament following their 60-run loss to New Zealand in the initial game held in Karachi.
In the lead-up to the match, Javed stated that the final playing eleven will be disclosed at the toss, which is expected to include one alteration as Fakhar Zaman has been sidelined due to an oblique injury. “We need to rely on our cricketing strengths. Our team will not undergo significant changes. We have assembled a squad rooted in our convictions. We will support this team,” he emphasized.
“Our fast-bowling arsenal is top-notch. These bowlers can turn the game. It is not essential to mirror the strategies of other teams. They are match-winners, and it’s not obligatory that other teams replicate our approach,” Javed remarked during the pre-match press briefing on Saturday.
He also expressed confidence in the pace trio of Shaheen Shah Afridi, Naseem Shah, and Haris Rauf to deliver exceptional performances against India. “Teams play according to their strengths. We possess one of the finest fast-bowling units in contemporary cricket with Shaheen, Naseem, and Haris. It takes me back to the 90s,” he noted.
“While they still have time to reach that level, they undoubtedly have the talent to replicate such performances. I’m quite confident in their capabilities, and when facing India, there’s a unique feeling, and I believe they will showcase something remarkable tomorrow,” he added.
When asked about the immense pressure on the Pakistan team, Javed stated, “Every game carries pressure. We lost the first match, but New Zealand is a formidable side with excellent balance. This loss doesn’t change anything.”
“After a defeat, there’s another opportunity to win and potentially secure a place in the semi-finals. The India-Pakistan rivalry transcends mere competition; it’s the essence of cricketing beauty,” he articulated.
“Viewing it positively, this is an ideal moment for any player or team to shine. We relished such moments, and all players are eager to seize this chance and elevate their performance,” he concluded.
Javed dismissed the notion that India holds an advantage due to their prior game against Bangladesh in Dubai. “Not in the slightest, as most Pakistani players have been participating in leagues here. The PSL was conducted here. Therefore, the conditions are familiar, and I believe there’s no inherent advantage or disadvantage,” he asserted.
