Coach Grant Bradburn dismissed claims that his players hadn’t been paid for five months, stating that the team is focused on salvaging their struggling World Cup campaign. Pakistan is on the brink of elimination in the group stage and must defeat Bangladesh on Tuesday to maintain slim hopes of reaching the semi-finals. The team has faced pay disputes and contract delays throughout the tournament. While three players confirmed they hadn’t received payment, Bradburn emphasized that playing for Pakistan is a privilege and the team is determined to make the nation proud. The Pakistan Cricket Board stated that contracts have been sent and signed, paving the way for payments to be processed.
Bradburn acknowledged that the team is disappointed with their poor performance in the World Cup, which includes wins against the Netherlands and Sri Lanka, but defeats against India, Australia, Afghanistan, and South Africa. The team’s net run-rate is also a concern. Bradburn expressed the team’s desire to be in control of their destiny and make it to the semi-finals. Financial difficulties for the squad persist as they are banned from participating in the lucrative Indian Premier League. However, Bradburn stated that the team doesn’t feel isolated by the financial gap between them and players from other countries.
Regarding a controversial umpiring decision in their last game against South Africa, Bradburn chose not to criticize umpire Alex Wharf. He emphasized that the team focuses on the things they can control, acknowledging that umpires have ultimate control over the game. Despite Bangladesh’s struggles in the tournament, Bradburn expressed great respect for the team. While Pakistan has a strong historical record against Bangladesh, winning 33 matches and losing only five, Bradburn acknowledged that Bangladesh has won four of their last six encounters. He stated that Pakistan is well-prepared for the challenge.