HYDERABAD: Shadab Khan, Pakistan’s spin bowling all-rounder, believes that the team with the strongest bowling unit will emerge victorious in the World Cup. Considering India’s batting-friendly pitches, it will be crucial to limit the runs scored by opposition teams.
Pakistan’s spin attack has faced criticism for not taking enough wickets in the middle overs. Shadab Khan himself managed only six wickets in five Asia Cup games last month, with four of them coming against Nepal. Despite their shortcomings, Shadab remains optimistic that Pakistan’s bowling lineup can make a comeback during the World Cup.
In a press conference, Shadab said, “I believe the team with the best bowling will win the World Cup because the pitches will produce high totals.”
Pakistan suffered a five-wicket loss to New Zealand in their first warm-up match of the tournament. They will face Australia in their second warm-up game on Tuesday before opening their World Cup campaign against the Netherlands.
Despite losing their frontline pacer Naseem Shah to a shoulder injury, Shadab is confident in the world-class attack that Pakistan still possesses. He stated, “Naseem will definitely be missed, but our bowlers are world class. If we perform well in bowling, we can achieve the best results.”
Shadab, who has 88 wickets from 64 ODI matches, is determined to elevate his own performance throughout the seven-week-long World Cup. He said, “There might have been a mental barrier before, but now, with the rest I have had, that barrier won’t exist. I will be playing with a fresh mindset when the World Cup matches come.”
Shadab also expressed his support for Fakhar Zaman, who was not given the opportunity to bat in the warm-up game against New Zealand. He said, “Fakhar is an impact player, and we all know that. We need to back someone like him who can make a difference.”
Shadab also lauded the warm welcome and hospitality the team received upon their arrival in Hyderabad, India, under tight security. He said, “The hospitality has been fantastic, and the food is delicious. We might need to watch our fat levels and weight!” He added, “Hopefully, we receive the same hospitality when we play against India in Ahmedabad.”