Spin bowling all-rounder Shadab Khan believes that the team with the strongest bowling unit will have the best chance of winning the upcoming World Cup. He emphasized the importance of having a capable bowling attack to control the runs on India’s batting-friendly pitches.
Criticism has been directed towards Pakistan’s spin attack for their lackluster performance in taking wickets during the middle overs. Khan himself only managed to take six wickets in five Asia Cup games last month, with four of them coming against the underdog team Nepal. Pakistan exited the tournament in the Super Four stage.
However, Khan remains hopeful that Pakistan’s bowling unit can bounce back in the World Cup, which is set to begin on Thursday. In a press conference, he stated, “I think the team that has the best bowling will win the World Cup because the pitches will produce high totals.”
Pakistan recently suffered a five-wicket loss to New Zealand in their first warm-up match for the tournament. Their next warm-up game is against Australia, taking place in Hyderabad, followed by the opening World Cup match against the Netherlands at the same venue three days later.
Despite losing frontline pacer Naseem Shah due to a shoulder injury, Khan is confident that Pakistan still possesses a world-class bowling attack. He said, “Of course, Naseem will be missed, but our bowlers are world-class. If we perform well in bowling, we can achieve the best results.”
As a leg-break bowler with 88 wickets from 64 one-day international matches, Khan is determined to elevate his own game in the seven-week World Cup. He believes that the rest he has had has helped him overcome any mental barriers. He stated, “The past is past, and when the World Cup matches come, I will be playing with a fresh mindset.”
Khan also expressed his support for out-of-form batsman Fakhar Zaman, who did not get a chance to bat in the recent warm-up game. He described Zaman as an impact player and stressed the importance of backing him.
Since their arrival in Hyderabad under tight security, the Pakistani players have been overwhelmed by the hospitality they have received. Khan praised the people’s warm welcome, stating, “It’s been a superb welcome. People coming to the hotel and their hospitality has been fantastic. The food is delicious. I fear our fat levels and weight will go over the limit!” He also expressed his hope for the same level of hospitality when they play against India in Ahmedabad on October 14, in what promises to be a high-voltage match between the arch-rivals.