Pakistan’s cricket captain, Babar Azam, may not feature in all five matches of the upcoming Twenty20 International series against New Zealand, according to Azhar Mahmood, the head coach of the national side.
Azhar, who holds the interim coaching position while the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) searches for a permanent replacement, emphasized the importance of player rotation to manage workload and provide opportunities for emerging talents ahead of the T20 World Cup.
“We may consider resting Babar, depending on the circumstances. Any player could be rested,” Azhar stated during a press conference at the Pindi Cricket Stadium. “Our strategy will adapt according to the conditions we face.”
With a series of matches against New Zealand, Ireland, and England on the horizon, totaling 12 games, Azhar highlighted the importance of identifying the optimal team combination leading up to the T20 World Cup.
“As we prepare for the World Cup, we aim to establish a clear structure and game plan while giving players defined roles,” Azhar explained. “We have a wealth of young talent in the squad, and it’s essential to evaluate their capabilities to strengthen our bench. Our goal is to field the strongest XI when we kick off our T20 World Cup campaign on June 6.”
The PCB’s rotational selection policy offers flexibility for Azhar and his coaching staff to utilize each player’s strengths effectively. This flexibility extends to the opening slots, traditionally held by Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan, with players like Saim Ayub, Fakhar Zaman, and Usman Khan competing for positions.
“We haven’t finalized our opening pair yet,” Azhar stated. “In T20 cricket, flexibility is key. While the top three batters have fixed roles, the rest can adapt based on the game situation.”
The squad’s depth has been bolstered by the return of veteran pacer Mohammad Amir and seasoned all-rounder Imad Wasim from retirement, providing additional options and balance to the team.
“I’m pleased with the squad composition; it covers all aspects of the game,” Azhar remarked. “The return of Amir and Imad enhances our options, especially in bowling. Our batting lineup boasts exceptional talent.”
Despite New Zealand’s absence of key players due to IPL commitments, Azhar emphasized their team’s strength, citing their domestic performances and statistics.
“While New Zealand may not field their full-strength squad, they remain a formidable opponent,” Azhar noted. “This series presents an opportunity for their players to stake their claim for the T20 World Cup squad.”
Mark Chapman, a New Zealand batter, echoed Azhar’s sentiments, highlighting the depth and talent within their team. He acknowledged the challenge posed by Pakistan’s pace attack, particularly with Amir’s return.
“As a team, we respect Pakistan’s bowling prowess, especially with Amir back in the fold,” Chapman acknowledged. “We’re prepared for the challenge and anticipate an exciting series ahead.”