Pakistan cricket team’s head coach Azhar Mahmood mentioned the possibility of resting captain Babar Azam as part of the rotation policy and to refine the team’s combination. He also discussed the team’s preparations for the upcoming series against New Zealand and expressed confidence in the squad’s capabilities. Fast bowler Shaheen Afridi is confirmed fit for the series starting from April 18. Pakistan vs New Zealand T20I series schedule provided.
RAWALPINDI: Pakistan cricket team’s head coach Azhar Mahmood said that captain Babar Azam could also be rested as part of the rotation policy and to refine the team’s combination.
Addressing a presser in Rawalpindi, Azhar Mahmood said that any player including Babar Azam could be replaced during the five-match series, depending on the situation.
“As per policy, we will try to select the best 11 best available players for every match while keeping the conditions in mind,” he added.
To a question, Azhar Mahmood said the team’s management has not decided on the opening pair yet. “We have not finalised who would be opening the inning. It (opening pair) could be Babar-Saim, Saim-Rizwan and even Fakhar Zaman can also open the inning,” he added.
The head coach also expressed confidence in his team’s capabilities, emphasising the squad’s robust composition and strategic preparations for their upcoming home series against New Zealand.
“The composition of our team, with its blend of experienced batters, agile fast bowlers, and versatile all-rounders, fills me with great confidence,” the coach said.
Azhar Mahmood was of the view that the return of experienced players like all-rounder Imad Wasim and fast bowler Mohammad Amir boosted the team . “Their comeback will undoubtedly bolster our team’s strength,” he stated.
To a question, he regarded the New Zealand team players as future stars while dismissing the impression of “B Team” sent to play against Pakistan.
“The date indicates that they have a great deal of domestic cricket experience. They are their finest player, and no team is weak in T20s. This is the New Zealand team, and they are playing Pakistan,” Azhar Mahmood added.
The head coach said that fast bowler Shaheen Afridi is completely fit and available for the series starting from April 18.
Pakistan squad
Babar Azam (c), Mohammad Rizwan (wk), Saim Ayub, Usman Khan, Iftikhar Ahmed, Azam Khan (wk), Imad Wasim, Shadab Khan, Shaheen Afridi, Naseem Shah, Mohammad Amir, Abbas Afridi, Abrar Ahmed, Fakhar Zaman, Irfan Khan Niazi, Usama Mir, Zaman Khan
Reserves: Haseebullah, Mohammad Ali, Agha Salman, Sahibzada Farhan, Mohammad Wasim Jr.
New Zealand squad
Michael Bracewell (c), Mark Chapman, Josh Clarkson, Jacob Duffy, Dean Foxcroft, Ben Lister, Cole McConchie, Jimmy Neesham, Will O’Rourke, Tim Robinson, Ben Sears, Tim Seifert (WK), Ish Sodhi, Tom Blundell, Zak Foulkes.
Pakistan vs New Zealand T20I series schedule
April 18 — 1st T20I, Rawalpindi
April 20 — 2nd T20I, Rawalpindi
April 21 — 3rd T20I, Rawalpindi
April 25 — 4th T20I, Lahore
April 27 — 5th T20I, Lahore
In a recent statement, Azhar Mahmood discussed the possibility of resting Babar Azam, highlighting the importance of managing player workload and ensuring their long-term well-being. This brings to light the crucial role of rest and recovery in professional cricket. Balancing the demands of a rigorous schedule with the physical and mental health of players is a critical aspect of maintaining their peak performance. Mahmood’s comments resonate with the growing recognition of the need for strategic rest periods to prevent burnout and injuries in the competitive world of cricket. As fans, coaches, and players, it is essential to prioritize the holistic welfare of our cricketing stars, acknowledging that adequate rest contributes to sustained excellence on the field.
Source: ARY NEWS
Babar Azam, Pakistan’s cricket team captain, may be rested as part of a rotation policy, according to head coach Azhar Mahmood. The team is working to select the best players for each match, considering various factors. The opening pair is yet to be finalized, with options including Babar-Saim, Saim-Rizwan, and Fakhar Zaman. Mahmood expressed confidence in the team’s composition and preparation for the upcoming series against New Zealand. He also highlighted the return of experienced players like Imad Wasim and Mohammad Amir. Additionally, the fitness of fast bowler Shaheen Afridi was confirmed for the series starting on April 18.
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