The cricket captain of Pakistan, Muhammad Rizwan, has spoken out about speculation over possible lineup changes for the forthcoming ICC Champions Trophy. Highlighting the present form and significance of players like Faheem Ashraf and Khushdil Shah, he voiced his complete faith in their skills during a press conference in Lahore.
Before the Champions Trophy, which will include the top eight cricket teams in the world, starts on February 19, there will be a tri-nation series in Lahore, including South Africa, New Zealand, and Pakistan. With a playful diversion, Rizwan suggested that Babar Azam would handle the opening pair well.
Rizwan supported the selection of Abrar Ahmed as the team’s principal specialised spinner while discussing the squad’s make-up. It was his observation that left-arm spinners were needed, and he lauded Shah’s efforts to meet this demand. After confirming that the roster is complete and that decisions on the starting eleven will be made according to game circumstances, Rizwan put an end to rumours of any additional lineup adjustments.
The skipper expressed his worries about the recent performance of the top-order players, especially Babar Azam, and welcomed Fakhar Zaman’s return to the squad after a six-month absence.
As part of the team’s tri-nation series strategy, Rizwan said that playing in Lahore would be beneficial, but he also highlighted that there are problems, such as dew, which could reduce the efficacy of two spinners. The necessity of giving in-form players opportunities to ensure a balanced and competitive squad was emphasised by Rizwan, who is confident in Pakistan’s future.
