After losing to New Zealand by 60 runs in Karachi, Pakistan’s ICC Champions Trophy campaign got off to a disastrous start. Key player and pacer Naseem Shah was disappointed yet hopeful after taking two wickets but allowing 63 runs in the contest.
Before their crucial matches against Bangladesh and India, Naseem spoke to reporters and stressed the necessity of improvement. “A poor start is disappointing, but we must work on our mistakes and shift focus to the next games,” stated the coach. He brought attention to the difficulties Pakistan had in the latter overs and the dangers of high-scoring pitches. The connection between Glenn Phillips and Tom Latham was pivotal as New Zealand scored 113 runs in the final 10 overs.
“Our performance in the last overs was lacking, and that was our downfall,” Naseem confessed. “Our morale shouldn’t drop,” he emphasized, highlighting the significance of maintaining motivation. We intend to win both of our remaining matches.
Their failure to make the most of the power play was another reason vice captain Salman Ali Agha brought attention to the underwhelming performance. Due to Fakhar Zaman’s temporary absence, Pakistan had to reshuffle their batting order, with Babar Azam and Saud Shakeel taking the crease. While recognizing that New Zealand’s surprising 320-run goal was significant, skipper Mohammad Rizwan voiced similar worries. Will Young and Tom Latham’s partnership was key in New Zealand’s impressive total.
Pakistan will not give up and will do all it takes to improve their tournament prospects despite losing early in the competition.
