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In their final pool match of the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023, Pakistan is set to face England on Saturday in Kolkata.
Presently positioned at fifth place in the 2023 World Cup points table with eight points and a net run rate of +0.036, Pakistan faces a crucial scenario. To advance to the semi-final stage of the tournament, they must defeat England by approximately 287 runs while batting first or with about 284 balls to spare while chasing the target.
During the pre-match press conference, Pakistan captain Babar Azam expressed confidence in his team’s ability to secure victory and highlighted the significance of a strategic approach.
“We have devised a plan regarding net run-rate against England. However, we cannot start blind slogging from ball one. We have planned how to play the first 10 overs and what to do after that. If Fakhar Zaman plays for 20-30 overs, we can achieve what’s required,” Babar stated.
Addressing concerns about Pakistan’s potential exit from the World Cup 2023, Babar emphasized the unpredictable nature of cricket, stating that no one can be certain about what will transpire next.
“You never know what’ll happen next; we have a match left,” Babar remarked.
The Pakistan skipper brushed off suggestions of feeling the burden of captaincy on his shoulders, asserting that he has not succumbed to pressure throughout his three-year tenure as captain.
“I have not performed the way I should have in the World Cup, that’s why people are saying that I am under pressure. I am under no pressure,” insisted the 29-year-old.
“Everyone has their own point of view, their own way of thinking. Everyone is saying something different. He should be like this, or like that.
“If someone has to give me advice, everyone has my number. It is easy to give advice on TV. If you want to give me some advice, you can message me.”
