KOLKATA: Pakistan captain Babar Azam has revealed his side’s plan for the match against England during the ICC World Cup 2023 here on Saturday.
“Anything can happen in cricket. We will try to finish the tournament on a high note,” Azam said during a pre-match press conference on Friday.
‘We have a plan for net run-rate and will try to execute it. We have planned about 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.
“The role of Iftikhar Ahmed and Mohammad Rizwan will also be important during the match.”
Azam also hit back at former cricketers who have criticised his performance and captaincy during the mega event.
“There is no pressure on me. I was performing and leading the side for the past three years as well. It is easy to say things while sitting on TV. People who want to advise me can contact me on my number,” he said.
“Right now, my focus is on the next match. I will think about the future of captaincy later,” he added.
It is worth mentioning here that New Zealand’s win against Sri Lanka yesterday has made Pakistan’s path to the World Cup semi-finals — which was already difficult — nearly impossible as they require a massive win over England in their last match.
If Pakistan bat first against England, they would have to beat them by 287 runs.
If Pakistan bowl first, they need to dismiss England for 50 runs and chase the target in two overs or 100 runs in three overs.
