Overview:
Pakistan must defeat Namibia in their next match on Wednesday at the SSC Stadium in Colombo to clinch a Super Eight spot. Pakistan had earlier registered wins against the USA and the Netherlands before being overwhelmed by India.
Pakistan’s setback in the marquee India fixture may have ripple effects beyond the points table. With the 20-team spectacle entering a crucial phase, management circles are assessing whether changes involving Babar Azam and Shaheen Shah Afridi are warranted. The duo struggled to find rhythm under pressure, a concern in a game of such magnitude.
Babar managed only five before attempting an ill-timed heave on Axar Patel‘s delivery, handing India an early breakthrough. Shaheen struggled for rhythm, conceding 31 in two overs as India surged beyond 175.
As per Geo News, the Pakistan camp, under the guidance of Mike Hesson, is far from pleased with the output of its senior stalwarts. With qualification hopes riding on the Namibia clash on Wednesday, selection changes are being seriously considered.
The update also hints at a possible two or three tweaks to the XI, with the team management keen to tap into squad depth and reward those waiting in the wings
Following the defeat to India, Pakistan’s support staff scheduled a day off to help the players recharge. Preparations will ramp up on Tuesday as they gear up for the Namibia encounter.
Pakistan’s heavy defeat to India saw PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi leave before the match concluded. The blockbuster encounter, meanwhile, featured top officials, including ICC chief Jay Shah and BCCI’s Mithun Manhas and Rajeev Shukla.
Babar Azam and Shaheen Shah Afridi have struggled to find form in this edition of the World Cup. The senior duo has repeatedly faltered in high-pressure moments, falling short of expectations. Pakistan are likely to drop the two players.
Pakistan must defeat Namibia in their next match on Wednesday at the SSC Stadium in Colombo to clinch a Super Eight spot. Pakistan had earlier registered wins against the USA and the Netherlands before being overwhelmed by India.