Ravi Shastri believes Pakistan’s chances in the ICC Champions Trophy are strong, especially in home conditions, emphasizing their potential to succeed if they reach the knockout stages. Despite facing early pressure, the team can capitalize on recent series wins, though they miss key player Saim Ayub due to injury. The upcoming matches against New Zealand and others will be crucial for their campaign.
Former Indian head coach Ravi Shastri expressed his belief in Pakistan’s potential for success in the ICC Champions Trophy, especially on home soil. He emphasized that if they reach the knockout stages, they could become a formidable opponent. Pakistan will kick off their campaign against New Zealand on February 19 in Karachi, aiming to build on positive momentum from recent series wins against Australia and South Africa.
Shastri acknowledged the inherent pressure of competing at home in sub-continent conditions, noting the significant expectations faced by each team, including Pakistan. However, he highlighted that Pakistan’s recent performances in white-ball cricket give them an edge and confidence heading into the tournament. Shastri specifically mentioned the contributions made by players after adapting to pressure in the last several months.
He also pointed out the absence of young opener Saim Ayub due to an ankle injury, describing him as a crucial player for the team. Despite this setback, Shastri remains optimistic about Pakistan’s depth and believes they can be extremely dangerous in familiar conditions. He forecasts that they should qualify for the semi-finals, where anything can happen.
Shastri concluded that if Pakistan makes it through to the knockout stages, their potential threat to other teams should not be underestimated. Pakistan’s upcoming matches include crucial fixtures against South Africa on February 12 and then against New Zealand, India, and Bangladesh later in February.
The Pakistan squad includes key players such as Mohammad Rizwan (captain), Babar Azam, Fakhar Zaman, and Shaheen Shah Afridi, who will need to perform at a high level for the team to advance successfully in the tournament.
The ICC Champions Trophy is a prestigious cricket tournament where teams compete at a high level, often facing immense pressure especially when playing in their home countries. For Pakistan, the tournament can provide a unique challenge as the team is expected to thrive on familiar conditions while also contending with the pressures that come with hosting expectations. Recent series victories can contribute to a positive team mentality, yet injury setbacks can impact overall performance. Players’ recent form and their ability to adjust to pressure situations will be vital in achieving tournament success.
Overall, Shastri’s insights reflect a mix of optimism and caution regarding Pakistan’s ICC Champions Trophy prospects. The combination of experience, recent form, and playing conditions presents an opportunity for Pakistan to excel, despite the risks of pressure and injury. As the tournament progresses, the performance of key players will critically influence their chances of advancing and performing well in knockouts.
Original Source: www.lokmattimes.com
