[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text dp_text_size=”size-4″]Imam-ul-Haq, Pakistan’s opening batsman, held a press conference prior to their crucial ICC World Cup 2023 match against Afghanistan in Chennai on Monday. During the conference, Imam-ul-Haq acknowledged the recent struggles of the Pakistani team in the tournament, especially their difficulty in turning promising innings into exceptional ones.
He mentioned the challenge of chasing a formidable target of 367 runs and recognized that Pakistan has faced difficulties in playing substantial innings. He also admitted that the team had not performed well in their last two matches. However, Imam expressed optimism that they would present a different and improved performance against Afghanistan.
Also Read:Australia Defeats Pakistan By 62 Runs In WC 2023 Match
Imam stressed that experiencing a drop in morale after consecutive losses is natural, but he emphasized the unity and support within the team. He highlighted that despite the losses, the players are backing each other, and the management is supporting them. He stated their confidence in making a comeback by winning against Afghanistan and noted that they had discussed the issue of not converting 70s or 80s into centuries with their coach.
Regarding the concerns about their bowlers conceding runs in the tournament, Imam-ul-Haq pointed out that it’s a challenge faced by all teams and not exclusive to Pakistan. He mentioned Shaheen’s strong performance against Australia as a positive example.
Imam also recalled Pakistan’s success in a three-match ODI series against Afghanistan in Sri Lanka just before the Asia Cup 2023, where Pakistan emerged as the number-one ODI team for the first time. He highlighted their victory in spinning conditions in Hambantota against Afghanistan and their encouraging record in Chennai. He concluded by mentioning that the captain would decide the number of spinners in the team and expressed hope that with a cautious start and a strong opening partnership, they could achieve a score of 350 runs.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]
