Interim Head Coach Aqib Javed Confident in Pakistan’s Comeback, Emphasizes Team’s Ability to Win

Auckland:Interim head coach of the Pakistan cricket team, Aqib Javed, has expressed confidence in the team’s ability to bounce back, stating that the ongoing phase of team rebuilding does not mean the team is not aiming for victories.

Speaking to the media in Auckland, Aqib Javed said, “The team will make a comeback, and we have the full potential to win the series. There might be one or two changes in the third T20.” He emphasized that the goal of restructuring the team is not to give up on winning. “Playing in New Zealand conditions is not easy, especially for players who have had limited exposure to international cricket,” he added.

He acknowledged the frustration of fans following two consecutive losses, stating, “People are upset after we lost two matches. They want to see us win all the time, and we want that too, but sometimes it takes a little longer.”

Aqib Javed also discussed the changes in leadership and team dynamics, saying, “The talk about Sarfaraz’s captaincy is four years old. The team that was good in T20s is now two years old. Cricket has changed in those two years, and T20 teams are evolving. We are also working towards forming a separate T20 team.”

Regarding the upcoming major events, Aqib highlighted the significance of the Asia Cup and World Cup, both of which will be held in India. He pointed out that wickets in Asia typically provide higher scores, while conditions in South Africa, New Zealand, and Australia are more challenging. “If young players perform in these difficult conditions, it will build their confidence, which will be valuable when playing in Asia,” he noted.

Aqib emphasized that the team’s primary preparation is for the Asia Cup and World Cup, and with players like Saim Ayub and Fakhar Zaman joining the team, the squad will improve further.

He also addressed concerns about individual performances, saying, “It’s not a big deal if a bowler gets hit for four sixes. Fast bowlers should keep improving. Shaheen Shah Afridi needs to step up his game. If he wants to make a mark in international cricket, he needs to perform even better.”

Lastly, Aqib pointed out the shorter boundaries in New Zealand, adding, “If Pakistani batters perform well from the top order, we have a good chance of winning.”