“Each match is important as we build towards the T20 World Cup and Asia Cup”: Salman Ali Agha

[Ball Blazer]

Pakistan T20I captain Salman Ali Agha opens up ahead of the first T20I against West Indies. Citing weather challenges, he also discussed team combination and preparation ahead of upcoming T20 World Cup and Asia Cup.

“We are really looking forward to play against West Indies. It’s quite hot, but we’re managing well and staying focused. I believe the three T20Is will be entertaining, and as a team, we’re eagerly looking forward to getting on the field.

“We have a fine blend of youth and experience in our squad. Over the past few series, we’ve tried different combinations, and I believe we’ve found a good one this time.

“No matter what the series is, every series matters equally for us. Each match is important as we continue to build towards the T20 World Cup and Asia Cup. The West Indies are a strong T20I side, even if recent results haven’t gone their way, and we’ll have to bring our best game to outplay them in this series.”

 

[The Bald Eagle]

The clarification on recent controversy

https://twitter.com/x/status/1950955939110007215

 

[pratiktc]

All games that Pak plays in next 6 months should be with focus on testing strategies for WT20.

When tournament is in subcontinent, Pak batting will find a way to be competitive irrespective of who is picked so not so much concerned and PCT should back Saim, Agha, Haris and Hassan to carry the batting with supporting role of veteran Fakhar.

2 aspects structurally I think are non negotiable in T20Is today
1) Proper batting till #8
2) Wicket taking new ball pacers and wrist spinners

Pak have to identify their 3 best wicket taking bowlers - 2 pacers and 1 spinner - who will take positions #9 to #11. I believe given conditions and ability these should be Shaheen, Naseem and Sufiyan. Hesson is building a good depth chart of cover options for these roles in Haris, Salman Mirza, Hasan Ali, Abrar etc.

The team needs then a 3rd seamer and a 2nd spinner who can both bat properly. Not blind sloggers. These will be the most difficult slots to fill. If Mohammed Nawaz can be rehabilitated that is one headache solved. The seam allrounder role has weakest options with likes of Abbas Afridi, Faheem and Daniyal vying for it and none looking inspiring.

I think Shadab's bowling is no longer viable for intl level but management should look to try him in a top 5 batter role. He has inventiveness and strokeplay to handle intl bowling

 

[Rana]

The clarification on recent controversy

https://twitter.com/x/status/1950955939110007215

Something has definitely happened

It was reported months earlier Agha cannot handle or wish to work with Shaheen.

No smoke without a fire