Pakistan Aims to Break T20 World Cup Jinx with Balanced Squad

Pakistan's T20 World Cup hopes rest on the shoulders of skipper Babar Azam, who aims to break the team's semi-final and runner-up jinx. Despite a chaotic build-up, Azam remains optimistic, believing it's their turn to lift the trophy.

Pakistan's preparations have been marred by captaincy changes and coaching staff overhauls. However, the appointment of Mohsin Naqvi as PCB chairman and the inclusion of Gary Kirsten as white-ball coach have brought stability.

The team has also bolstered its bowling attack with the return of Mohammad Amir and Imad Wasim. Shaheen Shah Afridi and Naseem Shah remain key figures, while Abrar Ahmed and Shadab Khan provide spin options.

Pakistan's batting, however, remains a concern. Despite the world-record partnership between Azam and Mohammad Rizwan, the team has struggled to post totals over 200. Saim Ayub is expected to break up the opening partnership, while Fakhar Zaman, Usman Khan, Azam Khan, and Iftikhar Ahmed form a formidable middle-order.

Consistency has been a major issue for Pakistan, who have shown flashes of brilliance but also inexplicable collapses. If they are to challenge for the title, their batters must step up and match the performances of their bowlers.

Pakistan faces a tough group stage, with India, the United States, Canada, and Ireland as their opponents. A potential clash with India in New York could be a pivotal moment, as Pakistan has only won one of seven T20 World Cup matches against their arch-rivals.

Despite the challenges, Azam is confident in his team's ability to return with the trophy. With a balanced squad and a renewed sense of purpose, Pakistan will be determined to make the third time lucky at the T20 World Cup.

Tags: #T20WorldCup, #PakistanCricket, #BabarAzam, #ShaheenShahAfridi, #GaryKirsten