Pakistan, the 2009 T20 World Cup champions, faced a challenging start to the 2024 T20 World Cup in the USA and West Indies. In their first match against the ICC associate member and underdogs, USA, they fought hard, even pushing the game to the super over. Their second loss came against their arch-rivals, India, in a low-scoring chase.

These instances, while highlighting the team’s struggle in crucial moments, also underscore their resilience and potential. With their upcoming matches against Canada and Ireland, they have the opportunity to showcase their true capabilities and secure a position in the Super-8. Here’s a list of pointers on how they can harness their potential and turn the tide in their favour.

1. An attacking approach for a solid Rizwan-Babar partnership

In the two clashes of their tournament, Mohammad Rizwan and Babar Azam couldn’t provide a formidable and robust partnership, with only one of the batters giving their efforts in the matches. As observed, the batters have been having a slow approach, which is in contrast to the T20I format of the game. As a measure to change, Rizwan and Babar should provide a robust and attacking partnership, which would help create the base for the team’s batting approach and score more runs against the bowling attackers.

This approach changes could lead to higher scores and more competitive performances. With their upcoming matches against Canada and Ireland, the opening duo can fully utilise these matches to implement this strategy.

2. Removal of Imad Wasim

Imad Wasim has been a reliable all-rounder who has significantly impacted the team with his left-hand batting and bowling. However, his recent performance against India has prompted criticisms about his position and future with the team. Though he has bowled significantly well, the all-rounder needed help to increase depth to the team’s bleak batting order.

By wasting crucial deliveries and leading to a bold move of his removal, his position will be filled by an emerging batter, Saim Ayub, which will be discussed in the next pointer.

Also Read: T20 World Cup 2024: What happens to Pakistan if they lose against Canada?

3. An experiment of new opening pair: Mohammad Rizwan and Saim Ayub

After a challenging opening stint for the team by Mohammad Rizwan and Babar Azam, the management is considering a new opening pair with the emerging left-hand, Saim Ayub. This change, with its potential for a swashbuckling batting approach and the intriguing left and right-hand combination, could be a game-changer.

An emerging and experienced duo could create a crucial impact in the batting order, bringing a fresh wave of hope and anticipation. By this, Babar Azam would get a chance to return to his formidable and favourite spot of No.3 and do his usual batting business. If not, Saim Ayub can display his batting calibre even in the No.3 position, making him a viable addition to the Pakistan squad.