T20 World Cup 2024: 3 key players to watch out for from Pakistan - Cricket Winner

As the cricketing world prepares for the highly anticipated T20 World Cup 2024, all eyes are focused on Pakistan, a side with a rich history in the shortest game version. Since winning the championship in 2009, the ‘Men in Green’ have been on a never-ending quest to recover the cherished trophy, coming agonisingly close in the previous edition only to fall short in the final against England.

Under Babar Azam’s charismatic leadership, the current Pakistan cricket squad has a fearsome aura, combining seasoned veterans with rising stars. Here’s a list of the three players to check out for from the Pakistan squad.

1. Mohammad Amir

Mohammad Amir, a seasoned pacer from Pakistan’s bowling arsenal, is set to make a comeback after a four-year hiatus due to team-related circumstances. Known for his impeccable lengths and effective swings, Amir has delivered numerous unplayable deliveries that even the most formidable batters have struggled to handle. His return is eagerly anticipated, and he is determined to make a mark with his skills.

In the 2019 event, he will spearhead a formidable speed bowling attack that includes Shaheen Shah Afridi, Naseem Shah, and Haris Rauf, propelling Pakistan to the forefront of the World Cup favourites.

With 64 wickets in his 58 T20I appearances at an economy rate of 7.27, his performance will be a critical factor in Pakistan’s campaign.

2. Babar Azam

Babar Azam, Pakistan’s captain and prolific opener, was pivotal in guiding his country to the 2022 T20 World Cup final in Australia, where they finished as runners-up to a formidable Australia.

His T20I statistics are a testament to his skill, placing him at the top of the run-scoring list among all Pakistani batters, with the renowned right-hander accumulating nearly 4023 runs at an impressive average of 41.05.

His strategic decision-making and adaptability to different game situations make him a player of significant interest in the upcoming tournament.  

Also Read: T20 World Cup 2024: 3 key players to watch out for from Australia

3. Shaheen Afridi

Shaheen Afridi, Pakistan’s new-ball speed merchant, swings both ways against New Zealand at home in April and finishes the PSL 2024 season with 14 wickets for Lahore Qalandars. The 24-year-old was also given the captaincy of Pakistan’s T20I team for a tour before returning it to Babar Azam this year.

Shaheen Afridi, a seasoned campaigner with around 200 T20 matches under his belt, including over 60 internationals, has a proven track record in the T20 World Cup, having claimed 18 wickets in two editions.

His impressive and crucial bowling statistics speak for themselves. As a key player in Pakistan’s pace attack, the left-arm fast bowler will again be expected to significantly impact the team’s game.