Pakistan cricket legend Wasim Akram, a key figure in the country’s 1992 World Cup triumph, has expressed confidence in Pakistan’s ability to significantly impact the upcoming ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup.
Acknowledging the talent and leadership of Babar Azam, the current top-ranked ODI batter, Akram believes that if Pakistan’s key players maintain their form and fitness, they have a genuine chance of clinching their second World Cup title. With a blend of experienced players and emerging talents, Pakistan possesses a formidable team capable of competing against the best.
Led by the exceptional Babar Azam, Pakistan boasts a talented group of players. The team’s batting lineup includes Mohammad Rizwan, Imam-ul-Haq, and Fakhar Zaman, while their pace attack features the likes of Shaheen Afridi, Haris Rauf, and Naseem Shah. With these resources at their disposal, Pakistan possesses a balanced and dynamic side capable of posing a significant threat to their opponents.
Wasim Akram highlights the advantage Pakistan may have in the World Cup due to the tournament being held in India, on subcontinent conditions similar to their own. Familiarity with the playing conditions and pitches in the subcontinent could play a crucial role in Pakistan’s performance. The experience and adaptability of the Pakistani players in such conditions could give them an edge over other teams.
“We have a good side a very good one-day side and are led by one of the modern-day greats in Babar Azam. As long as they are fit and as long as they play according to the plan, they will have a chance of doing well in that World Cup because it is played in our type of conditions in India on the sub-continent,” Wasim Akram told the ICC.
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Wasim Akram speaks highly of Babar Azam, considering him one of the best players in contemporary cricket. Akram praises Babar’s influence on and off the field, acknowledging his ability to attract crowds and inspire the nation. With a graceful cover drive that has captivated fans worldwide, Babar’s influence goes beyond mere statistics. Akram believes that Babar has the potential to elevate his game even further during the World Cup, making him a player to watch out for.
“I think he can (get better) as he is the best player we have. The whole country follows him, everything he does. He gets people into the stadium and it doesn’t matter whether it is T20, one-dayers or Test cricket and, in my opinion, he has the most beautiful cover drive in the world.” the former Pakistan captain said.
