Following Pakistan’s disheartening seven-wicket loss against England in the fourth T20I, seasoned campaigner Shoaib Malik has sparked a conversation about the team’s batting order. Taking to social media, Malik proposed a solution he believes would bolster Pakistan’s middle-order woes.
Babar Azam’s Performance and Malik’s Suggestion
While Pakistan succumbed to defeat, captain Babar Azam displayed glimpses of brilliance with a knock of 36 runs off just 22 balls. Despite his impressive strike rate of over 163, Malik suggested a change in Azam’s batting position. On his social media platform (X), Malik advocated for Azam to bat at number three.
“Tough series! Remember: we’ve been in tough spots before & came out stronger! IMO Babar should bat at no 03! We need someone in the middle overs to rotate strike, you are our best option, with your guidance our middle order will do alot better.”, Shoaib Malik wrote.
Encouragement for Azam Khan and Shadab Khan
While advocating for the batting order adjustment, Malik also offered words of encouragement to young players Azam Khan and Shadab Khan. He acknowledged their vital roles within the team and urged them not to lose confidence.
“Azam & Shadab, you two are vital for our team, don’t lose confidence, play with heart, you are match winners,” Malik wrote on his social media platform. This message highlights the importance of maintaining morale within the squad as they prepare for the upcoming T20 World Cup.
Recap of the Fourth T20I Match
England won the toss and elected to field first. Pakistan’s opening partnership of Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan provided a promising start. However, England’s spin duo of Adil Rashid and Moeen Ali effectively applied pressure, restricting Pakistan to a total of 157/10 in 19.5 overs. Openers Phil Salt and Jos Buttler dominated the chase for England, scoring a quickfire 78 runs within the powerplay. Despite a brief fightback from Haris Rauf with three wickets, England comfortably secured victory with 7 wickets remaining in 15.3 overs.
Pakistan’s T20I series loss against England serves as a wake-up call before the marquee T20 World Cup. Shoaib Malik’s suggestion regarding Babar Azam’s batting position has sparked discussions and ignited debate among fans and cricket pundits. Whether Pakistan implements this change or opts for a different strategy remains to be seen. However, one thing is certain: Pakistan will need to address their middle-order woes and find a way to maintain momentum throughout the innings to achieve success at the T20 World Cup.
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