Former Pakistan captain Mohammad Hafeez shared his opinion on Pakistan’s campaign in the upcoming ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024, stating that the former champions will struggle in the mega event considering their current performance.
Hafeez appeared in ARY News’ show Sports Room and revealed where he foresees the Green Shirts in the 20-team mega event.
“Look, as a Pakistani, my heart will always remain in the favour of Pakistan regardless of their performance. But, considering the facts, I think the Pakistan team will struggle,” stated Hafeez.
“The only reason behind that is they are not ready in terms of the right formation and the mindset. Also, their roles are not defined yet like a controlled team,” he added.
Mohammad Hafeez further named his semi-finalists for the T20 World Cup 2024, including Pakistan despite claiming that the 2009 champions would struggle in the tournament.
“Look, I would say the same thing again, if I were to say what my heart wants, I would pick Pakistan first. If I consider tactics and right formation then I think India can perform better in the West Indies.
“West Indies themselves could perform better there and alongside them, England could perform really well.”
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Mohammad Hafeez then went on to term the national men’s team’s recent performances “below-par” when they settled for a 2-2 home series stalemate against an inexperienced New Zealand side and a 2-1 away series victory against Ireland after succumbing to a shock loss in the series opener.
“Look, the lead-up wasn’t good, like 2-2 against New Zealand at home wasn’t in Pakistan’s favour. It is by no means justifiable. You just can’t do that because it was Pakistan’s full-strength side.
“Unfortunately, the results we were hoping for, as fans, did not come.
“Pakistan then went to Ireland. There as well, Pakistan fielded a full-fledged side. But, after losing the first game, their recovery was very good. Like, the attitude they showed to win that series.
“At a certain stage, it seemed as if Pakistan would not be able to win this series. But their comeback was strong.
“They have every player in their arsenal but unfortunately, as of now, such mindset, body language and dominance, which we think Pakistan should have achieved, were not attained,” Hafeez concluded.
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