Former India spinner praises Pakistan’s openers and bowling strength
ISLAMABAD: Former Indian spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has said that Pakistan have a strong chance of winning the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, even if some people may not agree with his view.
Speaking on his YouTube channel while analysing Pakistan’s squad, Ashwin said he was speaking purely from a cricketing perspective.
“Some people may not like what I’m about to say, but I’m only talking about cricket. I genuinely feel Pakistan have a very good chance of winning this World Cup,” Ashwin said.
According to the former India all-rounder, Pakistan’s openers and bowlers are the team’s biggest strengths.
He noted that Pakistan’s opening combination will feature Sahibzada Farhan and Saim Ayub, rather than captain Babar Azam. Ashwin praised Saim Ayub’s aggressive batting in the powerplay, calling him particularly impressive.
Discussing the bowling attack, Ashwin highlighted Shaheen Shah Afridi’s powerplay economy rate of 6.5, describing it as a major asset. He also praised Abrar Ahmed and Mohammad Nawaz, saying Nawaz bowls with control while Abrar’s unique style makes him a dangerous option.
The 39-year-old former spinner also pointed out Pakistan’s weaknesses, including inconsistency from some key players and team combination issues. He said Babar Azam batting in the middle order could be a concern, while Naseem Shah and Shaheen Afridi have not been as effective in the death overs.
Ashwin added that Shadab Khan’s form, both in batting and bowling, has dipped, but stressed that Pakistan still have emerging talents, including players like Salman Ali Agha, who often go unnoticed.
Overall, Ashwin said Pakistan remain a strong and competitive side, with a few weaknesses but enough depth and talent to challenge for the title.
The ICC Men’s T20 World Cup will be held from February 7 to March 8 in India and Sri Lanka. Pakistan will play their opening match against the Netherlands on Saturday.