Shadab Khan raring to go ahead of World Cup

Pakistan leg-spinner Shadab Khan has fully recovered from a viral infection and is ready to join the Pakistan team, for the upcoming International Cricket Council (ICC) 2019 World Cup.

While talking to media in Rawalpindi, Khan was hopeful that experience of playing in England for the last few years will help him in performing during the mega event.

“Since we are going to England for last three years, it is not very difficult to acclimatise to the conditions. All I have to do is get my rhythm back,” said Shadab. “I have already played in a competitive tournament, 2017 Champions trophy, which we won. Even though we have lost few games, I know how to adapt myself in a big tournament.”

While speaking about Pakistan’s poor performance in the ongoing One-day International (ODI) series against England, the 20-year-old said that he is confident that Men in Green will bounce back.

“Our team has 100% skills to do well in the World Cup. They are playing good cricket overall,” he said. “The bowlers are currently not in rhythm, but once they start clicking, we will start winning the games.”

He added: “When you are missing four key players, it becomes very difficult. However, there is a difference between pressure for a series and the World Cup, so I am optimistic about our chances in the mega event and will try our best to win the World Cup.”

Shadab also appreciated his friends and teammates for providing him support when he found out about the virus in his blood, which kept him away from cricket.

“When you suddenly get to know that you have a virus in your blood, naturally I got frustrated but my team-mates and friends have been very supportive,” he said. “However, I was hopeful of recovering since the viral infection was found in its initial stages.”