"Malik's presence in the squad would have helped Pakistan win," Aaqib Javed

Former fast bowler Aaqib Javed believes the presence of the all-rounder Shoaib Malik would have helped Pakistan overcome India and Zimbabwe in their first two Super 12 matches of the T20 World Cup 2022.

The 50-year-old praises Malik, claiming that his inclusion in the World Cup squad would have benefited Pakistan.

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"Malik is the fittest among the players and has the best game awareness. If he was in the team, Pakistan could have won the two matches against India and Zimbabwe," Aaqib said. 

The 40-year-old was a key squad member in last year's World Cup in the UAE, when he helped the team reach the semi-finals. On the other hand, Shoaib was unable to join the squad this time.

Shoaib, a member of Pakistan's World Cup-winning side in 2009, has 11,867 runs and 218 wickets to his name in 446 international outings for the Men in Green.

Zimbabwe stunned Pakistan with a one-run victory on Thursday, threatening the Asian powers with an early exit from the World Cup.

Zimbabwe was restricted to 130-8 after deciding to bat first, but their spinners, led by Pakistan-born Sikandar Raza, suffocated Pakistan to 129-8 for a thrilling Super 12 victory in Perth.

It was Pakistan's second consecutive setback following their agonizing opening defeat to archrival India, who leads Group 2 with two wins out of two.

It should be remembered that Pakistan must win their remaining three Super 12 matches to keep their semi-final aspirations alive. However, the outcome of other matches will also determine their prospects of making the last four.

Pakistan will face the Netherlands in their third Super 12 match on Sunday, October 23, at Optus Stadium.