Afridi highlighted the need for changes in the playing XI to improve their performance
Shahid Afridi, the former captain of Pakistan, has proposed adjustments to the team's lineup led by Babar Azam following their narrow defeat against the USA in a Super Over and their failure to chase a modest target against India.
Afridi highlighted the need for changes in the playing XI to improve their performance.
He specifically suggested promoting Fakhar Zaman to open alongside Mohammad Rizwan, while dropping Babar Azam to number three to strengthen the batting order.
"I think now is the time for Gary Kirsten and Babar Azam to make some changes. I would like to see Salman Ali Agha [he is not part of the T20 World Cup squad] come into the side in place of Usman Khan and Abrar Ahmed to come in for Shadab Khan. Most of all, I believe Fakhar Zaman should be promoted to open the innings alongside Mohammad Rizwan, with Babar dropping down to number three," Shahid wrote in the ICC column.
Pakistan's chances of advancing to the Super 8 stage hinge on the USA losing their upcoming matches, coupled with Pakistan winning their remaining games convincingly to enhance their net run rate. Afridi encouraged the team to remain hopeful as they prepare to face Canada in their next match in New York on Tuesday.
"There are some tough conversations and choices to come but we need to remember that there is still hope: Pakistan are not out of the tournament yet," Afridi added.