T20 World Cup: Babar Azam fully backs Pakistan's middle-order

Pakistan captain Babar Azam has fully backed the middle-order batters, reminding everyone that they have won us many games.

The Men in Green will open their T20 World Cup campaign today against India at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG).

"Look, sir, this we will know on the day [of the match]," Babar said in the press conference.

"You never know. This is T20. On the day anyone can surprise you. It is a short format, any player can win you the match. We have belief in the middle order. They have won us enough matches, they have performed in enough difficult situations. You should be prepared for everything," he added.

Babar Azam is confident that the pace battery comprising Shaheen Afridi and Mohammad Wasim will deliver the goods in the showpiece event.

"The way our fast bowlers are performing, Shaheen [Shah Afridi] has come back, [Mohammad] Wasim, and especially the way Haris [Rauf] has improved his bowling and grown his game, our confidence in our bowling unit is quite high. So, on the day, we will try to execute our plans," said Babar Azam.

Babar Azam informed the media about Shan Masood's recovery after coping a blow to his hand a few days ago. However, Fakhar Zaman is still not fully fit from the knee problem and will have to warm the bench before being ready to be part of the playing XI.

"Shan Masood has recovered," Babar said. "All the test reports look good. He is ready for tomorrow. We haven't yet seen the pitch. We know an XI in the back of the mind, but we will confirm it when we see the wicket. Fakhar hasn't recovered fully. It will take him one or two matches."

Meanwhile, Babar termed Shadab and Nawaz as the key factor while batting up the order. "The way Shadab and Nawaz have played their part higher up the order, is a key factor for us. It gives us a freer mindset. And here the grounds are bigger, you won't see as many big shots here," Babar said.