Younis Khan highlights Pakistan's match-winners, stresses middle over aggression

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Former Pakistan cricketer Younis Khan has called for a regular cricket series between arch-rivals India and Pakistan, emphasizing its importance for both countries.

His remarks come ahead of the India versus Pakistan T20 World Cup clash on June 9 in New York. Currently, the teams only meet in ICC events due to geopolitical tensions.

Speaking to reporters, Khan highlighted that regular series would reduce the pressure of World Cup matches and produce star players for both sides.

"India vs Pakistan is always start as a fifty-fifty game. Even though one team might look superior on paper, this match is not just about skills; it also tests your nerves. So, I believe the team that can hold their nerve better will have smooth sailing in the match.,"Younis said

"Pakistani cricketers have always spoken in favour of India vs Pakistan games. We need to play more frequently, not just in ICC events, because once we start playing each other more regularly, it will also take the pressure of this game’s intensity off the players' shoulders. This match (India vs Pakistan) always produces future stars for both teams. The one who performs in this game becomes a hero at home,” he added.

When asked about Pakistan’s team for the T20 World Cup, Khan praised the team’s depth and versatility, suggesting testing different players in upcoming matches for optimal team selection.

"Team combination is good," Younis said,

"But we can always try different things in matches to come before the World Cup and go for something which is good for the team. I would suggest that we test the remaining players in the series against England so that we have a clear picture ahead of the World Cup," he added.

He pointed out the team's several match-winners and emphasized the need for flexibility in batting and bowling orders."

“Pakistan’s current team has four to five match-winners in all departments of the game, be it batting, bowling, or all-rounders. We have all the ingredients in our team; it is all about utilising them properly," he said.

"T20 is not about a set batting order or bowling order; you have to make changes frequently according to the team’s requirements and match situation. We need to be flexible with batting order and bowling options, and if we do that, then we will have a clear chance of playing the final," he added.

Addressing current captain Babar Azam, Khan advised him to lead by example and focus on the team’s overall performance.

"Babar Azam is a top player and he is in good form. He must lead the team from the front. He must not only focus on his own performance but also extract the best out of his team," he said.

"When you’re the captain, it’s not just about your own performance; you need to focus on other players’ performances as well. I would love to see Babar becoming man of the series and also winning the trophy for Pakistan,” he added.

He emphasized collective responsibility, urging all players to contribute according to the match situation and keep the scoreboard moving, especially in the middle overs.

"In this format, everyone has to play their part, be it a youngster or a senior. Everyone should contribute according to the situation. Make sure you play the powerplay according to the powerplay, and we also need batters who can keep the scoreboard moving in the middle overs," he said.

"It is important that we don’t slowdown in the 7th to 14th over. Pakistan must keep the target of 200+ if they’re batting first if they want to do well in the World Cup," Younis concluded.