World Cup 2023: Pakistan’s captain, Babar Azam, has stated that the team is ready for Net Run Rate (NRR) scenarios against England. Babar expressed confidence that Fakhar Zaman will address the NRR deficit by remaining at the crease for 30 overs.
World Cup 2023
Pakistan’s captain, Babar Azam, has revealed the team’s strategic focus on Net Run Rate (NRR) scenarios as they aim to secure a spot in the World Cup 2023 semi-finals. Speaking ahead of their final group stage clash against England in Kolkata, Azam emphasized the team’s discussions about the NRR issue, expressing confidence that they would address it during the game.
To qualify for the semi-finals, Pakistan must defeat England by a margin of 288 runs at the Eden Gardens. However, if Pakistan bats second, winning becomes a challenging prospect, given the limited overs available for chasing the target (between 3-5 overs, depending on the target).
Azam clarified that if Pakistan bats first, opener Fakhar Zaman will play a crucial role in managing the NRR by staying on the pitch for 20-30 overs. He assured that the team is well aware of the importance of this aspect and is committed to executing their plans effectively.
Addressing the media, Azam stated, “No, it’s not like this matter is not in the back of our minds. We are aware of it, and we will try to execute our plans and achieve the target tomorrow.” He emphasized the need for strategic planning, outlining specific phases, such as the first 10 overs and the subsequent 20, and highlighted the importance of partnerships and the duration each player spends on the pitch.
Azam concluded by expressing confidence in achieving their goals, particularly if Fakhar Zaman can contribute for 20-30 overs, followed by support from players like Rizwan and Iftikhar.
Also Read:Dramatic Twist: New Zealand’s Win Puts Pakistan’s Semi-Final Dream in Jeopardy
Fakhar Zaman’s outstanding performance against New Zealand in the World Cup 2023 has been pivotal for Pakistan’s semi-final aspirations. In a crucial match, Zaman’s extraordinary batting played a key role in securing victory. Chasing 402 in 50 overs, he scored a sublime century off 63 balls, hitting 11 sixes and accumulating an impressive 126 runs off 81 balls. This remarkable performance earned him the ‘Man of the Match’ title.
Despite rain interruptions, Zaman’s spectacular batting display propelled Pakistan to 160-1 in 21.3 overs before the revised target was set at 342 in 41 overs. Zaman continued his stellar form, reaching an unbeaten 126, while Babar Azam contributed with an unbeaten 66. Pakistan added 40 runs in four overs before rain returned.
Zaman’s exceptional display ensured that Pakistan stayed 21 runs ahead of the DLS par score when the game was eventually called off. This crucial victory brought Pakistan to eight points from as many matches, placing them level with fourth-placed New Zealand and significantly boosting their chances of reaching the World Cup semi-finals.
