Rawalpindi, Pakistan’s cricket team, led by Babar Azam, is gearing up for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024 with a crucial five-match T20I series against New Zealand starting Friday in Rawalpindi. This series is part of a broader preparation plan that includes a total of 12 matches against various teams before the World Cup.
According to International Cricket Council, Azam, who was recently reappointed as the white-ball captain, is optimistic about the team’s preparations. During a pre-series press conference, Azam highlighted the importance of the upcoming matches and the rigorous fitness camp the team completed in Kakul. He stressed the series as a vital opportunity for the team to gel and fine-tune their tactics ahead of the global tournament.
While Azam remained non-committal about the final World Cup squad composition, he indicated that the players participating in the upcoming series against New Zealand would likely form the core of the team. However, he also noted that the selection is not final and changes could occur based on performances in the lead-up to the World Cup. Azam also expressed satisfaction with the infusion of young talent into the team, praising their domestic performances and the structure supporting their transition to international cricket.
New Zealand, under the temporary leadership of Michael Bracewell, faces challenges due to the absence of several key players. However, Bracewell conveyed confidence in the ability of the newcomers to adapt quickly to the conditions in Pakistan and provide strong competition.
The series is not just a preparation for Pakistan but also a critical opportunity for New Zealand to test its less experienced players under challenging conditions.