Rawalpindi, Pakistan’s national cricket team is ramping up its preparations for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024, with a series of T20 internationals scheduled against New Zealand, Ireland, and England. The return of experienced players Mohammad Amir and Imad Wasim, both of whom have reversed their retirements, is set to bolster the squad.
According to International Cricket Council, Pakistan’s head coach, Azhar Mahmood, outlined his strategy and enthusiasm for the upcoming games. Mahmood’s focus is on fine-tuning his team’s composition and strategies through the 12-match series, which starts with five games against New Zealand. The series is crucial for determining the best XI for the T20 World Cup and for integrating the veteran players back into the team dynamics.
Amir and Wasim’s comeback is particularly significant as they bring a wealth of experience to the squad. Amir, who has been successful in the Pakistan Super League, and Wasim, whose all-round performance led Islamabad United to a title, are expected to play key roles. Mahmood expressed confidence in the depth and strength of the current squad, emphasizing the mix of youth and experience that includes emerging talents like Irfan Niazi, Azam Khan, and Usman Khan.
The Pakistani squad is tasked with not just competing but excelling at the T20 World Cup, especially after reaching the finals and semi-finals in the previous two editions. With a history of not winning a major tournament since the 2009 T20 World Cup and the 2017 Champions Trophy, the team is eager to break the dry spell.
The series against New Zealand, which includes players like Tom Blundell and Zak Foulkes, will also be a test of Pakistan’s readiness. Despite the absence of some key New Zealand players, Mahmood stressed the competitiveness of T20 cricket and the potential of every team.
The five-match series against New Zealand will begin on April 18 in Rawalpindi, setting the stage for Pakistan’s intensive preparation period ahead of their first World Cup game on June 6 against the USA in Dallas.