Vice-captain of Pakistan cricket team Shadab Khan believes that the England series would provide a valuable opportunity for making preparations for T20 World Cup.
The ICC’s Men T20 World Cup will take place in Australia next month.
In an exclusive interview Shadab says that he is preparing himself for bowling in power play and death overs. Therefor he can use as a bowling option by the team at any stage.
Shadab Khan also says that he is willing to bat further up in the order if required by the team.
“It is, of course, a very historic series and also a worthwhile opportunity for us to prepare for the world cup. England is one of the most successful teams in limited over cricket that plays modern day cricket. So, it will help us to prepare for the world cup and will allow us to form a proper combination ahead of the mega-event,” Shadab says.
When he ask what areas the team needs to improve. He says that there’s always room for improvement in all areas. However, he highlights that the team needs to work hard on batting.
Speaking about his own cricket, Shadab says that being an all-rounder. He is prepare to step in for the team whenever team requires.
Shadab further adds, “For me and Nawaz, the combination we have in the team plays a very critical role. He or I can play at any position. Therefor we have to prepare, although I pray that we don’t face such situation where I have to bat earlier.”
He says that he is not targeting any individual batter from the England side. But he is aiming to work on improving his bowling variations.
“It is about my bowling variations, which I realized during T20 blast. Especially when I bowl with a new ball in the power play. I am working on it so that I can prepare myself in a better way to be able to bowl at any stage of the game.”
Responding to a question, Shadab says that players from both teams know each other well. He anticipates a very healthy competition in the series against England.
He also highlights the benefits of playing franchise leagues around the world.
“It is very significant and beneficial, especially for young people who come from humble backgrounds. When they go abroad, they get to see a completely different world, a different culture, and conditions. That they’re not familiar with, and they learn everything, on and off the field, by playing alongside various top players from around the world,” says Shadab.
“Just as England players know Pakistan’s condition by playing in the PSL, we are also getting aware of the conditions in different countries” he concluded.
Pakistan and England are scheduled to play the first match of the 7match T20 International series today in Karachi.
Read also: England’s cricket team will arrive in Karachi after 17 years