Imam-ul-Haq vows Pakistan will be ‘different team’ against Afghanistan

Pakistan opening batter, Imam-ul-Haq, addressed the media in a press conference ahead of their crucial ICC World Cup 2023 encounter against Afghanistan in Chennai on Monday.

The left-handed batter acknowledged Pakistan’s recent struggles in the tournament, particularly their inability to convert good innings into exceptional ones.

“When you are chasing 367, you have to take risks. I agree we are not able to play big innings, I also agree that we haven’t played well in the last two matches. We have analysed our situation, you’ll see a different team tomorrow [against Afghanistan],” Imam said.

Imam emphasized that it’s normal for morale to dip after consecutive losses but highlighted the unity and support within the team. 

“Yes, losing matches back-to-back downs your morale but we back each other and the management is backing the players as well. We are confident that we can get back on track after winning against Afghanistan. We aren’t able to convert the 70s or 80s into a century, we have talked to our coach about it,” he further added.

Imam-ul-Haq also addressing the issue of bowlers conceding runs in the tournament.

“Bowlers of all the teams are conceding runs, it’s not only happening with us. Shaheen bowled well against Australia,” he said.

Imam recalled Pakistan’s success in a three-match ODI series against Afghanistan in Sri Lanka, just before the Asia Cup 2023, where Pakistan came out victorious and became the number-one ODI team for the first time. 

“We defeated Afghanistan in spinning conditions in Hambantota, and our record in Chennai gives us hope but we will need to play our best cricket. Captain will decide how many spinners will play. If we are cautious in the start and give a strong start, we can score 350,” he concluded.