By Pakistan’s journey to the World Cup semi-finals has taken an unexpected turn, with Team Director Mickey Arthur turning to divine assistance as they approach a crucial showdown.
They’ve secured back-to-back victories against Bangladesh and New Zealand, reigniting their campaign. A notable catalyst in their resurgence has been the remarkable performance of opener Fakhar Zaman, whom Arthur hailed as “game-changing.”
With eight points from as many games, Pakistan faces a must-win clash against England in Kolkata this Saturday. Their fate also hinges on New Zealand’s match against Sri Lanka, and Afghanistan remains a contender based on upcoming results.
Arthur expressed his optimism, saying, “With a little bit of divine help, we can get to the semi-final, but we have to play well.” He acknowledged their exceptional performance against Bangladesh as a shining example.
Should Pakistan secure their place in the semi-finals, a tantalizing clash with arch-rivals India awaits, scheduled for November 16 in Kolkata.
Fakhar Zaman’s return from injury has been instrumental in Pakistan’s resurgence. Arthur praised the 33-year-old left-hander, stating, “Since Fakhar has come in, he has just been unbelievable. “I’ve consistently been a staunch supporter of Fakhar, firmly believing in his ability to turn the tide in matches.”
In a daunting chase against New Zealand, Zaman’s spectacular 126 not out, featuring 11 sixes and eight boundaries, carried Pakistan to 200-1 before rain interrupted play. This was Zaman’s 11th ODI hundred and his first in two World Cups.
Zaman’s form had been inconsistent leading up to the World Cup, but his return and exceptional performance have provided the spark Pakistan needed. Arthur emphasized Zaman’s ability to dominate and change the course of the game.
Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chief Zaka Ashraf has addressed concerns surrounding the team’s unity and the alleged rift within the squad.
Amid Pakistan’s struggles in the ICC World Cup, issues such as player power and the involvement of ex-chief selector Inzamamul Haq with players’ agencies have arisen. Inzamamul Haq resigned last month due to allegations of a conflict of interest.
Ashraf made it clear, stating, “There are no internal conflicts or disputes among the players. Our team is united in representing the nation collectively.”
Despite Pakistan’s challenges, Ashraf remains confident in the team’s unity and dismissed reports of disunity as attempts by individuals unsupportive of Pakistan’s World Cup campaign.
Pakistan’s World Cup journey hangs in the balance, with their fate relying on both their performance and other match results. They look to divine assistance and the brilliance of Fakhar Zaman to secure a spot in the semi-finals and set up a potentially epic showdown with India.
