Misbah backs Pakistan team despite ‘mistakes’ in Asia Cup 2023

Monitoring Desk

KARACHI: Former captain Misbah-ul-Haq backed the Pakistan team ahead of the upcoming ICC Men’s ODI World Cup 2023 following their early exit from the Asia Cup 2023.

Misbah-ul-Haq, while talking to the media during the trophy unveiling ceremony of the Over 40s Cricket Global Cup in Karachi defended Pakistan captain Babar Azam despite a 228-run loss against arch-rivals India.

“The captain is not the only one responsible for a 228-run defeat, the whole team is responsible,” Misbah said. “The team’s confidence has definitely been damaged, however, the Pakistan team has always bounced back from difficult situations.”

He further showed his faith in the current Pakistan team going into the World Cup 2023 in India.

“Mistakes have been made in the Asia Cup, we have to improve our performance. These players have performed well in the past, and I am hopeful that they will do better in the World Cup,” he added.

“Our spin bowlers have failed to perform at their best, however, the selection committee can tell about any upcoming changes in the team for the World Cup,” said Misbah-ul-Haq.

He also stated the fact that Indian conditions are different from Sri Lanka, and will support Pakistani batters.

“The World Cup is a different event and the conditions will be tough, however, India’s conditions will support Pakistani batters,” he added.

Pakistan, who entered the Asia Cup 2023 as a top-ranked ODI side, however, failed to live up to the label of being the favourites as they crashed out of the tournament after finishing fourth in the Super 4s stage.

Pakistan will kick off their World Cup 2023 campaign against the Netherlands on October 6 at Rajiv Gandhi International Cricket Stadium in Hyderabad.