Pakistan all-rounder Salman Ali Agha has expressed confidence that the national team’s top-order batters will perform in the final of the ongoing ODI tri-series, despite their inconsistent performances in previous matches.
Speaking at a press conference, Salman acknowledged that the top order has not been performing as it did in the past but expressed hope that the top three batters would deliver in the final. He said Pakistan were aiming to post a total of 350 runs, adding that converting half-centuries into centuries could significantly change the outcome of matches.
Responding to questions about the team’s approach, Salman questioned why anyone would assume that players did not take international matches seriously. He admitted that Pakistan had yet to produce a complete performance in the tournament, pointing out that even in matches they had won, there had been areas for improvement. Agreeing with head coach Mike Hesson’s assessment, Salman said the team had not yet reached its full potential.
Speaking about the additional pressure of captaincy, he said every captain inevitably faces greater responsibility, adding that he now feels less pressure after stepping down from the leadership role. Salman also praised Babar Azam and Fakhar Zaman, describing them as Pakistan’s two outstanding ODI batters over the past decade who have contributed significantly to the team’s victories.
Recalling Pakistan’s first match against England, he said the team should have secured a more convincing victory but remained confident that it had the ability to win the final.
He also praised Shadab Khan’s memorable performance, saying the innings would be remembered for a long time, much like the iconic knock played by former Pakistan all-rounder Abdul Razzaq.
Salman expressed hope that Babar and Fakhar would make valuable contributions in the final. On questions surrounding players’ selection and opportunities, he said it was difficult to determine how many chances a player should receive, as scoring runs consistently in international cricket was never easy. He added that players going through a difficult phase should be given sufficient time and opportunities to regain their form.
