Mohammad Nawaz, an all-rounder for Pakistan, stated that his squad was ready for India’s short-ball strategy for their Super Four match on Sunday in Dubai. Mohammed Rizwan’s half-century was followed by Nawaz’s cameo, which helped their team win with one ball remaining. Virat Kohli scored 60 runs off 44 balls as India set a target of 182 in their first 20 overs.
Pakistan was often hit by short balls from the Indian pacers during their opening encounter at the Asia Cup. Five of Pakistan’s ten wickets were taken by short balls, while all ten were taken by pacers. It therefore came as no surprise when India’s enduring foes showed up ready for yet another assault.
“In the first match they got wickets from short balls, so we were expecting them to go that route again. We practiced with this thought in mind,” said Nawaz in the post-match presser. “To play in a high-pressure game at this level gives me confidence. Obviously, the expectations will also increase and I will try to continue performing like a proper all-rounder for Pakistan,” he added.
Nawaz’s team management also moved him up the pecking order. Later, he explained that there were a few causes behind this.“I was told that I would be sent to bat depending upon the right-left combination. I was clear in my goal that when I went to bat, the team needed 10 runs per over. I knew that with a clear mind and an emphasis on the basics, I had to execute this plan,”he said.