The chairman of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), Mohsin Naqvi, reacted to the ongoing dilemma of vice-captaincy for the Pakistan cricket team during a media talk on Thursday.
Names like Shaheen Afridi, Mohammad Rizwan and Shadab Khan have emerged in the past few days but the PCB is yet to finalise a name.
However, Naqvi believed that the need for a deputy is not too great as Babar Azam alone is “more than sufficient” to lead the team.
Naqvi was asked about appointing a vice-captain to assist Azam during a dinner held in honour of the team and he responded: “In my opinion, Babar Azam alone is more than sufficient. This team has the best combination and is highly capable."
"This is the time to support the team. I urge everyone to stop criticising the team for the next four weeks. This team will win the T20 World Cup for you," Naqvi emphasised during his address and subsequent media interaction.
The PCB chief then praised the "immense talent" of the team players. He also urged everyone to stop criticising the team and support them as he is confident they will win the title.
"The Pakistani team comprises excellent players with immense talent. I request everyone to cease the criticism. Post-mortem begins after losing just one match, which is not right. The boys are eagerly waiting for the nation's support. I am confident this very team will win the World Cup," Naqvi added.
"I have encouraged the players to focus on their game without the pressure of winning or losing. Give your best effort. Winning and losing are in Allah's hands. I see this team going very far in the World Cup," he further added.
He also confirmed his plans to attend the final contingent on time as being interior minister of the country despite his tight schedule.
"If I get the time, I will go to watch the Pakistan-India match," he concluded.
Pakistan’s T20 World Cup 2024 squad
Babar Azam (c), Saim Ayub, Mohammad Rizwan, Azam Khan, Shadab Khan, Fakhar Zaman, Usman Khan, Iftikhar Ahmed, Imad Wasim, Abrar Ahmed, Mohammad Abbas Afridi, Mohammad Amir, Naseem Shah, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Haris Rauf.
Pakistan's T20 World Cup 2024 schedule and timings (PST)
June 6: Pakistan vs USA, Dallas, 8:30pm
June 9: Pakistan vs India, New York, 7:30pm
June 11: Pakistan vs Canada, New York, 7:30pm
June 16: Pakistan vs Ireland, Lauderhill, 7:30pm
