LAHORE: Pakistan's middle-order batter Salman Ali Agha has provided an update on his fitness saying he is now fully fit and ready to give his best in the upcoming ICC Men's Cricket World Cup 2023 in India.
The 29-year-old endured a blow to the face when he top-edged a sweep off Ravindra Jadeja in the Asia Cup 2023 Super 4 match. The batter was taken to hospital after the match where the doctors dressed his nose. He was ruled out of the following game against Sri Lanka.
Addressing the media ahead, the right-hander shed light on various aspects as the team prepares to plan for the World Cup. He emphasised the pivotal role of the middle overs in both batting and bowling strategies.
"Middle overs are of great importance, and they are crucial for both batting and bowling departments. The morale is high, and the team is fully active and focused on the World Cup," he added.
Reflecting on the past, he acknowledged the disappointment of their Asia Cup performance but added, "The Asia Cup is now in the past. Our sights are set on performing well in India and bringing the trophy home."
Salman Ali Agha expressed gratitude for the management's support. "The management is backing us, and we are determined to live up to their trust."
He also revealed that playing in the World Cup has been a long-cherished dream for him, which is finally becoming a reality.
When discussing the pressure of playing in India, he stated, "India is a place where there is immense pressure to perform, but we are confident in our ability to manage that pressure."
Agha also highlighted the positive impact of psychologists, saying, "Psychologists have been incredibly helpful, and the sessions with them before major events have been beneficial."
It must be noted Pakistan had announced the squad with minimal changes from the Asia Cup squad. The squad will be led by prolific batter Babar Azam.
In an expected change, Hasan Ali has replaced Naseem Shah in the 15-member World Cup squad. Naseen suffered a shoulder injury at the Asia Cup 2023 and is expected to stay on the sidelines for a long period.
Pakistan squad for ICC World Cup 2023
Babar Azam (c), Abdullah Shafique, Fakhar Zaman, Imam-ul-Haq, Iftikhar Ahmed, Mohammad Rizwan (wk), Shadab Khan, Mohammad Nawaz, Usama Mir, Haris Rauf, M Wasim Jnr, Hasan Ali, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Saud Shakeel, Salman Ali Agha.
Travelling reserves: Mohammad Haris, Abrar Ahmed, Zaman Khan
Sohail Imran Sohail Imran is a senior reporter for Geo News.- Salman Ali Agha
