Shadab Khan addresses Pakistan’s poor campaign in ODI World Cup 2023
Shadab Khan (Source – Twitter)
The Pakistan cricket team played their final match of the group stage of the ODI World Cup 2023 against England on 11 October at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata and were defeated by 93 runs. The match was a due or situation for Pakistan to qualify for the semifinals of the ODI World Cup, and after losing Pakistan was eliminated from the semifinal of the championship.
Pakistan’s ace spinner Shadab Khan talked about the team’s poor performance throughout the ODI World Cup 2023. He also expressed his disappointment towards his own game and openly accepted that he could not perform as per his capabilities and potential. Khan also talked about Babar Azam being targeted for his poor captaincy in the tournament.
Shadab Khan on Pakistan’s poor performance in ODI World Cup 2023
“I have let myself down, I didn’t live up to my potential as a bowler which has impacted the team’s performance. You always try to win a tournament, this could not happen. We are out of the semifinals. Coaches, players, support staff, everyone is disappointed”, Shadab Khan told NDTV.
“Whenever a tournament starts, we have to improve in all three departments. As a team, we failed to adapt to modern-day cricket,” he added.
“This represents a cultural difference. When we emerge victorious, it is attributed solely to the captain’s triumph. But in times of defeat, the responsibility for the loss falls squarely on the captain’s shoulders. This should change,” said Khan.
After losing the game to England, in the post-match ceremony, Pakistan’s captain Babar Azam said, “Yes, very disappointed with the performance. If we had won the SA match, it could’ve been a different story. But yes, I have made mistakes in bowling, batting and fielding. We gave 20-30 runs extra. Bowled a few loose deliveries. Our spinners haven’t taken wickets. That’s had a big effect. If spinners don’t take wickets in the middle overs, you struggle. We have to sit together. Let’s see. Will take positives and discuss our mistakes also. I will do my best to pitch in my experience (keen to lead?).”
