In the wake of Pakistan’s loss in both their warm-up matches ahead of the ICC World Cup 2023, Iftikhar Ahmed, the middle-order batter, has expressed unwavering confidence in his team’s ability to clinch the World Cup trophy. His statement comes on the heels of an impressive performance in the warm-up game against Australia, where he played a crucial knock.
Pakistan’s journey in the warm-up matches began with a defeat against New Zealand, where they couldn’t defend a total of 345 runs. Subsequently, in their encounter with Australia, Pakistan fell short by 14 runs while chasing a formidable target of 352. Despite a valiant effort from Iftikhar Ahmed, captain Babar Azam, and Mohammad Nawaz, Pakistan couldn’t secure a victory.
Iftikhar Ahmed’s impressive innings saw him score 83 runs off 85 balls, including 6 fours and 4 sixes, before being dismissed by Marnus Labuschagne. Babar Azam contributed significantly with 90 runs off just 59 balls before retiring, while Mohammad Nawaz added 50 runs to the total from 42 balls, ultimately helping Pakistan reach a total of 337.
Speaking after the warm-up game, Iftikhar Ahmed expressed his delight at playing a substantial innings ahead of the main tournament. He acknowledged the need for confidence-boosting performances and the importance of adapting to the Indian conditions as Pakistan prepares for the World Cup.
“It was a good experience. You need to play a good innings for confidence. I am playing in India for the first time, so I had to adjust myself to the conditions,” said Iftikhar Ahmed.
Despite the challenging warm-up matches, Iftikhar Ahmed exuded confidence in Pakistan’s ability to win the World Cup. He emphasized the honor of representing Pakistan in the World Cup and stated that their primary goal is to secure the coveted trophy.
“Playing the World Cup is an honor for a professional cricketer. I am very excited to play in the 50-over World Cup and want to help Pakistan win it. This is my only aim. The boys are confident, and we will leave India with the trophy,” he asserted.
While Pakistan may have faced setbacks in their warm-up matches, Iftikhar Ahmed’s optimism reflects the determination and belief within the team as they prepare to kick off their World Cup campaign. Pakistan will commence their World Cup journey on October 6 against the Netherlands.
As the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023 gets underway, cricket enthusiasts eagerly anticipate how Pakistan, under the leadership of Babar Azam, will perform in this prestigious tournament.
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