Pakistan captain Babar Azam has revealed the reasoning behind sending Iftikhar Ahmed to bat at number eight in the third T20I match against New Zealand on Monday. In a post-match interview after Pakistan’s four-run loss, Babar highlighted Iftikhar’s versatility as a batsman, stating that he was capable of batting at any position and that the specific number did not matter.
“We’ve kept our batting order flexible. We went with what we thought was best at that time. Iftikhar Ahmed and Faheem Ashraf were outstanding. We’re playing a deep batting lineup so that we can send anyone at any time. Iftikhar can bat at any number – numbers don’t matter,” said Babar.
Iftikhar played a key role in Pakistan’s fightback after they were reduced to 88-7, with a quickfire 60 off just 24 balls. He smashed six sixes and three fours and forged a crucial 61-run partnership with Faheem Ashraf before holing out in the final over of the match.
Despite Iftikhar’s fireworks, New Zealand managed to hang on for a thrilling five-run victory. The win keeps New Zealand’s hopes alive in the five-match T20I series, with Pakistan leading 2-1. The next two matches will be played in Rawalpindi on April 20 and 24.
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