ODI World Cup 2023: Shadab Khan expresses confidence in rediscovering form at the mega event

Shadab Khan, the Pakistani all-rounder, admitted to a recent slump in his bowling performance but expressed confidence in his abilities to bounce back. The Pakistan vice-captain has managed to take 13 wickets in 11 ODIs this year. During a press conference in Hyderabad, Shadab said, “I acknowledge that my recent form hasn’t been up to par, but I believe in my skills. When you’re not performing well, it can take a toll on your mental state, but there are no skill-related issues. After getting some rest, my mental outlook has improved, and I’m hopeful that we’ll put on a strong performance in the upcoming World Cup.”

Of the 13 wickets he has taken this year, four were achieved in a match against Nepal during the Asia Cup, but his overall performance in the tournament was poor. While expressing optimism about his own resurgence, Shadab also offered his support to Fakhar Zaman, who has been struggling for runs and didn’t get a chance to bat in the opening warm-up match against New Zealand in Hyderabad. Pakistan is set to begin their World Cup journey with their initial two matches in Hyderabad, followed by seven league-stage fixtures at different venues in Bengaluru, Kolkata, Chennai, and Ahmedabad. Shadab emphasized the importance of adapting quickly to varying conditions and maintaining top-notch fitness levels, particularly considering Pakistan’s loss of key bowler Naseem Shah to a shoulder injury.

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“Fakhar is a crucial player for us, with a significant impact on our team’s success. His three centuries this year have contributed to our victories, and every team desires such players. We have full faith in his abilities; he is a world-class player,” said Shadab

“Conditions will vary as we play in different venues, and we must swiftly adapt to these conditions, especially in terms of fitness. The tournament is long, and we’ve seen fast bowlers sustaining injuries during the Asia Cup. Fitness will be a concern for all teams, but we hope to avoid further fitness setbacks,” Shadab commented.

“I believe that the team with superior bowling skills will triumph in the World Cup. Given the conditions, containing batsmen and taking wickets will be challenging, given the flat pitches and short boundaries. Therefore, the team that excels in bowling will likely win the tournament, and we have a squad of world-class bowlers. If we perform well collectively as a bowling unit, we can become champions,” he concluded.

Following Pakistan’s defeat to New Zealand in the warm-up game, Shadab Khan believes that success in the World Cup would hinge on which team performs better in the bowling department.