Kamran Akmal, a former Test cricketer, believes that the Pakistan Cricket Board’s (PCB) proposed strategy to play against weaker teams in the Asia Cup 2023 window is not a viable option for the national team before the ICC World Cup in India. In an interview with the media in Lahore, Akmal, who resigned from his selection committee role due to his commitments during the Pakistan Super League (PSL) season 8, stated that playing against Zimbabwe or Ireland before the World Cup would not be ideal for the national side.
Kamran Akmal suggested that if there is no Asia Cup, there is no need to invite Zimbabwe or Ireland, or at most, the A-team should play against them. He emphasized that it is essential for Pakistan to play tough cricket before going to the World Cup, as recommended by legendary players such as Inzamam, Javed Miandad, and Imran Khan. They used to say that Pakistan should always play with a good team before a significant tournament. Even if they lose, playing against tough teams will boost their confidence and benefit the team.
The PCB has reportedly contacted various boards to arrange bilateral or triangular series in the event of the Asia Cup’s cancellation in September due to India’s pressure. South Africa, Zimbabwe, West Indies, and Ireland have so far been contacted. There are high chances of a triangular series involving South Africa and Zimbabwe. Kamran Akmal is comfortable if Pakistan plays against South Africa before the mega-event, stating that playing against them, whether in their country or theirs, would be excellent for the team’s confidence.
South Africa and Zimbabwe are the two teams that will be free in the Asia Cup window in September this year, according to the FTP. South Africa will host Australia from August 30 to September 17 for three T20Is and five ODIs. After September 17, South Africa will be free until the World Cup in India. Zimbabwe has no scheduled series in September this year, but it will play World Cup qualifiers at home in June-July.
It should be noted that Australia, New Zealand, and England have busy schedules during the Asia Cup window. However, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, and Afghanistan will be occupied in the case of India’s five-nation tournament. The PCB management committee chairman, Najam Sethi, is currently in Dubai to meet with Asian Cricket Council (ACC) and International Cricket Council (ICC) representatives.
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