Babar or Shaheen: International experts reveals who is more important for Pakistan in WC?
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Renowned Indian commentator Harsha Bhogle believes that before the ICC World Cup 2023, fast bowler Shaheen Afridi will be more critical for Pakistan against Captain Babar Azam. Harsha Bhogle stated that Shaheen's ability to take wickets with the new ball sets him apart for Pakistan.
He compared Shaheen Afridi's importance to Pakistan to that of Babar Azam, stating that when Babar Azam doesn't take wickets in the first 10 overs, you can see what happens in the Asia Cup.
If Pakistan doesn't get wickets in the powerplay, they might suddenly face a lot of pressure on their bowling side, similar to South Africa's situation with the absence of Dale Steyn. In my opinion, Nasim Shah is a big setback for them."
He further mentioned, "They need to improve their spinners. I think Pakistan's story will depend on whether their openers can perform well and if they can get good bowling from their spinners in the middle overs."
Harsha Bhogle supported Pakistan's decision to back Imam-ul-Haq and Abdullah Shafique for the opening position despite Fakhar Zaman's poor form. He said, "Fakhar Zaman has issues with form, but I genuinely believe they've given their best opening combination a chance. Imam has shown good performance lately, but they need to figure out how to handle a player like Abdullah Shafique."
He added that if Abdullah Shafique and Imam-ul-Haq are given consistent opportunities, Babar Azam could become a different player suddenly. However, there's no doubt that if Pakistan wants to make an impact, Babar Azam needs to perform well in the World Cup.
Harsha Bhogle also had concerns about Pakistan's middle-order and spin bowling capabilities. He mentioned that their middle-order is slightly shaky.
