Pakistan’s reputation will keep other teams wary now: Malik

Pakistan batting great Saleem Malik feels that the pressure will be on other teams when Pakistan came into the mix due to the reputation they have.

“No doubt Pakistan is a big team with a lot of reputation on its back especially when it comes to do-or-die situations. Other teams will be wary of Pakistan because of this and they would be under pressure now while facing Pakistan,” he said while talking to 24 Digital Tuesday.

Recalling the 1992 world cup of which he was also a part of the winning squad, Malik said the Pakistan team are in the same situation and they should go now all the way to lift the trophy.

However, Malik said there is no room for error for Pakistan now as the prayers won’t do much for them and they should perform on the field to write the history books.

Malik said Pakistan should have to play aggressive cricket and should take the momentum they are carrying after the match against South Africa to a level ahead in the next match.

“They should play with more aggression and confidence without taking any pressure.”

Malik said New Zealand were the most balanced and high-performing team in the event so far and pose a real challenge to their opponents.

“They are a team in form in all the departments of the field. Their batters, bowlers and fielders all are delivering maximum on the field. To outdo them, Pakistan needs to be equally sharp on the field.”

Malik said as the Pakistan team management needs to come out with a clear strategy for the semifinal.

He feels that Pakistan should bat first and put a healthy total on the board as bowlers are in better form than batsmen and they can defend the total with confidence.

Malik advised non-performing Pakistani openers Babar Azam and Muhammad Rizwan to sit together and devise a strategy and should also decide that one of them would play at a fast pace.

Malik said one of the openers needs to play with a good strike rate so that Pakistan can get the maximum benefit from the power play.

“If an opener falls before the six overs, they should send Haris next to accelerate the things during the power play. However, if the opening partnership broke after six overs then Shan Masood should come next to play the anchor role with the other set batsman going after the bowlers.”

Malik said Sydney’s wicket will suit the New Zealand team more as it mirrors the pitches they have in their own backyard.

He said even their spinners are performing better than those of Pakistan and this pitch would be ideal for them.

However, Malik said Pakistan could overcome Kiwis with an aggressive and integrated approach by playing to their full potential.

Malik said in the current scenario keeping the tradition and the reputation of the Pakistan team in view, Pakistan should emerge victorious over Black Caps.