ICC World Cup 2023: ‘Results not in our hands’

Pakistan players during a practice session in Chennai yesterday. Pic/PTI

If Pakistan want to stay alive in the tournament, they need to give more than 100 per cent considering the way their today's opponents South Africa (SA) are playing. For the 1992 World Cup champions, it will be a do-or-die clash after succumbing to pressure in their last three games versus India, Australia and Afghanistan respectively. It will be a big test for Babar Azam & Co at the MA Chidambaram Stadium. More than that, the real fear will be about facing criticism which will come from fans and former players if they lose today.

Also Read: Incredibly disappointing tournament, says Buttler after big loss

Pakistan's spin bowling all-rounder Shadab Khan, who claimed just two wickets and has managed only 74 runs from four games, remarked that criticism won't affect his game. "Criticising is the easiest thing. Anyone can do it. That should make no difference. I have a simple theory that whatever talent God has given, if you give 100 per cent on the ground, that's it, because results are not in our hands. What is written for us will happen. So, do what is in your hands, the rest is in God's hands.

Being honest

"You should accept reality if you are not able to perform, be honest with yourself because you know yourself best - maybe no one else knows about me. So, I think you should analyse yourself and have an honest opinion about yourself. Talk to yourself," Shadab said during the pre-match press conference on Thursday, in reply to mid-day's question on how Pakistan will handle criticism.

Shadab Khan addresses the media. Pic/Getty Images

When asked about how he will deal with the wrath of former cricketers, Shadab said: "It's easy if you don't listen to them [ex-players]. You have to cut off social media because when you perform you know that everyone will talk - like he's doing so well, but when you don't perform, the same person will say he's not good enough."

‘Have full faith in our team'

Shadab admitted that they have underperformed in the tournament and are expecting to bounce back against SA. "We know how to come out of such situations. And there are miracles in our belief.

We have full faith in our team. We were playing well before the World Cup. It's not always that we do not play well. There are bad days, but I think we will start our winning streak tomorrow [Friday]," Shadab remarked.

Bowling has always been Pakistan's strength. But it is a big concern now in addition to the pathetic fielding. Bouncing back in all three departments hinges on the players' eagerness. At the same time, it depends on how five South Africans - Mickey Arthur (team director), Andrew Puttick (batting coach), Morne Morkel (bowling coach), Drikus Saaiman (strength and conditioning coach) and Cliffe Deacon (physiotherapist), who are currently in the Pakistani camp, chalk out a plan to stop the Proteas.