Aaqib Javed outlines his strategy as Pakistan's interim white-ball coach
Newly appointed interim white-ball coach for Pakistan, Aaqib Javed, has laid down his plan of action, focusing on ODIs and the Champions Trophy. He also said he would like to experiment with the team in T20Is. Aaqib will remain in the position till next year's Champions Trophy ends. His first assignment is a series against Zimbabwe, consisting of three ODIs and T20Is starting November 24.
Aaqib Javed's focus on ODI cricket and Champions Trophy
Aaqib stressed on keeping a settled team in ODIs while making changes in T20Is. "Our main focus at the moment is on ODI cricket ahead of the Champions Trophy," he said during a press conference in Lahore. He added, "You'll see a settled team in this format. You'll see changes in the T20I format." This will be followed in Pakistan's upcoming series against Zimbabwe.
Aaqib Javed's plan to test bench strength in T20Is
Aaqib intends to use the Zimbabwe series to test new players and strengthen the team's bench. "We plan to give new players chances in the Zimbabwe series," he said. He feels this will give a platform to emerging talents, saying, "It is a message and opportunity to the new players to take the chances they've been given."
Aaqib Javed's dual role in coaching and selection
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has confirmed Aaqib will continue to be a part of the selection committee during his stint as coach. This is a departure from previous arrangements where full-time Test coach Jason Gillespie wasn't involved in the selection process. Aaqib cleared this dual role, saying, "We always consult the coach and captain, and then the selection committee announces the team."
Aaqib Javed's response to potential criticism
While Aaqib admitted that his dual role could invite criticism, he maintained that his case is different since he isn't the chief selector but a part of a panel. "My case is slightly different from the cases you mentioned," he clarified. He added, "I do not view it as a problem because we all want to select players who do best for Pakistan."
