Iftikhar Ahmed's future in Pakistan team hangs in balance
Iftikhar Ahmed's slot in the Pakistan cricket team hangs in balance, following a series of lackluster performances. Once viewed as a dependable player, his recent failures in the ICC tournaments have drawn widespread criticism from fans and ex-cricketers alike. The situation has been exacerbated by Pakistan Cricket Board chief Mohsin Naqvi's call for a complete revamp of the squad after their disappointing T20 World Cup campaign.
Ahmed's chance to prove his worth in Champions Cup
Despite the challenges, Ahmed would want to bounce back in the impending 50-over Champions Cup. He will be playing under the captaincy of Mohammad Rizwan for Team Wolves. Notably, a clip from Ahmed's pre-tournament interview has emerged on social media, where he humorously refers to himself as a "tailender" after being called a "middle-order batter" by a reporter.
A dip in form
Ahmed, known as a potent finisher, has featured in 17 T20Is since the conclusion of 2023 ODI World Cup. He owns just 184 runs in these games at an average of 15.33. His strike-rate in this regard reads 115.72.
PCB chief hints at squad overhaul
PCB chief Naqvi has hinted at a potential "surgery" in the team, suggesting that underperforming players like Ahmed could face exclusion. Notably, Pakistan are gearing up for an intense white-ball season leading up to the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy. With important series against Australia, South Africa, and Zimbabwe looming, Ahmed's prospects of a comeback seem bleak unless he manages to stage an exceptional recovery.
Pakistan's disappointing performance in T20 World Cup
Pakistan had a dismal run in the 2024 T20 World Cup, exiting in the group stage after significant losses to hosts USA, as well as India. Despite victories against Ireland and Canada, the Men in Green failed to progress to the Super Eight stage. Ahmed featured in two games, against USA and India but failed to make an impact.
