Aqib Javed suggests possible changes for the crucial third T20I against New Zealand

AUCKLAND: Pakistan’s interim head coach, Aqib Javed, has indicated potential alterations to the playing XI ahead of the must-win third T20I against New Zealand in Auckland on Friday.

Despite Pakistan trailing 2-0 in the series, the former fast bowler remains hopeful about his side’s chances and believes that tactical adjustments could enhance their performance in the upcoming match.

Addressing the media before the decisive encounter, Javed highlighted that the primary objective is to build a competitive squad for major tournaments, including the Asia Cup and the ICC T20 World Cup.

“Being in a rebuilding phase does not mean we are not aiming for victories. Pakistan has the capability to stage a comeback and win the series. Playing in New Zealand’s conditions is challenging, particularly for players with limited exposure to overseas cricket. There might be a couple of changes in the third T20,” Javed remarked.

Acknowledging the frustration among fans following consecutive defeats, Javed urged them to remain patient.

“We have lost two matches, and people are understandably disappointed. Everyone wants to win every game—we do too—but sometimes success takes time,” he added.

Javed also spoke about the evolving nature of T20 cricket and emphasized the need for Pakistan to adapt by forming a specialized squad, similar to other leading cricketing nations.

“The debate around Sarfaraz’s captaincy is an old one. The team that dominated T20s was built two years ago, but the game has evolved. Modern T20 teams are structured differently, and we are working on creating a specialized squad. Strike rate plays a crucial role in this format,” he noted.

Discussing the significance of upcoming tournaments, Javed highlighted the scoring trends across different conditions.

“The Asia Cup and T20 World Cup in India will be major tournaments, and we often see high-scoring games on Asian pitches. However, a recent series in Australia showed that high totals are not always the norm,” he explained.

He acknowledged the difficulties of playing in various conditions but stressed that such experiences would boost the confidence of younger players, ultimately benefiting them when they return to familiar subcontinental conditions.

“Playing in South Africa, New Zealand, and Australia is tough, but these experiences will help young players develop self-belief, which will be valuable when competing in Asia,” he stated.

Javed admitted that Pakistan’s T20 setup has fallen behind in recent years but expressed optimism that the inclusion of key players would strengthen the team ahead of major events.

“Our main priority is preparation for the Asia Cup and the T20 World Cup. With Saim Ayub and Fakhar Zaman joining, the squad will become more formidable,” he asserted.

Commenting on individual performances, Javed dismissed the fixation on big sixes in T20 cricket and turned his focus to fast bowler Shaheen Afridi, who has struggled in the series.

“Conceding four sixes is not a big deal, but a fast bowler must continue evolving. Shaheen Shah Afridi needs to elevate his game. If he wants to cement his place in international cricket, he must keep improving,” he emphasized.

“New Zealand’s short boundaries make things tricky, but if Pakistan’s batters set a strong platform, they can secure a win,” Javed concluded.