Aaqib Javed backs Pakistan’s squad selection despite underwhelming performance in Champions Trophy 2025
Pakistan’s head coach, Aaqib Javed, has stood by the national team despite their disappointing campaign.
Addressing a press conference at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, he admitted that although Pakistan had picked the best available squad, the team fell short of expectations.
“There are no excuses in life. We always back our team and stay hopeful before every match. The players themselves are disheartened by their performance. Our message to the nation is that we always give our best,” Javed stated.
Reflecting on Pakistan’s recent clash with India, he acknowledged the emotional intensity of such matchups. He suggested that a total closer to 300 runs could have made it a more competitive contest. “If you don’t post a strong score, the bowlers are forced to go on the offensive. A loss is never satisfying,” he remarked.
Javed also stressed the significance of key players in crucial encounters. “Big matches require experienced players. The absence of Saim Ayub and Fakhar Zaman was felt. Sufiyan Muqeem and Irfan Niazi lacked ODI exposure,” he explained.
Discussing team combinations, he added, “In ODIs, teams usually go with seven batters and four bowlers. Saim offered both batting and a few overs of bowling, which is why Khushdil was included as his replacement.”
Javed expressed confidence in senior players Babar Azam and Shaheen Afridi while applauding Saud Shakeel for cementing his place with consistent performances. “We will always field the best possible squad,” he affirmed.
