Irfan Optimistic as Shaheens Prepare for Top End T20 Series Opener

DARWIN: Muhammad Irfan Khan, the captain of Pakistan Shaheens, conveyed his optimism regarding his team’s readiness for their initial Top End T20 Series match against Bangladesh ‘A’. The game is scheduled for Thursday, August 14, at TIO Stadium.

The commencement of the match is slated for 7:00 p.m. local time (3:30 p.m. PKT).

Irfan shared his perspectives on the team’s preparation and game plan leading up to the opening contest against Bangladesh ‘A’.

“Our goal is to field the optimal team composition for the match. We recognize Bangladesh ‘A’ as a formidable team, so we will concentrate on selecting the most effective combination, especially considering this is our first tournament game, and we’re aiming for a positive start,” Irfan commented.

The 22-year-old further noted the team’s focused practice sessions, emphasising their relevance to the demands of match day.

“Our training has been tailored to the conditions, and each player has received a defined role. Our primary objective is to successfully execute these roles during the match, enabling the team to achieve victory,” he added.

He also addressed the morale and spirit within the team, expressing assurance in their strategy.

“We are entering the field with considerable enthusiasm and resolve, committed to giving our best effort to produce strong performances throughout the tournament,” Irfan concluded.

The 15-member team, guided by head coach Ghulam Ali, reached Darwin on August 10 and has since participated in three practice sessions to get ready for the event.

The 11-team tournament, consisting of 13 games, is set to occur from August 14 to 24 across five locations in Darwin.

Pakistan Shaheens, who competed in the first T20 edition in 2023 under the leadership of Rohail Nazir, were defeated by Northern Territory Strike by 46 runs in the final.

In the previous year’s edition, under the captaincy of Mohammad Haris, the Shaheens were defeated by Adelaide Strikers in the initial semi-final by 30 runs.

Pakistan Shaheens’ 15-member squad:
Muhammad Irfan Khan (captain), Abdul Samad, Ahmed Daniyal, Faisal Akram, Khawaja Mohammad Nafay (wicket-keeper), Maaz Sadaqat, Mehran Mumtaz, Mohammad Faiq, Mohammad Wasim Jnr, Muhammad Ghazi Ghori (wicket-keeper), Mubasir Khan, Saad Masood, Shahid Aziz, Ubaid Shah and Yasir Khan

Pakistan Shaheens fixtures: