Attack only way to beat India: Jalal

KARACHI: Former Pakistani Test and ODI cricketer Jalaluddin has said that the Green Shirts must adopt an aggressive approach when facing their arch-rivals, India, in the ICC Champions Trophy match in Dubai.

He stressed that in this do-or-die match, “Pakistan have nothing to lose.”

Pakistan will play India on Sunday (today) in their second match of the Champions Trophy, having already lost their opener against New Zealand. A win is essential for Pakistan to remain in the tournament.

Jalaluddin noted that on paper the Pakistan cricket team appeared weak, “but the Green Shirts need to show change.”

He said that taking risks means there is a 50-50 chance.

The former cricketer said that Pakistan should make full use of the power play in the early overs. He added that when India bat, Pakistani bowlers must aim for early wickets.

He also pointed out that the poor results in the Tri-Nation Series and the first match against New Zealand proved that the old strategy failed, making it urgent to change the game plan. Jalaluddin stressed that players like Imam-ul-Haq must perform well, especially during the power play.

According to him, if Pakistani bowlers can take a couple of early wickets and keep the Indian batting lineup under pressure, they could restrict India to a manageable score.

He believes that scoring 280-plus runs on Dubai’s wicket would be a competitive target.

Jalaluddin further said that senior players such as Babar Azam, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Rizwan, and Naseem Shah must deliver strong performances if Pakistan are to win the match.

“This is the time for the experienced players to showcase their skills and help steer Pakistan out of a difficult situation,” he said.