Peshawar Zalmi can beat any team, says Mushtaq Ahmed

KARACHI: Peshawar Zalmi’s spin bowling coach Mushtaq Ahmed has said that the power-play is crucial in T20 cricket and Peshawar Zalmi needs to perform well during that phase.

Speaking during a media talk in Karachi, Mushtaq Ahmed stated that if Peshawar Zalmi plays well in the power-play, they can defeat any team.

The spin bowling coach mentioned that the playing XI will be selected according to the conditions and dew could play a significant role.

Mushtaq Ahmed said that both left-arm spinners could be included in the playing XI. He added that spinners have helped teams like Islamabad United and Quetta Gladiators win matches.

He further said that batters often try to hit spinners, which results in fall of wickets. Even if few sixes are conceded, it’s still beneficial for the team if the spinner manages to take wickets.

Talking about Babar Azam, Mushtaq Ahmed said that Babar just needs one good innings — scores of 30 or 40 mean nothing for a player like him.

He pointed out that Babar Azam has performed consistently for the past five years, and ups and downs are a part of every cricketer’s career. Peshawar Zalmi is backing Babar with full confidence.

Mushtaq Ahmed also noted that while batters have improved their skills in international cricket, bowlers have not been able to evolve in the same way. He believes that a lack of proper bowling practice is a reason behind Pakistan’s weakening bowling strength.