Pakistan eye World Cup after Asian glory

Morale sky high after Asia Cup show: U19 coach.

KARACHI: After sharing the Asia Cup trophy with India following an unbeaten run in the tournament, the Pakistan under-19 team has shifted its focus to next month’s World Cup.

Team coach Sabih Azhar said the players, spurred by the triumph, were itching for another good show, this time when the stakes are higher.

“The Asia Cup has never been an easy tournament,” Azhar told The Express Tribune. “Our performance is a big positive for us. It was the perfect preparation for the World Cup.”

While the overall performance of the team was impressive, the coach pointed out some weaknesses which he believed should be overcome.

“Our fielding needs improvement, plus we are conceding too many extras.”

Azam expects tough competition

Meanwhile, captain Babar Azam expects tough competition at the global event.

“The competition is going to be tight but we are confident after the Asia Cup,” said Azam. “We are a good combination and hopefully the team will maintain its performance to lift the World Cup.”

Azam also praised opening batsman Sami Aslam who ended as best player and batsman of the tournament.

Published in The Express Tribune, July 4^th, 2012.