Pakistan team manager Naveed Akram Cheema today defended newly-appointed T20 skipper Muhammad Hafeez, saying the youngster should be given time to prove his leadership credentials after a disappointing start to the tour which saw the tourists lose the opening Twenty20 by 37 runs agaisnt Sri Lanka. ‘The loss hurt all of us but people should understand that we have a new leader and a new team so they need time to gel,’ Cheema was quoted as saying by the ‘Express Tribune’.
‘Hafeez enjoyed the support of all players including the seniors and the team management which would help him prosper in his new role after Misbahul Haq was dropped from the format,’ he added. Hafeez was dismissed off the first ball of the innings and made some questionable decisions on the field but Cheema believes that he will learn the trade with time as he settles in his new role. ‘The mood in the camp is good and we are looking to make amends for our mistakes. We need to capitalise on the chances that come our way,’ he said. Cheema, however, refused to confirm if any changes will be made for today’s match. ‘We will make the decision after analysing the pitch but we have some exciting players on the bench who have the ability to do well if fielded,’ he said. Pakistan will be looking to pick up the pieces and adhere to a more determined batting display when they lock horns with Sri Lanka for the 2nd Twenty20 International today.
UNI