Addressing the press conference, Salman Agha shared insights into various aspects of Pakistan cricket. He said that the Champions Trophy, scheduled to be played in Pakistan, is on the team’s radar and underscored the importance of focus on the current task.
"We are ready for the Champions Trophy in Pakistan. After playing a long season, there is another long season ahead, so the preparation is good. The Champions Trophy is on our minds, but before that, the West Indies series is ongoing," Salman said.
As the defending champions of the Pakistan Super League (PSL), Salman’s franchise, Islamabad United, will be in the spotlight for the 10th season. He recognized the pressure that accompanies the title but remained upbeat about keeping the team’s winning momentum.
"In the PSL, we will try to maintain the same performance as last year. Islamabad United is the defending champion, so there will be more pressure, but we will try to give a good performance and win. We know which players to pick for the PSL; the preparation is complete," said the all-rounder.
Agha also talked about Faheem Ashraf in a respectful manner, acknowledging his key performance for the franchise. Faheem left the franchise recently.
“Faheem Ashraf was the backbone of Islamabad United; we cannot replace Faheem. In franchise cricket, players have to move on; I wish Faheem the best,” Salman noted.
Agha updated the fans on the health status of opening batter Saim Ayub. The young player is undergoing treatment in London after suffering injury during the second Test against South Africa.
“The reports about Saim Ayub are that he will recover before the Champions Trophy. Please pray that he recovers soon,” he stated.
Salman also expressed excitement about the upcoming events of Champions Trophy in Pakistan, saying that it would be a fantastic opportunity for fans to watch performance of international stars.
“In the international stadium, people get to see the players up close, and now fans will also be able to see their stars up close here, which is quite good,” he added.
The rivalry between Pakistan and the West Indies has seen 54 Test matches, with Pakistan leading the head-to-head record with 21 wins. The West Indies have won 18 matches, while 15 games have ended in draws. The last Test series between the two teams was held in the Caribbean in 2021, which concluded in a 1-1 draw.
Pakistan playing XI:
Imam-ul-Haq (c), Ahmed Safi Abdullah, Ali Raza, Ali Zaryab, Hussain Talat, Kashif Ali, Mohammad Huraira, Mohammad Rameez Jnr, Mohammad Suleman, Muhammad Ghazi Ghori (wicketkeeper), Musa Khan, Omair Bin Yousuf, Rohail Nazir, and Saad Khan
West Indies Test squad:
Kraigg Brathwaite (Captain), Alick Athanaze, Amir Jangoo, Anderson Phillip, Gudakesh Motie, Jayden Seales, Joshua Da Silva (wicketkeeper), Jomel Warrican, Justin Greaves, Kavem Hodge, Keacy Carty, Kemar Roach, Kevin Sinclair, Mikyle Louis and Tevin Imlach
