'No one says we're eating biryani when we win' - Iftikhar Ahmed on Pakistan's constant criticism on their food choices

Pakistan will take on New Zealand in Match 35 of the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023 on Saturday, November 04 at M.Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru. The game is extremely crucial for Pakistan as they desperately need a win to keep their hopes of semi final qualification alive.

Ahead of their must-win encounter, Pakistan allrounder Iftikhar Ahmed commented on the criticism of the team in the ongoing World Cup with a special focus on the ‘biryani eating’ habit of the players. Commenting on the issues, Iftikhar said that no one says that the players are eating Biryani when they win, it only comes up when they start losing.

"When we are losing, everyone says that no one in the team is giving their best, but when the team is winning no one says that we are eating Biryani, please tell me why is it like this. If someone is eating Biryani or doing something that damages the country's name, then we are against it,” said Iftikhar in the pre-match press conference.

Also Check: New Zealand vs Pakistan Weather Forecast and Pitch Report of M Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bangalore

Further speaking ahead on Pakistan’s qualification scenario, Iftikhar said that the team is well aware that they need to maintain their net run rate (NRR).

“We know that we have to maintain our net run rate (NRR). We have played in Bengaluru before [against Australia] so we are aware of the conditions. In Indian conditions, you have to score runs quickly in the early stages. There is nothing much for bowlers in Indian wickets. We set our field according to the pitch. If the ball isn't moving much, then we take a slip," he added.

Pakistan need to win beat NZ and ENG by a big margin

Notably, Pakistan are on the sixth spot on the points table with three wins from seven matches having six points to their name with a net run rate of -0.024. The Babar Azam-ed side need to win both of their remaining fixtures against New Zealand and England to remain alive in the semi-finals race. The 1992 champions are also dependent on Afghanistan, Australia and New Zealand’s results in their remaining games as well.

Also Check: ODI World Cup 2023 Points Table