PM Imran Khan encourages Pakistan to perform well in the T20 World Cup

Recently, New Zealand Cricket abandoned their white-ball series against Pakistan citing security threats. The PCB, however, denied any such threats and assured the visiting team about the same. Soon after this, ECB also announced that it has withdrawn the men’s and women’s team from tours of Pakistan in October. Prime Minister Imran Khan thus met Pakistan’s T20 team ahead of the upcoming World Cup to boost the morale of the players.

The players arrived at the PM’s office wherein the PCB Chairman was also present. The meeting was held in the backdrop of the recent events wherein New Zealand and England pulled out from the series against the nation. As per sources, PM Imran Khan advised the players to play fearless cricket in the upcoming T20 World Cup. He also pinned his hopes on the nation hosting international cricket soon.

“Pakistan is a safe country. You should focus on improving your performances… God willing, Pakistan will host international cricket soon,” PM Imran was quoted as saying to the players by Cricket Pakistan. PM Imran Khan recounted his playing days and brought up the instance of the 1992 World Cup which the team won under his captaincy. He thus asked the players to play a similar brand of cricket.

PM Imran Khan advises Pakistan skipper Babar Azam to lead from the front

Babar Azam has been a pivotal aspect of Pakistan over the years now. He has led the team by building a strong foundation up the order. Heading into the marquee event of the T20 World Cup, his contributions will be important for the side. PM Imran Khan advised the Pakistan skipper to lead the team from the front. “You must lead the team from the front, take everyone along and play like lions,” he added.

Senator Faisal Javed spoke to the media post the meeting and asserted that the Prime Minister asked the players to play fearless cricket against India. He also added that PM Imran Khan said the players to put in all the hard work and that Allah will give reward for it.

This meeting came days after both New Zealand and England abandoned their tours to Pakistan. Post ECB’s decision to cancel the tour, Pakistan skipper  Babar Azam tweeted: Disappointed, yet again. We have always tried to accommodate the interests of the game but others simply don’t. We have come a long way in our cricketing journey and it will only get better with time. We will not only survive but thrive as well. Insha’Allah.”