AFG vs PAK: "Our Players Were Exposed To Totally Different Conditions Here Because They Were Playing In Batting-Conducive Conditions During PSL" - Umar Gul

Updated - 25 Mar 2023, 05:33 PM

Afghanistan vs Pakistan (Image Credits: Twitter)

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Pakistan lost by six wickets to Afghanistan in the first T20I of the three-match series at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium in Sharjah on Friday, March 24. Pakistan bowling coach Umar Gul believes that they will work on their mistakes from the series opener and that they will make a comeback in the series by winning the last two matches.

Shadab Khan won the toss and opted to bat first. The Men in Green batters struggled against Afghanistan bowlers and added a below-par total of 92 runs on the board for the loss of nine wickets in 20 overs. The Rashid Khan-led team registered their first win against Pakistan as Mohammad Nabi helped to chase down the target with 19 balls to spare.

We Will Work On The Mistakes – Umar Gul

Umar Gul stated at the post-match press conference that they failed to deliver in difficult conditions due to a failure to transition from batting conditions. Umar Gul believes the team can make a comeback, saying they will work on their mistakes by making tactical adjustments.

“It was our first game and our players were exposed to totally different conditions here because they were playing in batting-conducive conditions during PSL,” said Umar Gul.

“We will work on the mistakes and make tactical adjustments. The bowlers stuck to their plans and execution was good. They are young players and the way Ihsnaullah continued his rhythm, getting two wickets early on was pleasing to see,” he added.

It Is A Great Platform For Young Players To Perform – Umar Gul

The 40-year-old said that their young bowlers performed well by bowling in good areas. Gul believes that the team has the potential to make a comeback and win the last two games.

“It is a great platform for young players to perform at the international level. Overall, I am satisfied with the bowling and they bowled in good areas,” Gul said.

“Our team is good; these youngsters have been performing in domestic for one and a half years or so. You can’t say on the basis of one match that they are not good enough. I strongly believe we have the potential to make a comeback and win the last two games,” he concluded.

Also read: Watch: Highlights As Afghanistan Beat Pakistan In 1st T20I To Create History