Asia Cup 2018: Pakistan Suffering from ‘Confidence Crisis’ - Mickey Arthur

Pakistan coach, Mickey Arthur feels his side is suffering from confidence crisis after a massive loss against India in the Asia Cup 2018 Super Four match on September 23 (Sunday).

Pakistan began their campaign with an eight-wicket win over Hong Kong in the UAE

However, the Sarfraz-led team lost to India two times, once in the group stage and another in the Super Four. Moreover, Pakistan beat Afghanistan by a low margin and a found success over Bangladesh. Arthur also said after dropping five catches against Afghanistan, they lost their good confidence which reflected in their game.

“They’re suffering a confidence crisis at the moment; there’s a little bit of fear of failure in the dressing room, there’s a bit of a reality check for exactly where we are as a cricket team,” Arthur said. “In terms of the worst performance, nine wickets, it’s got to be up there, but we’re on a journey, we’ll get better and stronger than this,” Mickey said.

Moreover, Mickey Arthur defended Zaman’s poor tournament by speaking with confidence. Zaman is an incredible player and a key component of Pakistan team. The team management instead expects a lot from the young Zaman.

Arthur said if Zaman gets proper training and more of practice, he will surely be the best player for Pakistan.

“We know cricket is a confidence game,” Arthur said. “Look at Fakhar Zaman, he’s an incredible player, he’s an X-factor player, and we expect him to take the game on at the top of the order, but he’s doubting his game a little at the moment. We’ve got to just ride the wave with him. If we do that, when he comes out, he’ll be a better player for this. We’ve banked the work; the work is all done.” Mickey Arthur added.

However, Pakistan will play Afghanistan on September 26th in Abu Dhabi for the virtual semi-final clash.