Pakistan will face England and Sri Lanka in a 50-over tri-series as the team works to strengthen its combination and prepare for next year’s ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup.
Pakistan batter Fakhar Zaman has expressed optimism about the national team’s preparations for the upcoming ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup, identifying the ODI tri-series against England and Sri Lanka as an important step towards building a competitive squad.
The tournament will be played in Rawalpindi and Lahore from October 18 to 31, providing Pakistan with valuable match practice ahead of the global competition in Africa.
Pakistan Focuses on World Cup Preparations
Fakhar believes Pakistan’s players are entering the competition in good form after completing the domestic first-class season. He suggested that the longer format would help players maintain their rhythm and adjust more comfortably to the demands of one-day international cricket.
The left-handed batter also expressed satisfaction with the team’s current combination, adding that preparations were progressing positively with next year’s World Cup firmly in mind.
Pakistan will look to use the tri-series to assess its playing combinations, improve coordination and gain momentum before the major international tournament.
Fakhar Addresses Pressure to Win ICC Trophy
The 36-year-old acknowledged that Pakistani supporters have been waiting for a major international title for a considerable period. Although the team has reached the finals of significant competitions in recent years, it has struggled to turn those opportunities into championship victories.
Fakhar said players understand the expectations surrounding the national side and recognise the difference between reaching a final and lifting a trophy. He added that discussions about ending the wait for a major title had taken place within the squad.
According to the batter, players are determined to give their best and make every possible effort to bring the World Cup trophy back to Pakistan.
Pakistan Develops Strategy Against England
Fakhar also confirmed that the team management had discussed strategies for facing England following Pakistan’s recent 3-0 defeat in the Test series against the same opponents.
However, he emphasised that the upcoming ODI matches would present a different challenge because red-ball and white-ball cricket require different approaches. Changes in the squad have also given Pakistan reasons to approach the series with renewed confidence.
The batter described the tournament as an important opportunity to return to ODI cricket after an extended gap and establish a settled combination.
With England and Sri Lanka providing competitive opposition, Pakistan will aim to use the tri-series to address weaknesses, test its options and build confidence before the World Cup.
Strong performances in the tournament could provide the team with a useful foundation as its preparations for the global event gather pace.