Pakistan captain Salman Ali Agha spoke to the media ahead of the high-profile T20 World Cup 2026 clash against India in Colombo, emphasizing that preparation, execution, and adapting to conditions will be key to overcoming the Indian challenge.
Balanced Bowling Attack to Tackle India
Salman highlighted that while spinners may play a dominant role on the Sri Lankan pitches, the fast bowlers will also have their say. “It is possible that the spinner dominates here, but I think the fast bowler will have roles here as well. Because fast bowling is such a skill that you cannot write off anywhere. His role is always there. So I think he will have a role here as well. We have a lot of spinners, but we also have fast bowlers, who we can use if required,” he said.
He also clarified that Pakistan has plans for all Indian batters rather than targeting individuals. “No, we have not targeted a few people. We have to play against the 11 players and we have plans against all of them. We do that on a normal basis,” Agha added, emphasizing the team’s comprehensive preparation.
‘Toss Won’t Decide the Outcome’
Adapting to Colombo Conditions
Being based in Colombo for all group matches, Agha said the team is well-adjusted to the climate and pitch conditions, but emphasized that preparation alone cannot guarantee success. “We are used to being acclimatized here. This is the only advantage. You have to play cricket well on the ground. You have to execute the plan for 40 overs, otherwise you cannot win,” he said.
He added that the team’s flexibility allows him to select any 11 out of the 15-member squad confidently, depending on conditions and requirements.
Powerplay Importance and Batting Plans
The captain stressed that a strong start in the powerplay overs will be crucial. “In T20 games, whether it is bowling or batting, you have to start well. So that powerplay is crucial. And I think it will be crucial tomorrow as well. We will try to start well in both bowling and batting.”
He also addressed the form of key players, praising Babar Azam’s consistency. “Babar did 50 in the last three innings and the other day he scored 40 odd and it was a very important knock for us. I don’t think so that it is a concern for us. I think he is batting well and he is scoring runs for us. We are very happy with that,” Agha said.
Weather Preparedness
Agha acknowledged the possibility of rain affecting the match but insisted that the team is prepared for all scenarios. “I’ve said this many times before, we can’t do anything about rain. Yes, if the match is short or the overs are reduced, then obviously we are ready. We know what we need to do if the overs are reduced,” he said.
Focus on Execution, Not History
Despite India’s strong record in World Cups against Pakistan, Agha emphasized treating each match as a fresh challenge. “Obviously, we don’t have a good record against them in World Cups. But whenever you come to play a new match, it’s a new day, a new match. You have to play good cricket to win. You can’t change history. You can learn from it,” he said.
