Shocked by co-hosts USA in a game that was decided in super over, Pakistan will face arch-rivals India in their second match of the T20 World Cup 2024. On the eve of the clash, Pakistan head coach Gary Kirsten doesn't feel that the Babar Azam-led side needs any motivation from him.
“It's a big game India (versus) Pakistan, there's no need for me to motivate the team anymore. They are well-motivated, they are focused for this game,” Kirsten told the media in New York.
“We have to forget about the last couple of days and just move forward, that's the only way you can deal with life. Results are results (and they) take care of themselves,” he added.
India have played two games including the warm-up on the controversial New York pitch which has produced a few low scores. However, when asked about whether India have an advantage over Pakistan, Kirsten refused.
“We were going to go out there and make sure we do the best that we can with our skill sets and how we can put pressure on the opposition,” he said.
“I'm not sure because I can't predict what's going to happen. I don't know whether it'll be an advantage.”
Kirsten helped India lead the ODI World Cup trophy at Wankhede Stadium in 2011. India head beaten Pakistan in the semifinal in Mohali. However, for Kirsten, it is a different feeling in Pakistan camp ahead of the high-voltage encounter.
“I think it is a little bit different because it's not in India or Pakistan,” he said.
Imad passes fitness test
Kirsten also confirmed that all-rounder Imad Wasim who missed the USA clash due to side strain has passed the fitness test. He wants Pakistan to overcome the challenge posed by India with a team effort.
“It's never nice, not winning games for any player. They (Pakistan players) are trying their best. The important thing for us is that we operate genuinely as a team.
“Yes, we need individuals to make good performances. But playing games like this, (what is needed) is a real team effort. It's a big game.” “(What happened) two days ago is forgotten. We can't take it back. It's gone, so we move on,” he added.
All bases covered
Kirsten admitted that Pakistan's pace bowling is their strength, especially on a pitch where batters have struggled. But he wants the team to cover all bases.
“It certainly is a strength of ours. We like to look at the balance of our team, it's important that you cover all the bases, we want to make sure we've got spin options, good seam options and a deep batting line-up,” said the 56-year-old.
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