Pakistan’s preparations for the Asian Games Men’s T20 Competition in Japan have been meticulous, led by Sahibzada Farhan, who will captain the side for the first time. After four days of focused training in Karachi, Farhan is enthusiastic about his team’s prospects in Aichi-Nagoya.
The team has capitalised on insights from head coach Mike Hesson’s visit to the Kōrogi Sports Park, striving to mirror the conditions they expect in Japan. Farhan explained, “I don’t often play sweeps or reverse sweeps, but I have worked on those shots in this camp,” during a press briefing on the camp’s final day. The squad has placed significant emphasis on playing against spin, complemented by scenario matches, to ensure readiness.
This squad is a blend of senior players and emerging talent from the Shaheens, with four players—Akif Javed, Ali Raza, Maaz Sadaqat, and Saad Masood—yet to earn caps. Familiar faces like Saim Ayub and Abrar Ahmed from the recent T20 World Cup side bolster the team. However, Farhan remains unfazed by any perceived lack of experience. “It is not like the players who have been selected for the Asian Games are inexperienced,” he noted. “They have all played international cricket or have proven themselves in domestic cricket and the PSL.”
Participation in the Caribbean Premier League (CPL) has further prepped some players for upcoming challenges. Sufyan Moqim’s standout performance, earning Player of the Match in the CPL final, along with Maaz Sadaqat and Saim Ayub’s centuries, reflects a team brimming with potential.
While Farhan’s captaincy experience is relatively limited, having led Peshawar in just three T20 matches, he is intent on setting a strong example for his team. “It is quite a proud moment to be leading Pakistan,” Farhan remarked. “There is no pressure on me whether I play as a captain or a player and I will continue to bat how I do.”
Pakistan, a seeded team, will enter the Asian Games at the quarter-finals stage on 28 September, facing the runners-up of Group B comprising Hong Kong, Malaysia, and Oman.
The squad’s preparation and internal dynamics suggest a focused campaign, and there is optimism that Farhan’s leadership might guide Pakistan to secure their maiden cricket gold at the Asian Games.
