HOUSTON: A delegation, comprised of the esteemed members of the 2009 T20 cricket team including Younis Khan, Misbah-ul-Haq, Shahid Afridi, Saeed Ajmal, Shoaib Malik, Fawad Alam, Abdul Razzaq, Kamran Akmal, and Umar Gul, embarked on a tour across various states of the United States under the banner of “Jeet Ka Safar”.
Upon their arrival in Houston and Dallas, the delegation received a warm reception, with numerous events organized in their honor, including a cricket match.
In an interview with a national daily, former cricketer Misbah expressed optimism, stating, “I have high hopes for the Pakistani team in the upcoming World Cup in America.”
“Our team has reached the finals in the last two World Cups, and currently, we possess all the necessary resources with a strong team lineup,” he continued, confident in Pakistan’s potential to excel in the tournament.
Asserting the importance of preparation and strategy, Misbah emphasized the significance of fitness for optimal performance.
Regarding the talent within the team, he remarked, “We boast top-class bowlers and batsmen, but what matters most now is a stellar collective performance.”
He acknowledged the prowess of players like Naseem Shah, Shaheen Shah Afridi, and other all-rounders, emphasizing the importance of cohesive teamwork.
Reflecting on their experience in the US, Misbah noted, “The atmosphere in Houston is reminiscent of Karachi, with an overwhelming enthusiasm among the people and an unparalleled welcome.”
Former player and coach Younis Khan shared his perspective on the preparations for the World Cup, expressing his intention to advise the Pakistani cricket team on their playing style while praising the attention garnered in America.
Rafa Ahmed, the organizer of the “Jeet Ka Safar” program, described the successful experience of bringing the Pakistani team to the US, expressing plans to extend similar opportunities to Indian and Pakistani teams in the future.
