Reasons why Pakistan can win ICC World Cup 2019
What's the story
Pakistan go into the ICC World Cup 2019 as the underdogs. After their win in the ICC Champions Trophy in 2017, Pakistan haven't enjoyed much success in ODIs, but they will be out to change fortunes. Pakistan will require to put in the work in order to achieve something special. Here we list the reasons why they can emerge as champions.
Reason 1
A lethal bowling attack could set them apart
Pakistan have a deadly pace attack going into the World Cup. The bowling line-up is what separates Pakistan from others and the blend of youth and experience could deliver results. They won the Champions Trophy in 2017, because of their bowling. Players like Shaheen Afridi, Hasan Ali and Junaid Khan will bring plenty of variety to the table. Their pace can rattle any team.
Reason 2
Utility players can chip in when required
The likes of Faheem Ashraf, Imad Wasim and Shadab Khan can all play a defining role for the Men in Green. Ashraf, in particular, adds a voice as a pace-bowling all-rounder. Imad is a good batsman and with his left-arm spin, he can chip in with a couple of wickets. Shadab is the leading force of this side. All these have a sound economy-rate.
Reason 3
Batsmen Imam and Babar bring in consistency
Imam-ul-Haq and Babar Azam will look to bring in the consistency factor in a fancied top order. Imam has already earned accolades for being decisive up the order and his patience would be the key factor. Azam is Pakistan's best batsman and one of the leaders in world cricket. His attributes at number three could serve Pakistan just like Virat Kohli serves for India.
Reason 4
Experience will play a huge factor for Pakistan
Pakistan boast of experience and that can help them come strong in England. The likes of Shoaib Malik, Mohammad Hafeez and Sarfaraz Ahmed know the conditions real well and their presence lifts this side. Malik and Hafeez have what it takes to play the match-winning knocks. Since this is their last World Cup, one can expect them to leave no stone unturned.
Reason 5
Pakistan's self confidence could serve them well
Pakistan will need to go into the World Cup with belief in their abilities, irrespective of the results they have endured in ODIs since 2017. Nobody gave them a chance in the Champions Trophy, but they somehow managed to crop up the results. Going by the English conditions and their history of delivering in big tournaments, Pakistan can prove everyone wrong this term.