Pakistan Batting Coach Yousuf Analyzes First ODI Loss to NZ

News Desk

Islamabad: Pakistan’s batting coach Mohammad Yousuf acknowledged New Zealand’s strong performance in the first ODI, highlighting key moments that impacted the outcome of the match.

Match Turning Points

Speaking on Saturday, Yousuf pointed out that runs conceded by two bowlers proved costly for Pakistan. “The management will definitely keep an eye on the bowling attack ahead of the second ODI,” he stated, emphasizing the need for improvements.

Reflecting on Pakistan’s position in the match, Yousuf remarked, “There was a moment when things were in our control. The game could have taken a different turn if we had restricted New Zealand to 270 runs.”

Batting Collapse and Impact of Babar Azam’s Dismissal

Yousuf also addressed Pakistan’s batting struggles, noting that the match seemed within reach before a sudden collapse. “The match was becoming easy for us, but we lost three wickets in two overs,” he said.

He further stressed the significance of Babar Azam’s wicket, calling it a decisive moment. “The course of the match changed after Babar Azam’s departure,” he maintained.

With the second ODI approaching, Yousuf’s comments suggest that Pakistan’s team management will reassess their strategy, particularly in bowling and middle-order stability, to bounce back in the series.