One-time heavyweights in the format, Pakistan have fallen alarmingly behind the curve over the last year or two. At the moment, having lost seven of their last nine T20 internationals against Full Members, they are also in considerable disarray.
Shahid Afridi, their captain, is hanging on to the position by the skin of his teeth. They have no idea who their top three should be, other than, presumably, a trio capable of scoring runs. They have made some shambolic selections recently, including that of Khurram Manzoor as opener. They are still missing Saeed Ajmal and Mohammad Hafeez’s bowling.
For the first time since the very first edition of this event, when nobody knew how far any side might get, it can be said with some confidence that Pakistan will not progress far. If they do make it to the semis, it will be a triumph and it will likely be down to a wonderfully varied left-arm pace attack.
Group 2
Coach: Waqar Younis
Tournament best: Winners in 2009
Match-winner: Umar Akmal
• When he first arrived, the world looked to be his oyster. It is fair to say Umar Akmal has not quite kicked on since debut and he is now considered a T20 specialist. At least he has found his space here and his performances in the Pakistan Super League (PSL) and the Asia Cup means much will depend on him in India.
New face: Khalid Latif
• Pakistan’s is currently the most fluent squad in the tournament. A disastrous batting performance in the Asia Cup means there could still be few changes, including some not so familiar. For now, keep an eye on Khalid Latif, who last played for Pakistan nearly four years ago, but returns after a solid PSL.
Key match: Pakistan v India, Dharamsala, March 19
Predicted finish: Group stage
Squad: Shahid Afridi (captain), Anwar Ali, Imad Wasim, Khalid Latif, Khurram Manzoor, Mohammad Amir, Mohammad Hafeez, Mohammad Irfan, Mohammad Nawaz, Mohammad Sami, Sarfraz Ahmed, Shoaib Malik, Sharjeel Khan, Umar Akmal, Wahab Riaz
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