Aaqib Javed stands by Pakistan’s pacers: Best since the 90s, ready to shine against India

Dubai: Under fire but unfazed, Pakistan’s pace attack has been questioned ahead of their high-stakes Champions Trophy clash against India. But coach Aaqib Javed isn’t having any of it. Calling them the best trio since the legendary 1990s fast-bowling era, he believes Shaheen Afridi, Naseem Shah, and Haris Rauf are ready to deliver something special when it matters most — on Sunday in Dubai.

Pakistan find themselves in a must-win situation after a disappointing loss to New Zealand in their opening match in Karachi on Wednesday. The team’s strategy — favouring pace over spin — has come under scrutiny, especially with India opting for a spin-heavy attack in their win against Bangladesh at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, the venue for Sunday’s Group A showdown. But Javed remains steadfast, insisting that Pakistan must play to their strengths rather than follow trends.

“I have heard a lot of discussions that other teams have too many spinners and we have fewer spin options. Teams play to their strengths, and we play to ours. Pakistan have three specialist pacers — one of the best in the world today in Shaheen [Shah Afridi}, Naseem [Shah], and Haris [Rauf]. It reminds me of the 90s troika. They still have time to reach that level, but they have all the ability to repeat those sorts of performances. I’m pretty confident, and I think when you play against India, it is a special feeling. I think they will bring something special tomorrow.”

Few games in world cricket come with as much pressure as an India-Pakistan clash. The atmosphere inside and outside the stadium is charged, with expectations soaring on both sides. For players, the match offers a defining moment — one performance can turn them into heroes, while a misstep can invite scrutiny.

Javed, who famously tore through India with a devastating spell in Sharjah, believes handling pressure is part of the game and a chance for players to rise to the occasion.

“There is no game you play without pressure. We lost the first game against a strong New Zealand team with good balance. After losing a game, you have another chance to win and then win the third one to make it to the semis. Against India, it doesn’t matter whether it’s a knockout or not — it is beyond the game, and that’s the beauty of India-Pakistan cricket. If you look at the positive side, it’s the best time and best chance for any individual or team to make a mark and rise above the bar. We used to love these moments, and all the players are waiting for the opportunity to rise above the bar.”

Javed was part of Pakistan’s famed fast-bowling trio alongside Waqar Younis and Wasim Akram after Imran Khan’s retirement, and he sees a similar hunger in Pakistan’s current pacers.

Pakistan were originally set to host the Champions Trophy but had to face India in Dubai after the Indian team refused permission to travel to Pakistan. However, Javed, who was the UAE coach for several years, dismisses the idea that India holds an advantage, pointing out that Pakistan’s players are well-versed in UAE conditions.

It was in Dubai that Pakistan stunned India with a 10-wicket victory in the 2021 T20 World Cup, where Afridi dismantled the Indian top order by removing Rohit Sharma and KL Rahul in a single over.

“From what I saw in the first match, the pitch assisted pacers with the new ball, then spinners, and it was good for batting, even though a bit slow. So, it is a supportive pitch,” Javed said.

However, he believes the real challenge in 50-over cricket is fitness. “Twenty20 is too short, while Test matches give a break after every two hours of play. But in a 50-over clash, the team has to be on top of their game on the field for three and a half hours. Hence, fitness is key.”

Pakistan missing Fakhar, but ready for the challenge

Pakistan will be without opener Fakhar Zaman, the hero of their 2017 Champions Trophy triumph, where he scored a century in the final against India. However, Javed believes the team still has enough firepower to challenge India’s bowlers.

“The pressure is how you handle it, and as a professional, it is the job of every player. What’s left in an India-Pakistan game if you take out this pressure? Forget about the results and showcase your talents. Keep the crowd out of the equation.”

Former Pakistan all-rounder Wahab Riaz echoed the sentiment, calling the match an opportunity for players to cement their legacy.

“They just have to be themselves in the game between Pakistan and India. It’s a big stage for them, but if they perform in the match, they can be stars, so it is a great opportunity,” Riaz said at JioHotstar and Star Sports Press Room programme.

Pakistan’s 1992 World Cup triumph remains one of the greatest comeback stories in cricket. They had their backs against the wall then, just as they do now. A win against India could be the spark they need to turn their campaign around. For Javed, the message is simple: embrace the pressure, seize the moment, and let the pacers do what they do best.