‘Pakistan will win T20I World Cup 2026’:Fakhar Zaman hopeful for title in ICC event at Colombo next year; says, ‘Focus is on T20I for the last six months’

Pakistan’s opening batsman Fakhar Zaman, who plays for Desert Vipers in International League T-20 (ILT20), says that Pakistan is fully prepared to win the T-20 World Cup title this time. He believes that the team’s preparation is strong and they will benefit from previous experience. In a conversation with Dainik Bhaskar, Fakhar said that he has made many changes to his game over time. He has tried new shots, in which he has found success. He said that new things will continue to be seen in his game going forward. You have been very successful in Pakistan Super League (PSL) and have played abroad as well. How special is ILT20 for you?
This tournament is very special for me. The conditions of all three grounds – Dubai, Sharjah and Abu Dhabi – are different here, which helps both batsmen and bowlers. Every team has 9-11 foreign players, so the competition always remains tough. You are a senior player in Desert Vipers. What advice do you give to young players?
League cricket has a good mix of senior and junior players. It’s the same in our team. The good thing is that young players come forward themselves to learn. I tell them to keep the game simple and think long-term. It takes time to make a name, if you keep working hard, you will become good players. Cricket has changed a lot in the last few years. How have you seen it?
My game has also changed with time. Earlier, my playing style was different, but now the role of new shots, new bowling and left-right combinations has increased. The game continues to evolve and we will see new things in the future. T20 World Cup is near. How are Pakistan’s preparations and chances?
Our team has been playing good cricket for a long time. The focus has been on T20 for the last six months. We reached the finals in 2021 and 2022. This time our goal is to win the final. Where will the final be – Colombo or Ahmedabad?
Colombo.