Mickey Arthur terms Pakistan's bowling as 'best in the world'

As the Pakistan men's cricket team prepare for their ICC Men's Cricket World Cup 2023 opening match against the Netherlands, team director Mickey Arthur shared his insights and excitement about the upcoming challenges.

In a press conference, Arthur discussed various aspects of the team's readiness, development, and expectations.

Although Pakistan conceded close to 700 runs in warm-up games, Arthur rates Pakistan's bowling as the best in the world.

"I think our bowling attack is the best in the world. If we score runs, our bowlers can defend it," Arthur confidently declared.

During the Asia Cup, the Men in Green opted to announce their playing XI one day before the game but now they will announce on the toss.

"We have an idea of our team, and our 11 players are ready. When the toss happens, the playing XI will be revealed."

Reflecting on the progress made by the team since 2019, Arthur emphasised, "We got very close in the 2019 World Cup. Now, these boys are experienced; in four years, they have played a lot of cricket. In these four years, we have the best-winning record in ODIs."

Arthur also discussed the team's cricketing identity, saying, "We play our way, which is called the Pakistan way. We will also win the World Cup in the same way. The form continues to come, but there is no doubting the quality of the boys." He stressed the team's commitment to their unique style of play.

Arthur denied that the the Men in Green's batting is dependent on Pakistan captain Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan. "Our batting does not just revolve around Babar and Rizwan. We have many talented batsmen, including Imam. Saud Shakeel and Fakhar Zaman are also quality batsmen."

Arthur also backed vice-captain Shadab Khan, whose form has been criticised recently. "Shadab is the best all-round player. I hope he will be in form from tomorrow. I have no worries about Shadab; he will return to his form soon."

Looking ahead to the much-anticipated India-Pakistan clash, Arthur acknowledged the inherent tension, saying, "An India-Pakistan match is always stressful. The Indian team is good, our team is also ready. Hope we win two matches before the India match."

Arthur also shared his observations about the warm reception the team has received in India, saying, "The boys enjoyed coming to India and received the best welcome. Indian fans don't get to see Babar, Rizwan, and Shaheen much. You have seen how the Indian fans are welcoming the Pakistani team."

Pakistan's clash against the Netherlands will be played at the Rajiv Gandhi International Cricket Stadium in Hyderabad.