IPL on TV helps Pakistan get into the Indian rhythm

 IPL on TV helps Pakistan get into the Indian rhythm

Although Pakistani athletes are not permitted to compete in the Indian Premier League, television coverage of the lucrative competition contributed to the team's initial World Cup victory.

Only all-rounders Mohammad Nawaz and Agha Salman had ever been to Pakistan before to this World Cup out of the 15-man Pakistani team.

Salman played for the Lahore Lions in the 2014 T20 Champions League, while Nawaz was a member of the side that competed in the 2016 World Twenty20.

Babar Azam, the team's current captain and top batter, was originally selected for the 2016 T20 squad but withdrew due to an injury.

Saud Shakeel, who was named man of the match on Friday after Pakistan trounced the Netherlands in Hyderabad, revealed that his team had never visited India and had little experience playing there.

"But we have seen a small amount of the IPL and some matches in Hyderabad so that helped."

Shakeel had little trouble adjusting to his new environment as seen by his excellent 68 in Pakistan's 81-run triumph against the Dutch.

In Hyderabad's Rajiv Gandhi Stadium, Mohammad Rizwan also scored 68 runs during a 120-run partnership that came when Pakistan was in trouble at 38-3.

Imam-ul-Haq and Fakhar Zaman, Pakistan's opening batsmen, were out for 12 and 15, respectively, while Azam only made a five off of 18 balls.

"The tournament has only recently begun and we are playing in Hyderabad," said Shakeel.

"On this field, everyone is aware that the ball stops early. The possibility of losing a wicket exists.

Prior to their keenly anticipated matchup against India in Ahmedabad on October 14, Pakistan will play Sri Lanka on Tuesday in Hyderabad.