Prime Minister Imran Khan held a meeting with the national cricket team and the Pakistan Cricket Board officials at Bani Gala on Friday during which he gave the team tips for World Cup success. The meeting came a day after the squad for the World Cup 2019 was announced. The tournament kicks off on May 30 with a one-day international between England and South Africa. Prime Minister Imran spent over an hour imparting advice to the cricket team and sharing his experiences with them. “A champion steps onto the pitch armed with passion and a plan. Team spirit is a key part of victory,” he told the team. “With your skills, sportsman spirit and your conduct, bring glory to Pakistan’s name,” he said.
He offered encouragement to the players and expressed hope that they would be victorious in the World Cup. “The entire nation’s prayers are with you. Representing the country at an international forum is a big honour. You are ambassadors of the nation and the people’s eyes are on you, and their hopes rest with you,” he said. The preparations for the World Cup were also discussed during the meeting.
The cricketer-turned politician, who led Pakistan to their only World Cup triumph in 1992, shared his past experiences of playing at the mega event, with the squad. “We won the title in 1992 because of our extraordinary team spirit, despite some glaring weaknesses.” The Prime Minister specifically addressed Pakistan captain Sarfaraz Ahmed and instructed him to lead from the front. “If the captain is brave, the team will follow suit. You will have to take responsibility and be brave in order to succeed in difficult English conditions,” he said. Imran Khan also gave some valuable tips to pacers Junaid Khan, Faheem Ashraf, Hasan Ali and the rest of the bowling contingent during the meeting. The Pakistan team will leave for England on Tuesday, April 23.