'No one was feeling good': Pakistan player after loss to India in Asia Cup Super 4s

Pakistan all-rounder Hussain Talat has dismissed concerns about team morale following their six-wicket loss to India in the Asia Cup Super 4s on Sunday, emphasising that the team remains focused on their objective of reaching the final despite criticism. Talat's comments came after his crucial performance of 2/18 and unbeaten 32 helped Pakistan secure a five-wicket victory against Sri Lanka on Tuesday in Abu Dhabi.

Talat played a key role in rescuing Pakistan from a difficult position of 80/5 while chasing 133 against Sri Lanka. The win keeps Pakistan's hopes alive for an India-Pakistan final, though they must defeat Bangladesh on Thursday to qualify.




"No, there was no feeling of mayusi (disappointment) coming into the match (against Sri Lanka) but since we had lost (to India in the Super 4s opener), no one was feeling good...(But) We put in our best effort in that match," Talat said at the post-match press conference.

"...but coming into this match there was no pressure. Of course, there was criticism all around but we made a conscious effort to avoid it. Sometimes it's (criticism) not good for the team coming into a crucial match," he added.

India have dominated both encounters against Pakistan in the Asia Cup. The victory over Sri Lanka has boosted team confidence. Talat said winning their next two matches will secure them the Asia Cup trophy.

"We are very confident and the atmosphere in the camp (is good) given that we have been playing non-stop cricket for such a long time and the kind of options we have. And, the good thing is that the players are being backed (by the management), unlike previous days when they were replaced if they were not performing. Now, only two matches are left. If we play two matches well, the trophy will be ours," he stated.

Meanwhile, Sri Lanka's consecutive losses to Bangladesh and Pakistan have eliminated them from the tournament.

Addressing concerns about Pakistan batters' struggles against spin bowling, Talat attributed it to low confidence and challenges in the middle order.

"We say if we want a player for No.4 or No. 5, then he should know how to play all three types (forms) of cricket. But the chances of failure increases in that position. Unfortunately, in our country if we lose a game or two or a series or two, then everyone, including the media, spectators... all of them get after you and then you get dropped from the team," he explained.

"It's the most difficult thing to play in the middle order because you have to play all three types of cricket. Since it is difficult task (playing in the middle order), players should get more opportunities as well."

Talat highlighted the issue of frequent changes in the middle order, noting that players are reluctant to bat in these positions.

"Pakistan players in the middle order, who can play all forms of cricket, there are very few left. May be 4-5 players left and if you ask them, they also don't want to play (in that position)," he revealed.

Reflecting on his inconsistent international career spanning 6-7 years, Talat emphasised his continued dedication.

"In this entire journey, I have continued doing my hard work, which has not been easy for me. Playing domestic cricket regularly, continued working hard... and will continue doing it."
Catch Lovlina Borgohain's inspiring story on Game On, Episode 5. Watch Here