Wahab Riaz asks for patience as Pakistan women shift to a fearless T20 style

Pakistan women’s head coach Wahab Riaz has asked for patience as the team works to adopt a bolder style of T20 cricket, following their defeat to India in the Women’s T20 World Cup opener.

Signs of progress, but no finish

Wahab, a former fast bowler who took the job only a few months ago, says the squad is still in transition towards a more modern, aggressive approach. Against India, Pakistan showed improved intent and spells of control, but could not maintain the momentum and ended up short.

Wahab’s explanation

Speaking in comments carried by the ICC, Wahab said the coaching staff took over about four months ago and cannot overhaul the way the team has played in such a short time, so some patience is required.

He said the aim is to compete with international standards, which means scoring more in the Powerplay. In his view a side needs about 170 to stay in the game and must then keep that going.

The message to the players, he said, is plain: play positive, fearless cricket. He stressed that nothing can change drastically within four months.

The finishing problem

Wahab noted encouraging signs in recent bilateral series and matches, and praised the effort the players are putting in. However, he identified finishing games as the main weakness, and said he expects the team to get on top of it and do well.