Have prepared game plan based on team's strength: Mickey Arthur

LONDON: Pakistan coach Mikey Arthur said on Saturday that a game plan based on the team’s strength has been prepared for the crucial clash against India in the Champions Trophy final.

In an exclusive interview to geo.tv, the Pakistan head coach said: “It is important that we play to our strengths, we gave too many chances to India in the earlier game.” 

He added that India’s performance was analysed after the earlier game and the team will concentrate on what it can do well.

Arthur said the players have changed their cricketing behaviour and have worked hard at expanding their game.

“We will look towards scoring in the 300 range rather than 260 to 270,” said the coach and added that strike rotation has improved.

The coach was all praise for captain Sarfaraz Ahmed and said that “he is fantastic, positive and has an attacking mindset”.

Referring to the earlier win against England, Arthur said the team believed in its ability and were aware of the brand of cricket that had to be played.

“Players had clarity over their roles and were superb,” added the coach.

He also expressed his pleasure over the young additions to the team, and said they “came in the side and have played with fear and are a breath of fresh air”.

“Very happy that we have found a core group of players who we can take forward and can work with in the 2019 World Cup,” stated Arthur.

Arthur expressed his satisfaction at the team’s performance in the middle overs of the game and added that it seems to be the right path to take.