'There are many bowlers like Jofra Archer in Pakistan,' says Sahibzada Farhan

Pakistan opening batter Sahibzada Farhan has said that facing England fast bowler Jofra Archer would not be a major challenge, remarking that Pakistan has plenty of bowlers of similar calibre.

Speaking at a press conference ahead of a crucial Super Eight fixture in Kandy, Farhan noted that while several players in the squad had previously featured at the venue, it would be his first appearance there.

He acknowledged the importance of the upcoming match against England, adding that he had discussed conditions with Babar Azam, who told him that runs can be scored in Kandy.

Referring to the previous match against New Zealand, Farhan said the decision to bat first after winning the toss had been taken by the captain and coaching staff.

“In T20 cricket, the team that performs on the day usually comes out on top,” he said. “I understand my own batting — I know when to attack and when to hold back.”

Commenting on the England–Sri Lanka match played a day earlier, he observed that the pitch had behaved quite differently, but expressed confidence in Pakistan’s spin attack, describing it as among the best in the world.

On teammate Saim Ayub, Farhan said he is a player whose runs carry weight for the side and voiced confidence that he would deliver.

Responding to a question about Archer, Farhan reiterated that facing the England pacer would not be particularly difficult, stating that Pakistani batters regularly encounter similar bowlers at home.

He also mentioned that Usman Tariq had been kept in reserve for challenging situations.