Pakistan cricket team’s interim head coach, Aaqib Javed, has played down concerns over the team’s back-to-back defeats in New Zealand, stating that the real focus is on preparations for the Asia Cup and World Cup.

He said the team is going through a rebuilding phase, which does not mean they are not aiming for victories.

Aaqib Javed expressed confidence in Pakistan’s ability to bounce back in the ongoing T20 series against New Zealand, adding that one or two changes might be made in the third match.

He admitted that playing in New Zealand is always difficult, especially for players who have little experience in overseas conditions.

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Talking about the team’s performance, he said that two losses often upset fans, but cricket is evolving, and teams are now being structured differently for T20s.

He mentioned that Pakistan is also following this approach and preparing accordingly for upcoming tournaments. He emphasised that once Saim Ayub and Fakhar Zaman return to the side, the combination will become stronger.

Addressing concerns about the bowling attack, Aaqib Javed said that it is not unusual for a fast bowler to concede four sixes in an over, but the key is continuous improvement.

He also pointed out that Shaheen Shah Afridi needs to further refine his game to maintain his dominance in international cricket.

The head coach reiterated that the team’s ultimate goal is to perform well in the Asia Cup and World Cup.

He stressed that difficult tours like New Zealand help young players build confidence, which will be crucial in major tournaments played on Asian pitches.

Aaqib Javed remains optimistic that the team will learn from its mistakes and deliver strong performances in the competitions that matter the most.