Dubai, Feb 10 (NationPress) Former Indian head coach Ravi Shastri believes that the Pakistan team, captained by Mohammad Rizwan, possesses sufficient depth to be formidable in their home environment during the forthcoming ICC Champions Trophy.

Pakistan enjoys the advantage of competing on home soil as the nation prepares to co-host a senior ICC event for the first time since the 1996 World Cup.

Shastri noted, "There’s always pressure when you play at home in the sub-continent – be it India, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, or Pakistan – the expectations are enormous," while discussing with host Sanjana Ganesan on the latest episode of The ICC Review.

"However, I believe Pakistan is the kind of team that, with the experience they’ve gained over the last six to eight months in white-ball cricket, has delivered some impressive performances, particularly in South Africa."

Even with the absence of talented young opener Saim Ayub, who is currently out due to an ankle injury, Shastri expressed confidence that the home team can qualify for the semifinals and could emerge as a very dangerous contender in the knockout rounds.

"They’ve missed Ayub at the top, and he’s a vital player. Yet, Pakistan has enough depth to be perilous, especially in home conditions. I anticipate they should make it to the semifinals, and from that point, it’s anyone's game. Pakistan remains very, very dangerous, and if they qualify, they’ll be even more perilous," he added.

Former Australia captain Ricky Ponting shared Shastri's views, stating that Pakistan’s fast bowling unit could be a game-changer in the tournament.

"I concur with Ravi. Saim Ayub is a high-caliber player, and his absence leaves a significant void to fill," Ponting remarked on The ICC Review.

"Nonetheless, Pakistan’s fast bowling lineup is exceptionally strong. Led by Shaheen Afridi and Naseem Shah, who have excelled in recent series, they possess the pace and skill to challenge any batting lineup."

Ponting also emphasized the critical roles of Babar Azam and Rizwan in stabilizing Pakistan's batting order. "Babar has had some ups and downs in recent years, but if he and Rizwan can deliver their best performances, that’s when Pakistan becomes incredibly dangerous," he stated.

The Australian also recognized the unique advantage of playing before a home crowd. "The pressure of competing at home can have dual effects. It can serve as a strong motivator, especially with the home crowd's support. That backing can sometimes assist you in critical moments."

Ponting stressed that if Pakistan’s key players perform at their peak, they will be a formidable force. "They still have enough high-quality players to triumph over any team on any day," he remarked. "If they play well, they’ll be in contention."

Pakistan squad: Mohammad Rizwan (c), Babar Azam, Fakhar Zaman, Kamran Ghulam, Saud Shakeel, Tayyab Tahir, Faheem Ashraf, Khushdil Shah, Salman Ali Agha, Usman Khan, Abrar Ahmed, Haris Rauf, Mohammad Hasnain, Naseem Shah, Shaheen Afridi.