"I think maybe there isn't a clear message, or there is a problem in the lower-middle order as they are valuing their wicket a bit more than they should, which is a problem," Wasim said. "The partnership between Shan and Khushdil wasn't impressive, it was going nowhere. The big advantage while chasing is that they know the target and it's easier to set a pattern and plan accordingly.

"If you want to play like this, or want to play this sort of cricket, then we don't need better-equipped players to get in. You will get such resources anyway. It all comes down to what is your game plan."

"Every team has its stronger links and weaker ones, and ours is bowling; our batting does need to improve for us to win games. As coach [and not as selector], I would love to see Shadab and Nawaz bat higher, and I had this discussion with the management, and you will see it happening going forward.

"It might give some shape to the middle order and it's not for the sake of change, but based on the skillsets they bring. Both can play spin well, bat at a high strike rate, rotate the strike, and accelerate the score."

Wasim was also asked about the dependency on the opening pair in particular, and whether that has affected trust with the middle order.

"It does look sometimes like the top order doesn't trust the middle order, but you can improve this," Wasim said. "As a batter, you get disappointed, but at the same time, you have to look up to the other group as well. I am sure coaches have spoken and this isn't a good message that the top-two wickets falling result in the entire team getting out. So there is a need to show more faith on the others."

"Last year, changes were made mainly because of injuries and we have encountered similar issues again," Wasim said. "We are constantly monitoring. I would say that this is the same squad [that will go to the World Cup], but in light of injuries, we will definitely consider replacements if needed.

"You can't say anything about changes during a series, and if there is a plan, we won't talk about it in public. Because the situation is fluid around the injuries. At the same time, we have backed these boys for a year now and we will still back them. But we are looking into who is expected to be fit and who will be unavailable and who can be a replacement."