[Zeeshan]

Questioner: Suppose you are 8 wickets down, need to score 26 in the last two overs in a high-octane final match. What do you do?

Answer: In a high-pressure situation like the one you described, where your team is 8 wickets down and needs to score 26 runs in the last two overs, you would need a combination of strategic batting, smart shot selection, and calculated risk-taking. Here's a possible approach:

1. **Identify Key Batsmen:** If there are recognized batsmen left in your team, they should take the responsibility to anchor the innings and guide the chase.

2. **Assess Bowling Strengths:** Understand the strengths and weaknesses of the bowlers you'll be facing in the final two overs. Identify which bowlers you might target for big hits and which ones you might look to rotate the strike against.

3. **Calculate Required Run Rate:** Break down the required runs into manageable chunks. You need 13 runs per over, so focus on getting boundaries and converting singles into twos.

4. **Select High-Impact Shots:** Prioritize shots that have the potential to go for boundaries. In this situation, lofted shots, well-timed drives, and effective use of the crease to manipulate field placements could be valuable.

5. **Rotate Strike:** While boundaries are crucial, also aim to rotate the strike. Take quick singles and twos to keep the scoreboard ticking and keep the fielding side under pressure.

6. **Choose the Right Moments:** Look for bowlers who might be under pressure or fatigued in the final overs. Target those overs for more aggressive batting.

7. **Adapt to Field Placements:** Observe the field placements set by the opposition captain and try to exploit gaps. You might also want to play "unconventional" shots to take advantage of open spaces.

8. **Stay Composed:** Keep your cool under pressure. Clear communication between the batsmen is crucial to avoid misunderstandings and run-outs.

9. **Manage Risk:** While aggression is important, avoid high-risk shots unless they are well within your range and the situation demands it. A lost wicket at this stage could be disastrous.

10. **Believe in Your Ability:** Confidence and self-belief can play a significant role in high-pressure situations. Trust your skills and the practice you've put in.

11. **Backup Plans:** Have backup plans for various scenarios. If one approach isn't working, be prepared to switch tactics.

12. **Tail-Enders:** If you have tail-enders at the crease, they should focus on supporting the set batsman, rotating the strike, and taking calculated risks.

Remember, cricket is a dynamic game, and every situation is unique. While this approach provides a general guideline, the specific course of action will depend on the skills and temperament of the batsmen at the crease, the bowlers you're facing, and the match conditions.