Karachi, Jan 23: Pakistan's assistant and bowling coach Mushtaq Ahmed believes that the green shirts still remain a big threat in the forthcoming Asia T20 Cup and World T20, which will be played in Bangladesh and India respectively this year.

"No doubt we were outclassed by New Zealand in the T20 series and our ranking has slipped down to seventh position but Pakistan will be a threat in the Asia and World T20 events," Mushtaq said in an interview from Wellington.

The former leg-spinner said since the Asia and World T20 events were being held in familiar conditions, Pakistan team can surprise the higher-ranked sides in both the tournaments.

"Our players are more comfortable playing in the subcontinent and are very familiar with the pitches. Plus I think the spinners will have a bigger role to play. Which gives us confidence we can bounce back in both these T20 events," he said.

Mushtaq said the defeats to New Zealand were very disappointing since the bowlers didn't bowl to the given plan to them.

"It becomes very difficult for the support staff if given plans are not executed by the bowlers. In both the last two T20 matches the bowlers didn't bowl according to plan and it hurt us badly," he said.

Mushtaq pointed out that in the Asia and World T20 events the team will have to make a strong comeback as it will be pitted against strong outfits.

"If the team plays according to a plan and works as a unit there is no reason we can't turn things around in these two major events," he said.

Mushtaq said that the series defeat to New Zealand was disappointing but the players will now have to look and work hard on their shortcomings.

"I think the players now have a responsibility to review their own performances and work harder on their fitness and cricket discipline. T20 cricket does not give you many second chances and one delivery can decide the outcome of a match."

Pakistan's participation in both events is subject to clearance from the government, particularly the World T20 in India due to security concerns. PCB Chairman Shaharyar Khan has said he is pretty sure if Pakistan plays in the World T20 the organisers and Indian board will ensure their full security.

PTI