Wicket not good enough, says Azhar

RAWALPINDI: The wicket at the Pindi Stadium did not give us the same look that Pakistan management was expecting ahead of start of the first Test between Pakistan and Bangladesh, admitted Bowling Coach Azhar Mehmood during the post-day media talk.

“We thought the wicket was good enough to help our pace bowlers to take 20 wickets. We only have chances carrying four pacers which we did in the Test but the wicket did not live up to our expectations.”

He added that Australian curator Tony Hemming requires time. “He needs some time and a few extra things to get better pitches. Hopefully, wickets will be prepared to our liking in the near future.”

Azhar conceded that Shaheen Shah Afridi was not in the best of form. “He is struggling with his line and length. Hopefully, he will be back in rhythm at the earliest. He did not deliver the ball properly during the entire day.”

Azhar termed Khurram Shahzad as the best bowlers for Pakistan. “He bowled brilliantly today. Hopefully, he would be at his best Saturday morning.” On Mir Hamza’s absence, he said Mohammad Ali was a better choice considering the nature of the wicket. Azhar praised Aamir Jamal as the future all-rounder of the high class. “He is good enough to serve the team in years to come. He has almost recovered from injury.”