Bureau Report
Lahore: Former cricketers showed confidence in Azhar Ali’s men to give a tough fight to England in three matches Test series, starting from August 5 in Manchester.
In a video message released by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), the former cricketers wished the boys ‘best of luck’ for the series, meanwhile also highlighted the strong points of the team.
Cricketer-turned-commentator Ramiz Raja thinks that England will be under pressure against Pakistan despite have played three Tests against West Indies.
“England might have got a head start with the three Tests against the West Indies, but they will be under pressure against Pakistan as they are a quality side,” he said.
“Be united when you play. Unlike ODIs and T20Is, one bad session will not cost you a match; rather you will get opportunities to overcome your mistakes. Slip catching is going to be very important, as it will put England under pressure,” former cricketer advised.
Former wicket-keeper batsman Rashid Latif hopes that Pakistan will perform strongly against England with having the likes of Babar Azam, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Naseem Shah, and Mohammad Abbas.
“Pakistan have a world-class player in Babar Azam. Young pacers Shaheen Shah Afridi and Naseem Shah are joined by Mohammad Abbas and they will give tough time to the opposition. Abid Ali has scored two centuries and is joined by Azhar Ali, Asad Shafiq and Shan Masood. And, Mohammad Rizwan is also playing well,” he said.
Former Test cricketer Mohammad Yousuf is confident that both youngsters and seniors will do well against the English side.
“The whole country is behind our cricket team. There are great expectations from Babar Azam, Asad Shafiq and Azhar Ali. I pray that both our senior and junior players give good performances on this tour,” he maintained.
Former left-handed opening batsman Aamir Sohail is also supporting the high spirits of Pakistan team against England.
“I want to wish the Pakistan team best of luck for their series against England. We are hoping and praying that the Pakistan team will do well in England,” he said.
It must be noted here that Pakistan will play their first Test against England from Wednesday [August 5] at Old Trafford, Manchester.
