Wasim slams defensive Pakistan
Former skipper Wasim Akram has slammed the approach of Pakistan’s bowlers in the second Test against Australia at the MCG as being far too defensive.
The former fast bowler highlighted the importance of taking early wickets on a batsman-friendly pitch at the spiritual home of Australian cricket.
Big scores from David Warner (144), Steve Smith (100 not out) and Usman Khawaja (97) helped Australia eclipse Pakistan’s first innings total and leave the sides facing a draw.
Wasim told the Express Tribune: “Pakistan needed to strike with the new ball — if you don’t get quick wickets, you will always struggle to control the scoring rate.
“Once the ball got old, the floodgates opened and the batsmen started dominating proceedings.
“Pakistan’s tactics were a bit too defensive.
“It is especially infuriating since they had posted a big total and could afford to attack. Yasir and the pacers struggled for line and direction and unfortunately the golden opportunity provided by the batsmen was lost.”
While he slammed the bowlers Wasim was full of praise for the batsman after Azhar Ali hit a double ton in Pakistan’s innings.
Wasim said: “Pakistan’s batting has been really pleasing; the visitors have crossed the 400-run mark after a very long time in Australia (33 years).
“Even in the 90s, we struggled to get to 300 there despite our formidable batting line-up full of batting greats. Pakistan’s batting effort is truly commendable and heartening for cricket followers and I hope they continue in the same vein in the third and final Test in Sydney.”
Latest
-
NewsBrendon McCullum on the verge of being named England men’s Test coach
The New Zealander could be confirmed in his new role this week.
-
NewsHarry Brook eager to press England claims against ‘best ever’ James Anderson
The Yorkshire batter is relishing the chance to take on the Lancashire seamer in this week’s Roses match.
-
NewsEx-NZ captain Brendon McCullum favourite for England Test coach role – reports
The 40-year-old is said to have been interviewed for the position.
-
NewsHenry Nicholls doubtful for New Zealand Test opener in England after calf scan
The middle order batter will make the trip to England for the three-Test series but could miss out on the first Test at Lord’s.
-
NewsBrendon McCullum emerges as leading contender for England Test coach – reports
The 40-year-old is said to have held talks with the England and Wales Cricket Board and is believed to be interested in the job.
-
NewsFormer England batter Graham Thorpe ‘seriously ill’ in hospital
The 52-year-old had accepted the job of Afghanistan head coach following his departure from the England set-up after this winter’s Ashes.
-
NewsCSA drops charges of gross misconduct and racism against head coach Mark Boucher
Boucher said the allegations “were unjustified and have caused me considerable hurt and anguish”.
-
NewsLuke Wright to take up short-term role on New Zealand coaching staff
Wright was part of Paul Collingwood’s T20 World Cup-winning side in 2010 and played 101 white-ball internationals for his country.
-
NewsHolland head coach Ryan Campbell discharged from hospital after cardiac arrest
The Dutch Cricket Federation (KNCB) say tests have ruled out a heart attack as the cause of the cardiac arrest.
-
NewsEssex draw with Yorkshire as Sir Alastair Cook scores century in both innings
England’s leading Test run-scorer finished unbeaten on 102 at Chelmsford.