Despite an emphatic win over Protease in the warm-up game, Pakistan’s chances in the Champions Trophy hinge on good and consistent batting show.
“Pakistan got a big boost with an impressive victory over South Africa. But they needed to maintain the momentum”, former Pakistan captain and cricket analyst Ramiz Raja told a private channel last night.
Muhammad Hafeez and Imran Farhat scored fine half century as Pakistan eased to seven wicket victory over South Africa at the Oval, London.
“We had batting trouble on South Africa tour. But I think Pakistan batsmen can do better here”, he commented.
He expressed the hope that left handed opener Nasir Jamshed will do well in the Champions Trophy despite struggling in South Africa and on the tour of Scotland and Ireland.
Ramiz Raja rated Pakistan bowling high and felt that they are capable of reaching the semi-final.
“Apart from Junaid Khan, Irfan, Pakistan got the best off- spinner Saeed Ajmal in their fold which is big advantage,” he remarked.
Commenting on the opening game against West indies at the same ground on Friday, he fancied Pakistan chances. “Pakistan got a better bowling attack”, he said.
Another Pakistan captain Aamer Sohail said conditions would play a very important role in Pakistan’s chances for this premier 8-nation contest.
“Batting will be our key area in focus and they did well, team bright chances to reach the semi-final”, he commented.
“We are second favorites in our group “B” with West Indies, South Africa and india.
He however said it was bit surprising to see Pakistan allowed South Africa to get off the hooks after reducing them to 83-7 to scored 202-9 in their 50 overs.
He complimented pacer Asad Ali, Wahab Riaz and Junaid Khan for their got effort but added that they lacked killer they lacked killer
instinct.
He was the view that with an eye on the future, captain Misbah should give confidence to young batsmen like Nasir Jamshed, Umer Amin and Asad Shafiq.
“We must expose these youngsters to full and groom them for future,” he said.
It become fashion that selectors were picking young guns like Umar Amin, Harris Sohail, Asad Ali, veteran left arm spinner Zulfiqar Babar. But they never played a match which was disappointing.
“As Pakistan will be playing only three matches in Champions Trophy, Misbah will use his best resources. You can induct all of the them in the team.
Former Chief Selector Aamer Sohail said Pakistan got a good bowling attack and they could play a main role in team’s triumph. But don’t forget the vulnerability of our batting.