Azhar favours idea of ‘cricket without crowd’

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan Test captain Azhar Ali Thursday supported the idea of cricket behind closed doors and without crowd’s involvement if the COVID-19 pandemic continues to haunt the game for a longer period.

Talking to media through video link, the Test skipper admitted that world cricket had been going through the toughest times.

“Cricket is not suffering alone from the deadly virus. Every sphere of the life is experiencing its effects. In case the current situation stays for a longer period, I would definitely back the idea of playing cricket in front of empty stands after taking all the precautionary measures. Safety of the players and support staff should be the top priority. Cricket behind closed doors is a good idea in case the Coronavirus pandemic stays for a longer period,” Azhar said.

Australia coach Justin Langer and former Indian cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar have already proposed the idea which was later opposed by Pakistan bowling coach Waqar Younis.

On Test team’s combination for the future, Azhar admitted that Australia tour was a bit tougher and at the same it was sort of learning experience where our think-tank spotted team’s weaknesses.

“Mohammad Amir and Wahab Riaz’s pulling out of the tour was a big blow. Yes, it was a tough tour but after that we gathered ourselves and team started performing in every match. I think we have got a settled team capable of facing the best.”

The Test skipper was all praise for Naseem Shah and Shaheen Shah Afridi. “The duo has filled the gap and with the support of experienced Mohammad Abbas, I feel we have got a very

potent pace attack.”

Azhar added that as a captain he never had any issues with Head Coach Misbahul Haq regarding decision-making. “Mostly we have the same opinion on what should be the combination for each and every Test. However, when it comes to final say, Misbah always supports me.”

The captain said working with the current coach had been a bit easier. “Both are the great names but Misbah is a relatively cool-headed person. Waqar too had his strong points in the capacity of head coach. But now his role is different. Both have the same objective and that is to see team putting up their best efforts and getting positive results.”

The right-handed batsman added that his progress was hampered by his knee injury in recent time. “I was unlucky to have an injury at the peak of my form. Injuries are part of professional sports and I was no exception.”

He said he never had thought of playing ODIs again. “I am only concentrating on Test cricket and have no desire of returning back to ODIs. At domestic level, I want to keep myself in rhythm whenever given opportunity.”

As a captain, he said, he wanted to play his role in making dressing room a friendly place.

“I helped bowlers, batsmen and fielders to perform in a relaxed environment.” As a commentator, Azhar said he enjoyed this role during the Pakistan Super League (PSL).

“It was a new experience for me which I enjoyed a lot.”

He proposed the ICC to extend the time period for Test Championship. “Under the prevailing circumstances the ICC should consider extending the time limit for the Test Championship. And I am sure they would have been thinking on these lines.”

Azhar admitted that players need outdoor practice in the nets. “That we are surely missing under this lockdown.” He also lauded the Pakistan Cricket Board’s decision not to cut the players’ contract money till June.

Azhar also backed consistency in the team. “Regular changes in the team take you nowhere. You will see better results if we continue to stay consistent in approach.”