Four-day matches stepping stone for top performers, say rival captains

ISLAMABAD: Rival captains termed the four-day exposure between Pakistan Shaheens and Bangladesh A as a stepping stone for top performers and at the same time the side match would help gain required practice for Test match aspirants.

At the end of the rain-marred drawn match, Bangladesh A captain Anamul Haque said that the tour would help in giving required exposure to youth and at the same time prepare the Test aspirants for the forthcoming series.

“Our leading players will get required momentum for the Test series against Pakistan while youngsters will get the big match exposure and temperament for future international matches.”

Anam rated Pakistan pitches as comparatively better for batting. “These pitches are better than what we find in Bangladesh. I am thankful to the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) for the arrangements for the A teams’ matches. Comparatively, the weather here is hot than what we find in Bangladesh during this season.”

Bangladesh A team captain praised Umar Amin and Saud Shakil batting skills. “The two led by Umar batted brilliantly to pile up a good score for Shaheens in the first innings.”

Anam spoke highly of Pakistan fast bowling prowess which he termed as the best around. “Look, Pakistan always possess a quality pace bowling attack. Even in the four-day match they exhibited some quality stuff. We are currently working on how to tackle Pakistan pace attack during the forthcoming series.” Bangladesh captain hoped to get a leaf out of Mushtaq Ahmad’s (Bangladesh spin bowling coach) book on how to tackle Pakistan fast bowling during the forthcoming Test series.

“We have to prepare plan A, B and C as to how to tackle Pakistan pace attack during the forthcoming series.” Shaheens’ captain Saud Shakil was seen boosting his role as captain, saying he had fully enjoyed captaining the team. “I know how to help cricketers fight for the team cause. I really love to lead the team in a way that it could go on to win matches.”

Saud who relished a solid stand for third wicket with Umar Amin (177) said he always enjoyed contributing to the team cause. “When a captain starts contributing, it helps others to follow. Captain’s performance always comes handy.” Saud praised PCB’s decision to host such a series. “A matches are like a stepping stone for international cricket. The success of domestic cricket promotes cricketers’ cause for a place in A teams and then performance there helps that cricketers to get recognition for international cricket.”

A captain said he did not play any red-ball cricket for the last six-months. “This exposure with the A team would help me to get into the top groove for the forthcoming series.” Saud boosted his relations with Pakistan Test captain Shan Masood, saying he stayed in constant touch with him during the four-day match. “I keep on taking tips from Shan and even give him updates on Shaheens’ performance. I have a cordial relationship with Shan.”