Aussies will be more aggressive now, says Rauf

KARACHI: Pakistan’s former Test fast bowler Abdul Rauf applauded the performance of Pakistani bowlers against Australia in the first ODI in Melbourne, but warned that in the remaining two matches the Aussies would come with full force and more aggressive attitude.

Pakistan lost the first ODI in Melbourne by 2 wickets. The 2nd ODI is being played on Friday (today) in Adelaide. He said that Mohammad Rizwan’s captaincy was outstanding. He fought his players tactically despite having meager resources and only 203 runs in his hand to give Australia a fight back, Rauf said.

He said that it is regretful that experience and seasoned batsmen did nothing to build a big score and at the same time Pakistan cricket team management had no other option. Rauf said that if new batsmen failed on Australian pitches it is understandable but why experienced batsmen failed. “They have been with the team for more than five years. It is a matter of concern,” he said.

He said that Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan, Abdullah Shafique and others would have to improve their performance in the remaining two ODIs. “Otherwise Australia would clean sweep,” he said.

He said that Australia observed the strength of Pakistan in the 1st ODI and now they would come with brutal force and more aggressive mood. “Our main strike bowler Naseem Shah did not complete his 10 overs and bowled 7 overs and Shaheen Shah Afridi also struggled to gain his form and 140 km speed,” he said.

He said that it is unfortunate that Pakistan cricket team management did not prepare the replacement of the players and is compelled to play those who are facing the problems of form and fitness.