Sarfraz Nawaz urges PCB to focus on developing future fast bowlers

LAHORE: Former Pakistan fast bowler and inventor of reverse swing, Sarfraz Nawaz, has emphasised the need for the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) to prioritise the development of a new generation of fast bowlers.

In a message from London directed to PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi and selection committee convener Aaqib Javed, Sarfraz Nawaz highlighted specific areas where Pakistan’s current pacers could enhance their impact on the field.

Sarfraz, who is known for his deep understanding of fast-bowling dynamics, shared specific insights on the current pacers, calling for improvements to ensure future success. He pointed out that Shaheen Shah Afridi’s bowling speed has dropped since his knee injury, with his new-ball deliveries now clocking around 133 km/h and dropping to 129 km/h in later spells. He noted that Shaheen’s speeds previously reached 140 km/h and above, both with the new and old ball. “Improving his fitness is crucial to regain his former pace,” Sarfraz emphasised.

Naseem Shah, Sarfraz noted, once known for consistently delivering at 145 km/h with the new ball and around 140 km/h with the old ball, has also seen a decrease in his speed. Sarfraz recommended that Naseem should incorporate greater variation and make effective use of the crease to diversify his bowling strategy.

As of Muhammad Hasnain, Sarfraz suggested Hasnain work on accelerating his run-up, bringing more pace to his delivery finish. Sarfraz recalled the speed Hasnain demonstrated early in his career and encouraged him to recapture that form. Sarfraz Nawaz concluded his message by emphasising that, with the right focus on fitness and technique, Pakistan can cultivate a stronger pace attack for the future.