Raja praises performance of young players

LAHORE: Former Pakistan captain Ramiz Raja believes that the young Pakistani side is in a very good position to win the opening Test of the two-match rubber at the Lord’s against England.

In his analytical tweet, Raja praised the performance of the young players under Sarfraz Ahmed.

“Being a young side with a new captain, Pakistan has performed fearlessly throughout the ongoing Test match.” said Raja. “Pakistan were able to apply themselves properly, tweaking simple things and bringing discipline and patience in bowling and batting,” he added.

Raja was particularly impressed as how a team ranked seventh on the ICC Test table was able to surprise the hosts [England] at their own backyard. The former captain then praised his side’s sensible batting and their ability to develop partnership throughout the innings.

“Whenever Pakistan scores 350 runs or more, it does not lose the match, this was stated by [skipper] Ahmed and I too believe that. Pakistan is at driving seat right now,” said Raja. The former captain can take a sigh of relief as Pakistan were 350 for eight at the end of day two, — a lead of 166 runs after they bowled England out for 184 in their first innings.

Pakistan’s legendary fast bowler Wasim Akram too has expressed similar views. “I definitely thought they would struggle in England, especially at Lord’s because of early summer but they won all six sessions on both days of the game,” he added.