It’s a challenge to bowl with white ball: Abbas

SHARJAH: Pakistan pacer Mohammad Abbas has said that he felt proud after finally wearing the green jersey and representing Pakistan in a One-day International (ODI).

The 29-year-old made his ODI debut in the first day-night international, taking one for 44 in his 10 overs as Australia chased down a target of 281 for the loss of just two wickets.

Abbas grabbed the wicket of Australia captain Aaron Finch, but only after the opener cracked a match-winning 116.

That was in total contrast to the start of his Test career, after some impressive performances, Abbas made a big impact against Ireland in Malahide last year, when he took nine wickets –four for 44 and five for 66 in the sixth match of his career. His heroics led Pakistan to a five-wicket win. Abbas was again the pick of the bowlers with eight wickets in Pakistan’s win over England at Lord’s.

Abbas completed 50 wickets in 10 Tests to become the joint-second fastest to the mark by a Pakistani bowler, one more than wrist-spinner Yasir Shah.

Abbas admitted it was a challenge to bowl with the white ball.

“In white ball cricket, you get flat wickets, so you have to adjust your bowling,” Abbas told the PCB website.

“But, in red ball cricket, you get better pitches. They are helpful, so you can bowl up (to the batsman) for swing."

Abbas said ODI cricket is more demanding and there is less margin of error.

“There is less margin of error in white ball cricket. If you make a mistake, then you are hit for runs,” said Abbas, who felt proud at getting one-day cap from bowling coach Azhar Mahmood.

“It was a proud moment. I didn't do much to help my team win, but in the next matches I will do my best to contribute to the wins,” said Abbas.