As Pakistan prepares for the upcoming ODI World Cup, there are growing concerns over the team’s spin bowling capabilities. With the tournament just around the corner, the final 15-member squad has been announced, but the performance of the spinners remains a significant question mark.
The chief selector, Inzamam-ul-Haq, unveiled the squad, which saw the experienced medium pacer Hasan Ali being called back into the team due to a major injury setback. Promising young fast bowler Naseem Shah, aged only 20, has been ruled out of the World Cup due to a shoulder injury sustained during a match against India in the Asia Cup. Naseem’s absence is a significant blow to Pakistan’s pace attack.
However, it’s the spin bowling department that is causing headaches for the team management. Shadab Khan, who has been struggling with both bat and ball, is one of the key spinners in the squad. Concerns over his form have been echoed by former captain Shahid Afridi, who shed light on a conversation he had with Shadab during the latter’s attendance at Afridi’s daughter’s wedding.
Afridi said
Afridi stressed the importance of spinners in the middle overs, as they play a vital role in taking wickets and maintaining the run-rate. He suggested the need for a spin bowling coach, emphasizing that spinners have a crucial role in the team’s success.
“When you have a fielding and batting coach, and a fast bowling coach is also there, why not a spin bowling coach? Spinners’ role is the most important, remember that. Middle-overs are very important, because opposition’s main batters are playing at the time. You have to pick wickets and maintain run-rate.”
“We haven’t had the desired performances there. When Shadab came to the wedding, I talked to him, told him whenever you need help, you have Mushi bhai, you have me. He said, Lala, I wanted to ask you about this. I want to bring you to the camp as well. I said I’m always available for you,” said Afridi.
“The way captain and coach has shown confidence on Shadab, we are also hopeful that he makes a comeback,” he further added.
Despite the concerns, Pakistan’s pace attack has been in excellent form in recent months, with Shaheen Afridi and Haris Rauf retaining their places in the squad. The team’s pace bowlers have been consistent and effective, giving Pakistan a strong edge in the fast bowling department.
Pakistan will play two warm-up matches against New Zealand and Australia before their tournament opener against the Netherlands on October 6. The ODI World Cup is scheduled to take place in India in October and November.
Pakistan’s hopes for a successful World Cup campaign will largely depend on the spinners’ ability to step up and contribute significantly. Shadab Khan, in particular, will be under scrutiny as he looks to rediscover his form and make a positive impact in the tournament. The team and its fans will be eagerly watching to see if Pakistan can address their spin bowling concerns and compete at the highest level in the ODI World Cup.
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