- Joined
- Nov 25, 2023
- Runs
- 22,147
Abdullah Shafique shared following thoughts in a presser today:
On the Pitch Comparison
"There is virtually no difference in the pitch compared to the Rawalpindi Test. If we compare this wicket with Lahore, there isn't much change, but the outfield here is a bit slow."
"Even if the pitch doesn't look dry now, my understanding is that by Day Two, Day Three, and Day Four, the pitch will slow down and there will be more spin."
On Dropped Catches
"South Africa was very kind to us. It would have been difficult for Pakistan had they taken those dropped catches."
"While I could answer that question for their coach, the truth is this is cricket; these things happen to us too. In the end, it has worked in our favor, and I believe you need a little luck on the day."
On Overcoming a Lean Patch
"Yes, I think every professional goes through a lean patch, and I'm going through one now. But good players are the ones who accept that challenge and overcome it, and I'm actively working on that in the nets."
"I am quite clear about my mistakes and am working hard to correct them. The biggest challenge for a batsman is that when you get a good opportunity and settle down, you must try to make that innings count."
On Team Strategy and Goals
"For a professional team with management and players, we have discussed the matter of losing back-to-back wickets. We have addressed it and are trying to overcome that flaw."
"This first innings is very important. I will try to prolong the innings and have the batters spend as much time as possible on the pitch and score runs. This will help our bowling later because the wicket will get drier and offer more turn. So, we are aiming for a total between 320 and 350."
On Mentorship and Support
"The people in management, the coaches, and my fellow players all provide significant input. We actively seek help and advice from them."
"I've had a lot of discussions with Babar Bhai during the camp, and with Shan Bhai as well. They are excellent players, and talking to them is always beneficial. We often discuss cricket, which helps to improve the game."
"Furthermore, Azhar Bhai has been a huge factor in the management. We've been holding practice camps, and I believe all the batsmen are quite well prepared."
On the Pitch Comparison
"There is virtually no difference in the pitch compared to the Rawalpindi Test. If we compare this wicket with Lahore, there isn't much change, but the outfield here is a bit slow."
"Even if the pitch doesn't look dry now, my understanding is that by Day Two, Day Three, and Day Four, the pitch will slow down and there will be more spin."
On Dropped Catches
"South Africa was very kind to us. It would have been difficult for Pakistan had they taken those dropped catches."
"While I could answer that question for their coach, the truth is this is cricket; these things happen to us too. In the end, it has worked in our favor, and I believe you need a little luck on the day."
On Overcoming a Lean Patch
"Yes, I think every professional goes through a lean patch, and I'm going through one now. But good players are the ones who accept that challenge and overcome it, and I'm actively working on that in the nets."
"I am quite clear about my mistakes and am working hard to correct them. The biggest challenge for a batsman is that when you get a good opportunity and settle down, you must try to make that innings count."
On Team Strategy and Goals
"For a professional team with management and players, we have discussed the matter of losing back-to-back wickets. We have addressed it and are trying to overcome that flaw."
"This first innings is very important. I will try to prolong the innings and have the batters spend as much time as possible on the pitch and score runs. This will help our bowling later because the wicket will get drier and offer more turn. So, we are aiming for a total between 320 and 350."
On Mentorship and Support
"The people in management, the coaches, and my fellow players all provide significant input. We actively seek help and advice from them."
"I've had a lot of discussions with Babar Bhai during the camp, and with Shan Bhai as well. They are excellent players, and talking to them is always beneficial. We often discuss cricket, which helps to improve the game."
"Furthermore, Azhar Bhai has been a huge factor in the management. We've been holding practice camps, and I believe all the batsmen are quite well prepared."