"The excitement of wearing the Pakistan star on your chest is something different" : Fawad Alam

[MenInG]

"The excitement of wearing the Pakistan star on your chest is something different" : Fawad Alam

Fawad Alam speaking on PCB video

"The excitement of wearing the Pakistan star on your chest is something different; Its a proud feeling as all the club and FC cricket you play is for that reason"

"All the coaching staff we have such as Head Coach, Bowling and Spin or Batting ones are all big names that we have grown up watching on TV and they have been source of inspiration for us; Two of those, Misbah and Younis, are players who I have shared the dressing room with during their playing days and now I am getting a chance to play under their coaching which is a blessing from Allah swt; Its a matter of honour for me that I got to learn from them when they were playing and now I am getting the same chance when they are coaching the side"

"We are like a family on this tour and are doing whatever we can to help each other out - doesnt matter if there are juniors or seniors - this is what makes the team grow and become better; If we have a family like this then it has a positive effect on your performances"

"You get to understand each person in the side and that helps in team-building"

"Given the SOPs we are gelling really well together by involving ourselves in activities such as playing FIFA, carrom etc"

"Of course I am missing my family such as parents & siblings, wife and kids, but when it comes to national duty then we have to put that in front and make a lot of sacrifices"

"We have to move forward but its a tough time now as it was before as well in Pakistan when we had restrictions on movement and meeting people"

"But things get easier if the family is supporting in such matters; The family understands the issues involved but they are happy as I am now part of the Pakistan squad and making a comeback and their best wishes are with me"

"Fans have always supported me whether on social media or elsewhere, their blessings and duas have taken me further"

"When there is no one to clap for you in an empty ground then that makes a big difference, when you play a good shot and their is applause - all these things we will all miss but these are days of COVID-19; You have always supported us and you will be cheering us on TV also"

"Its troubling times for all of us and Inshallah we will get through this"

 

[Mamoon]

Make or break series for him. If he fails, he will most probably never play for Pakistan again.

He doesn’t have a good record when it comes to performing in crucial matches, crucial in terms of his career.

 

[Sher Khan]

Make or break series for him. If he fails, he will most probably never play for Pakistan again.

He doesn’t have a good record when it comes to performing in crucial matches, crucial in terms of his career.

Unlucky place and opposition for him to make a comeback against. I will be extremely surprised if he does well. No 6 will definetly not suit his style of play.

 

[Shoaibbtt]

Keep confident and relaxed and you’ll do well InshAllah. Have faith in Allah and you’ll do good.

 

[RedwoodOriginal]

Still a question of whether he will even play especially if Pakistan go with 5 bowlers.

Personally, I think Pakistan should drop Shafiq, have Fawad at No. 5 and go with the 5 bowlers.

 

[Shoaibbtt]

Still a question of whether he will even play especially if Pakistan go with 5 bowlers.

Personally, I think Pakistan should drop Shafiq, have Fawad at No. 5 and go with the 5 bowlers.

It will be cruel if they don't allow Fawad even to play this game. My gut says Fawad comes in for Haris and Sarfraz comes in for Rizwan (subject to Rizwan's arrival to England). The weakest link in my eyes right now is Yasir Shah who has been topsy turvy.

 

[RedwoodOriginal]

It will be cruel if they don't allow Fawad even to play this game. My gut says Fawad comes in for Haris and Sarfraz comes in for Rizwan (subject to Rizwan's arrival to England). The weakest link in my eyes right now is Yasir Shah who has been topsy turvy.

He absolutely should play but you never know with the team management.

Can't drop Yasir Shah because you need a specialist spinner in those conditions if the pitch deteriorates. If its a pitch with not much for the spinners then I think they should go with Shadab because of what he brings with the bat and in the field.

 

[Saj]

This will be interesting with many thinking that Fawad is past his best.

If he plays, it will be a very tough time against Archer, Broad and Anderson.

 

[Shoaibbtt]

He absolutely should play but you never know with the team management.

Can't drop Yasir Shah because you need a specialist spinner in those conditions if the pitch deteriorates. If its a pitch with not much for the spinners then I think they should go with Shadab because of what he brings with the bat and in the field.

Well I remember watching a batting nets clip and Yasir was getting spanked by Fawad. I would've liked to have seen K. Bhattti but hey ho what you gonna do. I'm getting a funny feeling in my bones that Faheem will get a go ahead of Fawad which will be like i said criminal.

Fawad from what i saw in the QeA trophy starts off with the awkward stance or at least i don't see it as much now but when he's growing in confidence he plays his shots with some determination like an ordinary left hander. I'm hoping that these last few years are Fawad's redemption song.

 

[azimiqbal]

If does play I would play him at 5, people saying it’s hard for him and a tough tour but I take a different view , if he performs he performs on this tour , there is no way he can be dropped for the next one .

Best of luck fawad am rooting for you !

 

[Extra_Cover]

I would be happy to eat my words but I don't see Fawad scoring any runs even if he gets the chance. His domestic numbers are inflated due to the incorrect way in which our domestic circuit was run for a decade. With the new domestic structure of limited teams, going forward we would rightly have players of best ability topping charts.

In any case, Fawad doesn't like bounce, swing or for that matter fast bowling. He won't like Archer, Broad or Woakes. Fawad is very good temperamentally against spinners and dry/dead wickets. He won't make a difference here and after that he should be discarded for good.

 

[Markhor]

It's criminal how Asad Shafiq has been given free ride for 10 years, and Azhar Ali for the last 3 years, yet neither ever look like losing their place in the side.

Meanwhile Fawad guts it out in domestic cricket, has scored 34 FC hundreds and has maintained an average of well over 50 for years but doesn't get a look in.

This is the definition of liking and disliking in our selection system. Same goes for Zafar Gohar - who's only been called up as a net bowler while Yasir and Shadab seemingly have to murder someone before getting dropped.

 

[TeamPak95]

Safe to say he'll actually be in the playing XI.

I swear whenever he gets the chance to play something always has to go wrong. Fawad gets selected in the squad, doesn't play at all. Now, he'll most likely play but not in front of a crowd. Equivalent exchange is cruel.

 

[Saj]

Abid
Shan
Azhar
Asad

Guranteed slots.

Fawad at number 6 maybe?

 

[Thunderbolt14]

Abid
Shan
Azhar
Asad

Guranteed slots.

Fawad at number 6 maybe?

Fawad at 5, Asad at 6, perhaps?

 

[TeymurBlake]

Abid
Shan
Azhar
Asad

Guranteed slots.

Fawad at number 6 maybe?

Babar?

 

[TeymurBlake]

Big series for him, if he fails he's gone and if he succeeds he gets another tour. Coming at No.6 could help him also being able to bowl a bit will be a plus.

 

[MenInG]

Abid
Shan
Azhar
Asad

Guranteed slots.

Fawad at number 6 maybe?

Faheem Ashraf? could he take Fawad's spot?

 

[Shoaibbtt]

Faheem Ashraf? could he take Fawad's spot?

I can see that happening to be honest but really depends on conditions.

 

[coy0607]

Still a question of whether he will even play especially if Pakistan go with 5 bowlers.

Personally, I think Pakistan should drop Shafiq, have Fawad at No. 5 and go with the 5 bowlers.

Pakistan's batting is too weak to go with just 5 batsmen. Abid and Shan are unproven, Azhar is a walking wicket, Babar is the only reliable batsmen. I can't see any scenario in which they drop a batsmen, especially under the guidance of someone as cautious as Misbah

 

[Shoaibbtt]

Pakistan's batting is too weak to go with just 5 batsmen. Abid and Shan are unproven, Azhar is a walking wicket, Babar is the only reliable batsmen. I can't see any scenario in which they drop a batsmen, especially under the guidance of someone as cautious as Misbah

Yea i think that will be a factor. The only other threat for Fawad is perhaps chachu ifti but he had his chance and he blew it

 

[shamaan]

Pakistan's batting is too weak to go with just 5 batsmen. Abid and Shan are unproven, Azhar is a walking wicket, Babar is the only reliable batsmen. I can't see any scenario in which they drop a batsmen, especially under the guidance of someone as cautious as Misbah

Shadab and fahim more than capable with bat in tests play shadab fahim and 3 fast bowlers

 

[Saj]

Abid
Shan
Azhar
Asad

Guranteed slots.

Fawad at number 6 maybe?

Don't be surprised if both Rizwan and Sarfaraz are both picked for at least one of the Tests.

 

[GreenKhan]

Fawad deserves the series. 3 tests is a fair chance to give someone . This should equate to 5-6 innings. It’s down to him to perform .

He should not be discarded after one test . He is on the team on merit , and even if he is 34 he still has 3-4 years in him as long he is performing.

 

[Shoaibbtt]

Fawad deserves the series. 3 tests is a fair chance to give someone . This should equate to 5-6 innings. It’s down to him to perform .

He should not be discarded after one test . He is on the team on merit , and even if he is 34 he still has 3-4 years in him as long he is performing.

Exactly. Sami Aslam debuted against England so i think Fawad should step up to this challenge, however i feel he should've been in the test team as permanent member since 2009 or at least since retirement of Misbah and Younis.

 

[Saj]

By now Fawad should have played at least 50 Tests and racked up thousands of runs.

His treatment and lack of chances has been mystifying.

 

[Forum363]

I don’t know why everyone seems to be forgetting the first name on the sheet - Babar. So that’s the top 5 cemented. Keeper slots in. Shaheen, Abbas and Yasir are guaranteed, Naseem Shah is 99% going to play.

Then it’s just whether they chose Fawad Alam at 6 or move the keeper up and bring in Faheem Ashraf.

I think they’ll play it safe and play Fawad given Pakistan’s shakey batting but if both Fawad and Yasir have a poor test, I can see Fahim and Shadab coming in as a pair like previously.

 

[RedwoodOriginal]

Pakistan's batting is too weak to go with just 5 batsmen. Abid and Shan are unproven, Azhar is a walking wicket, Babar is the only reliable batsmen. I can't see any scenario in which they drop a batsmen, especially under the guidance of someone as cautious as Misbah

I have never understood the point of relying on the extra batsman when you're playing in a country like England. It shows a defensive mentality and that you are not interested in bowling the opposition out. If your Top 6 didn't do anything chances are the number 7 is not saving the game for you. If Pakistan want to win they have to play 5 bowlers because (a) you don't want guys like Shaheen and Naseem risking injury by over-bowling and (b) you want them to actually be potent which can only happen if they are well-rested between spells.

 

[RedwoodOriginal]

Well I remember watching a batting nets clip and Yasir was getting spanked by Fawad. I would've liked to have seen K. Bhattti but hey ho what you gonna do. I'm getting a funny feeling in my bones that Faheem will get a go ahead of Fawad which will be like i said criminal.

Fawad from what i saw in the QeA trophy starts off with the awkward stance or at least i don't see it as much now but when he's growing in confidence he plays his shots with some determination like an ordinary left hander. I'm hoping that these last few years are Fawad's redemption song.

Yasir is a proven performer in those conditions. He got hammered in that one match on an obscenely flat wicket but barring that he had an excellent series in 2016, especially considering England is not a welcome place for spinners in general. So him not playing is out of the question for now. If he does really badly or is just ineffective like he was in South Africa where he had so role to play, then Shadab will be given a go.

 

[Forum363]

I have never understood the point of relying on the extra batsman when you're playing in a country like England. It shows a defensive mentality and that you are not interested in bowling the opposition out. If your Top 6 didn't do anything chances are the number 7 is not saving the game for you. If Pakistan want to win they have to play 5 bowlers because (a) you don't want guys like Shaheen and Naseem risking injury by over-bowling and (b) you want them to actually be potent which can only happen if they are well-rested between spells.

That logic never made any sense to me. There are many scenarios in which a 7th batsman can take a team over the line. Why do people always say ‘if the top 6 didn’t do anything, number 7 isn’t saving the game’. Didn’t Faheem and Shadab do exactly that on the last tour in a couple of Tests?

Yes they’re all rounders but their place depends on batting depth because that extra batting coming in at 7 and 8 is useful. Ofcourse it then also allows 5 bowlers.

 

[RedwoodOriginal]

That logic never made any sense to me. There are many scenarios in which a 7th batsman can take a team over the line. Why do people always say ‘if the top 6 didn’t do anything, number 7 isn’t saving the game’. Didn’t Faheem and Shadab do exactly that on the last tour in a couple of Tests?

Yes they’re all rounders but their place depends on batting depth because that extra batting coming in at 7 and 8 is useful. Ofcourse it then also allows 5 bowlers.

You're missing my point probably because I did not make my point all that well. I'm all for all-rounders. Faheem should definitely play. I'm talking about the extra batsman which means going with 4 bowlers, the wicket-keeper at 7 and the Top 6 packed with specialist batsmen. I think if you're relying on that No. 6 batsman to save the game for you then you made a big mistake because having an extra bowler who can bat a little is infinitely better than a batsman who can't bowl, in those conditions.

 

[Thunderbolt14]

I have never understood the point of relying on the extra batsman when you're playing in a country like England. It shows a defensive mentality and that you are not interested in bowling the opposition out. If your Top 6 didn't do anything chances are the number 7 is not saving the game for you. If Pakistan want to win they have to play 5 bowlers because (a) you don't want guys like Shaheen and Naseem risking injury by over-bowling and (b) you want them to actually be potent which can only happen if they are well-rested between spells.

When your top 6 consists of Azhar and Asad Shafiq, there is a high probability that an extra batsman will be beneficial.

 

[Thunderbolt14]

That being said, I do want a 5th bowling option, which is why I hope Faheem Ashraf turns into Don Bradman.

 

[Forum363]

You're missing my point probably because I did not make my point all that well. I'm all for all-rounders. Faheem should definitely play. I'm talking about the extra batsman which means going with 4 bowlers, the wicket-keeper at 7 and the Top 6 packed with specialist batsmen. I think if you're relying on that No. 6 batsman to save the game for you then you made a big mistake because having an extra bowler who can bat a little is infinitely better than a batsman who can't bowl, in those conditions.

Okay fair enough, that makes sense.

I agree on that behalf, particularly with the options we have at our disposal. The bowler who can bat will add more value to the team.

 

[sshakir411]

Let's not forget the ppl responsible for selecting the team (Misbah & Waqar) are the folks who decided to keep with Akmal Junior in a World Cup because of some absurd logic. Fawad should be grateful if he gets a game, if he does, he needs to make it sound.

 

[RedwoodOriginal]

When your top 6 consists of Azhar and Asad Shafiq, there is a high probability that an extra batsman will be beneficial.

If you can't rely on your most experienced batsmen who can you rely on? Extra specialist batsman depletes the potency of the bowling attack. And you can't win without bowling the opposition out.

 

[coy0607]

I have never understood the point of relying on the extra batsman when you're playing in a country like England. It shows a defensive mentality and that you are not interested in bowling the opposition out. If your Top 6 didn't do anything chances are the number 7 is not saving the game for you. If Pakistan want to win they have to play 5 bowlers because (a) you don't want guys like Shaheen and Naseem risking injury by over-bowling and (b) you want them to actually be potent which can only happen if they are well-rested between spells.

I personally agree with you, but the Pakistan management doesn't. Misbah is as defensive a manager as there is in world cricket - the 4 bowler strategy really became prominent in his tenure as captain, before that Pak consistently used to have a good fifth bowling option.

And now with the combination of England's strong bowling + Pak's pathetic batting - there is virtually no chance of anything less that 6 specialist batsmen.

I don't think Pakistan are planing to win - at least in the Test series - goal for them is to avoid embarrassment in England

 

[coy0607]

Shadab and fahim more than capable with bat in tests play shadab fahim and 3 fast bowlers

Fahim is neither capable with the bat nor the bowl - Pakistani's fans just wish that he was

Shadab, perhaps, but I don't think they will start the series with him. I think Misbah will want to start with what is comfortable - 6 batsmen + 4 bowlers, rather than start experimenting. Maybe Shadab comes in after a defeat or two

 

[shamaan]

Fahim is neither capable with the bat nor the bowl - Pakistani's fans just wish that he was

Shadab, perhaps, but I don't think they will start the series with him. I think Misbah will want to start with what is comfortable - 6 batsmen + 4 bowlers, rather than start experimenting. Maybe Shadab comes in after a defeat or two

Fahim in tests average in bowling is 26 batting average is 23 in tests that's more than okay.

Shadab 38 with the ball and 34 with the bat

I fink so azwell that he will pick 6 and 4

 

[shamaan]

That being said, I do want a 5th bowling option, which is why I hope Faheem Ashraf turns into Don Bradman.

He will stil do decent job I belive he had 2 half centuries in england might be wrong thou

 

[Shoaibbtt]

He will stil do decent job I belive he had 2 half centuries in england might be wrong thou

Yea once against Bangladesh in a warm up match during CT17 other than that he's an absolute flop batsman. Too many chances if you ask me. Nope i think the latter is best go in with your batsman and 4 frontline bowlers in Yasir, Shaheen, Naseem and Abbas

 

[Forum363]

Yea once against Bangladesh in a warm up match during CT17 other than that he's an absolute flop batsman. Too many chances if you ask me. Nope i think the latter is best go in with your batsman and 4 frontline bowlers in Yasir, Shaheen, Naseem and Abbas

He’s talking about the Test innings. Saved Pakistan a couple of times with some useful runs down the order.

 

[Shoaibbtt]

He’s talking about the Test innings. Saved Pakistan a couple of times with some useful runs down the order.

Honestly he's a very poor man's Hardik Pandaya. I wanted to like him but honestly he just disappoints with the bat, does a bit of bashing and then out.

 

[shamaan]

Yea once against Bangladesh in a warm up match during CT17 other than that he's an absolute flop batsman. Too many chances if you ask me. Nope i think the latter is best go in with your batsman and 4 frontline bowlers in Yasir, Shaheen, Naseem and Abbas

4 man attack that means naseem needs to bowl long spells and if england do get 400 pluss he will proberly bowl atleast 20 overs pakistan draw against England when they had 5 man attack can only win the tests having positive mindset am sure he saves pakistan a few times with the bowl and with the bat

 

[Shoaibbtt]

4 man attack that means naseem needs to bowl long spells and if england do get 400 pluss he will proberly bowl atleast 20 overs pakistan draw against England when they had 5 man attack can only win the tests having positive mindset am sure he saves pakistan a few times with the bowl and with the bat

Naseem and Shaheen bowling long spells doesn't phase me, i mean for God's sake these guys are young you should be able to bowl. I just feel that Fawad will be that man left behind and to be honest have to say i feel sad for such a good human being with a lot of potential being wasted.

However, I am going to reserve any judgement just yet until we see how WI-Eng plays out and we see what the conditions are like.

 

[Maliq_Mudasir]

To be honest, Fawad has played enough Domestic cricket to get some runs under his belt in England. At this age and experience he should definitely outperform Azhar and Asad combined.

 

[SensiblePakFan]

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Great to see Fawad Alam back in Pakistan colours. Hopefully he'll get a chance against England and it won't be another series of carrying the drinks and towels for him <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ENGvPAK?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ENGvPAK</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Cricket?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Cricket</a> <a href="https://t.co/seiywgkq1q">pic.twitter.com/seiywgkq1q</a></p>— Saj Sadiq (@Saj_PakPassion) <a href="https://twitter.com/Saj_PakPassion/status/1280109609496260611?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 6, 2020</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

 

[Manzy2599]

Fawad definitely deserves a chance now. I think he can fit in at 5 and Shafiq can stay at 6, his best position.

My playing XI would be

1. Shan Masood
2. Abid Ali
3. Azhar Ali (C)
4. Babar Azam
5. Fawad Alam
6. Asad Shafiq
7. Mohammed Rizwan (WK)
8. Yasir Shah
9. Mohammed Abbas
10. Shaheen Shah
11. Naseem Shah

My only concern is the 5th bowling option, perhaps Faheem ashraf will play but that means Fawad misses out again which will
be cruel. Maybe they’ll get Shan to bowl some medium pacers and Azhar can roll his arm over with some leg spinners. But I’m not sure how effective they’ll be. A good quality allrounder (pace) is definitely missing in Pakistan.

Also, I’ve heard Abid Ali can Wicketkeep. It might be worth it for the balance of the side if they drop Rizwan for Faheem for the 5th bowling option. Don’t think there will be much difference between their batting but bowling will be stronger which is already inexperienced and lacking a 5th bowler. Then again I haven’t really seen Abid wicketkeep so it might be a big ask considering it’s his first overseas tour so it might be too much pressure on him.

Fawad definitely deserves a go tho, he’s been performing on the sidelines for about a decade and keeps getting ignored. I hope they don’t discard him again after a few games like they did after his 100 vs Sri Lanka in the Asia cup final 2014.

 

[Shoaibbtt]

Fawad definitely deserves a chance now. I think he can fit in at 5 and Shafiq can stay at 6, his best position.

My playing XI would be

1. Shan Masood
2. Abid Ali
3. Azhar Ali (C)
4. Babar Azam
5. Fawad Alam
6. Asad Shafiq
7. Mohammed Rizwan (WK)
8. Yasir Shah
9. Mohammed Abbas
10. Shaheen Shah
11. Naseem Shah

My only concern is the 5th bowling option, perhaps Faheem ashraf will play but that means Fawad misses out again which will
be cruel. Maybe they’ll get Shan to bowl some medium pacers and Azhar can roll his arm over with some leg spinners. But I’m not sure how effective they’ll be. A good quality allrounder (pace) is definitely missing in Pakistan.

Also, I’ve heard Abid Ali can Wicketkeep. It might be worth it for the balance of the side if they drop Rizwan for Faheem for the 5th bowling option. Don’t think there will be much difference between their batting but bowling will be stronger which is already inexperienced and lacking a 5th bowler. Then again I haven’t really seen Abid wicketkeep so it might be a big ask considering it’s his first overseas tour so it might be too much pressure on him.

Fawad definitely deserves a go tho, he’s been performing on the sidelines for about a decade and keeps getting ignored. I hope they don’t discard him again after a few games like they did after his 100 vs Sri Lanka in the Asia cup final 2014.

To be honest that’s the most likely test line up. Everyone in my eyes deserves a chance, I wouldn’t have people rush to conclusions, all you can go by is what you can see and then it’s in Allah’s hands. In my view Fawad looked good in the clips I saw for the practise match, Abid on the other hand I heard and saw looked a bit rusty same goes for Yasir.

 

[MenInG]

Fawad Alam vs Anderson with Fawad's stance - how will it go down? Should be good soundbites from TV comms for sure.

 

[cricketAXEpert]

Still a question of whether he will even play especially if Pakistan go with 5 bowlers.

Personally, I think Pakistan should drop Shafiq, have Fawad at No. 5 and go with the 5 bowlers.

Asad Shafiq was the reason that Fawad was kept away from the test side. Which was very unjust as Fawad Alam was superior batsman. Fawad Should play in the spot vacated by Haris Sohail. 5 bowlers will weaken the batting as there isn't a decent allrounder except for Shahdab.

 

[Thunderbolt14]

Asad Shafiq was the reason that Fawad was kept away from the test side. Which was very unjust as Fawad Alam was superior batsman. Fawad Should play in the spot vacated by Haris Sohail. 5 bowlers will weaken the batting as there isn't a decent allrounder except for Shahdab.

Imo asad shafiq started as the better batsman back then. He was quite good and seemed to have potential. Fawad meanwhile had an unorthodox technique. ESPN cricinfo did an analysis recently and apparently he even till today has one of the most effective cover drives.

He just got lazy and stopped developing at a certain point. Never moved up the order.

 

[coy0607]

Imo asad shafiq started as the better batsman back then. He was quite good and seemed to have potential. Fawad meanwhile had an unorthodox technique. ESPN cricinfo did an analysis recently and apparently he even till today has one of the most effective cover drives.

He just got lazy and stopped developing at a certain point. Never moved up the order.

Not sure I would say Shafiq stopped developing. IMO, he had the talent, but NEVER had the mental strength to be a dominant test batsmen. And the PCB should have realized that a long time ago.

Being highly inconsistent and averaging high-30s in Test Cricket in 2020 is quite horrible, but when you have a legacy of batsmen like Hafeez and Malik - then avg of 38 is just the norm

Fawad is the exact opposite, weak technique and questionable talent, but exceptional grit and mental strength. That's made him the most dominant batsmen in the history of Pakistani domestic cricket

 

[RedwoodOriginal]

Asad Shafiq was the reason that Fawad was kept away from the test side. Which was very unjust as Fawad Alam was superior batsman. Fawad Should play in the spot vacated by Haris Sohail. 5 bowlers will weaken the batting as there isn't a decent allrounder except for Shahdab.

Asad Shafiq somehow finds a way to do just enough to stay in the team. Its shambolic that a player of his experience with a degree of talent and so many opportunities averages below 40 at this point of his career.

 

[Saj]

Today:

Fawad Alam, adopting a Shivnarine Chanderpaul stance, never looked convincing and needed treatment and a new helmet after he was clattered by a skiddy Naseem bouncer.

 

[Thunderbolt14]

Today:

Fawad Alam, adopting a Shivnarine Chanderpaul stance, never looked convincing and needed treatment and a new helmet after he was clattered by a skiddy Naseem bouncer.

This is one of my worries. Naseem also got Fawad out cheaply in his first or second first class match ever, I believe. I’m not sure if Fawad can face Archer or Wood, even if he plays swing/seam well.

 

[MenInG]

Today:

Fawad Alam, adopting a Shivnarine Chanderpaul stance, never looked convincing and needed treatment and a new helmet after he was clattered by a skiddy Naseem bouncer.

Dont think he will get in the XI but not sure who else is better than him at that position.

 

[NauV]

Dont think he will get in the XI but not sure who else is better than him at that position.

His place in the side is dependent on whether Pak plays 5 bowlers or 4 . . if 5, then Faheem and Shadab will play at the expense of Fawad and Yasir . .
If 4 bowlers, then I think both Fawad and Yasir will play

 

[Abdullah719]

His place in the side is dependent on whether Pak plays 5 bowlers or 4 . . if 5, then Faheem and Shadab will play at the expense of Fawad and Yasir . .
If 4 bowlers, then I think both Fawad and Yasir will play

I am inclined to think that even if they go with 4 bowlers then Iftikhar will be preferred because he "can bowl off-spin."

 

[shamaan]

Today:

Fawad Alam, adopting a Shivnarine Chanderpaul stance, never looked convincing and needed treatment and a new helmet after he was clattered by a skiddy Naseem bouncer.

Have you got any videos as the only videos I have seen doesnt show him g4tting clattered by a bouncer

 

[shamaan]

I am inclined to think that even if they go with 4 bowlers then Iftikhar will be preferred because he "can bowl off-spin."

It should be based on the 2 earm up games who get the nod but fawad hasnt done anything of note to state pick me

 

[trickyone]

Not sure how true it is but Misbah had a long discussion with Naseem a over before at the boundary line before he injured him lol

 

[shamaan]

Not sure how true it is but Misbah had a long discussion with Naseem a over before at the boundary line before he injured him lol

Have u got the vidoe or who's reported it.so did he injure him then he had the discussion or did he have the discussion then injuried him that's funny loll

 

[Saj]

I have a feeling Misbah's first choice for the number 6 slot will be Ifthi, unless he has a nightmare in the warm-up matches.

 

[MenInG]

I have a feeling Misbah's first choice for the number 6 slot will be Ifthi, unless he has a nightmare in the warm-up matches.

Three Tests to play so very possible that Iftikhar gets the nod for the 1st Test and then based upon his performance, Fawad gets one or 2 games.

 

[SensiblePakFan]

I have a feeling Misbah's first choice for the number 6 slot will be Ifthi, unless he has a nightmare in the warm-up matches.

Probably right, Misbah always goes with the favourites especially after such a long break.

 

[shamaan]

Probably right, Misbah always goes with the favourites especially after such a long break.

Fawad hasnt done much to say pick me

 

[waheed_sofi]

10 spots are fixed.
1 spot left is between faheem and iftikhar

 

[waheed_sofi]

Seems it will go to faheem.
As he has been given proper practice (bowling and batting) in both practice matches.

 

[Last Monetarist]

Fawad Alam is too old to be recalled to the test team, especially if the likes of Azhar and Asad are still holding on to their spots, however much tenuously. To be frank, Fawad has done nothing special over the course of the past 12 months to deserve to be selected.

 

[Saj]

Oh dear, Fawad out for 3 in the second innings of the 4-day match in Derby.

 

[pratiktc]

Look, we all know he's not going to make the XI
Either Ifthikar or Faheem+Shadab will replace him.

But if Pak loses this series 0-2 in first 2 tests, they should just give Fawad a farewell game in last Test for his stellar domestic service.

 

[Shoaibbtt]

Fawad hasnt done much to say pick me

To be honest he should've got a go against SL and Bangladesh, one game at least for crying out loud. I still feel that you at least owe him one international game, if the likes of Asad and Azhar failed in a practice game would they be dropped from a test? Last game is next week and we'll see what happens but i'm in agreement as a Fawad fan that he's not doing himself justice. I don't know if he is being affected by the Naseem Shah bouncer that hit him.

 

[shamaan]

To be honest he should've got a go against SL and Bangladesh, one game at least for crying out loud. I still feel that you at least owe him one international game, if the likes of Asad and Azhar failed in a practice game would they be dropped from a test? Last game is next week and we'll see what happens but i'm in agreement as a Fawad fan that he's not doing himself justice. I don't know if he is being affected by the Naseem Shah bouncer that hit him.

Yes he should have played against SL and Bangladesh azhar got a country and I think shafiq got 70 runs if am correct tbh fawad proberly loosing his hand eye co ordination and that his eyes are catching up he needs to get 100 to have a chance to be picked for the team for first test hopefully he does if not he wont play

 

[Shoaibbtt]

Yes he should have played against SL and Bangladesh azhar got a country and I think shafiq got 70 runs if am correct tbh fawad proberly loosing his hand eye co ordination and that his eyes are catching up he needs to get 100 to have a chance to be picked for the team for first test hopefully he does if not he wont play

I don't know if it's eyes or not or if he is still in recovery from a nasty bouncer i heard from Naseem. Getting caught with a bouncer happens to the best players so it's not something we can knock someone for. The positive thing to see is though that he's gotten out to spin as oppose to pace. There is still bags of time to prepare and i think that it's nothing to do with age but it's to do with lack of games. You can only get better with time i say and he should've had a game in Pakistan to perk him up a little, so i have to say Azhar is a wrong'un for not giving him at least one game. Playing the dukes ball as well can be tough and it requires patience although in the first innings he scored 24 off 81 that shows that he is playing with patience so he is seeing balls off, all i can say is i wish the best for the lad and InshAllah he gets at least one international game to prove himself because he at least deserves that despite the poor scores in this first 4 day practice game.

 

[shamaan]

I don't know if it's eyes or not or if he is still in recovery from a nasty bouncer i heard from Naseem. Getting caught with a bouncer happens to the best players so it's not something we can knock someone for. The positive thing to see is though that he's gotten out to spin as oppose to pace. There is still bags of time to prepare and i think that it's nothing to do with age but it's to do with lack of games. You can only get better with time i say and he should've had a game in Pakistan to perk him up a little, so i have to say Azhar is a wrong'un for not giving him at least one game. Playing the dukes ball as well can be tough and it requires patience although in the first innings he scored 24 off 81 that shows that he is playing with patience so he is seeing balls off, all i can say is i wish the best for the lad and InshAllah he gets at least one international game to prove himself because he at least deserves that despite the poor scores in this first 4 day practice game.

If he cant handle naseem when he was bowling an minimum speed how is he ganna deal with archer and wood yes everyone gets hit.hes only got out to yasir cuz he couldn't get runs against fast bowlers so he tried to attack and got out.was it azhar choice ir misbah choice.the problem england might go all out attack with fast bowling as everyone knows we struggle against pure pace pluss he didnt bowl any overs

 

[Bewal Express]

Not a fan of his but no doubt he deserved better treatment from the selectors.

 

[Shoaibbtt]

If he cant handle naseem when he was bowling an minimum speed how is he ganna deal with archer and wood yes everyone gets hit.hes only got out to yasir cuz he couldn't get runs against fast bowlers so he tried to attack and got out.was it azhar choice ir misbah choice.the problem england might go all out attack with fast bowling as everyone knows we struggle against pure pace pluss he didnt bowl any overs

Wood i don't rate to highly but the likes of Anderson, Archer and Woakes i rate as bowlers. It's all about biding your time. I'm gonna wait and see what happens with this upcoming game and make dua that he comes good. This all goes back to the likes of PCB management and the lack of international games he's had, how can you expect to get better without getting a chance? The only thing Fawad is to blame for is not playing enough English County Cricket which i rate very highly as a skill development.

 

[shamaan]

Wood i don't rate to highly but the likes of Anderson, Archer and Woakes i rate as bowlers. It's all about biding your time. I'm gonna wait and see what happens with this upcoming game and make dua that he comes good. This all goes back to the likes of PCB management and the lack of international games he's had, how can you expect to get better without getting a chance? The only thing Fawad is to blame for is not playing enough English County Cricket which i rate very highly as a skill development.

Wood would be decent on bouncy pitches and was excellent in the world cup but I agree he ain't in the same league as the ones you stated.it is about biding your time for instance i belive babar had 10 runs with only 40 balls but then he catches up and had strike rate of 50.were fawad doesnt have a release shot.yes I agree it goes have to pcb management.when Is the next intra match I want to see naseem rested and maybe shaheen

 

[Shoaibbtt]

Wood would be decent on bouncy pitches and was excellent in the world cup but I agree he ain't in the same league as the ones you stated.it is about biding your time for instance i belive babar had 10 runs with only 40 balls but then he catches up and had strike rate of 50.were fawad doesnt have a release shot.yes I agree it goes have to pcb management.when Is the next intra match I want to see naseem rested and maybe shaheen

I think the next intra-match is this Friday. Probably the same teams get played with some changes in the bowling line up.