Don’t underestimate Pakistani bowlers in England, says team manager

Intikhab Alam says Mohammad Amir is mentally prepared to handle himself well in England

Team manager Intikhab Alam has warned that Pakistani fast-bowlers should not be underestimated when they play England in a four-Test, five-ODI and one-off T20 series starting from July 14 because they might lack experience but not firepower.

"There is no doubt that our pace attack lacks the kind of experience that has been the hallmark of previous visiting Pakistan sides but I would caution against under-estimating their capabilities,” said Alam. “They have all been bowling well in recent times and are physically fit and will provide a stern test for the England batsmen.”

Left-arm pacer Mohammad Amir has already made headlines as his visit to Lord’s for the first Test will bring back memories of the 2010 Test at the same venue where he with Muhammad Asif bowled no-balls. However, Intikhab thinks Amir is ready to handle himself in England.

"Although it is a little early to talk about it as there is some time to go and we have two warm-up games to play, we feel Amir is all set to play the first Test match at Lords,” he said. “We all know about the circumstances surrounding his return but he is mentally prepared for this tour and he will be able to handle himself well; this isn’t the first time he is touring a foreign country after returning to international cricket and he also has been to England before.”

Alam also commented on newly appointed coach Mickey Arthur’s relationship with players.

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"We are very fortunate to have someone of the stature of Mickey Arthur as head coach for Pakistan and I am pleased to say that he has gelled well with the boys. He is working very hard with the team and the players are responding nicely and enthusiastically to his advice and comments,” revealed Alam.

The 74-year-old also revealed the preparations that the Pakistan team is doing in England for the upcoming series and hoped the team will try to make the nation proud.

"Our preparations are coming along really well since our arrival here in Hampshire,” he said. “We played a three-day practice match and although one of the days was rained off, it had no bearing on the spirit of the team who are gelling very well and busying themselves with gym work whenever they get a chance. At this point there are no fitness or injury issues to worry about so we are very satisfied with the current outcomes of this camp."

He added: “We will prepare well and put in the effort needed and God willing, when the time comes, make the nation proud of this team.”

Intikhab Alam was quoted by PakPassion