Pakistan getting a wake-up call on international fielding standards: Flower

Former Zimbabwe batsman says players are definitely fitter now after going through a rigorous army boot camp

Pakistan batting coach Grant Flower has said the national side has received a wake-up call when it comes to fielding standards at the international level.

In an interview with ESPNcricinfo, the former Zimbabwe batsman said that one of the most important things in the international game is fielding; therefore it is positive move to bring in Steve Rixon as fielding coach to improve Pakistan’s fielding skills.



PHOTO COURTESY: PCB

“One of the most important things is our fielding and Mickey [Arthur] has placed quite an emphasis on that,” he said.

“And we have got a new fielding coach so we are definitely getting a wake-up call regarding fielding standards,” he added.

New fielding coach Steve Rixon joined the national team on Wednesday in Taunton, Somerset for Pakistan’s upcoming tour of England. The Men in Green will play four Tests, five ODIs and a one T20I against England, with the first Test taking place at Lord’s cricket ground on July 14.



PHOTO COURTESY: PCB

Regarding improvement in fielding, Flower said that Pakistani players are definitely fitter now after going through a rigorous army boot camp in Abbottabad and then a conditioning camp in Hampshire, so audiences will definitely see a change on the field. Pakistan are scheduled to play their first tour match against Somerset today.