Ramiz pushes for ‘aggressive’ openers

Ahmed Shehzad’s slumber in the middle against Kenya saw him score just one off 18 deliveries.

COLOMBO: Former Pakistan captain Ramiz Raja expressed dissatisfaction with the openers’ display in the match against Kenya, stressing on the importance of aggression by upper-order batsmen.

Pakistan started off defensively against Kenya and lost both the openers with only 12 runs on the board. Both Mohammad Hafeez and Ahmed Shahzad struggled against Kenyan bowling and lacked their “natural style”.

“I don’t know why the openers started defensively when they came after playing so well in New Zealand,” said Raja. “Kenya came in from a huge defeat against the Kiwis and the openers should have dominated the start by showing aggression.”

Raja said Pakistan should adopt their natural style if they are to make an  impact in the event. He also advised the bowlers to capitalise on their strengths and expertise.

“Umar Gul was bowling short against Kenya but he should have used Yorkers, which is his main strength.”

Fielding key against hosts

“Pakistan would have to go in with improved fielding. One dropped catch can cost them the match. Fielding is going to be vital.”

Meanwhile, he also suggested that the batsmen should be propped up with a strategic plan to cope with the threat that is Muttiah Muralitharan, the highest wicket taker in both One-Day Internationals and Tests.

Published in The Express Tribune, February 25^th, 2011.