Azhar Mahmood cracks code for defeating New Zealand

Pakistan bowling coach believes Misbah and his men are good enough to make comeback

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan bowling coach Azhar Mahmood believes that Misbahul Haq and his men are good enough make a comeback in the second Test against New Zealand in Hamilton, if they utilise leg-spinner Yasir Shah effectively.

The 41-year-old, who witnessed New Zealand bowlers wreak havoc on a seam-friendly pitch in Christchurch during the first Test of the series, said if Pakistan can prolong the game, then Yasir could contribute with a match-winning performance for the visitors.

“We want the game to move into fourth and fifth day, so that Yasir can come into play,” he said. “He is one of the best bowlers in the world.”

Yasir was wicket-less in the first Test as Pakistan lost the match by eight wickets during fourth day’s play, with first day being washed out due to rain.

The former all-rounder also said that Pakistan have to be more disciplined with their batting. “The new ball is crucial here, so if we don’t lose a wicket with the new ball, then we can bat for long,” he said. “There’s no excuse, we have to play positive and good cricket.”

Pakistan will head into the second match on Friday, trailing 1-0 in the two-match series. The visitors will be without Test captain Misbah, who returned home after a family bereavement. Vice-captain Azhar Ali will lead the side in 42-year-old’s absence.