The need to channel aggression

If one had to pinpoint a persistent problem in Pakistan cricket - on the field - it has to be the batting department. For years, criticism directed at the players has called for consistency and making one’s wicket valuable.

The retirement of stalwarts like Saeed Anwar and Inzamamul Haq seemed to have left a hole in Pakistan’s batting line-up. Tons of newcomers showed promise but faded away.

While there was visible talent, quality pace and overcast conditions have always created doubt in the batsmen’s minds. However, all hope is not lost yet and former Pakistan batsman Ijaz Ahmed clarifies the notion.

Ahmed, 42, served Pakistan cricket for 15 years and is still keen as ever. He was known, in his playing days, as the one with an unorthodox technique but a dependable batsman who could use the long handle to good effect.

After spending a considerable time down the order, Ahmed was used effectively as a number three anchor later on in his career. He obliged with a number of match-winning knocks as passion seemed to drive him forward.

Now, Ahmed is instilling the same enthusiasm in the youngsters as he trains them at the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Fast Track Coaching Programme. The former player says there are loads of batsmen ready to take on the rigors of international cricket but need to be patient - in every sense of the word.

“As far as I can tell with my experience, our batting prospect is bright,” Ahmed told The Express Tribune.

“We have a long list of batsmen lined up to serve Pakistan for the next two decades. There are batsmen with the right attitude and ability - Asad Shafiq, Azhar Ali, Umar Akmal, Umar Amin, Babar Azam fall in that category.”

Ahmed said that the ongoing programme will help him identify the problems batsmen face. And though Ahmed believed that players are talented, they only need nurturing before they are ready to take on the world’s best.

“I have worked from the under-19 level to the very top and found very few technical flaws.  They have exceptional abilities and the camp will help rectify their flaws.”

Another drawback of Pakistan batsmen in recent times has been their inability to channel their aggression. Wickets have been precariously thrown away in dire situations and matches lost from seemingly winning positions. But Ahmed is a smart enough coach to know all that.

“They aren’t channeling their strengths. I’m making them understand that a defensive approach can sometimes do wonders.

“If one struggles playing short-pitched deliveries, let them go. It’s not embarrassing to leave deliveries. It’s a smart tactic.”

Ahmed, dubbed as ‘The Axeman’, called on the young brigade to be patient and enjoy playing cricket. “I’m trying to impart my experience and knowledge to these guys and some might want to listen more than others. But you can’t force anyone but these boys are a hardworking and responsive bunch.”

As Ahmed supervises the training camp, vowing to get positive results at the conclusion, fans hope they don’t have to wait too long before Pakistan batting can compete with the best in the world.





Published in The Express Tribune, July 10^th, 2011.