Salman Butt advocates 'calculated' risks for Pakistan in Bangladesh, England Tests

Former captain says there are 'no assurances in Pakistan cricket, you have to take calculated risks'

Former Pakistan captain Salman Butt has expressed concerns about the Pakistan cricket team's preparations for their upcoming Test series against Bangladesh and England.

Butt emphasised the need for calculated risks in a sport where nothing is guaranteed, advocating for strategic decisions that balance potential rewards with inherent uncertainties.

In an exclusive interview with Cricket Pakistan, Butt explained, "There are no assurances in Pakistan cricket. You have to take those calculated risks. There is always an element of risk before big achievements arise."

He pointed out that a proactive approach is essential for the team to achieve significant success on the international stage.

He highlighted the challenges posed by the composition of Pakistan's bowling attack.

With a squad featuring primarily medium pacers, Butt suggested that the team might consider preparing green pitches against England to exploit this advantage.

However, he also noted the potential drawbacks of such a strategy.

"Pakistan has medium pacers; we don’t have genuine pace. We can probably go with green pitches against England. But when you prepare green pitches, your batters start feeling the tension. When you make spin-friendly pitches, you start worrying about England’s spinners. There is some sort of skill set that will help you win these Test games. Produce pitches where bowlers and batsmen have an equal chance," Butt explained.

Bangladesh is set to travel to Pakistan on August 17 for a two-match Test series as part of the ICC Test Championship.

The matches will be held in Rawalpindi from August 21-25 and Karachi from August 30 to September 3. Following this, Pakistan will host England for three Test matches in Multan, Karachi, and Rawalpindi throughout October.