We didn't play good cricket recently: Naseem Shah

The pacer addresses struggles, language barriers and his strong return to red-ball cricket

Pakistan's star pacer, Naseem Shah, has addressed the team's past struggles and expressed optimism about their future prospects.

Reflecting on recent disappointments in series and mega-event tournaments, Naseem acknowledged the shortcomings in their performances in a candid media conference but remained hopeful about the team's potential for a strong comeback.

"Yes, our comeback wasn't great, and we can't deny that we didn't play good cricket. Criticism is part of it, and we must endure it until things improve. This is a good chance to bounce back, play better, and show up as a team. That's what I'm hoping for," Naseem said.

The young pacer also shared his excitement about returning to red-ball cricket, although he admitted that the transition after a long break presents challenges.

"I haven't played red cricket for thirteen months; it's not easy to play after a long time. International cricket has its own pressure; however, we are training hard for it," he said.

"I know personally that playing an international match after a long time is not easy. After returning from injury, I am gradually increasing the load of bowling spells," he added. The 21-year-old also highlighted a significant challenge faced by players working with foreign coaches: the language barrier. "There is a language problem with foreign coaches. We need someone to translate the language. It is easier to communicate with the coach in your own language," he stressed.

Naseem, who has been recovering from injury, spoke about the gradual process of regaining his form.

"As a professional, you must take care of your fitness; no one can be forced to improve their fitness. International athletes are not schoolchildren to be taught fitness," he concluded.

It is worth noting that the first four-day match between Pakistan Shaheens and Bangladesh will take place at the Islamabad Club from August 13 to August 16.

After the four-day match, Naseem Shah and seven other probables will join the senior team for the Test series.

The first Test will be held at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium from August 21 to August 25, followed by the second Test in Karachi from August 30 to September 3.

Pakistan Squad

Shan Masood (captain), Saud Shakeel (vice-captain), Aamir Jamal (subject to Fitness), Abdullah Shafique, Abrar Ahmed, Babar Azam, Kamran Ghulam, Khurram Shahzad, Mir Hamza, Mohammad Ali, Mohammad Huraira, Mohammad Rizwan (wicket-keeper), Naseem Shah, Saim Ayub, Salman Ali Agha, Sarfaraz Ahmed (wicket-keeper) and Shaheen Shah Afridi.