Aaqib sees shades of Asif in SL pacer

Sri Lanka's bowling coach, Aaqib Javed, heaped praise on young pacer Asitha Fernando after his impressive performance on Day 2 of the first Test against England at Old Trafford.

Fernando claimed figures of 3-68, taking key wickets that included England captain Ollie Pope and senior batter Joe Root. His ability to swing the ball both ways and his skiddy pace made him the most threatening bowler in the Sri Lankan attack, despite conceding runs at nearly five per over.

Aaqib compared Fernando to former Pakistan pacer Mohammad Asif, known for his extraordinary control and ability to deceive batsmen with subtle variations.

"I told him that after Mohammad Asif of Pakistan I saw that quality in him. Not many people know about his ability. Without changing his wrist, he can swing the ball both ways," Aaqib said.

Drawing from his own experience, Aaqib recalled how he identified Asif's talent early on.

"I actually picked Mohammad Asif. He wasn't in the system. That's how I know Asif a lot. Sometimes you don't know what happens with your wrist. He (Asitha) has now got different confidence levels. People change their wrists, change the shine (which way it is showing) - but Asitha is so gifted, and they (the batters) even don't know which way it will go,' he further added.

It is worth noting that Asif was considered a magician among fast bowlers. He took 106 wickets in just 23 Tests and was known for his ability to deceive the best batsmen.

Unfortunately, Asif's career was cut short after he became involved in a spot-fixing case in 2010.