England conditions offer pace assistance

Pakistan pacer Mohammad Ali says discipline bowling can help seamers exploit English conditions

Pakistan fast bowler Mohammad Ali believes England’s conditions can provide plenty of assistance to seamers if they maintain discipline and consistency as the tourists continue preparations for their three-Test series against England.

Ali was speaking after the opening day of Pakistan’s three-day warm-up match against the Professional County Club Select XI at Beckenham. The fixture is Pakistan’s final red-ball preparation before the first Test against England which begins at Headingley on August 19.

The Select XI were bowled out for 305, with Mohammad Abbas and Mohammad Ali taking three wickets each. Matthew Fisher offered strong resistance with an unbeaten 62, while Saif Zaib scored 65 and Caleb Falconer added 59.

Ali said the pitch provided encouraging signs for fast bowlers, although he acknowledged that conditions in England are different from those Pakistan experienced during their recent Test series in the West Indies.

“I think the wicket was good for fast bowling, and if you bowl with consistency, it offers enough help for the fast bowlers,” Ali said.

He also pointed to the quick outfield, predicting that English conditions could produce both runs and opportunities for bowlers. Ali admitted Pakistan could have bowled better to Fisher, who went on to make more than 50, but felt the attack otherwise performed well.

The warm-up match is particularly important as Pakistan adjust to England’s conditions. Ali said the team would use the remaining days to adapt their methods before the Test series.

He highlighted bowling length as one of the biggest differences, explaining that fast bowlers need to pitch the ball fuller in England to achieve maximum results.

“That is why this three-day game is ideal for us to prepare,” he said.

Pakistan’s second Test will be played at Lord’s from August 27, followed by the third Test at Edgbaston from September 9. The PCC Select XI resumed on 44 without loss at stumps on day-1.