Few would have predicted Pakistan to hold both Ashes contenders to drawn series when they arrived in England, especially when they were thrashed by 150 runs in the first Test against Australia at Lord’s a month ago.
Yet that is now the enticing prize within Pakistan’s grasp as they return to ‘the home of cricket’ after a four-wicket win across London at The Oval last week that reduced England’s lead in the four-Test series to 2-1.
Immediately after losing to Australia at Lord’s, then Pakistan captain Shahid Afridi quit Test cricket - a decision only slightly less bizarre than his appointment as skipper after four years away from Test cricket. But a week later, under the captaincy of opening batsman Salman, they beat Australia by three wickets in a tense finish at Headingley after skittling them for just 88 in the first innings.
That left that series all square at 1-1 but Pakistan collapses in the first and second Tests against England left them 2-0.
However, the impressive new-ball duo Mohammad Asif and Mohammad Aamir were performing admirably while the return of former captain Mohammad Yousuf stiffened Pakistan’s top order batting. Yousuf made 55 and Test novice Azhar Ali an unbeaten 92 in the first innings before Salman enjoyed something of a return to form with 48 in Pakistan’s successful pursuit of 148.
“I think it would be the most wonderful thing,” said Salman of the possibility of a drawn series. “To come from 2-0 down to level the series would help and boost their confidence for the rest of their futures. They would then have this to fall back on for the rest of their careers, even when they are older and telling young people what can happen. It is always good to have that.”
Published in The Express Tribune, August 26th, 2010.
COMMENTS
Comments are moderated and generally will be posted if they are on-topic and not abusive.
For more information, please see our Comments FAQ