Tanvir, Rahat to join Pakistan in SA

Fast-bowlers selected by PCB to reinforce pace attack.

KARACHI: The Pakistan Cricket Board’s (PCB) selection committee decided to send reinforcements to South Africa in the form of fast-bowlers Tanvir Ahmed and Rahat Ali all set to join the team ahead of their first Test, starting in Johannesburg on February 1.

The original squad comprised of pacers Umar Gul, Junaid Khan, Mohammad Irfan and rookie Ehsan Adil when the selection committee announced the squad for the three-match series against the Proteas.

The inclusion of only four fast-bowlers for South Africa had drawn criticism from various former cricketers who felt the team needed a stronger pace attack considering the bouncy tracks in South Africa.

According to an official close to the selection committee, the selectors were mulling over the addition before the team’s departure but decided to wait for the team management’s feedback from South Africa.



“After considering the conditions there, the team management conveyed their requirement of more pacers,” the official told The Express Tribune. “It’s a two-month tour and relying on just four fast-bowlers could possibly lead to burn-out or injuries.”

The official added that both bowlers will leave for South Africa soon and will be available for selection for first Test.

Tanvir vows to shine in South Africa 

Tanvir’s inclusion came as a result of his consistent performance in the domestic season that consisted of a 38 wicket-haul in eight President’s Trophy matches.

The fast-bowler, who was among the reserved players for the tour, was delighted over the call.

“I am ready for the challenge,” said Tanvir. “I’ll give my best to live up to expectations of the selectors who showed confidence in me. Although I haven’t played in South Africa, I am aware of the conditions there due to my vast experience of playing in England.”

Published in The Express Tribune, January 28^th, 2013.