Mohammad Irfan eyeing versatility
Mohammad Irfan training to a become versatile pacer; being supervised by the legendary Wasim Akram.
“My main target is to become a useful fast-bowler in all conditions," says Irfan. PHOTO: AFP
KARACHI:
Pakistan’s latest fast-bowling sensation Mohammad Irfan said his aim is to become a versatile pacer, something he believes will become a possibility with the help of the coaching camp being supervised by the legendary Wasim Akram.
Irfan is among the players who are attending the ongoing fast-bowling camp under the former captain at the National Stadium, Karachi.
Having only played nine One-Day Internationals, three Twenty20 Internationals and a couple of Tests, the towering pacer has already made his name in the cricketing world following impressive tours of India and South Africa.
However, the 30-year-old feels he is far from being a quality pacer and needed a lot of hard work.
Irfan defined the chance to train under Wasim a golden opportunity, saying he was working hard to overcome his shortcomings.
“There are many things I am working on,” said the left-arm pacer yesterday —the third day of the camp.
“What I am trying to learn from Wasim is how to manage on dead pitches.”
He added that he was seeking to master the art of in-swing from the former fast-bowler.
“I am getting very valuable tips in this camp. Wasim is also guiding me on my fitness. He has advised me to bring more power in my legs and is giving me very useful instructions. I’m confident that I will be an improved bowler after this camp.”
All set for Champions Trophy
Meanwhile, the pacer expressed optimism on his upcoming challenge — the Champions Trophy in England where he made his international debut.
“I did not have a good tour the last time I was in England. However, I’m determined to give my best this time and avoid dwelling on the past.
“I plan to use the conditions well and win matches for my team. I want to be the highest wicket-taking bowler in the Champions Trophy.”
To a query, Irfan said his height was both an advantage and a discomfort.
“I still struggle to find proper beds on tours and I have to make do with what I get. But it feels good to see fans impressed with my height.”
Published in The Express Tribune, April 23rd, 2013.
Pakistan’s latest fast-bowling sensation Mohammad Irfan said his aim is to become a versatile pacer, something he believes will become a possibility with the help of the coaching camp being supervised by the legendary Wasim Akram.
Irfan is among the players who are attending the ongoing fast-bowling camp under the former captain at the National Stadium, Karachi.
Having only played nine One-Day Internationals, three Twenty20 Internationals and a couple of Tests, the towering pacer has already made his name in the cricketing world following impressive tours of India and South Africa.
However, the 30-year-old feels he is far from being a quality pacer and needed a lot of hard work.
Irfan defined the chance to train under Wasim a golden opportunity, saying he was working hard to overcome his shortcomings.
“There are many things I am working on,” said the left-arm pacer yesterday —the third day of the camp.
“What I am trying to learn from Wasim is how to manage on dead pitches.”
He added that he was seeking to master the art of in-swing from the former fast-bowler.
“I am getting very valuable tips in this camp. Wasim is also guiding me on my fitness. He has advised me to bring more power in my legs and is giving me very useful instructions. I’m confident that I will be an improved bowler after this camp.”
All set for Champions Trophy
Meanwhile, the pacer expressed optimism on his upcoming challenge — the Champions Trophy in England where he made his international debut.
“I did not have a good tour the last time I was in England. However, I’m determined to give my best this time and avoid dwelling on the past.
“I plan to use the conditions well and win matches for my team. I want to be the highest wicket-taking bowler in the Champions Trophy.”
To a query, Irfan said his height was both an advantage and a discomfort.
“I still struggle to find proper beds on tours and I have to make do with what I get. But it feels good to see fans impressed with my height.”
Published in The Express Tribune, April 23rd, 2013.