No worries for another five years: Wasim

Former captain believes Pakistan has a talented pool of pacers at its disposal.

KARACHI:

The conclusion of the 10-day camp for fast-bowlers under the legendary Wasim Akram yesterday bore good news as the former captain believed the country had enough pace battery for the next five years.       

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), amid concerns after chief selector Iqbal Qasim said that the country was facing a fast-bowling crisis, had organised the camp in association with Ufone.

However, Wasim, one of the most successful fast-bowlers of all time, expressed his satisfaction with the abundance of talent present in the country after working with the upcoming fast-bowlers.

“I don’t think we should face any problems for the next five years,” Wasim told reporters on the camp’s conclusion. “There were concerns that fast-bowling was at a decline in our country, but after looking at the talent, I can safely say we have a bright future.‘We worked on all aspects during the camp’

Regarding the camp, the former captain said he tried to work on every aspect required to guide the upcoming pacers.

“Every aspect was worked on to groom these pacers [such as a session with hair stylist Nabeela]. They also took part in sessions with PCB’s psychologist Moenul Atiq to help with their mental fitness. Earlier, [former batsman] Saeed Anwar had provided them with tips as well.

“From my side, I’ve worked to make them effective for all kinds of conditions and to improve their pitch-reading ability.”

Meanwhile, the former captain said he was also satisfied with the tracks provided for the camp.  “We have given them a two-month plan to work on and Mohammad Akram [bowling coach] will oversee them. The same camp will be organised after six months.”

Published in The Express Tribune, April 30^th, 2013.