Focus shifts to Dubai after Razzaq’s blitz

Both sides aim for lead in the ODI series with the third match taking place today.

Although Pakistan got a much-needed boost after a dramatic one-wicket win in the second One-Day International (ODI), coach Waqar Younis has warned the team of complacency ahead of the third game against South Africa today.

Pakistan won a nail-biter in Abu Dhabi, owed largely to Abdul Razzaq whose match-winning 109 gave his side the first win of the tour.

“The victory has given us a huge boost but we don’t want to get too far ahead of ourselves,” said Younis. “We’ve got to make sure we play positively and deliver the goods. The win has helped us put behind whatever happened in the past.”

Amidst the drama, Pakistan chased down the stiff target and though the batting still left a lot to be desired, Razzaq compensated to make his first fifty-plus score in over four years. Younis also dismissed claims that Razzaq was under-utilised in the last five years.

“Razzaq has been treated well and has done well. If he feels that way, one can’t do much about it. If you’re playing for your country you have to be on your toes all the time. He’s an outstanding player and has been a great servant of Pakistan. He played under me when I was the captain and wouldn’t have played this much if that had been the case.” After single-handedly leading Pakistan to the win, Razzaq had said that he has not been utilised properly for the past five to six years as he was shuffled up and down the order, which was counterproductive for his batting. He also urged the team management to give players the sense of security over their place in the team.

Younis however, said that Razzaq has always been part of Pakistan plans. “It is just unfortunate that Pakistan wasn’t really playing well. He probably felt under pressure. Apart from the time when he went for the Indian Cricket League, Razzaq has been part of Pakistan plans.”

Coach satisfied with bowling performance

The coach also felt Pakistan bowling has been upto the mark in the series. “We have done a super job and on the whole, bowlers have played their part.” Younis, a fast-bowler himself, also lauded Wahab Riaz. “He’s very young and enthusiastic. He played just one Test in England and bowled extraordinarily.”

One bad news for Pakistan however, is the likely absence of Shoaib Akhtar, who might be rested for the third ODI.

Smith hopeful of turnaround

Smith praised Razzaq’s performance but warned that Pakistan still had problems to overcome.

“They’ve got dangerous players. Razzaq proved that last night. But it’s important for us to know they still have a lot of questions they still need to answer in terms of their own performance.”

The left-handed opener, who missed the second match due to injury, looked forward to the change of venue. “We’re looking forward to playing in Dubai. The exciting thing for us is, even though it is an away tour for us, we’ve had support as well.”

Published in The Express Tribune, November 2^nd, 2010.