ENG v PAK 2020: Wasim Akram calls for Fawad Alam's inclusion for second Test v England

Alam, who last played a Test in 2009, averages over 50 in first-class cricket.

Pakistan needs to play only spinner against England | Getty Images

Former Pakistan captain Wasim Akram suggested the tourists include an extra batsman in their middle-order as well as play only one spinner in the second Test of the ongoing three-match Test series against England starting on August 13 (Thursday) at Southampton.

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The legendary cricketer also called for the inclusion of Fawad Alam in the middle order for the upcoming Southampton Test after a 3-wicket defeat in the series opener against England last week. He pointed out Alam averages over 50 in First-class and he deserves a chance in the second Test.

Akram said: “In the next match, you won’t find a turning wicket. You will play with one spinner and you will have to play with an extra batsman. If I was the captain, I would include Fawad Alam in the middle order.”

Meanwhile, former captain blamed both batsmen and the bowlers for the narrow defeat in the first Test against England while pointing out the two senior batsmen Azhar Ali and Asad Shafique didn’t perform with the bat, saying “the team’s morale goes down if your senior players don’t perform”.

He further added, “We committed many tactical mistakes while bowling in the second innings.”

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The former skipper was also critical at Azhar’s captaincy following the defeat, saying the current Test captain needs to improve his body language and communication skills apart from his performance and winning the games to continue as captain.

Akram signed off by saying, “If we win the remaining Test matches he should continue as captain. It depends on his performance. Obviously, if we don’t win and he doesn’t perform then Pakistan Cricket Board has to look for someone else.”

(With AAP Inputs)

 
 

By Rashmi Nanda - 11 Aug, 2020

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