Playing Test cricket in Australia has always been a challenging and memorable experience for Pakistan. Their massive defeat by 360 runs in the first Test at Perth has extended the duration of their struggle. Besides a couple of individual achievements, the team couldn’t compete effectively. Star batsmen and recently retired former captain Babar Azam, main pacer Shaheen Shah Afridi, or captain Shan Masood—all struggled. Former captain Ramiz Raja offered them some advice.
According to Ramiz, for Masood to establish his leadership credentials, he needs to contribute significantly with the bat. Scoring only 32 runs across both innings, the new Pakistan captain needs to prove himself in the dressing room and against the opponents.
Similarly, Ramiz advised Babar, saying, “Encourage Babar Azam in the same way. Who knows, whether your batting will affect your captaincy or not. When you are the captain, you need to remain lively because you have to set an example. Once the captaincy goes, you become silent.”
Babar managed only 35 runs across both innings, and Pakistan faltered at just 89 runs in the second innings. Their batting failures, particularly after losing eight wickets at 89 runs, have amplified their struggle. However, their bowlers have taken 15 wickets across both innings, even though Australia has secured a substantial lead of 720 runs. In the absence of Naseem Shah, the responsibility of leading Pakistan’s pace attack fell upon Shaheen Shah Afridi, who managed only one wicket per innings.
Ramiz further emphasized that Shah Afridi needs to take more responsibility, stating, “Shah Afridi must step up as a frontline bowler. He’s not just playing the role of a regular bowler; Australia’s conditions are favorable, and especially in Perth, if you fail to create an impact, the established image diminishes. He needs to take the lead in attacking.”
The Test cricket in Australia poses a considerable challenge for Pakistan, and their key players need to perform collectively to make a mark in these tough conditions.
