Sajid Khan hails selection committee for ‘supportive’ pitches

RAWALPINDI: Right-arm spinner Sajid Khan lauded the new selection committee for making a spin-friendly pitch for the third Test between Pakistan and England, underway here at Pindi Cricket Stadium.

Sajid once again troubled the English batters with his mastery of spin and claimed a six-wicket haul, helping Pakistan to book England on 267 despite wicketkeeper batter Jamie Smith’s 89-run knock.

The right-arm spinner reflected on the eventful day, which saw 13 wickets fall as Pakistan got to 73/3 in response to England’s 267.

He claimed that the pitch at the Pindi Cricket Stadium is different to that of Multan, explaining that he used variations and utilized the crease to take six wickets.

“This pitch is different [to that of Multan]. After 25-30 overs, when the ball softens, we used to get something there [on the previous surface] by hitting the patches but we do not get it on this pitch,” said Sajid.

“Some deliveries were bowled well and they played a few bad shots,” he added.

“So, the wicket is not like that as if one hits a certain patch and would benefit immediately. So, I varied the pace and utilized the crease and it helped me to take wickets.”

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Sajid also shared his experience of bowling long spells alongside Noman Ali, stating the latter is well-experienced and guides him.

“Noman Ali is very experienced. I enjoy bowling with him a lot. He always guides me during my spells and it’s a wonderful feeling to bowl alongside him,” said Sajid.

Sajid Khan then went on to laud the new selection committee for preparing a pitch that supports spinners, a formula that helped Pakistan end their Test win drought at home.

“My focus is not on records. I just want to win matches for Pakistan. Credit goes to the new selection for making pitches like this that are helping us,” he concluded.

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