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RAWALPINDI: Pakistan Test team vice-captain Saud Shakeel has heaped praise on debutant Asif Afridi, who struck twice in the final session to halt South Africa’s progress in the second Test.
Speaking at the end of the day’s play, Saud said that they are a bit concerned about losing wickets in heave.
Pakistan were cruising on day two morning just like Lahore Test; however, once Salman Ali Agha fell, the home side lost their way and slumped from 316-6 to 333 all out.
Saud made 66 from 147 balls, striking four boundaries, which lifted Pakistan out of trouble.
“Wickets in quick succession are a concern, and we will try to work on it,” he told reporters in the post-day press conference.
Saud praised 38-year-old debutant Asif Afridi and highlighted his bowling spell, which put Pakistan on top at Stumps.
South Africa were afloat with a 113-run stand between Tony de Zorzi and Tristan Stubbs. However, Asif took two quick wickets in the final session, which gave the home side an edge at Stumps.
“I’m really happy for Asif bhai. His debut came quite late, but it’s well-deserved. I’ve faced him several times in domestic cricket and always found him difficult to handle.
He’s very experienced, and you could see that in his spell today — giving away only 19 runs in 10 overs while maintaining great control,” he continued.
He also mentioned Pakistan’s plan to go with three spinners and emphasized Noman Ali’s bowling.
“I don’t think playing three spinners is a problem. Nauman bhai usually bowls long spells, but even he can get tired. Asif gave us two crucial breakthroughs late in the day, so it’s working well. The match is evenly poised, and tomorrow’s first session will be very important,” he explained.
Looking ahead to the next day, Saud stressed the importance of an early strike in the morning session, which could turn the match on its head.
“The plan is simple — to get them out as early as possible. The first half hour will be crucial. If we manage early breakthroughs, we’ll be right on top of the game.”
“It’s a good pitch — both fast bowlers and spinners are in play. Batters who take their time can also score runs. This is the kind of pitch Test cricket needs,” he concluded.
