Wahab Riaz, the former Pakistani fast bowler, has highlighted that the young pace sensation, Naseem Shah, still has more to reveal in terms of his untapped potential and skills. In the realm of One Day Internationals, Naseem has managed to secure 25 wickets across 10 matches, maintaining an impressive average of 16.12 in ODIs.
In a thrilling clash at Hambantota, Naseem once again demonstrated his mettle as he struck the winning runs for Pakistan in a nail-biting one-wicket victory over Afghanistan in the second ODI. It was a similar moment since he had earlier blasted two incredible sixes against Fazalhaq Farooqi, securing a sensational one-wicket success for Pakistan in last year’s Asia Cup final staged in the UAE.
“Naseem has bowled well in quite a lot of matches. However, I feel that he has still not performed up to his capability as of yet. He should win matches for Pakistan considering his capability,” Wahab was quoted as saying by Cricket Pakistan.
He also mentioned the importance of Shaheen Shah Afridi, the key player in the left-arm pace department, for Pakistan’s aspirations as they prepare for the Asia Cup and the ODI World Cup.
“Shaheen Shah Afridi is skilled with the new ball, and later Haris Rauf takes charge. They are specialists in bowling during the death overs. In the World Cup, Afridi’s ten overs will be of great importance. The team will need wickets from him between the 25th and 35th overs,” he said.
Wahab felt Pakistan were over-dependent on the top order of Imam-ul-Haq, Fakhar Zaman, and captain Babar Azam.
Veteran Pakistan fast bowler Wahab Riaz announced his retirement from International cricket in order to focus more on franchise-based tournaments. Riaz has represented the national side in 27 Test matches, 91 ODIs, and 36 T20Is and has picked up a total of 237 wickets in International cricket.
From August 30th to September 17th, the Asia Cup is all ready to light up Pakistan and Sri Lanka, spreading cricket excitement across the region. The tournament will commence with Pakistan taking on Nepal at the famous Multan Cricket Stadium on August 30th. The excitement continues as Pakistan goes head-to-head with India on September 2nd, this time at Pallekele.
