Arthur urges Pakistan to play freely

Pakistan coach Mickey Arthur says the country is behind the times in 50-over cricket and has put the entire squad on notice ahead of today’s second one-day cricket international against England.

Despite ascending to top spot in the ICC Test rankings, Pakistan look distinctly less impressive in the ODI arena, where they sit ninth. England proved far too good in the Royal London series opener at the Ageas Bowl, cantering to a 44-run win on DuckworthLewis.

The sides meet again at Lord’s today and Arthur, who took over as national coach in May, struggled to put a positive spin on Pakistan’s prospects. Asked if concerns over a pedestrian batting line-up and defensive mindset were accurate, he said: “Playing the way we played the other night, we’re behind the times. I want to see the guys go out and express themselves, play with a bit of freedom.”