Give Sarfraz and youngsters time to settle in, says Younis
abu dhabi — For the first time in seven years, a Pakistan side played Test match in the UAE without veterans Younis Khan and Misbah ul Haq. Result: first Test series defeat at ‘home’. Knives would have been out but skipper Sarfraz Ahmed turned the tables with a 5-0 ODI whitewash against Sri Lanka.
Younis Khan said the young side are going through a difficult stage of transition and bestowed confidence in Sarfraz as the man for the job. He told Khaleej Times that the youngsters stand in good stead and will make Pakistan a strong contender for the 2019 World Cup.
“The team played Test matches without us (Mis-You). In the past, we used to carry the burden and there was less pressure on youngsters. So Pakistan did struggle a bit in Tests. However, they made a good comeback in one-dayers. They are gradually improving and will perform well in Tests in future. We need to give these players a bit of time to settle in.”
Was Pakistan a spinner short in Tests as skipper played only Yasir Shah?
“Yes, there was too much load on Yasir Shah. Putting stress on one bowler isn’t the best thing to do. So, there were problems. When you had experienced players like us, there were consultation and discussion over the team selection. Sarfraz is new and learning things. He will take time but the manner in which he has made a comeback in ODI is for everyone to see. They will perform well in T20s.”
Younis said youngsters like Fakhar Zaman, Rumman Raees, Hasan Ali, Babar Azam, Imam Ul Haq and Usman Khan have infused fresh energy in the team. The fielding has improved too. “New players are fit for modern-day cricket and want Pakistan to do well. They will take time to gel as they have to build their individual careers too.”
And he stressed on the selectors giving a longer run to the current crop of players. “We shouldn’t make many changes. Players given chance in the Champions Trophy did very well. I have seen the spark in boys picked now and they should be given a chance whenever possible. Then we will have a strong team for the World Cup.”
Younis said the selectors need to be patient with this team and keep players in their loop. “Even AB De Villiers took a year or two adjusting to the international cricket scene for South Africa.”
Younis said the selectors can bank on youngsters to deliver but the menace of match-fixing will be one worrying factor that can ruin everything. And recently, the skipper himself has reported about an approach by a bookmaker. “Safraz has brought such a matter out on record, which is a good thing. Whenever there is money and fame such things creep in there. It is good that the skipper has condemned such things. ICC AntiCorruption Unit is doing a good job to educate youngsters too.”
Younis is excited about returning to Abu Dhabi to see the two T20 matches on Thursday and Friday. He will visit Zayed Cricket Academy. He will also hold a batting class during both the T20 matches. He recounts fond memories of playing at Sheikh Zayed Cricket Stadium.
“I surpassed Javed Minadad’s record in Abu Dhabi. It holds special moments for me. I have good association with Abu Dhabi Cricket. There have been fantastic changes made at the stadium and academy with coaches and facilities. Abu Dhabi Cricket is promoting not just cricket but other sports too. I look forward to seeing things first-hand. Sheikh Zayed Cricket Stadium is a beautiful stadium and an important venue,” he added.
ashwani@khaleejtimes.com