Shaheen Shah Afridi of Pakistan is congratulated by teammates after dismissing Usman Khawaja of Australia during play on the first day of the in Perth, Australia. (AP | PTI)Former India captain and coach Ravi Shastri has pointed out the “real problem” for Shaheen Shah Afridi as the left-arm pacer failed to impress in the first couple of days of the Test match at Perth.
“I think the real problem for Shaheen is the pressure of being the spearhead of this Pakistan attack and without much support at the other end when it comes to pace,” Shastri said during the commentary.
“You don’t have one bowler here who is even close to 140, so that puts immense pressure on someone like Shaheen,” he added.
Shaheen gave away 96 runs in his 27 over and got only one wicket. Shaheen provided the first breakthrough for Pakistan after he removed opener Usman Khawaja for 41 on Day 1.
Pakistan bowling coach Umar Gul said playing red ball after a while was the reason behind Shaheen’s struggle.
“Shaheen used to bowl at 140 kph in [white-bal cricket]. However, when you switch from white-ball cricket to red-ball cricket, you search for your rythym first,” said Gul in the post-match press conference.
“Since they are playing red ball cricket after a long time, their body gets tired fast and they are not used to bowling long spells. It will take time for our bowlers to get in rhythm and bowl at good pace.
“Hopefully, in second innings you will see them bowl with more pace,” said Gul.
Aamer Jamal’s six-wicket haul helped Pakistan restrict to 487 fon Day 2. In reply, Pakistan are 181 for 4 in the first session of Day 3 as they have lost nightwatchman Khurram Shahzad (7) and Babar Azam (21). Imam-ul-Haq is batting on 59.
For Australia, Mitchell Starc, Pat Cummins, Mitchell Marsh and Nathan Lyon has picked one wicket apiece.
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