Just when you think things are pretty straightforward; Pakistan have had a knack of pulling of an incredible feat. Today was no different; though in different senses. A Thisara Parera led Sri Lanka triggered a collapse that the Pakistan dream attack of the 90's would have been proud of. From 166-2 needed barely a run a ball, Pakistan pulled it off to get to 179-9. The third wicket to fall was the captain, Misbah-ul-Haq. With Pakistan set he tried to go over the top on a length ball from Lasith Malinga but only managed to find Nuwan Kulasekra at Mid-On. He got out for a timely 57 and helped Azhar bat along with him.
After that batsman came and went but who was the player/s that need to take responsibility for such a sham of a performance? Well firstly let's see Umar Akmal. The supposed golden boy of Pakistan cricket, Akmal was his usual self. Over-confident and thinking far too much of himself. I won't even sit here and pretend it's a Umar Akmal fault entirely, what was the PCB thinking off when giving him a 'A' category contract? The PCB were saying to a player that has not done anything thus far in his career that you have made it, and made it big. Pathetic.
Move onto Younis Khan; I am massive fan of the man. His a living legend and a Pakistan great. Though not at the limited over formats. He always flattered to deceive when it came to ODI's and has been average for the last two years. He is so out of form; that quite frankly I fear for him in the forthcoming Test series too.
Shahid Afridi is next, if sixteen years of International cricket could not tame him then sadly me writing a few lines will not. Again it was do or bust, there simply is no middle ground with the man. With Afridi unpredictability comes in a package; so to expect him to be the saviour is hoping against hope.
Pakistan has been short of wicketkeepers that can catch the ball, when they eventually find some that can do the basic duty for the man with the gloves, batting has lacked. Sarfraz Ahmed is no different; he lacks the X factor in his batting and at times seems lost for ideas. His someone that you can expect to rotate the strike but he will never be a match winner.
All said and done; Pakistan again need a reality check. Not least the fans and pundits, with some going after Azhar Ali for his innings being too slow. Azhar played his part, its highly unlikely that its his fault that some of his team-mates prima-donnas. With Azhar learning the art of rotating the strike he will not only become an asset in the ODI line-up but this will improve his already excellent record at Test level.
Comeback to the captain and Misbah will never win. If Pakistan win, team Pakisan have played well and if they lose, its blame Misbah mode. Pretty disgusting from the Pakistani support and media alike. Today Misbah had set up the team for a comfortable win; though his only mistake was not to see it through. Instead he got out and left it to a bunch players who still believe in their own aura.
GeoSuper