Pakistan Head Coach Mickey Arthur is concerned with Pakistan’s inconsistent performances in one-day internationals (ODIs), since their Champions Trophy win in 2017.

Pakistan are currently playing a five-match ODI series against England, with the second match of the series scheduled to take place on Saturday, May 11.

“Our inconsistent performance has been my major concern. It can be attributed to the fact that we have a young team so that was always going to be the case,” said Arthur while talking to Sky Sports. “Even then we have played some tough ODI cricket away from home and have done particularly well in T20s.”

The South African also said that left-arm pacer Mohammad Amir’s dip in form since 2017 Champions Trophy made his selection difficult for the International Cricket Council (ICC) 2019 World Cup.

Although Arthur was hopeful that Amir’s absence from the World Cup squad will work as a wake-up call for him and he will be able to regain his form in the England series.

“Amir is a wonderful bowler. When he gets it right, his skill level is amazing so we hope he regain his bowling form,” he said. “However his performance since Champions Trophy has been below par which made it difficult to select him.”

The 50-year-old also emphasised the need to play an attacking brand of cricket and select bowlers that can bowl out oppositions.

“Although Amir hasn’t picked up many wickets, but his economy of 4.7 since Champions Trophy has been impressive. However, we need strike bowlers who are able to pick wickets, since that is the only way we can restrict opposition,” he said.

Arthur added: “Our young pacers are outstanding. We have got two 19-year-olds who have a very bright future ahead of them.”

Mickey Arthur also praised the HBL Pakistan Super League for giving a platform to young cricketers to showcase their talent and learn from international cricketers.

“PSL has allowed the players to perform in pressure situations and learn from international cricketers on how to deal with those situations,” he said. “It is a step up from the domestic competition in Pakistan and has helped produce talent for the national team.”