Former Pakistan leg-spinner Mushtaq Ahmed believes that the inclusion of left-arm spinner Nauman Ali, in the lineup, took the pressure off Yasir Shah and helped the latter regain his form.

While speaking to Cricket Pakistan in an exclusive interview, Mushtaq said highlighted the importance of Nauman and Yasir complementing each other while bowling.

“Yasir Shah did not have much support from the other end, previously, because the fast-bowlers, unfortunately, were not taking wickets. But Mohammad Wasim deserves credit for selecting Nauman Ali, who performed really well and took the pressure off Yasir. It is similar to how me and Saqlain used to complement each other,” said Mushtaq. “Nauman bowled in a mature manner which was good to see. The regional coaches and people who worked with him deserve all the credit for this.”

“I still want Yasir to improve his googly because this will make his leg-break and flipper more effective,” he added. 

He also praised Pakistan team’s performance in the first Test against South Africa, which Pakistan won by seven wickets, and especially left-handed batsman Fawad Alam.

“This was a very important win for the team and the management as it help improve their confidence,” he said. “Fawad Alam played a gutsy knock and I’m can’t recall many players playing such an innings under pressure.”

The second Test between Pakistan and South Africa will begin on February 4 in Rawalpindi.

FULL INTERVIEW