Arthur’s presence in Sri Lanka camp won’t bother us: Masood

Pakistan opener Shan Masood believes that former Men in Green’s Head Coach Mickey Arthur presence in the Sri Lanka camp will not put them under pressure as long as they prepare well for the two-match Test series against the Islanders, starting in Rawalpindi on December 11.

While speaking to the media in Rawalpindi, Masood said that Arthur won’t be able to exploit Pakistan team’s weaknesses.

“Role of the head coach is limited to his own players rather than the opposition,” said Masood. “We are aware of our weaknesses. All we have to do is focus on our strengths and work on our weaknesses. If we prepare well, then we won’t feel pressure from the opposition or opposition coach.”

Pakistan left-arm pacer Usman Shinwari is also aiming to start his Test career on a high.

“I have played a lot in Rawalpindi. The pitches in Rawalpindi usually support fast-bowlers as it is conducive for seam and swing,” said Shinwari. “I want to begin my Test career with a fifer.”

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Masood and Shinwari are excited for the return of Test cricket after a decade long exile.

“If you play in your home ground, you are bound to feel motivated as there is support from the crowd as well. We will not take this series easy as Sri Lanka played well when they toured us for the limited overs series. We are training hard so that we can come back on winning track,” said Shinwari.

“Home conditions matter a lot in Test matches.  If you look at every Test player’s record, their home record is better than their away record. In your own conditions, you have an idea of the pitches and the crowd support is there as well. There is no better feeling than playing at home,” said Masood.