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Hafeez names three players who can solve Pakistan's middle-order woes

Former cricketer showed full trust in Iftikhar, Saud, and Agha Salman to sustain the shambling middle order

Hafeez names three players who can solve Pakistan's middle-order woes PHOTO: PCB

New Zealand is currently touring Pakistan for a five-match ODI series. Pakistan is leading the series so far, 2-0, with some outstanding performances which panned out for the host team.

However, prior to Haris Sohail's injury, Iftikhar Ahmed was initially never a part of the ODI squad, and Saud Shakeel have also been completely ignored. Taking up on the matter, former all-rounder Muhammad Hafeez emphasized the importance of having Saud, Iftikhar, and Agha in the middle order.

"I was personally very shocked when Iftikhar and Saud Shakeel were excluded from the ODI squad. These two are the best performers in Pakistan's middle order that you have - there's absolutely no need to fret over here and there. The kind of innings that he played against India in Melbourne shows that he can take a sufficient amount of pressure. Yes, we can say that Iftikhar's fielding is a concern at times, but he's still a wonderful, safe hand for you whenever required. His bowling can be utilized for eight to ten overs at least, and most importantly, he's a complete batsman," Hafeez said

"On the other hand, if I talk about Saud Shakeel, I am yet to understand what kind of doubts or restrictions the management has regarding him. In my opinion, the most technically solid and capable player for the middle order is Saud Shakeel - then why has he been robbed of the chances to perform?" he further added.

Hafeez also mentioned that having these players in the squad will cure the management's and captain's headache from the continuous shuffling of fourth, fifth, and sixth positions.

"These two players can fairly be accommodated for the fifth or sixth positions or even in fourth, fifth, or sixth positions - they can be well-utilized. Not to forget, Salman Agha is a potential candidate as well. He has performed excellently lately. His batting, bowling, and fielding can be utilized maximally. If you pick these three or at least two of them, your constant issue for fifth and sixth slots would be ended," he concluded.