Mohammad Abbas might struggle on England tour: Ramiz Raja

Pakistan’s former cricketer-turned-commentator, while talking to a local news channel, stated that fast-bowler Mohammad Abbas might struggle on the upcoming England tour because of the ban on the use of saliva on the ball.

The 57-year-old believed that pacer Haris Rauf would be an inspired choice in the bowling department. 

“Abbas is a bowler of England conditions but with ban on saliva, he may struggle as his pace is not up to the mark,” said Raja.

“I think Haris Rauf can be an inspiring choice in both the formats. Our fast bowling is also a bit raw but they have the potential to surprise England,” he added.

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The former opener stated that the Men in Green would have to pick their combinations smartly inorder to thrive in English conditions.

“Test series against England won’t be easy for our top order because it is inexperienced and I can expect England bowlers and conditions to challenge them quite hard. The ban on saliva will be a major factor on this tour. Fast-bowlers might not get the swing and help after new ball and we need to pick our bowlers very smartly,” he said.

Raja believed batsman Azhar Ali should focus on his batting while giving the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) the credit for this historic tour to England.

“My advice will be for Azhar to first focus on his own batting. His captaincy wasn’t good in Australia and also in recent times his form has not been that great, so he should be focus on his batting first so that he can inspire his teammates,” he said.

“PCB fully deserves the credit here as they have maintained a positive and clear approach about the England tour from day one. It is absolutely great news that cricket is finally returning to action. I hope the series against Windies and Pakistan go smoothly in England to provide great entertainment to the lovers of the game,” he added.