Pakistan can challenge England: Younis Khan

Former Pakistan batsman Younis Khan feels that the visitors are well placed to counter the challenge posed by England in the upcoming two-Test series.

Khan, who is the only Pakistan player to score ten thousand runs in Test cricket, placed his faith in the abilities of batsmen to survive and thrive in the stiff English conditions, but also feels the team should have some back-up options as well.

“I think Azhar Ali is in good form but Asad Shafiq needs to lift his game,” said Khan according to ESPNcricinfo. “Pakistan might need back-up options for Shafiq. Along with those two, Pakistan has Safraz Ahmed as well, who is a good leader and the trio will be able to cope with the pressure.”

The former skipper, who was part of the side that drew the four-Test series against England back in 2016, remained fairly confident about Pakistan’s chances and hoped that the series will be a competitive one.

“People have a lot of concerns about this but I think they [Pakistan team] will be okay,” he said. “Series will be a nice one as the team is in good shape and will be able to handle the conditions.”

Khan was also not too worried about Babar Azam’s poor form in the longest format of the game and backed him to come good in the series even though he has only scored 548 runs in 12 matches at an average of just 24.9.

“As Babar [Azam] is growing up, he performs well in every format and not only in ODIs and T2OIs,” said Khan.

The first Test between England and Pakistan is scheduled to take place at Lord’s from May 24.