Ramiz Raja unclear over what is happening with pitches in Pakistan

The pitches in Pakistan have been under scrutiny since Ramiz Raja took over as Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman.

The pitch in Rawalpindi and Karachi earlier this year during the series against Australia received criticism and the former captain vowed to change them in the upcoming home matches.

However, the scenario is no different as Pindi pitch in the ongoing Test against England again had no assistance for the bowlers. England scored a mammoth 657 in the first innings in just 101 overs while Pakistan, in reply are also motoring well without the loss of any wicket.

Ramiz talked to BBC Test Match Special and opined Pakistan is still years away from producing a healthy Test match pitch.

"I have really not cracked the code regarding a Test match pitch, unfortunately. Absolutely (disappointed with this pitch). The reason why I am stressing on drop-in pitches in Pakistan is because you will go to Multan and Karachi, you will get a similar flavor. We don't get bounce, it's to do with clay, how we prepare a pitch," he said.

"I don't what is happening, T20s and ODI, we are fine and pitches don't come under that kind of scrutiny. But we're still years away from preparing a great five-day pitch," he added. 

On the other hand, Ramiz also stressed Babar Azam and Co. to change the template of Test cricket.

"You have got to buy into a new template and that is what I am stressing on to the Pakistan cricket team and Babar Azam. Look, I'll take the hate if you lose a Test series, it doesn't matter to be me, but we need to try something different. Unless we become an exciting Test team, people will not rate us, especially playing at home. Our strength is fast bowling, but I think we are still a little shy from getting there. I don't want to turn the wheel completely overnight so it will take time," he maintained.

The 60-year-old further emphasised change will come from domestic and U19 cricket. 

"It starts with our domestic structure and under-19 because you don't have a switch and suddenly you produce a blitz innings. The next generation will have to get fine-tuned into playing this like a T20 contest," he maintained. 

Ramiz concluded by hailing England for playing this brand of cricket.

"England were just brilliant. The only time Pakistan didn't concede 30 runs in a five-minute spell was when they were taking DRS. It was fabulous, the best advertisement of how to absolutely nail a dull pitch with exciting batting. Teams would have got 350-400 for three wickets but this was sensational. There was clarity and a fearless approach. I was not expecting this kind of batting," he concluded.