Ramiz Raja wants Shahnawaz Dhani to focus on Test cricket

Pakistan’s former cricketer-turned-commentator Ramiz Raja, in a Youtube video on Wednesday, suggested that Multan Sultans’ rising pace sensation Shahnawaz Dhani should focus on Test cricket.

The 58-year-old believed that the young pacer had clarity of mind which helped his side whenever there was added pressure on them.

“Shahnawaz Dhani emerged from a small area and made his name in the PSL. His body language was fantastic, was enjoying the fans' response, and was temperamentally strong because whenever there was pressure on the team he was handed the ball. Many youngsters lose clarity but he had the clarity in his mind and there was no stage fright,” Raja said. 

The former batsman believed his action and run-up would prove very useful in the longer format.

“He has a brilliant rhythmical run-up, conserves energy, and has a bit of round-arm action which is perfect for reverse swing bowling. He bowls on hard lengths which can be very useful for him in Test matches. Bowling speed is also good, handles pressure well, and has the presence of mind. I just hope that he has the understanding to think of Test cricket as his number one format and the rest of the formats come on second and third number,” he said. 

Ramiz believed that Dhani had what it takes to win Pakistan matches in the future.

“If he wants to make his name and Pakistan has to handle his talent, so both of them have to try that he plays Test cricket and he makes his name because I think he has the germs to win matches for Pakistan in the future. He only needs to take care of his fitness and give himself a good environment by making friends who can tell him that performance is more important than money. He can be a superstar in the future,” he said.