Reverse swing will play a major role in World Cup: Wahab Riaz

Pakistan left-arm pacer Wahab Riaz is confident Pakistan team will generate reverse swing with the help of dry pitches in the International Cricket Council (ICC) 2019 World Cup.

Riaz believes Pakistan pace bowlers will have to be on the top of their game on dry batting surfaces.

“The wickets are very dry so as a bowling unit we have to be very consistent with our length,” said Wahab. “The pitches can be good for batting, but at the same time it’s also useful for the bowlers with the dry conditions, which can help in reverse swing. It could be a huge advantage for us as we showed in Champions Trophy.”

The 33-year-old was critical of Pakistan’s lacklustre fielding during the limited-overs series with England.

“Our fielding was below par. If we had fielded better it would have made a difference,” he said. “We’ve batted outstandingly well, but they took their chances and we couldn’t hold on to ours. These are the things we need to work hard on.”

Riaz also feels the five-match one-day international (ODI) series against England was good preparation for the Men in Green ahead of the mega event.

“The way we played against England was very impressive as it was a good experience before the World Cup,” he said. “They are the most dangerous side in the world right now and play with an aggressive mindset.”

Pakistan will kick off their World Cup campaign against West Indies on Friday at Trent Bridge.