Wahab Riaz can ‘recapture his best’ in England: Brad Hogg

Former Australia wrist spinner, Brad Hogg, believes that Pakistan pacer Wahab Riaz can recapture his best in England, during the Test series, with the Dukes ball.

Dukes balls are used in Test matches in England, although Kookaburra is preferred by majority of other Test playing nations.

The pronounced hand-stitched seam allows the Dukes ball to retain its “rudder” and aerodynamic qualities longer than machine-stitched balls.

“Wahab Riaz, back in the fray. With the duke ball in England I think he can recapture his best, with a new lease of life. Two left arm quick's could be the deciding factor in #EngvPak series. Love a comeback,” Hogg tweeted.

Wahab Riaz, back in the fray. With the duke ball in England I think he can recapture his best, with a new lease of life. Two left arm quick's could be the deciding factor in #EngvPak series. Love a comeback. #Cricket #hoggytime

— Brad Hogg (@Brad_Hogg) June 16, 2020

It must be noted that, Riaz had taken an indefinite break from the longest format of the game, last year, but, due to Covid-19, if replacements are needed he will be available for the national side as he is already part of the 29-man squad for the tour.

“I talked to Wahab about this and he has agreed that, if needed, he will be available for practice as well as Test matches during the tour of England,” said Pakistan’s head coach-cum-chief selector Misbahul Haq during a teleconference on Friday.

Pakistan is scheduled to take on England in three Tests and three Twenty20 Internationals (T20Is), with the matches likely to take place between August 5 and September 1 in Manchester and Southampton.