Pakistan’s Test batsman Asad Shafiq has backed Naseem Shah to succeed on the international stage.
The 16-year-old fast bowler, who is representing Central Punjab, has been named in Pakistan’s Test squad for the on-going tour of Australia.
Speaking about his talent and potential, Asad Shafiq claimed that he fully expects Naseem to succeed.
Naseem has troubled all of us with his speed and lateral movement throughout the recent QeA Trophy games. I have no doubt in saying that he can be the X-factor for Pakistan in the upcoming series against Australia.
The youngster is the second-highest wicket-taker in the on-going QeA Trophy behind Yasir Shah with 18 wickets from 8 innings.
Naseem’s best performance came against Sindh where he picked up 6 wickets. Three off his six victims — Fawad Alam, Sarfaraz Ahmed and Sohail Khan — were caught behind the wickets by wicket-keeper Kamran Akmal while two — Abid Ali and Khurram Manzoor — completely missed Shah’s deliveries allowing the ball to hit the stumps.
SIX-FER For Naseem Shah 👏#CPvSIN #QeA19 pic.twitter.com/hnVtQmJhPR
— Pakistan Cricket (@TheRealPCB) October 30, 2019
Head coach and chief selector, Misbah-ul-Haq, said:
We are looking forward to him bowling in Australian conditions, which will give him some assistance with pace and bounce. He can bowl really well with the new and old ball, as he is doing that in first-class already. We are looking forward to him putting the ball in the right areas at that pace, it could be a surprise packet.
Shah has been labeled as one of the most exciting prospects for Pakistan alongside Mohammad Musa, who has also been included in Pakistan’s Test match squad for the Australia tour.
