England’s emerging off-spinner Shoaib Bashir has recounted an amusing moment with Mohammad Rizwan during the second test match between Pakistan and England in Multan.
Speaking to BBC ahead of the deciding match in Rawalpindi, the 21-year-old revealed a “genius” tactic the wily wicket-keeper used to baffle him. Asked if he helps his side understand Pakistan’s tactics given he speaks Urdu, Shoaib revealed he does as much as possible but Rizwan has already found the cure.
His secret tactic? Switching to Pashto to communicate with his teammates so that the youngster’s linguistics skills fail. Rizwan is known for his animated shenanigans behind the stumps and would likely need to use more such strategies with Pakistan captaincy on the horizon.
Shoaib Bashir recounted the whole incident while speaking to BBC.
Bashir has struggled to make a significant impact for England since being thrown into the deep end since making his debut just this year. Despite averaging 51 with the ball after two tests, his side is likely to continue to lean on him for the final game with the wicket expected to suit his style.
