Pakistan formally began their expedition in the land of Proteas with a three day side match against the CSA Invitation XI, yesterday. So, here is a look at some talking points from day 01 of Pakistan’s tour game in South Africa.
Read: Pakistan’s Test Series In South Africa: What Pakistani Fans Should Expect
Bowlers Not Ready Yet
All Pakistani fast bowlers i.e. Mohd. Amir, Faheem Ashraf, Hassan Ali and Shaheen Shah Afridi leaked runs with an economy rate of over 3 runs an over which clearly suggests that the green caps are still getting accustomed to the conditions on offer and that they are not yet ready for boxing day Test.
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Abbas & Shadab Still Not Fit
Neither Abbas nor Shadab bowled during the first day of the side match. With Yasir in the squad Shadab is not the first choice spinner anyway. However, Pakistan would definitely be sweating over ace bowler Abbas’ fitness without whom the men in green are likely to struggle big time given the lack of experience and form in the fast bowling department.
Read: Why Sarfaraz Ahmed Is On The Brink Of Losing Test Captaincy
Fakhar Makes a Come Back
Fakhar came out to open with Imam-ul-Haq which obviously suggests that the left handed upper order batsman has completed his rehabilitation process earlier than expected. Fakhar then would be looking for some good match practice ahead of the opening Test that starts from the 26th of this month.