Azhar Ali: “We want to play attacking cricket, we want to take 20 wickets”
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Pakistan batsman Azhar Ali has sent a warning to England ahead of the two-Test series, saying that his side will play “attacking cricket” and give the hosts a run for their money.
Azhar added that Pakistan’s bowling attack will look to rip through England’s batting line-up as one of their targets is to take 20 wickets in both Tests.
While this will be a lot easier said than done, Azhar revealed that Pakistan will include five bowlers in their squad to boost the chances of it happening.
“Good bowlers always take advantage of early-summer conditions and we have good bowlers,” he was quoted as saying by The Guardian. “That’s the way we’re thinking. We want to play attacking cricket, we want to take 20 wickets. That’s why we are going with five bowlers and hopefully this side will do well.”
When asked about the team’s preparations for the two-Test series, which begins on Thursday at Lord’s, Azhar said: “Overall we’re happy with the preparation we’ve had and hopefully that will transfer to the Tests against England.”
Pakistan will no doubt be concerned about the fitness of left-arm seamer Mohammad Amir as a recurring knee injury saw him leave the field during their historic Test against Ireland, who made their debut in the longest format.
However, while Amir did return to bowl in the match, he did not feature in the warm-up match against Leicestershire, which ended as a draw.
Despite this, Azhar insisted that Amir will be fit for the first Test against England.
“Amir is fine. He bowled very well against Ireland and in the last couple of days he’s been doing his rehab and also some bowling and he’s quite comfortable,” he said.
Azhar acknowledged that the Test series against England won’t be a walk in the park, but pointed out that if he and his teammates band together and work as a cohesive unit, then Pakistan could put the hosts under immense pressure.
“It’s a team game and everybody will have to play a part,” he said. “As a senior player I need to make sure I do what I can to build a platform so we have enough runs on the board to help the bowlers.
“It’s never easy to play in England. It’s always challenging but we are prepared to do our best. It’s a big opportunity, especially for the younger players.”