Vernon Philander: “Noman has been a fantastic role model for Pakistan cricket”
Image taken by: Bimal Mirwani
Former South Africa fast bowler Vernon Philander has praised Pakistan spinner Noman Ali, calling him a “fantastic role model for Pakistan cricket.”
Philander has been very impressed with the way in which Noman has continuously taken wickets in Test matches for the men in green over the last 18 months.
The 39-year-old is one of Pakistan’s frontline spinners in the longest format and recently took part in the team’s two-Test series against South Africa.
The Sanghar native featured in both matches and was Pakistan’s highest wicket-taker with 14 wickets, which included a six-wicket haul, at an average of 23.07.
“We talk about experience, but experience means nothing if you can’t put in performances on the field. Noman has been a fantastic role model for Pakistan cricket,” Philander was quoted as saying by Geo Super.
“I think the way he’s also come in form over the last 18 months, the control that he brings, I think that is important when you’re playing sub-continent.”
After the two Tests, which ended as a 1-1 draw, Pakistan defeated South Africa 2-1 in both the T20I and ODI series.
They then proceeded to take down Sri Lanka 3-0 in an ODI series before going on to win a T20I tri-series that included Sri Lanka and Zimbabwe.
Pakistan are now facing Sri Lanka in a three-match T20I series in Dambulla, which they lead 1-0.
The 2nd T20I will be held on January 9.
Pakistan Squad for Sri Lanka T20I Series: Salman Ali Agha (captain), Abdul Samad, Abrar Ahmad, Faheem Ashraf, Fakhar Zaman, Khawaja Nafay (wicketkeeper), Mohammad Nawaz, Salman Mirza, Mohammad Wasim Jnr, Naseem Shah, Sahibzada Farhan (wicketkeeper), Saim Ayub, Shadab Khan, Usman Khan (wicketkeeper), Usman Tariq