Former cricketer-turned-commentator Ramiz Raja has identified the potentially weakest link in Pakistan’s batting lineup against India – namely, Pakistan opener Fakhar Zaman.
While talking on his YouTube channel, Ramiz stated that, undoubtedly, Fakhar is an excellent player and a radical hitter; however, it should alarm bells when such a player gets out of form.
“The big problem is Fakhar Zaman. He is an unorthodox hitter, but when someone like that gets out of form, it takes some time to find solutions on the drawing board. He’s a bottom-handed player, plays on the leg-side, somehow he adjusts with that and scores,” Ramiz said.
The 61-year reiterated that it is in Fakhar’s as well as in team’s best interest to omit him from the upcoming match between India and Pakistan because, given his performance against Afghanistan, playing him against India isn’t worth taking the risk.
“He played three matches against Afghanistan and couldn’t make a mark as well. His body language is suffering, and Pakistan need an in-form opener. If Imam also gets dismissed cheaply, it creates pressure. Pakistan need to assess Fakhar. I believe they should rest him, give him some time out. Sidelining him is better for him as well as the Pakistan side. He’s a good player, Pakistan has given him chances. But against India, with the form that he has, that chance is not worth being taken,” he further added.
Pakistan and India will face each other on September 2 in Kandy. While the Babar-led side have already opened their Asia Cup campaign by defeating Nepal yesterday, India will play their first game against arch-rivals on Saturday.
