Saud Shakeel urges experienced campaigners to deliver against Sri Lanka in two-match series
Pakistan’s seasoned batsman Saud Shakeel has stressed the importance of the upcoming two-Test series against Sri Lanka, saying senior players must take responsibility as a reshaped squad gives younger cricketers an opportunity to establish themselves.
Pakistan will host Sri Lanka in a two-match Test series with the opening match scheduled to begin in Rawalpindi from November 9.
Shakeel said the series would be an important test for the team, particularly as several youngsters have been given opportunities.
“It is an important Test series. It is important for everyone to play their role as the team has a new shape and youngsters are getting the chance,” Shakeel told reporters at Islamabad Club.
He said that performing well at home was particularly important as Pakistan looked to regain consistency in the longest format.
“It is very important because we are playing Test cricket and, especially in our home conditions, we have to play some good cricket,” he said.
The left-handed batsman said the changing weather in Rawalpindi should provide suitable conditions for the opening Test, expecting that playing in either Rawalpindi or Lahore would not significantly affect Pakistan’s preparations.
“It is the right time to play cricket in Rawalpindi, as the weather is changing and it is a bit chilly. It would not have mattered if we had played the first Test in Lahore or Pindi, as we are aware of our home conditions,” he said.
Shakeel also described the series as a valuable opportunity for younger members of the squad to prove their ability in front of home supporters.
“It is a great opportunity for the youngsters as they get the chance to perform in front of the home crowd,” he said.
With Pakistan looking to improve their recent Test performances, Shakeel said senior batters would have to set an example and help the team secure victories.
“As a senior batsman, it is our responsibility. We have not been consistent in the last couple of series, so we would try to perform and help the team win,” he said.
Saud said he had rediscovered his rhythm during Pakistan’s recent series against England, adding that his focus was on carrying that form into the Sri Lanka Tests.
“Not only me, but we all will have to perform as a team. I got my rhythm back during the England series, the things I was working on,” he said.
The batsman also pointed to his performances in domestic cricket after returning from the tour, saying he hoped to maintain that momentum at the international level.
“Since returning from the tour, I was playing the President’s Trophy, where I was in good form, and I will try to continue with that,” he added.
Pakistan Test squad:
Babar Azam (captain), Abdullah Fazal, Ali Usman, Arafat Minhas, Azan Awais, Mohammad Abbas, Mohammad Ghazi Ghori (wk), Mohammad Suleman, Mohammad Taha, Razaullah, Saad Baig (wk), Salman Ali Agha, Sameer Minhas, Saud Shakeel
Schedule: November 9-13 – First Test at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium; November 7-21- Second Test at Gaddafi Stadium Lahore