Pakistan Test batter Saud Shakeel has lauded emerging cricketer Tayyab Arif, describing him as a gifted player who has the potential to develop into a quality cricketer.
Speaking to the media after the second day’s play in the opening Test against Sri Lanka at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, Shakeel said Pakistan had started their innings positively, but batting became increasingly challenging as the game progressed.
Pakistan posted 434-9, with Shakeel contributing 93 runs off 199 deliveries. He said the team had made a strong recovery during the latter part of the innings.
Shakeel also acknowledged Arafat’s contribution, praising his performance and impressive half-century.
“We started well, but the pitch became more difficult later. Had we lost wickets, we would not have reached this total,” he said.
Reflecting on his dismissal, Shakeel explained that he had not intended to play an aggressive shot but was unable to react in time as the delivery reached him quicker than expected.
“I had no plan to play a fast shot. The ball came on a little quicker, I was slightly late with my shot and got out,” he said.
Shakeel expressed confidence in Tayyab Arif’s abilities, saying he rated the youngster highly and believed emerging players had the potential to become successful cricketers.
“No batter wants to get out immediately after scoring 50 runs,” he added.
Discussing the pitch, Shakeel noted that the grass covering did not suggest favourable conditions for reverse swing, although the surface could assist spin.
“There is grass on the pitch. There is no sign of reverse swing, but the ball can turn,” he said.
