Naseem Shah on verge of making history on Test debut
It is no secret that Pakistan have an abundance of bowling talent and most of them are possessed by their youth in the domestic circuit. Pakistan could display another one such talent in their bowling department if they decide to field young pacer Naseem Shah in the opening Test against Australia, starting Thursday. Furthermore, it would be a record-breaking debut. Here's how.
Naseem could become the youngest Test debutant on Australian soil
Having played in the warm-ups against Australia A and Cricket Australia XI, ahead of the opening Test, Naseem is in line to make his Test debut on Thursday. In case he manages to do so, he would become the youngest Test debutant on Australian soil, at the age of 16, going past the previous record, held by Ian Craig, at the age of 17.
Pakistan head coach hails Nseem as 'fine young bowler'
"Naseem is a fine bowler, a young bowler, but at the same time cricket discipline remains the same. No matter how quick you are, I think if you execute your plans well, then you have a chance," said Pakistan head-coach Misbah-ul-Haq, reports Reuters.
Naseem's bowling action reminds Waqar Younis of Dennis Lillee
In a bold admission, Pakistan bowling coach hailed Naseem's prolific bowling, besides admitting that the young lad had a representation of legendary former Australian pacer Dennis Lillee. "He's got a very similar action. He's not as big as Dennis -- Dennis was a big guy -- but when he gets it right, he's a handful," Waqar had quoted to the reporters last weekend.
Naseem looks to keep aside family tragedy ahead of debut
A tragedy was involved for Naseem, as he had lost his mother last week. However, he chose to stay with the side and play the respective warm-up ties. "He's not going back and staying here. Putting his hand up. He wants to do well for the team, for the country. That is commendable. That is going to reward him," said Pakistan opener Shan Masood.
With just seven First-Class matches, Naseem is highly inexperienced
As Naseem prepares for his Test debut, it should be noted that he has played just seven First-Class matches so far. However, with 27 wickets at a sound average of 16.66, including twin five-wicket haul, along with best figures of 6/59, and 9/111 in a match, he could really make an impact. Nonetheless, his inexperience could be prove to be decisive for the side.
Pat Cummins believes Naseem's inexperience could work for him
"Sometimes that's almost better when you start off a little bit naive. You just want to go out and bowl fast and not be clouded by the baggage of a few long days in the dirt," said Australian pacer Pat Cummins on Naseem's inexperience.
