Gul, Riaz’s absence may prove costly: Qasim

Iqbal Qasim said that Pakistan will miss the services of Umar Gul, who has led the attack in the absence of Mohammad Amir and Mohammad Asif. PHOTO: AFP

KARACHI:  While the selection committee was supported for most of the choices made for the Zimbabwe tour, former chief selector Iqbal Qasim believed the absence of fast-bowlers Umar Gul and Wahab Riaz may affect the team.

The batting line-up saw little experimentation with the inclusion of Rameez Raja for his outstanding performance as an opener in the Faysal Bank Super Eight T20 event but the exclusion of Gul and Riaz has raised eyebrows. The duo has spearheaded Pakistan’s attack since Mohammad Amir and Mohammad Asif were disgraced over their role in the spot-fixing scandal.
“The selectors should’ve included at least one of them,” Qasim told The Express Tribune. “Pakistan’s struggling in the fast-bowling department after bans to Asif and Amir. Gul and Riaz were doing well and their absence can prove costly.”
Good decision to retain seniors
However, Qasim supported the decision to retain the batting line-up that includes Mohammad Hafeez, Misbahul Haq, Taufeeq Umar, Azhar Ali, Younus Khan, Asad Shafiq and Umar Akmal.
“There should be little experimentation with the batting line-up. We cannot afford to lose to Zimbabwe and I think the selectors made a wise choice by announcing a strong batting line-up,” said the former Pakistan cricketer while welcoming the inclusion of uncapped Rameez Raja.
“He’s a good inclusion but he should get a fair chance to establish his international career. This is the correct procedure:  include a few youngsters backed by the seniors. Players like Umar and Shafiq have adjusted in the national team following this process.”
Qasim also supported the return of wicket-keeper Adnan Akmal who replaced Mohammad Salman.
“Adnan deserved a comeback as he proved his worth on his debut in New Zealand.”
Tauseef gives a thumbs-up
Meanwhile, former Test cricketer Tauseef Ahmed also gave a thumbs-up to the team selection.
“It’s a balanced squad with some new faces,” said Ahmed, who trained the spinners at the Pakistan Cricket Board Fast Track Coaching Programme. “It’s a good chance for the newcomers to start their international career. I am happy with the inclusion of Yasir Shah. With Saeed Ajmal in the side, it will balance our spin department.”
Ahmed echoed Qasim’s views on selecting a strong batting line-up.
Published in The Express Tribune, July 29^th,  2011.