I must admit amongst the myriad of heart aches for the great citizens of Pakistan.From the internal strife at home with the tragic floods and abhorrent terrorist activity going on.To on the cricket field with the scandal involving their trio of players and the frustration and anger caused by the truly incompetent dealings of the PCB.There hasn’t been a lot to be cheerful about.Though amongst the turmoil and pain a young player made his debut in England and has slowly since established himself.This being the young top order batsman in Azhar Ali.In England though he didn’t dominate amongst the carnage. That so symbolised the Pakistani batting due mainly to their technical and temperament deficiencies.He definitely stood out due to the fact that his technique was very sound,temperament very assured and shot play very measured and assured.His very fine 92 unbeaten against the English at the Oval. In which Pakistan won was definitely a sign of his class and belonging at test level.
In truth you couldn’t have created a more perfect top order batsman if you tried!
Though strangely as the series against South Africa was to start his name wasn’t slatted as being part of the probable first test team.Strangely the wafty Umar Akmal being preferred. Which to me truly defied belief for his technique is as loose as a weight watchers girdle and he had all the heart of the Tin Man out of the Wizard of Oz.
For any who haven’t seen that film,that means 0 heart.
Though the fickle hand of fate steps in with the great Pakistani Mohammad Youssuf getting injured pre game and Ahzar gets a place in the side.Duly he didn’t disappoint with him getting very mature half centuries in both the innings and being a huge key in the Draw that Pakistan earned
