We were short of around 70-100 runs: Saqlain Mushtaq

image-lbsuuv0sSaqlain Mushtaq (Source: Twitter)

Pakistan head coach Saqlain Mushtaq on Saturday (December 17) expressed disappointment at the hosts' batting performance on the first day of the third Test match in Karachi, where the team bowled out for 304 runs.

Saqlain reckoned that Pakistan were short of around 75 to 100 runs. He also stated that Babar Azam & Co. need to put smart cricket on display and restrict the visitors to a low total in the first innings.

Here's what Saqlain said: 

“We could have done much better. Babar’s run-out was not a good sign for the Pakistan team as the whole team was playing around him. We could have scored 350 to 400.”

Opting to bat first, Pakistan were bundled out for 304 in their first innings with Babar Azam scoring the highest 78 off 123 deliveries. England, in reply, were 7-1 at stumps on an opening day. 

"Azhar Ali also fell at a stage when we were in control. I think we are short of 75 to 100 runs. This total is also not bad but we will have to play disciplined cricket."

"We got an early wicket which will benefit us, no doubt. England will go with their own mindset and we will have to play controlled cricket.” 

Abara Ahmed Will be in the frontline: Saqlain Mushtaq

Saqlain Mushtaq further conceded that Pakistan’s bowlers should restrict England to around 200 to get a decent lead, with Abrar Ahmad being the key, who had picked up a record 11 wickets on his debut in the previous Test match in Multan. 

“The entire day tomorrow will be very important. We will have to fold them as early as possible. If we are able to restrict them to 215 then Pakistan will go to the driving seat and we will try our level best to restrict them.” 

“But we will have to play intelligent cricket for that. We will mainly rely on spinners and Abrar Ahmed will be in the frontline. Nauman Ali is experienced and whenever there will be a seam, we will utilise Mohammad Waseem Junior.” 

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