England vs Pakistan 2016: Pakistan not a number 9 team, will fight back, says Imad Wasim
After putting up d brilliant show in the Test series, the Pakistan team has struggled to get going in the Limited overs leg, and are currently trailing 2-0 in the 5-match series against England. There have been moments of inspired performances by the visitors but England have looked a much more superior outfit across all facets.
However, all-rounder Imad Wasim, who struck a brilliant half-century in the second match believes that his team is far more talented than what their ranking justifies. Pakistan is currently ranked number 9 in limited overs cricket, which is far cry from their numero uno status in Test cricket.
“With the talent, we’ve got, I don’t think it’s a No. 9 team,” Wasim said. “We have to show that in big matches like tomorrow, and I believe we can make a comeback. We have to work hard and then trust our skills. We are united and we believe that we are capable of much better that number 9. We are going to show the cricketing world what we’re capable of, just like we did in the Test matches. We’re No.1 in them, and we’re really looking forward to putting our rankings up in the one-dayers,” the left-handed all-rounder added.
Also read: Wasim Akram worried about the state of ODI cricket in Pakistan
Pakistan will face England in the third ODI at Nottingham, and they will have to win this match to stay afloat in the 5-match series. In the rankings, only Afghanistan is behind the Azhar Ali-led side, and thus the team has their work cut out going into Trent Bridge.
Wasim also believed that the batsmen will have to step up and put up runs on the board which will then allow the bowlers to build pressure on the rampant England side.
"Whatever is gone is gone – it’s done. We have to get some runs on the board, and give our bowlers a chance,” Imad added.
Ben Stokes, the England all-rounder has been cleared to bowl in the 3rd One Dayer, and Wasim said that with his inclusion the hosts will become even more powerful, but then was quick to point out that Pakistan is ready to confront any challenges.