December 14 marked the start of Australia and Pakistan‘s ongoing series with the first Test at Optus Stadium in Perth. With several players making their Test debuts, the Shan Masood-led Pakistan team selected a lineup that was suited for pacers after scouting the Perth surface. After taking out Travis Head and David Warner in just 12 overs while giving up 63 runs, test newcomer Aamer Jamal turned many heads in his direction.
Speaking about his performance the next day, Jamal expressed his opinion that he struggled to find his flow throughout the first session but eventually did. He also disclosed the short-ball tactics Pakistan employed to remove Warner and Head from the game.
I struggled to find my rhythm throughout my first spell. I felt better during my second spell. I asked for another spell when I spoke with the captain later. Our preparation of short balls for both Warner and Head aided in our success. Since Head was playing the cut shot well, we intended to have the fielder who was catching outside the circle. In the press conference following the game, Jamal stated, “We were able to remove him because he was playing the shot, even if it wasn’t that short.
He added that Pakistan will aim to end Day 2 with as many wickets as possible from the remaining hitters. “We want them out within the first hour of tomorrow morning. We might get both batters early on if they continue to play their shots, the man continued.
The small talk is typical fare: David Warner
David Warner, an experienced Australian batsman, was pretty impressive on Day 1 against Pakistan. With 164 runs in 211 deliveries, Warner solidified his dominance and silenced his detractors. Speaking of his innings, the veteran divulged details of his small talk with Shaheen Afridi while the bowler was being targeted.
“Shaheen [Afridi], who has bowled a lot in the World Cup, has also had a difficult few months. In the opening Test match, you must attempt to exert pressure on their senior bowler. The small talk is nothing special; it’s just everyday conversation. It’s simply banter, nothing more; he’s not trying to get under my skin,” Warner remarked.
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