In an upcoming test match against Bangladesh, all-rounder Salman Ali Agha expressed his enthusiasm about being the sole spin option for Pakistan. The squad excluded the only specialist leg-spinner, Abrar Ahmed, aiming to utilize a green-top wicket to favor the team’s fast bowlers in the first of two test matches set to begin in Rawalpindi on Wednesday.
Salman, speaking at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium prior to the team’s practice session on Sunday, shared his readiness for the challenge. Having claimed 12 wickets in 12 test matches, Salman has been consistent in his bowling performances, notably obtaining three wickets in the previous series against Australia when Abrar was sidelined due to injury.
As a middle-order batsman, Salman has accumulated 809 runs, with notable centuries against New Zealand and Sri Lanka. Reflecting on his recent performances in Australia, Salman expressed confidence in his bowling role, emphasizing that it is not a new responsibility for him.
Despite the potential disruptions from monsoon rains during the upcoming test match in Rawalpindi, Salman affirmed that the team remains unfazed by the weather conditions and remains focused on securing a victory against Bangladesh. He emphasized the team’s familiarity with the conditions and their belief that it will favor the fast bowlers.
The Pakistan Cricket Board relocated the second test match from Karachi to Rawalpindi due to ongoing renovations at the National Bank Stadium in preparation for the next year’s Champions Trophy. Rawalpindi is set to host both test matches in the series.