Pakistan captain Sarfraz Ahmed is hopeful that the team will put up a good show during the second Test match against New Zealand in Dubai.
Pakistan lost the first Test match in Abu Dhabi by just four runs to go one-nil down in the three-match series.
“We had a meeting before leaving Abu Dhabi. We have left our mistakes their and are hoping for an improved show in the second Test,” said Sarfraz on the eve of the second Test in Dubai.
Left-arm pacer Shaheen Shah Afridi has been included in the 12-man Pakistan squad for the second Test but his inclusion in the starting XI will only be confirmed after assessing the pitch, Sarfraz said.
“The playing XI is the same that took the field in Abu Dhabi. However, we have called in Shaheen Shah Afridi — who was playing the side game against England Lions — and we will decide about him tomorrow after assessing the pitch,” he said.
Speaking about the unexpected loss in Abu Dhabi, Sarfraz said that it was disappointing that they failed to cross the line despite chasing a low total in the fourth innings.
“Obviously the loss was disappointing. We came so close; we should have won that game. But unfortunately we failed to cross the winning line. It is part of the game and the beauty of Test cricket. You never know when the game changes,” he said.
He added: “The problem is that Pakistan batsmen are not converting their starts. In past eight of nine Test matches, our batmen got the start but they fell after scoring 50s or 60s. They are failing to reach 100-run mark or play a big innings.”
Sarfraz also hinted towards a plan for left-arm Kiwi spinner Aijaz Patel — who was declared the player of the match in the first Test.
“Ijaz Patel should be give credit the way he bowled. One lose ball could be the turning point. But he bowled magnificently,” he said. “ We have made a plan against him, hopefully it will work.”
The second Test match between Pakistan and New Zealand will begin on Saturday, November 24 in Dubai. The home side will be hoping to level the series with a win while the Kiwis, on the other hand, can secure the series if they claim victory in the second Test as well.
