by: Atika Mehboob TN Sport Pakistan:
Pakistan’s team director, Mohammad Hafeez, has expressed surprise and disappointment at Australia’s strategic approach ahead of the upcoming three-match Test series starting on December 14 in Perth. Hafeez, in an interview with Australian media, revealed his astonishment at the sluggish nature of the practice pitch provided in Canberra, stating it was the slowest he had encountered as a visiting team in Australia.
While acknowledging that the team has successfully addressed most preparation aspects, Hafeez conveyed his dismay over the unexpected pitch conditions. Despite the disappointment, he emphasized the team’s readiness for the forthcoming challenge. When questioned about raising the issue with Cricket Australia, Hafeez asserted that everyone was aware of it, opting not to dwell on the matter repeatedly.
Australia’s coach, Andrew McDonald, responded to Hafeez’s concerns, revealing their intention to exploit Pakistan’s potential vulnerability to bounce, given their practice on lower-bounce surfaces in Canberra. McDonald expressed optimism in capitalizing on this advantage, stating, “They’re coming from lower surfaces (Canberra) in their prep – so hopefully we can expose them on a bouncy surface.”
In the face of Australia’s tactics, Hafeez affirmed Pakistan’s determination to not just compete but to emerge victorious, declaring, “We are here to beat Australia and not just compete.”
