Pakistan has taken a big step to bring back international cricket to their country by hosting a three-match T20 series between Pakistan and World XI.
The first two matches of the series have received a good response. The Pakistani people were finally able to watch their stars play against a stalwart side, for the first time since 2009.
Pakistan’s batting legend Zaheer Abbas feels that Pakistan is ready to host a bilateral series.
Security issues happen all over the world. So from my point of view, I think we are ready to organise bilateral series. From public’s point of view also, the stadium was packed for the first two matches (of the ongoing Independence Cup). I don’t think the fans see any problems as far as security is concerned.Zaheer Abbas told The Indian Express
The 70-year-old stressed upon the fact that a player feels like a hero, when he performs at home.
During our time, we used to have great evenings after every good performance. Even your close friends would start talking about your hundred. The feeling of happiness lingered. This generation indeed has missed that. Playing at home and performing well makes you feel like a hero.Zaheer Abbas to The Indian Express
However, Abbas said that even after Pakistan moved their home base to the United Arab Emirates for the most part of the last eight years, they achieved a lot.
Despite not playing a ‘home’ match for so long, Pakistan climbed to the Number 1 spot in the Test rankings for some period of time. They won the Champions Trophy. These are great achievements. This just shows how talented and hungry our young cricketers are. It speaks volumes of Pakistan cricket’s resilience.Zaheer Abbas to The Indian Express
With big players such as Younis Khan and Misbah-ul-Haq hanging up their boots, Abbas feels that Babar Azam will be Pakistan’s future star in all formats of the game.
Every team goes through transition; from India to Australia. Sri Lanka are now going through it. Fans understand that. But I think Babar Azam could be the future of Pakistan batting across formats. But overall, I’m not satisfied with Pakistan (Test) batting and I hope the players learn the art of staying at the wicket.Zaheer Abbas to The Indian Express
When asked if Virat Kohli will be able to cope with the swinging deliveries in England next year, the former batsman said that Kohli is sensible enough to improve himself.
He is definitely the top batsman in the world these days. The best thing about him is that he loves to bat and his studying of the game is excellent. Every batsman has a weakness, when the ball is moving outside the off stump. He is sensible enough to improve himself. He will adjust to the conditions. He knows his strengths and faults.Zaheer Abbas to The Indian Express
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