Of late, criticism has become the regular part in the Pakistan cricket team. The reporters and a section of fans are trying to cook up something in order to thrash Pakistan. However, the coach Mickey Arthur has come up with a brilliant reply after a reporter criticising Haris Sohail for his slow batting in the end.
Haris Sohail starred as Pakistan beat South Africa at Lords to keep their semi-final hopes alive. After the match, Pakistan coach Mickey Arthur was questioned by a Pakistan journalist about Haris Sohail’s fitness. It did not go down well with the coach who gave it back.
Sohail scored 89 runs from 59 balls, his innings was laced with nine boundaries and three sixes. The reporter questioned that the stylish southpaw has failed to increase the run rate in the slog overs despite being a well-set batsman.
One of the best innings – Mickey Arthur
“Good, splendid knock from Haris but one thing was visible, he stepped in after 30th over, after spending 60-70 minutes, last over he could not make century as well… he had 3 wickets in hand,” the reporter explained to Pakistan coach Mickey Arthur.
However, a pumped up Mickey Arthur, who was impressed with Pakistan’s win and with Sohail’s knock, gave a fitting reply to the journalist by urging him to write something positive for a change.
“He got 89 off 59 balls today,” said Arthur. “Why are you always talking negatively about our players? That was one of his best innings I have seen. Better write something positive for a change. Please!”
Despite the criticism, one must admit that Haris Sohail has been the real match-winner for Pakistan in the last game against South Africa. He stepped in when it mattered the most and delivered the goods for the team.
Pakistan now lies 7th on the World Cup 2019 points table with 5 points from 6 games. They will next play New Zealand on June 26 while for South Africa, their remaining matches against Sri Lanka and Australia only hold academic importance, as they are left to lick their wounds after another ouster from the World Cup.