The year 2016 has been a mixed bag for Pakistan’s Test side. The tour of England was a massive plus as the Misbah Ul Haq’s side went on to level the four-match series after being 2-1 down. The comprehensive ten-wicket victory at The Oval brought forward quite a bit as Pakistan was soon ranked the number one Test side. The series in UAE against West Indies would have been perfect, but a loss in the third Test at Sharjah turned things sour.
Playing on absolute green tops, where the batsmen danced to the tunes of the pacers, Pakistan was found wanting and desperate against New Zealand. The Kiwi pacers massacred the helpless Pakistani batsmen and the upcoming tour of Australia promises further struggle. However, coach Mickey Arthur is a relaxed man and optimistic about the upcoming series Down Under.
“For these guys to come here and win would be amazing,” Arthur said in a media briefing. “But listen, we are under no illusions. Australia is a fantastic cricket team and, in these conditions, it’s going to be very tough for them.”
Arthur added that his experience as the former Australian coach could come in handy for the series. “And obviously against some of the players that we play against,” he added. “But there’s so much intelligence around in terms of data and in terms of video analysis that all teams know everybody anyway.”
Meanwhile, veteran batsman Younis Khan is full in awe of Arthur, as he admitted that the latter’s presence had made a difference to Pakistan’s approach. “He has spent time with us and has given us some tips,” Khan said. “It gives us motivation in how we are supposed to deal with these Australian pitches. It is very simple. If you play, according to the situation that can offer bowler and batsman, it will be easy for us.”