As Australia have undergone a massive change, Waqar Younis, former Pakistan coach and veteran bowler feels Pakistan have a great chance to clinch a historic away series win against Australia, as they’re enough competitive at the Test level.
“Fair enough they [Australia] won against South Africa but there’s definitely loopholes they can look into,” former Pakistan coach Waqar said.
Waqar believes Australia slipping to fourth place in the ICC Test Rankings will serve as a “wake-up call” for the hosts as Misbah-ul-Haq’s Pakistan are very capable of bouncing back. They’ve looked far more settled in the UAE, which has been their adopted home since 2009.
“It’s never easy in Australia on these bouncy pitches. I feel this is their best chance to beat Australia. “I don’t know what will happen in a couple of years, the Aussies always know how to bounce back but yes at the moment Pakistan stands a good chance,” Waqar added.
Recently, Pakistan lost 2-0 against New Zealand after clinching the Test series against West Indies 2-1. In Australia, Pakistan have had a torrid time, winning just four from 32 Tests and none in the past 21 years.
On the other hand, Australia earned a face-saving win against South Africa in the third Test after losing the first two matches at Perth and Hobart. All eyes will be on skipper Steven Smith and David Warner if hosts are to establish dominance over Pakistan.
However, Pakistan’s strength lies in their pace attack. There would also be a focus on young Babar Azam, who has risen among the ranks very fast. And as Mickey Arthur has said – “When you reach Australia, Wahab Riaz becomes your No. 1 weapon”.
“It’s a new side and if Pakistan play to their potential and bowl well they’ve got a fair chance of picking up 20 wickets,” Waqar said.
The star leg-spinner Yasir Shah, who’s rated high, will hold the key for Pakistan in the much- awaited series. He was dropped against the Kiwis due to the seam-friendly conditions in Hamilton.
Misbah-ul-Haq-led side will play three Tests and five ODIs against Australia, starting December 15.