Mitchell Starc, the Australian fast bowler, expressed his team’s mild surprise at the absence of express pace bowlers in Pakistan’s fast bowling lineup.
Following a challenging start in the opening Test in Perth, Australia dominated and secured a commanding 360-run victory over Pakistan.
Australia’s pace attack, including Nathan Lyon, showcased excellent form, with fast bowlers consistently hitting speeds in the 140s and collectively taking 13 wickets.
In contrast, Pakistan’s pacers recorded considerably lower speeds, with Shaheen Afridi facing difficulties on the pitch. Despite this, debutants Khurram Shahzad and Aamer Jamal impressed with their agility, with Shahzad taking five and Jamal securing seven wickets.
Starc acknowledged his team’s surprise at the lack of pace in Pakistan’s bowlers, emphasizing that while pace is not everything in fast bowling, it undoubtedly plays a crucial role. He cited Scotty Boland as an example, highlighting Boland’s effectiveness despite not being among the fastest bowlers.
Starc explained, “Pace isn’t the be-all and end-all, but it certainly plays a part and can help.” Drawing attention to Boland’s ability to generate movement, especially at his home ground in Melbourne, Starc emphasized the synergy within Australia’s diverse bowling attack.
Former Pakistan fast bowler Waqar Younis echoed similar concerns, noting the absence of genuine pace in Pakistan’s current bowling lineup. He expressed worry about the decline in the country’s traditional strength of producing fast bowlers who consistently bowled at 150 clicks.
The challenges for Pakistan’s bowling attack escalated after the opening Test, with Khurram Shahzad ruled out due to a stress fracture and Noman Ali leaving the squad due to acute appendicitis. Additionally, Abrar Ahmed will miss the second Test due to foot discomfort.
As the series progresses, concerns about Pakistan’s pace resources persist, and the upcoming Test at the MCG in the traditional Boxing Day contest will be a crucial juncture for both teams.