Former Pakistan cricketer Ramiz Raja expressed concerns about the reduced bowling speeds of young Pakistani pacers Haris Rauf and Shaheen Afridi during the first ODI against New Zealand at Pindi Cricket Stadium. On his YouTube channel, Raja pointed out Rauf’s reliance on effective yorkers and changes of pace in T20s, suggesting he should increase his speed for better performance in ODIs.
Raja questioned Rauf’s effectiveness as a length bowler, noting that while he succeeds in T20s, he needs to adapt his bowling style for ODIs. Raja also mentioned that Rauf’s overall pace has decreased and encouraged him to raise it.
Furthermore, Raja emphasized the importance of Shaheen Afridi increasing his average speed from 136 to be more effective in his deliveries. He explained that adapting to different pitches and conditions requires bowlers to adjust their tactics, whether through variations, changes of pace, or pure speed.
These comments followed Shaheen and Haris’s expensive spells in the first ODI against New Zealand. Despite the high run rate, Shaheen took two wickets for 63 runs, while Haris claimed two wickets but gave up 65 runs.
In the recent match, Fakhar Zaman’s century led Pakistan to a five-wicket victory over New Zealand. The second ODI of the five-match series will take place at the same venue on April 29th.
