Pakistan coach Sarfaraz Ahmed has expressed deep concern over his team’s batting performance following their latest collapse at Lord’s. The visitors were bowled out for just 110 in their first innings, marking their third consecutive score under 200 in the series. This follows disappointing totals of 171 and 135 during their innings defeat in Leeds, leaving the team in a precarious position against England.
Addressing the team’s inability to occupy the crease, Sarfaraz noted, “See you can’t shy away from the fact that our team is getting bowled out in 30 or 35 overs.” He emphasized that while conditions have been challenging, success requires batters to weather the initial period. “Whichever batter spends more time in the middle and plays 30 to 40 balls [will benefit]. The first 30-40 balls are difficult but if we can get past that, we will be in a better position,” he explained.
The coach specifically highlighted the performance of 21-year-old opener Azan Awais, who faced 102 deliveries for his 46 runs. “Azan also handled the pressure well initially and then played some very good shots later,” Sarfaraz said, praising the youngster for successfully navigating a difficult spell from Jofra Archer. He noted that such experiences are vital for a young player’s career development.
Regarding the team’s preparation, Sarfaraz acknowledged that the heavy focus on T20 cricket—with the team playing nearly 40 to 50 matches in that format last year—has been a factor, though he stopped short of using it as an excuse. “As professional players, we need to adjust [between formats],” he stated. He added that the team has attempted to adjust their playing combination to bolster the batting lineup, but those efforts have yet to yield the desired results on the field.
Despite England holding a commanding lead of 261 runs, Sarfaraz refused to concede the match. While he acknowledged that he would take responsibility for the team’s poor results, he remains optimistic about a potential recovery on the third day. “I am still hopeful. A lot of unexpected things happen in cricket,” he said.
Looking ahead to the remainder of the Test, the coach outlined a path for a potential comeback. “If we can bowl them out within the next 70-80 runs and chase a target under 350, you never know,” Sarfaraz concluded, maintaining his belief that his side can still compete if they manage to restrict the hosts. The report also notes that while accepting that Pakistan’s batting unit was “not up to the mark”, Sarfaraz lauded the 21-year old Awais for the manner in which he tackled a feisty Jofra Archer spell early on. The report also notes that he batted at a crucial time and faced quality bowling. The report also notes that as a batter, it will be a big boost for him,” Sarfaraz said, while going on to praise England’s bowling and catching. The report also notes that although it hasn’t reflected in terms of returns, sarfaraz said that Pakistan have also looked to tailor their playing combination in accordance with their batting woes. The report also notes that with England’s lead reading 261 in conditions that have favoured the bowlers, pakistan currently have their backs to the wall.
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