Speaking in a press conference today, Pakistan’s middle-order batter Saud Shakeel appeared confident in performing well in the upcoming matches against Sri Lanka. He was asked if he had received any messages or guidelines from the management, and the 27-year-old cricketer responded affirmatively.
“Yes, we do have a message from the management. It’s the same thing as when we’ve camped in Lahore. We’re camping here as well. So we’re all trying to improve our skills and trying to focus on learning new things. Like I’ve never played in reverse but now I’m trying to do that. Because it gives you more options and gives you a chance to score more runs. The management as well has told us to expand our skill set. That is true,” he shared.
Acknowledging Sri Lanka’s formidable spinners and their familiarity with the local playing conditions, Shakeel emphasised the need for his team to showcase their best cricket in order to emerge victorious. “Sri Lanka have quality spinners and they know about their playing conditions. We will have to play our best cricket,” he said.
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Reflecting on his past visits to Sri Lanka, Shakeel noted that his previous matches were played on different grounds, indicating that the upcoming series would present unique challenges. However, he expressed confidence in adapting to the unfamiliar conditions. “While I have played in Sri Lanka before, it was on different grounds. The conditions of the ground will be different this time, but we can find solace in the weather, which will help us acclimate,” he said.
When asked about his aspirations beyond Test cricket, Shakeel expressed his ambition to excel in the format and earn a spot in the One Day International (ODI) squad. “I always strive to perform at my best in Tests, as it opens up opportunities for me in ODIs. But for now, my entire focus is on Test cricket,” he said.
