Only Pakistan Could Have Lost From That Position: Ramiz Raja

Ramiz Raja, former Pakistan opening batsman, is extremely disappointed by the manner in which the Azhar Ali-led unit squandered a seemingly match-winner position to ultimately lose the opening Test of the three-match series against England.

Chasing 277 to win in the fourth innings, England were reduced to 5-117 when Jos Buttler [75] and Chris Woakes [84*] launched a stunning counter-attack, one that the visiting team had no answer to. The duo racked up 139 runs in a mere 33 overs and during the course of their partnership, they did not allow to bowl a single maiden over.

Raja said it was typical of Pakistan to let Buttler and Woakes off the hook courtesy defensive tactics by skipper Azhar Ali, something he feels is the key reason why the side is languishing at the No.7 spot in Test match rankings.

”Only Pakistan could have lost from that position. With such a lead they may have thought 250 would be enough to roll over England. With five wickets down and big guns back in the pavilion at 117, allowing over 100-run (139 runs) partnership between Jos Buttler and Chris Woakes is the disappointing part. Mind you Buttler was playing for his position in the XI.” Ramiz Raja said on his official Youtube channel.

“Pakistan were a little confused during that partnership. This has been happening with Pakistan quite often, unfortunately. It was a superb partnership no doubt but why did Pakistan allow it? There is a reason their ranking is low in Tests (No 7).” he added.

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Ramiz Raja disappointed with Pakistan’s support staff

In Younis Khan [batting consultant], Mushtaq Ahmed [spin-bowling consultant], Waqar Younis [bowling coach], and Misbah Ul Haq [head coach], the visitors boast of a potent and experienced support staff. But Ramiz Raja said Pakistan expects more from their support-staff and they should have been more proactive when Buttler and Woakes were going great guns, considering they would have got a great perspective sitting outside.

”When you got a captain who is not in great form, the coaching staff has to be more proactive. Also, they get good perspective sitting outside. England were allowed to take easy singles, close to 40 singles were taken by Buttler and Woakes through point.” he added.

The second Test between England and the Azhar Ali-led unit will commence from August 13 at the Ageas Bowl in Southampton.

Also Read- Jos Buttler Should Always Be A Part Of England Team: Shane Warne