He has been considered as one of the greatest fast bowlers, which the game of cricket has ever produced. Waqar Yunis, the Pakistan legend, is full of pain to see his country failing to qualify for the Asia Cup final. In a recent chat with the CrickerSoccer, Waqar was full of praise for the finalist Bangladesh team.
Here are the excerpts:
CricketSoccer (CS): You must be very disappointed with the way the Pakistan cricket team is performing…
Waqar Yunis (WY): Yes, it’s a painful experience to see the Pakistan cricket team’s downfall over the last one year. Nobody, in the recently concluded Asia Cup, showed intent to give it all on the field. Look, the result may not be in your hands. But there should be the proper approach. The body language of the cricketers was out of colour. There was a lack of confidence. It’s not that they didn’t have experience. Many of this team played in the Champions Trophy in England and have tasted success. But they couldn’t express themselves.
CS: After Pakistan failed to qualify for the final, what was the reaction of the cricketing fraternity of the country?
WY: Obviously nobody was happy. Everyone in Pakistan believed that we are capable enough to make at least to the final. And the way we played and surrendered, it was a pathetic show.
CS: Losing to India in both the matches, it must be a setback for the cricket lovers back at home?
WY: Again, I would say, losing to India is not important in this context. But what is important is the way we played. There was no fight back. For India, it was a cakewalk in both the matches.
CS: What could be the way out?
WY: Everybody has to take responsibility. I have worked with this team and have a clear knowledge about the current situation of cricket in the country. There is plenty of talent. They should be guided properly. They should get exposure at the highest level. There is no need to panic. We have to be patient. Captain (Imran Khan) is now at the helm of the nation and he must lead the cricket team to a better future with his visionary.
CS: Who impressed you the most in this Asia Cup?
WY: It’s Jasprit Bumrah, the Indian pacer. This young man has speed, accuracy and hunger for wickets. He can bowl a deadly Yorker. What is most impressive is the fact that he hasn’t digested a single boundary in death overs in the Tournament.
CS: Is India the deserving champion?
WY: I wouldn’t have been surprised if Bangladesh lifted the Trophy. I must admire the way they fought it out till the last ball is bowled. Bangladesh have established themselves as the new superpower in Asian cricket. They have a lot to gain. I would tell Mashrafe Mortaza and his lads that, don’t get upset. You have made everybody proud.
