CAPE TOWN: Pakistan’s all-rounder Salman Ali Agha on Wednesday, expressed his confidence in the national team’s ability to beat South Africa in the second Test, scheduled to commence on January 3 at the Newlands here.
Agha, while addressing the media on the sidelines on the touring team’s practice session for the aforementioned fixture, reflected on the enthralling series opener, which saw the home side securing a hard-fought two-wicket victory.
The all-rounder acknowledged that the green shirts failed to avail some opportunities and got distant from the victory.
He, however, shared that despite ending up on the losing side in the series opener, the team is still confident that they can beat the dominant hosts in a Test.
“It was a wonderful competition in Centurion and we fought valiantly. We are very confident of beating South Africa in the second Test. Our morale is high as we beat them in the ODI series as well,” said Agha.
“Both teams fought hard in the first Test and I hope that the second Test will also be thrilling.
“In the first match, we could not capitalize on some opportunities and were eventually got distant from the victory.
“But it happens in cricket that in one session you are on top and in the next session, you get away from the win. So, we will try to overcome our mistakes and perform well.”
Agha further shared insights regarding the playing conditions of the Newlands, stating that the pitch looks favourable for the spinners, thus, he foresees himself bowling in the upcoming fixture.
“Cape Town’s pitch looks different to that of Centurion. There is slightly lesser grass on this surface,” shared Agha.
“As per stats, spinners play on this surface. So, I think, I’ll be bowling on this pitch,” he added.
Salman Ali Agha then went on to reveal that Pakistan’s playing XI for the second Test against South Africa is yet to be finalized.
“The playing XI for the second Test is not finalized yet but it can be decided by tomorrow,” stated Agha.
“All the players are available for the second Test. There are no fitness issues,” he concluded.
It is pertinent to mention that South Africa booked their place in the World Test Championship (WTC) final, courtesy of their two-wicket victory over Pakistan in the series opener on Sunday.
Sohail Imran Sohail Imran is a senior reporter for Geo News.- Salman Ali Agha
