Raja Applauds Agha’s Performance, Critiques Top Order’s Inability to Convert Starts

SHARJAH: Former Pakistan captain Ramiz Raja acknowledged Salman Ali Agha’s crucial role in Pakistan’s triumph over Afghanistan in the tri-nation series opener, while expressing concerns over the batting lineup’s performance.

In a discussion on his online platform following the match, Raja stated that the game was slipping away, and without Salman Ali Agha’s contribution, Pakistan would have faced significant challenges.

“Pakistan managed to score 182 runs, yet Afghanistan seemed capable of winning because the pitch conditions remained largely unchanged during their batting innings. Had Salman Ali Agha not performed well, Pakistan would have found themselves in a difficult position,” he commented.

Raja was critical of the middle order, observing that no batsman managed to establish themselves at the crease.

“It’s puzzling how the batsmen surrendered their wickets so easily after initially putting the opposition under duress. Although the top order displayed intention, none of them managed to play a substantial inning. Several were dismissed after scoring 10 to 20 runs. Why were wickets falling carelessly when the team had the upper hand?” he questioned.

Raja underscored the necessity for Pakistani batsmen to exhibit greater accountability and commended Salman Ali Agha for demonstrating the required composure.

“In such circumstances, intelligent batting is essential, and Salman Ali Agha executed this perfectly. An early dismissal for him could have limited Pakistan to a score of 150, giving Afghanistan a significant advantage,” he elaborated.

Raja pointed out that the Sharjah pitch was different from its past characteristics, which posed difficulties for Afghanistan.

“Although Afghanistan posed a threat, Pakistan ultimately displayed superior professionalism. The credit belongs to Salman Ali Agha, who built a solid batting foundation for Pakistan,” he concluded.

Raja emphasized that batsmen need to bat with maturity after losing wickets, which is something Pakistan’s batters did not do.

“This wasn’t the typical Sharjah pitch known for its grip and spin. Afghanistan’s impressive track record here, with a nearly 65% win rate, is due to conditions favoring their spinners,” he concluded.