Pakistan Test coach Waqar Younis has kicked off the sledging ahead of Wednesday first Test against Australia by claiming the visitors possesses “weaknesses” while taking a cheap shot at fast bowler Mitchell Johnson.
Australia’s dominant performance in this month’s one day international schedule in the UAE-hosted tour of Pakistan has revealed flaws in the visitor’s game plan, according to Younis.
“We have seen some weaknesses and I am pretty happy with it. Before the Test you want to win,” Waqar said.
Australia cleaned up the ODI series with a 3-0 sweep, but suffered a 153-run loss in last week’s tour match against Pakistan A.
“They are a fine team, very professional side and do their things well, but yeah, we have definitely seen some weaknesses and we are working on it and hopefully we will deliver the goods.”
Waqar was asked about devastating quick Johnson and quickly dismissed comparisons to legendary Pakistan bowler Wasim Akram, who bagged 414 wickets at 23.6 in 104 Tests. In comparison, the 32-year-old Johnson has 264 wickets from 59 Tests.
“I wouldn’t compare anyone with Wasim Akram, he has done wonders for Pakistan. He has a long way to go to compete with Wasim Akram,” said a blunt Waqar.
Australia will benefit from the full fitness of captain Michael Clarke, opener David Warner and 23-year-old all-rounder Mitch Marsh.
Clarke managed just 10 runs against Pakistan A while Marsh produced a duck, however all three players confirmed their health for the opening Test after extensive net sessions on Monday.
“Dave (Warner) batted fine in the middle and Mitch (Marsh) bowled in Sharjah and got a good hit. It is nice to see everyone fit and strong going in, you want to see all the boys fit and firing,” bowler Peter Siddle said. “You can’t see any niggles out there now.”
Photo: Saheed Khan/Getty Images
