Former Pakistan fast bowler, Umar Gul shared his insights in anticipation of Pakistan’s crucial ICC World Cup 2023 encounter against Afghanistan, in Chennai on Monday. 

While talking to a local news channel, Gul acknowledged the amount of talent within the Pakistani team but stressed the importance of making meticulous plans. He underlined the need to learn from past mistakes and swiftly move forward. 

“There is no place for making mistakes in a mega event, just learn from your mistakes and move on. There is a lot of talent in [this] Pakistani team, they need to make plans according to the [playing] conditions,” Gul said.

Gul stated the Pakistani team possesses the necessary talent and ability to rebound and secure a spot in the final four.

“Yes, the national team have the required talent and capability to bounce back and qualify for the final four,” he further added.

Gul also commented on Pakistan’s bowling attack, mentioning the setback caused by Naseem Shah’s injury. 

“For the last few years, we have had a great bowling attack in Shaheen Afridi, Haris Rauf and Naseem Shah, but Naseem’s injury has affected us greatly,” he said.

Former pacer further highlighted Shaheen Afridi’s recent performance, where he took five wickets in a match. Additionally, he encouraged Haris Rauf to rediscover his best form

“However, taking five wickets in the last match would be a great confidence booster for Shaheen. Meanwhile, Rauf needs to get himself back and remember his best performances [as it will help him],” he added.

Talking about the playing conditions in India, particularly the pitches, Gul noted that they generally offer little assistance to bowlers. He emphasized the importance of adaptability and discipline, especially in terms of line and length, for bowlers in India.

“The wickets in India are not helpful for bowlers and the boundaries are small as well. A bowler who adjusts his line and length according to the conditions will succeed here. There is no margin for bowlers on Indian wickets, they cannot give room to the batters by bowling [outside the off stump], discipline is mandatory in India,” he said.

Gul expressed confidence in Pakistan’s capabilities, both in their bowling and batting departments, asserting that Pakistan is far from being a small team.

“No, Pakistan is not a small team, we have good, great players in bowling and batting, and there will not be any problem [in upcoming matches],” he concluded.