Shah couldn’t bowl in the first innings and leaked 21 runs in the second. However, the way he troubled the Australian batsmen was enough to prove his mettle in the international circuit.
He took down Marcus Harris in the game while left Usman Khawaja dazed with a short ball which struck the batsman’s helmet. He also got an edge off Harris’ bat to travel to first slip but Haris Sohail dropped the catch.
Here’s the video:
While many have found his action similar to that of former New Zealand quick Shane Bond, former skipper and bowling coach Waqar Younis has stated that Naseem reminds him of legendary Australian fast-bowler Dennis Lillee.
“He’s very talented – and he’s smart. He’s got a very good action, he’s got good pace. He reminds me of Dennis Lillee actually. He’s got a very similar action. He’s not as big as Dennis – Dennis was a big guy – but when he gets it right, he’s a handful,” Waqar said.
The youngster took a brave decision about not returning home following his mother’s demise. According to Pakistani media reports, Naseem consulted his family before conveying his decision to stay on in Australia to the Pakistan team management.
On the other hand, players from both teams wore black armbands on the first two days of the practice match to pay homage to Naseem’s late mother.
The youngster garnered many praises due to his impressive speed and unique action. Despite just 6 FC matches since his debut for Lahore last September, he has taken 26 wickets at an average of 16.50.
Even Pakistan coach Misbah-ul-Haq backed the rookie bowler and said that if he becomes the youngest person to play a Test down under, the conditions in Australia could be in his favour.