'Unlike Pakistan Bowlers, Saqib Mahmood Came To Me For Bowling Advice': Shoaib Akhtar

“Saqib wanted me to coach him when he was playing PSL. I told him that there is less muscle mass on his legs and shoulders, due to which his pace is a little low," said Akhtar in an interview.

Images: AFP

Karachi: England defeated Pakistan in the 1st ODI on Thursday. Pakistan was demolished by the English side as they chased down the target of 142 in less than 22 overs. The star for England was fast-bowler Saqib Mahmood. He picked up 4 wickets including the wickets of Imam-ul-Hasan and Babar Azam. 

Mahmood's family is from Pakistan and he has even played in the Pakistan Super League (PSL). During Mahmood's days in the PSL, he came across one of Pak's greatest fast-bowlers, Shoaib Akhtar. According to the veteran pacer, Mahmood sought advice from him. Akhtar had advised him to gain some muscle as it will help improve his pace. 

 

 

 

“Saqib wanted me to coach him when he was playing PSL. I told him that there is less muscle mass on his legs and shoulders, due to which his pace is a little low,” said Akhtar (as quoted by Cricket Pakistan). “In the first ODI, he looked a little buff and there was power in his shoulders and there was nip in his deliveries. He is trying to learn and will come to Pakistan again to learn from me.”

Shoaib Akhtar also expressed his disappointment over the Pakistani bowlers not coming to him for advice. “It is unfortunate that no Pakistani fast-bowler has ever come to me for advice. Saqib is a very learned guy," Shoaib added. 

 

England played without their top bowlers like Mark Wood, Chris Woakes and Willey in the 1st ODI, but still, Saqib Mahmood was on top of his game and did not make the English fans miss their original bowlers.