Cricket

Asia Cup 2023: Losing Naseem Shah is a huge blow, says Morne Morkel ahead of Sri Lanka clash

Pakistan’s bowling coach Morne Morkel reckons losing Naseem Shah is a huge blow to the team ahead of the virtual semifinal against Sri Lanka in the ongoing Asia Cup 2023. Shah picked seven wickets in four matches of the ongoing continental tournament before he was ruled out of the competition.

The right-arm fast bowler suffered a right shoulder injury while playing against India in the Super Fours stage match on Monday. Furthermore, Haris Rauf has also been ruled out of the clash against Sri Lanka due to a niggle.

Rauf has picked up nine wickets in four matches of the ongoing tournament and both of these pacers will be deeply missed by Pakistan.

“Obviously, it is a big blow (absence of Naseem). It is unfortunate that he picked some little niggles. But what a fantastic opportunity for the guys you know coming in. After going down against India, it’s a must-win game for us tomorrow. I’m quite excited to see new guys stepping in and showing some character,” said Morkel during the pre-match press conference.

“After the India match, we were bitterly disappointed. For me, it is very important for the bowlers to do a bit of self-reflection, ask yourself the hard questions. Yes, credit must also go to the Indian batters,” the former South Africa speedster further added.

“They put us under pressure early. Those are fantastic lessons for us before the World Cup. We are gonna grow from this and come back stronger,” Morkel concluded.

Meanwhile, after losing against India by a gargantuan margin of 228 runs, Pakistan will aim to make a stronger comeback against Sri Lanka. Pakistan have made as many as five changes to their playing XI for the match against the Island team.

Pakistan will surely miss the services of Naseem Shah and Haris Rauf but Mohammad Wasim Jr and Zaman Khan will aim to grab their chances in a must-win game.

About the Author


Written by DafaNews

DafaNews brings you the most highlighted news in the world of Sports. It serves you up-to-date matches, scores, live streams, fantasy games and quizzes. Our news covers India's prestigious leagues and events – Premier League, Pro Kabbadi League, Cricket World Cup and many more. Follow DafaNews on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter,Telegram and Youtube for more updates.

Related Post
Share
Published by
DafaNews

Recent Posts

Pro Kabaddi League 2024: Jaipur Pink Panthers vs Dabang Delhi K.C. – Match Preview

The inaugural champions Jaipur Pink Panthers will take the mat against Dabang Delhi K.C. in… Read More

November 21, 2024

Robert Lewandowski recalls playing under ‘difficult’ Pep Guardiola; explains how ex-Barcelona coach changed

Barcelona’s striker Robert Lewandowski recalled how Pep Guardiola was a difficult coach to play under… Read More

November 21, 2024

Ayush Chikkara aspires to be a ‘regular’ in Mumbai City FC’s team, says doesn’t want to take any external pressure

Mumbai City FC forward Ayush Chikkara wants to find a regular place in Petr Kratky’s… Read More

November 21, 2024

Carlos Alcaraz lauds Rafael Nadal’s legacy after retirement

World No.2 Carlos Alcaraz hailed Rafael Nadal’s legacy after the veteran Spaniard retired from the… Read More

November 21, 2024

Jamshedpur FC’s defender Ashutosh Mehta credits ‘100% professional’ Khalid Jamil for having a big impact in his life

Jamshedpur FC full-back Ashutosh Mehta has given credit to head coach Khalid Jamil for playing… Read More

November 21, 2024

Lakers star LeBron James says he’s taking a break from social media

Los Angeles Lakers’s superstar LeBron James has revealed he is taking a break from social… Read More

November 21, 2024