Raja wants Pakistan to test Imam at third spot

Former Pakistan Captain Ramiz Raja has suggested that Pakistan should try Imam-ul-Haq at number three spot as he thinks that Men in Green would struggle against new ball in England.

Speaking in a live video session on YouTube, the former opener said, “I think they can slot in Imam as an additional opener because in these COVID-19 conditions with bowlers not allowed to use saliva to shine the ball.”

He termed that it would be crucial for the team to see off the new ball without losing wickets.

“The most important part would be to see off the new ball without damages and that is why we can try an additional opener with Abid and Shan,” he added.

The 57-year-old also voted for Fawad Alam’s inclusion in the playing XI in the upcoming series. “I think the way he has performed consistently in domestic cricket, he deserves a chance now as age is not on his side.”

“They should pick Fawad because he has been waiting in the wings with the team. If they hold on for longer, age might start becoming a factor because your reflexes start to slow down. He should definitely get one chance in this series,” he added.

The left-hander hasn’t featured in international cricket since 2015, while he last represented Pakistan in longest format of the game was way back in 2009.

Pakistan has arrived in Derby for training and practice. They will play two four-day intra-squad matches ahead of the first England Test in Manchester.