Wahab Riaz promises to bring aggression to Pakistan’s World Cup squad
Wahab Riaz says the team which uses reverse swing well will be at an advantage during the World Cup
May 21, 2019
LAHORE: Fast bowler Wahab Riaz spoke to media here on Tuesday, a day after being included in Pakistan’s final 15-member squad for the ICC Cricket World Cup 2019.
Wahab Riaz told reporters who would bring the aggression he is known for to the side. “Pakistan as a team needs aggression. We have seen that there is batting paradise, as a bowler, if you are not aggressive the batsman will dominate you.”
Wahab Riaz was included in Pakistan’s World Cup squad along with Mohammad Amir and Asif Ali. The trio replaced Faheem Ashraf, Junaid Khan and Abid Ali. Chief selector Inzamam-ul-Haq said Wahab had been included in the squad because of his experience and ability to reverse swing.
Riaz stressed that in the present conditions in England, variations especially yokers were required in the death overs. “The team that does reverse swing well is going to have an advantage,” he added.
The left-arm seamer spoke about not being part of the national team and how that experience had left him disheartened.
“There are pressures and expectations. I was out of the team for the last two years and worked hard. I will try to fulfil everyone’s expectations.”
Wahab Riaz said despite not being included in the 23-member initial squad, he was prepared for the World Cup as it was his father’s wish that he plays in the tournament.
“After not being selected for the 23-member squad I would dream about being included. About 8-10 days ago I had a dream that Inzamam was telling me I was going to play the World Cup and this was my last chance. Then I got the call from him that I had been included in the squad.”
The bowler said he would try to prove to coach Mickey Arthur that he was a match winner as he had been critical on this. “I will try to prove in this World Cup that what was said is not true and I can win matches. As a coach, it is his duty to get results and select players who can win matches. I want to be on that list and have gotten an opportunity after two years.”
