Pak vs Aus: Ramiz Raja sees lack of ‘intent and technique' behind Perth failure

"Blown away in just 31 overs in the second knock was disappointing," says former PCB chairman

Web Desk

December 17, 2023

Australia’s Mitchell Starc (3rd R) reacts after taking the wicket of Pakistan’s Abdullah Shafique (L) on day four of the first Test cricket match between Australia and Pakistan in Perth on December 17, 2023. — AFP

Reacting to Pakistan’s humiliating defeat at the hands of Australia in the opening Test in Perth, former Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman Ramiz Raja Sunday said that intent and technique were both missing from our team’s “resistance menu”.

Australia dismissed a rattled Pakistan for just 89 to post a thumping 360-run win in the opening Test.

Taking to X — formerly known as Twitter — Raja, who served the PCB for almost two years, said: “Intent and technique were both missing from Pak’s ‘resistance menu’. Blown away in just 31overs in the second knock was disappointing. Aussies were on another level…”

Pakistani batters failed miserably during the second innings and were all out in just 30.2 overs.

It must be noted that during their chase of a 450-run target, Pakistan were dismissed for a mere 89 runs, Saud Shakeel top-scored for the dismantled visitors’ side with 24 runs.

Pakistan's improbable attempt to claim their first Test win in Australia since 1995 was shattered by the Nathon Lyon and the home team's formidable pace attack, swiftly concluding the game within four days.

Not a single batter could stay against the fierce Australian pace attack consisting of Mitchell Starc, Pat Cummins, and Josh Hazlewood.

In pursuit of 450 for victory, the visitors surrendered meekly with Lyon claiming 2-18. Starc and Hazlewood also secured three wickets each.

Australia declared on the fourth day at 233-5 after Pakistan were dismissed for 271 in their first innings, responding to the hosts' 487.

Captain Cummins made the decision after opener Usman Khawaja departed for a resilient 90 on a worsening pitch, following a 126-run partnership with Mitchell Marsh.

Marsh remained unbeaten at 63 as Pakistan managed to dismiss Steve Smith and Travis Head early in the day, momentarily sparking hope that quickly faded away.