NEW DELHI: Pakistan's bowling coach, Morne Morkel, on Wednesday expressed his concern over the absence of injured pacer Naseem Shah, acknowledging it as a significant setback. Nevertheless, he remained hopeful that another bowler would rise to the occasion during the crucial Asia Cup Super Four match against Sri Lanka, which is a must-win encounter for Pakistan.
Naseem, who sustained a right shoulder injury during the match against India, was officially ruled out of the tournament on Wednesday. As a replacement, Zaman Khan has been drafted into the squad.
Both Pakistan and Sri Lanka find themselves level on two points as they head into this virtual knockout match scheduled for Thursday in Colombo. The victor of this contest will earn the opportunity to face India in the final, set to take place on September 17.
"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.
Morkel said losing to India was very disappointing but stressed that the team will come back stronger from the debacle.
After amassing 356 for two, India had bowled out Pakistan for 128 to register a record 228-run victory.
"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.
"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," said Morkel.
The former South African fast bowler hoped that Pakistan spinners would lift their game against Sri Lanka.
"The conditions are spin friendly and I think our spinners are working really hard at the moment. They will be the first to put up their hands when it is needed. They are all match-winners and experienced players. They know how to make comebacks," he added.
(With PTI inputs)
