Former Pakistan cricketer Urooj Mumtaz linked the decline of Pakistan’s fast bowling to batting-friendly pitches and called for better domestic conditions for pacers.
During a discussion with former England captain Michael Atherton, Mumtaz said flat pitches had reduced assistance for fast bowlers.
She also linked that trend to Babar Azam’s tenure as captain. Mumtaz said pitches with less grass became more common during that era.
According to her, such surfaces limit chances for young pacers to learn movement, control and long-spell bowling. Mumtaz also cited concerns around several established Pakistan fast bowlers.
She referred to Shaheen Shah Afridi’s reduced impact after injuries. She also raised concerns about Naseem Shah’s progress and Haris Rauf’s pace.
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Mumtaz said Pakistan should improve pitch preparation at first-class level. She argued that domestic wickets should offer a fair contest between bat and ball.
Her comments focused on how better conditions could help Pakistan build a stronger fast-bowling pipeline.