Daruba: Fast bowler Mohammad Abbas has urged the International Cricket Council (ICC) to schedule more Test matches for Pakistan, stressing that regular red-ball cricket is essential for the team’s growth and stability.
The opening day of the first Test against the West Indies at the Brian Lara Cricket Academy was heavily affected by the weather, with rain disrupting the first session and poor light bringing the game to an early end in the final session.
Gavem Hodge’s unbeaten 83 and Shai Hope’s 39 combined for 194-3 in 67 overs.
Speaking after the opening day’s match, Abbas reiterated his long-held belief that Pakistan needed a busy Test calendar to improve their performance in the longest format.
“To be honest, you are right. I agree with you. I have already said and I am asking the ICC to give us more Tests,” Abbas said.
The veteran right-arm fast bowler explained that long gaps between Test series make it difficult for players to maintain rhythm and adapt to the demands of red-ball cricket.
“If you play two or three Tests and you have to wait six months to play another two or three, it’s difficult to adjust to the conditions. By the time you get used to it, the series is almost over. If we play more Test cricket, we will do better,” he added.
Mirroring Pakistan’s bowling performance, Abbas said the visitors aimed to build pressure by taking quick wickets, but admitted rain interruptions broke their momentum after they gained the upper hand.
“Our plan was to take quick wickets. We had a lead at one stage but the rain disrupted our momentum,” he said.
Abbas also praised Hodge for his solid innings, admitting that Pakistan created chances but could not convert their chances.
“We played well in patches but credit also goes to Hodge. He batted very well and was lucky no close chances went our way,” he concluded.