Former Pakistan Head Coach and Australian pace-bowler Geoff Lawson engages in a comprehensive discussion with Saj Sadiq for PakPassion covering a spectrum of topics that include the highs and lows of Pakistan's performance in the 1st Test in Perth, the standout display by Shaheen Shah Afridi, the batting efforts of the team and reflections on impressive debuts by Aamer Jamal and Khurram Shahzad. The interview also explores the Mohammad Rizwan versus Sarfaraz Ahmed debate, Shan Masood's debut as Test captain, concerns over Babar Azam's run rate in Perth and Lawson's insights on whether Mohammad Hafeez is the right fit to lead Pakistan’s coaching team. Lawson shares his experiences from his coaching stint in Pakistan earlier in the year his collaboration with Under 19 pacer Mohammad Zeeshan and assesses Pakistan's prospects at Melbourne and Sydney. The interview concludes with Lawson expressing his hopes for future collaboration with the PCB.
Renowned Cricket journalist Mirza Iqbal Baig speaks with Saj for PakPassion about whether Babar Azam was pushed to resign as skipper or did he walk away himself, the powerful lobby which has been out to get Babar Azam, Zaka Ashraf's continued struggles to manage PCB's affairs in an orderly way, how Mickey Arthur and Grant Bradburn were given the cold shoulder by Zaka Ashraf at their meeting in Lahore, PCB in turmoil after controversy after controversy, how political interference is damaging Pakistan cricket and why he feels that Babar Azam should not be solely blamed for Pakistan's World Cup performance and the PCB has to take their fair share of responsibility also.
Saj in his latest video comment on the Pakistan v New Zealand game which has seen Babar Azam's men get a new lease of life at the ICC World Cup 2023:
In summary:
Was it right to play 4 pacers? Mohammad Wasim jr blossoming and improving with each match. Rachin Ravindra and Kane Williamson's brilliance. Incredible hitting by Fakhar Zaman and what he gives the Pakistan team. Should Fakhar Zaman have played earlier in the tournament if they could risk him? Pakistan controlled the run-chase when it came to DLS. The unpredictability of Pakistan cricket. Can Pakistan qualify for the semi-finals?
In a high-octane run-fest at the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023 in Bengaluru, Pakistan emerged victorious through the DLS method against New Zealand in a rain-affected match that left viewers in awe. Fakhar Zaman and their skipper, Babar Azam, displayed an exceptional showcase of skill, composure, and resilience, ultimately securing two crucial points for their team.
Saj chats with former player, coach and current television commentator about whether the World Cup has caught the imagination of the public, England's struggles in the tournament, Pakistan's timid approach and style of cricket at the World Cup, former players criticism of Pakistani players, Visa issues for Pakistani fans, which of New Zealand, Australia or South Africa can stop India and the toughest jobs in cricket.