LAHORE, Oct 19: Pakistan’s nationwide hunt for fast bowlers to tame England in their forthcoming home series has unearthed a six foot six inch (1.98 metre) fast bowler, coach Bob Woolmer said on Wednesday.

“Mohammad Shafiq is an exciting talent and although he is very raw with his height he can help our batsmen prepare for tall England fast bowlers like Steve Harmison,” he said.

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) launched the hunt for pacers in 10 cities across the country and picked up six fast bowlers for the national camp for the upcoming England series.

The 23-year-old Shafiq caught Woolmer’s eye and was instantly summoned for the camp by Pakistan’s English coach.

“I am delighted and even though I may not feature in the matches against England I was encouraged by Woolmer’s words,” said Shafiq, who wants to emulate his idol, former Pakistan left arm pacer Wasim Akram.

—AFP