ISLAMABAD: Former captain Ramiz Raja has lauded the performance of Mohammad Hafeez against Sri Lanka, saying that the one-down batsman played like a champion throughout the ongoing ODI series.

“Hafeez seems to be well aware of his responsibilities and is batting very well,” said Ramiz in his post-match analysis. “Hafeez at No. 3 plays spin quite efficiently and effectively and is piling up good scores.”

It is pertinent to mention that Hafeez scored 236 runs in the first four One-day Internationals averaging 59, besides taking six wickets in the first two matches after he was banned by the ICC over suspected bowling action for one year.

Ramiz also advocated the inclusion of Umar Akmal for ODIs, saying the youngster was an impact player who had immense talent but added he was a bit immature at the same time.

He hailed the overall performance of the national side and insisted that Pakistan should remain consistent in their performances in order to compete with the top cricketing nations. The former captain further said it was good to see that Pakistan’s bowling attack has also been strengthened due to good wicket-taking bowlers in the ranks.

Published in Dawn, July 24th, 2015

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