Batting still a concern for Pakistan: chief selector Qasim

Despite Pakistan scoring an emphatic six-wicket victory over South Africa in a warm-up game, chief selector Iqbal Qasim still has concerns about the team's fragile batting line-up with the ICC Champions Trophy due to start this week.
"We won convincingly against South Africa in the warm-up game but I would be lying if I say I don't have concerns about the batting line-up given our recent performances," said Qasim.
"It is true that our batting might look short of experience but in reality the batting combination being tried out in the lead up matches is pretty experienced. The presence of Imran Farhat, Mohammad Hafeez, Misbah, Shoaib Malik and Kamran Akmal in the middle order is a big plus for the team," he said.

The national selectors dropped seniors Younis Khan and Shahid Afridi for the Champions Trophy in a major decision citing their recent poor form and have constantly ignored experienced all-rounder Abdul Razzaq since the T20 World Cup held last year in September.
Qasim, however, put his trust and confidence in skipper Misbah-ul-Haq's batting and said his renewed approach spells a good sign for the team.
"I see Misbah as the key to shouldering batting responsibility," said Qasim, a former Test spinner.
"He has to not only lead the team sensibly but also he is batting at a crucial number five position where he has to accelerate when necessary, bat out overs where required and also give the finishing touch to the innings in final overs.

"His present batting form is a good omen for the team. If a captain is in good form, it is always good for the team because he can lead by example and instill confidence in others. This rubs off on the other players, especially the younger ones," he added.