SYDNEY: Australian test opener Simon
Katich believes that 'flamboyant' Shahid Afridi would bring positive changes in
the Pakistan squad, and is expecting an improved performance from his team when
the two sides clash in the two match test series in England later this
month.
Pakistan has never beaten Australia in a test match since
1995, and the Kangaroos humiliated them with a 3-0 white wash during the
January-February tour, however, Katich believes that as a captain Afridi has the
ability to energise the 'young' squad.
"When he took over in the
one-day series they had a bit more direction on the field, with him in charge,"
Katich said.
"They put in some good performances after that, even if
they didn't win the games they were certainly more competitive. He'll bring an
energy and enthusiasm to the job because that's the sort of player that he is. I
think they've probably chosen wisely there," he added.
Katich also
pointed out that the English conditions would suit Pakistan better than the hard
Australian pitches.
"Conditions here will probably suit them better
than Australian conditions, given that they've got a couple of good spinners in
Danish Kaneria and Saeed Ajmal," the left-hand opener said.
"The
wickets here generally this time of year, if the weather stays dry, they will
spin. They will prefer the wickets here than in Australia, where the wickets
didn't turn a huge amount. Some of their fast bowlers will as well, given that
there's probably a bit more swing in England," Katich added.
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