Openers will hold the key: Sohail

One of Pakistan’s finest opening batsmen and current chief selector Aamer Sohail feels this World cup will heavily rely on openers and it will be challenging for them to perform under new rules on fast and bouncy pitches of Australia and New Zealand.

One of the heroes of Pakistan’s 1992 title triumph, Sohail, who had scored 326 runs in 10 matches, said that good starts will be crucial for any team’s success in World Cup.

“I think this WC will heavily rely on openers as they have to set the tone. It is not going to be easy for them on fast and bouncy pitches of Australia and New Zealand and they have to face two new balls under the new rules. It will be very challenging for batters,” Sohail told PTI Bhasha in an interview from Karachi.

When asked which team has the best opening combination in the tournament, Sohail named Australia and South Africa.

“Australia and South Africa have best opening pairs and they are in form as well,” he added.

Dangerous David Warner and Aaron Finch will open for Australia, while South Africa will rely on Hashim Amla and Quinton De Cock to open the innings.

Sohail, who alongwith Saeed Anwar formed one of the best opening combinations that Pakistan has ever had, also feels that it will be difficult for subcontinent teams to make it to the last four this time.

“I feel that Australia, New Zealand and South Africa will be top contenders for the semifinal while fourth team could be England. It will be tough for sub continent teams to reach last four this time considering the current form, bowling attack and conditions. India can make it provided their bowling clicks,” he said.