Mohammad Abbas Feels Pakistan Bowlers Were Unlucky on Day One in Mirpur

Pakistan pacer Mohammad Abbas believes the team played well on the first day of the Mirpur test, however, the bowlers remained a bit unlucky in picking wickets. He is backing the team to make a strong comeback on the second day, as Pakistan still have a chance to restrict Bangladesh under 350.

Speaking to the media after the end of the first day, right-arm pacer Abbas said he would not describe it as a frustrating day for Pakistan’s bowlers.

He said the players performed really well during certain phases of the game and added that the team is eager to finish Bangladesh’s innings quickly once the new ball is available.

"I don't think so. It was a frustrating day. We worked really hard and, at some points, we didn't bowl well, but at other stages we bowled really well and were a little unlucky as well," said Mohammad Abbas while talking to the reporters.

"There were plenty of play-and-miss moments throughout the day. I think it was a very good cricketing pitch and we have the new ball in our hands. We will come back tomorrow, take early wickets and try to finish the job as soon as possible," added Mohammad Abbas.

Abbas then discussed the nature of the Mirpur surface, describing it as a very dry pitch underneath the grass.

"There is grass on the pitch, but underneath it is very dry. We have played enough cricket to understand that we need to work really hard. The weather is also very hot, but I still think it is a very good cricketing pitch." said Pakistan pacer Mohammad Abbas.

Abbas then defended Noman Ali, who struggled with the ball in today’s match. He said such spells often happen when bowlers try to put in extra effort, but they are only temporary.

"It is not like there was frustration among the bowlers or spinners. If I talk about myself, I bowled two no-balls. That can happen when you are putting in extra effort. They were very close no-balls and, of course, they should not have happened," said Mohammad Abbas.

"It was a hard day. I had bowled 16 overs by tea because the team needed me, which is why I bowled such a long spell.” added Mohammad Abbas.

"The bowling was good overall, but there were a few no-balls. There were a lot of play-and-miss moments and, if luck had been on our side, the scenario could have been different." concluded Mohammad Abbas.