In an exclusive interview with PakPassion, former Pakistan fast bowler Samiullah Niazi joins Saj to discuss the challenges facing Pakistan's fast bowling attack and domestic cricket. He highlights how injuries have impacted his international career despite strong domestic performances and stresses the decline in fast bowling standards.

By Saj Sadiq (January 15, 2025)

He urges young bowlers to prioritize red-ball cricket over T20 leagues and advocates for better fitness regimes to prevent injuries. He also calls for improvements in domestic structures to produce world-class talent and shares his thoughts on emerging pacers like Akif Javed, emphasizing the importance of mentorship and technical guidance for the next generation of fast bowlers.

Main topics covered in this interview:

Samiullah Niazi's role as a coach in the PCB: Discusses his approach as a coach with the PCB, focusing on mentoring young fast bowlers and developing Pakistan’s future cricketing talent.

Reasons behind his limited international appearances: Reflects on his career, shares the factors including injuries and missed opportunities, that limited his appearances for Pakistan despite strong domestic performances.

The lack of quality players in domestic cricket: Addresses the systemic issues within Pakistan's domestic cricket structure, explaining why quality players are harder to find and the impact on the national team.

The trend of fast bowlers prioritizing league cricket over traditional formats: He critiques the growing trend of fast bowlers focusing more on T20 leagues and the consequences it has on their red-ball skills and overall development.

Factors contributing to the declining standard of Pakistan cricket: Shares his perspective on the challenges facing Pakistan cricket, including lack of infrastructure, management issues, and the waning focus on traditional formats.

The diminishing value of red-ball cricket among fast bowlers: Discusses why many fast bowlers in Pakistan overlook the importance of red-ball cricket and the long-term impact on their careers and the team.

Emerging pacers who could make an impact on Pakistan cricket: Identifies and discusses the potential of young pacers like Akif Javed, who could shape the future of Pakistan's fast-bowling attack.

The decline of Test cricket in Pakistan: Talks about the diminishing importance of Test cricket in Pakistan and suggests ways to revive its popularity and competitiveness in the country.

Watch the full interview here:

https://youtu.be/wKiJHGj1H0Q