Michael Atherton Heaps Praise on Budding Pakistani Star

Former England international Michael Atherton has touted budding all-rounder Aamer Jamal as the next big thing in Pakistan cricket. The cricketer-turned-commentator made his feelings known during the second Test match between Pakistan and England in Multan after Jamal added 37 valuable runs to Pakistan’s final tally of 366 in the first innings.

“It was a tough first Test match for Pakistan, but you find out about players in difficult games when you are up against it. I thought Aamer Jamal definitely looked like a cricketer you want to persevere with both bat and ball,” the 56-year-old said.

“He came running in during England’s 800 – not easy for any of the bowlers, but he kept coming and showed some resilience and character in that second innings with the bat as well. So, definitely, a cricketer to persevere with,” Atherton concluded.

The Englishman’s comments come after a difficult period for Pakistan cricket as it desperately searches for players that can become keystones in the ever-changing playing XI.

The 28-year-old made an immediate name for himself in Test cricket when he debuted for Pakistan against Australia, mirroring a feat achieved only by Imran Khan by scoring a fifty and taking a fifer in the third match of the series.

Jamal seems to have completely earned the trust of the selectors after giving his all during the first Test against England as well, where he finished with a solitary wicket for 126 but remained not out in the second innings for a defiant 55. For his exploits, he was entrusted to be the sole pace bowler in the second Test as Pakistan turned to spin, showcasing his growing importance to the team.

Pakistan will have to be careful over his work rate though to avoid injuries, which have plagued several promising careers like Naseem Shah, Shaheen Afridi, and Ihsanullah.