Aaqib sees bright prospect for upcoming pacers

Ex-Pakistani pacer Aaqib Javed had been to Bangladesh recently. During the 3rd round of GrameenPhone Pacer Hunt camp at BKSP, he was helping out the young pacers. He talked about different cricketing issues in a chat session. Q: Are you satisfied with the bowlers’ performance in the camp? Aaqib: It will not do if I become satisfied so easily. But

they are good enough.

Q: Are you optimistic about them?

Aaqib: If hope vanishes, nothing can be done. Obviously I am hopeful but lot depends on the cooperation of the local coaches. After my departure, the boys will be left under their supervision. One month later, they will inform me about their condition or send me video footages, and then I would give them essential guidance.

Q: How long will it take to shape them upto a satisfactory level?

Aaqib: At least 2 to 3 months. One thing has to be remembered, a national team should have at least 8-10 bowlers who can bowl at a speed of 85 miles per hour to bring twists in matches. And I am quite hopeful about Bangladeshi pacers.

Q: Would it have been better, if you got more time?

Aaqib: I was discussing this matter with Sujan (Khaled Mahmud). I may be able to come here three to four times each year. But the main planning should be centered around the local coaches; it doesn’t have any alternative. I may give advice, but they are to implement my ideas. You must have trust in your local coaches. It is more important to develop them. Besides it is not always right to depend on foreign coaches.

Q: Any suggestion for Bangladesh Cricket Board?

Aaqib: I have already mentioned the steps to be taken to shape up the fast bowlers. Other than that, I feel that it would be better if you divide the whole country into six different Cricket Zones or academies. By doing this, they will able to hunt for cricket talents from remote areas. Those who will perform well at the regional level may qualify for the national academy.

Q: You just told that a team should not become dependant on foreign coach. What about Pakistan?

Aaqib: I did not mean it in Bangladesh's context only. This statement is for all the South Asian countries who are running after foreign coaches. A foreign coach might not stay longer than three years. The local coaches however, can learn techniques from them. And so, foreign coaching will not be required any more.

Q: Under your coaching and guidance, Pakistan won Under-15 Championship trophy in 2002 and Under-19 in 2004. Last January you were chosen as the chief of Pakistan National Academy. Like Venkatesh Prasad did, would you also accept an offer to be the bowling coach of Pakistan national team?

Aaqib: Of course. Anything for Pakistan team!

Q: What is your opinion about Woolmer’s death?

Aaqib: It is a natural death.

Q: And what about team Pakistan’s troubles in the World Cup?

Aaqib: It should not have happened.

Q: How have you reacted to Pakistan’s loss to Ireland?

Aaqib: Very shameful, disgusting and inexcusable.