Now that the verdict is out on Asif and Shoaib, what options does Pakistan have in the bowling department. Of course whoever play we would have Razzaq, Afridi, Malik and Hafeez as back up. Out of those Razzaq is the only one who can win matches with the ball on occasions. He use to be good but has been reduced to a support bowler in recent years. The other three are essentially another bowling option for the skipper, not really threatening. Let’s discuss the choice we have in the bowling department.
Shabbir’s ban would be lifted in December, Sami is being recalled and Rao, Rana, Gul, Shahid Nazir, Arafat are all on the cards.
Rana has had a couple of “off” series, but so did Akmal. He performed credibly before getting injured, at least in ODI’s he was exceptionally good and InshAllah would be back to normal in the Windies visit.
Rao is not a strike bowler, he could play the role of back up to a degree but he is not a spearhead and the sooner PCB’s realizes it the better it is for them. He just doesn’t have it in him to be able to stop good oppositions. He has limited capability and I don’t think anything could be changed about that. He bowls gentle medium pace at a half way decent line and length and that’s about it.
Umur Gul should be persisted with; he has shown glimpses of brilliance on and off. He would need someone to carry the load with him, he certainly is able to run through sides as he demonstrated in that one test against India, but at this time he would need support from the other side. Rana, if in form could be the ideal partner.
Sami has been given numerous chances and despite showing a lot of potential he has never materialized as a match winner for Pakistan in either form of the game. He has the talent, everyone already knows that. He is a hard worker, pretty good in the field, can block one end and play a supporting role but it’s his job as the bowler in which he fails. Personally I would take him over Rao though just due to his sheer speed. He would be a better first change bowler then Rao.
Arafat has never really been given a fair run to display his potential. He has always been given one or two games here or there or served up an SOS when someone get’s injured or someone decided to miss a tour or in the last instance called back due to a drug charge. He has displayed his potential in county cricket and emerged as a handy all rounder.
Shabbir Ahmad would be tested on his return. He was a fantastic test bowler before the ban but wasn’t able to stamp his authority in the shorter version of the game. Only time will tell if he can produce the goods with a modified bowling action.
Shahid Nazir is also a gentle medium pacer, not been given enough chances but he has never really shown anything extra ordinary. He is a decent bowler, not spearhead material (just like Rao) but could be a useful bowler if the pitches suit him. He is more like Aaqib Javed, maybe not as consistent as Aaqib with his line and those lovely outswingers but close enough.
Mohd Sami 
all worries will be laid to rest :halo: