‘Finding the right technique is key’

Aamer Sohail, former Pakistan captain, and opener, is currently in Bangladesh as part of the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) commentary panel. Sohail, who formed one of the most destructive opening pairs with Saeed Anwar, talked about formulas to shine as an opener and also many other topics during an exclusive interview with The Daily Star's Mazhar Uddin in Chattogram. The excerpts of the interview are given below:

The Daily Star (DS): Any fond memories of Bangladesh from your playing days?

Aamer Sohail (AS): I think it was in 1993 when I came here for the first time. We played a few games here before traveling to New Zealand. I remember Bangladesh toured Pakistan in 1985 when I made a few friends, including Faruk Ahmed, who was [Bangladesh Cricket Board] chief selector. We played here during the Champions Trophy [in 1998], so there are a few great memories.

DS: People from Bangladesh compare BPL with the Pakistan Super League (PSL) which earned a lot of popularity despite being launched after BPL. Your take on that?

AS: You cannot compare the two as a number of leagues take place during BPL. At times, the viewership of BPL suffers due to this reason. But when I talk to my friends, they actually follow BPL. PSL has earned more popularity because of its timing as not many events happen at that time.

DS: Bangladesh have not been able to transform into a strong Test unit yet. What do you think is the reason?

AS: Previously, Bangladesh did not have quality fast bowlers. But now there are a number of good fast bowlers and Bangladesh always had good spinners. The only thing Bangladesh have not mastered yet is the art of winning Tests which require picking up 20 wickets and scoring runs.

DS: As a former opening batter, what would you suggest to Bangladeshi batters to help them adapt across three formats?

AS: It's very simple, you have to have very good technique and if you want to be successful in all formats, you must learn to maneuver the length. You have to find a technical way to convert good deliveries into scoring options. If a player learns that without taking too many risks, he will succeed. 

DS: World cricket still cherishes the great chemistry you had with Saeed Anwar. What is the secret behind forming such a good opening pair?

AS: Understanding your partner is very important. At times, Saeed came to me and said that I have to face this bowler. I did the same as well. You have to discuss strategies and talk about opponent bowlers as to how to deal with them. It's all about being open and honest.

DS: Aside from the seniors like Shakib Al Hasan, Mushfiqur Rahim, Tamim Iqbal, and Mahmudullah Riyad, which other cricketers have impressed you?

AS: Taskin Ahmed has improved a lot. Another one is Afif Hossain, and the way he plays, I think he can be the one for the future if nurtured properly. I think it's up to the player to be hungry enough to become one of the best players in world cricket. The other thing is the management and their way of handling their assets. They need to keep on reminding players of their potential and also keep on guiding them. Management has to become friends with the players rather than asserting their authority all the time.

DS: You were instrumental in Pakistan's 1992 World Cup triumph. Bangladesh are yet to win a major title. What mindset is required to win a trophy?

AS: It's like a journey. When you are at the highest level, the initial challenge is not to lose. You will lose a few and then draw one -- in case of Tests. Then there will be an opportunity to push for a win. And then you need to make winning a habit. I think Bangladesh were a very good side in 2012. But they got desperate. Another thing is that Bangladesh cricket heavily relies on a few players. To win major tournaments, it is very important to know how to play as a team.