The’slow’ Manuka Oval surface is criticized by Muhammad Hafeez.

Muhammad Hafeez, Pakistan’s director of cricket, recently voiced his disapproval of the surface used for the Prime Minister’s XI vs. Pakistan warm-up match prior to the Test series against Australia.

Muhammad Hafeez, however, made it clear that he did not like the surface that was prepared in Canberra for the practice match prior to the first Test, saying that although the squad was all enthused about the challenge, they were dissatisfied with the preparations that had been made.

“A visiting team could never have played on a slower pitch in Australia than that one.” According to ESPN cricinfo, Muhammad Hafeez stated, “As a team, we are really happy with our preparations because we ticked most of the boxes.”

There was no use in bringing up the pitch’s unsatisfactoriness and bringing it up with Cricket Australia when everyone knew it already. We were somewhat disappointed because we hadn’t anticipated these types of arrangements. It may be a tactical move, but we’re prepared. We’re well prepared for the challenges ahead; we’re not using it as an excuse,” he continued.

It comes as no surprise to me that Shan became captain. Muhammad Hafeez

There were other benefits to be gained from the warm-up game as well, even if a number of factors, including the surface and the weather, kept them from winning. He praised Shan Masood’s performance, notching 201 runs without losing in the opening inning and playing up to his captain’s role. Hafeez was taken aback.

“It doesn’t surprise me in the slightest that Shan became captain; he was always prepared for this kind of responsibility, and it shows when you have this kind of chance. In addition to being a fantastic player, he leads the squad and gets along well with all of the players. Because of his background as a captain and the lessons he’s learned over the years, particularly during his brief stint playing county cricket, his managerial abilities have become even more apparent. The fact that this is a self-assured group and that Shan is doing a great job in his capacity is what matters, he said.

It is noteworthy that Pakistan will eventually begin their three-game Test series against Australia following the conclusion of the warm-up match. On December 14, the first test will take place at Perth’s Optus Stadium. Pakistan will be looking to start the 2019 World Test Championship cycle (WTC) well after their disappointing performances in the ODI World Cup 2023.