Pakistan have backed Ireland's bid for Test status after a thrilling ODI series. Pakistan earlier supported Bangladesh in winning Test status and have been working to get a prominent place for Afghanistan in international cricket.
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Ireland have beaten Pakistan and England in past World Cups (Photo: AFP)[/caption]
Pakistan Test and ODI captain Misbah-ul-Haq said that it is up to the ICC to grant Test status to any side, but Ireland are a better team now and the council should consider their request.
Pakistan had to struggle against Ireland in the recently concluded ODI series, and even came to the brink of defeat in the second match.
“We had to put in all our efforts to win the series. Ireland’s batting line-up is strong and they can perform anywhere in the world,” Misbah said. “As for bowling, they may need to struggle abroad, but they have improved a lot.”
The first ODI between the two ended in a draw after a riveting chase by the hosts. Ireland looked set to lift the series as theycame very close to winning the second ODI when Pakistan’s half of the team were sent packing on just 60, while chasing a target of 230 runs. Kamran Akmal and Wahab Riaz added 93 runs for the eighth wicket, shattering Ireland’s dreams.
Ireland, who hold ODI status, beat Pakistan and England in the past in two World Cups and are considered among better associate teams. In contrast to other emerging teams, Ireland’s cricketers have got experience of playing with seasoned players in English County circuit.
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Ireland have beaten Pakistan and England in past World Cups (Photo: AFP)[/caption]Pakistan Test and ODI captain Misbah-ul-Haq said that it is up to the ICC to grant Test status to any side, but Ireland are a better team now and the council should consider their request.
Pakistan had to struggle against Ireland in the recently concluded ODI series, and even came to the brink of defeat in the second match.
“We had to put in all our efforts to win the series. Ireland’s batting line-up is strong and they can perform anywhere in the world,” Misbah said. “As for bowling, they may need to struggle abroad, but they have improved a lot.”
The first ODI between the two ended in a draw after a riveting chase by the hosts. Ireland looked set to lift the series as theycame very close to winning the second ODI when Pakistan’s half of the team were sent packing on just 60, while chasing a target of 230 runs. Kamran Akmal and Wahab Riaz added 93 runs for the eighth wicket, shattering Ireland’s dreams.
Ireland, who hold ODI status, beat Pakistan and England in the past in two World Cups and are considered among better associate teams. In contrast to other emerging teams, Ireland’s cricketers have got experience of playing with seasoned players in English County circuit.
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