Pakistan have found a ‘Tagda’ bowler in Naseem Shah, says Shoaib Akhtar

Akhtar had always been a competitive character both on and off the field and was known for his sheer pace and aggression. With Naseem Shah giving everyone hope of replicating Akhtar, the man himself believes that Shah's future is really bright if he keeps his focus on playing tough and competitive cricket for Pakistan.

"As a bowler, I can say that Pakistan have found a solid fast bowler," Akhtar said on his YouTube channel.

Akhtar compared the bowling of Naseem with that of Mohammad Amir when he had burst on to the international scene as a 17-year-old back in 2009.

"What I really like about Naseem Shah is that he understands how to bowl. To know how to bowl at this young age is amazing and it is inbuilt in some - this is same as Mohammad Amir when he came on to the scene in 2009," he asserted.

The modern game has gone more in batsman’s favour and conditions especially, in Australia, have become batting-friendly with flatter pitches over the years. But Akhtar believes that even though the bowlers might get hit, they should not lose courage and how they make their comeback from being hit is what defines them as a good or a great bowler.

"I want to see a fast bowler who has a strong character and I know that every fast bowler gets hit about in Australia but when you fight it out, you are also appreciated there," Akhtar said.

Naseem’s mother sadly passed away and could not see her child in Pakistan colours but Naseem decided to stay on and play for his country, something which Akhtar was very proud about. He compared Naseem’s maturity to that of Virat Kohli because even Kohli continued to bat in the Ranji Trophy game a day after his father’s death. Akhtar believes that such decisions show the mental toughness of these players and he is hopeful that Naseem will have a fantastic Test series versus Australia.

"We have to wait and then see how he responds when he is put under pressure, but I really wish him the best of luck. He has already shown a lot of courage by staying back despite the demise of his mother," he concluded.