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Abdur Razzaq

Abdur Razzaq Photo Copyright AFP

When Pakistani cricket goes through a difficult phase, the selectors usually pull a rabbit out of the hat in the shape of a highly talented youngster. Abdur Razzaq was one such inspirational find. Razzaq made his debut at the age of 17 and has now become a key part of the Pakistani side.

Razzaq is well built young lad and can hold his place in the side either as a bowler or as a batsman. When he begins his run up to the bowling crease, the poise and balance he has are a joy to watch. Razzaq bowls nippy medium pacers with a classical action. He delivers the ball at the top of his run with a very straight, high arm action. Wasim Akram once described Razzaq's action as being "perfect". That is a high compliment, coming from one of the greatest fast bowlers ever. Razzaq's strength is his consistency. Never striving for excessive pace, Razzaq hits the seam almost every ball and troubles batsmen with movement off the pitch. He is well on the way to mastering the art of reverse swing, and has a good yorker in his armoury.

With every innings he plays Razzaq displays new facets of his batting abilities. Often sent in as a pinch hitter, Razzaq has shown the ability to free his arms and smash the bowling around. His approach to bowling, like batting, is uncomplicated. When the ball is up for the drive, he hits cleanly through the line and is not afraid to take the aerial route. When the ball is pitched short, Razzaq cuts and pulls with ease, showing both raw power and good timing. Added to his abilities as a pinch hitter, Razzaq has the ability to bat steadily, not giving anything away. Razzaq can block out one end and give the bowlers no chance.

Razzaq is the kind of player that gives the Pakistan team the balance they need so badly. Anything from tight bowling to pinch hitting to playing a long innings is well within Razzaq's capabilities. Another great all-rounder in the making...