Pakistan's new hero Abbas reveals secret to his success

Pakistan fast bowler Mohammad Abbas in action (Photo by Ryan Lim)

Abu Dhabi - Abbas' 10 wickets in the second Test helped Pakistan register a 373-run win over Australia and clinch the series 1-0

By Ashwani Kumar

Published: Fri 19 Oct 2018, 10:08 PM

Last updated: Sat 20 Oct 2018, 12:17 AM

On spin friendly wickets in the UAE, Australia were stunned by Pakistan fast bowler Mohammad Abbas' relentless accuracy and his ability to get reverse swing.
Abbas' 10 wickets in the second Test helped Pakistan register a 373-run win over Australia and clinch the series 1-0.

I see a new number 1 Test bowler coming... Mohammad Abbas
- Dale Steyn (@DaleSteyn62) October 19, 2018

Like his idol Glenn McGrath, Abbas bowled consistent line and length to disturb batsmen on slow wickets.
The 28-year-old bowler mostly targeted the stumps with a nagging line that unsettled batsmen.
And Abbas said the rich haul was the result of execution of plans.
"We work as a team. Before every match day, we have meeting with bowling coach Azhar Mahmood. He gives a plan elaborating on the strengths and weakness of the batsman. I always try to bowl accordingly, adapting to the conditions. If I am not getting wickets, I try to plug the flow of runs," he said.

I am only watching & I reckon @Mohmmadabbas111 has had me out 10 times already this morning .... Incredible bowler in all conditions .... #PAKvAUS
- Michael Vaughan (@MichaelVaughan) October 19, 2018

And once the team meeting is over, Abbas is back in his room analysing videos of batsmen and studying their weaknesses.
"I watch videos to familiarise with the batsman's playing pattern. I observe and try to identify the weak area. Then I look at ways to trouble the batsman and set him up to get his wicket," he said.

Congratulations to Team Pakistan and the skipper @SarfarazA_ great achievement boys..A special Mubarak to an accurate and economical "Abbas" for bowling an unbelievable spell. He's a Star in making #PakistanZindabad #PakvsAust
- Waqar Younis (@waqyounis99) October 19, 2018

On Friday, Abbas was named player of the match and player of the series. He was the player of the series during tour of England too.

Faced him last month with storm Ali up his backside....lasted 1 ball first innings and somehow survived the huge LBW shout 1st ball in the 2nd innings!! Had me on toast #unplayable https://t.co/R2ZgipHxrb
- Paul Collingwood (@Colly622) October 17, 2018

"I was eager to repeat my performances from England series. I am very happy. I am working hard to continue this form," Abbas said.
ashwani@khaleejtimes.com