Naseem Shah reveals having communication barrier with foreign coaches

Communication is pivotal in every facet of life, including cricket. Behind the brilliant on-field displays by cricketers lie countless hours of meticulous planning, where effective communication takes center stage. It involves the exchange of ideas, strategies, and detailed notes between the coaching staff and players, forming the backbone of any successful cricketing endeavor.

In a similar vein, Pakistani pace bowler, Naseem Shah, addressed the issue of interpersonal obstacles. With Pakistan having foreign coaches over the last few years, and now Gary Kirsten managing the white-ball squad and Jason Gillespie overseeing the red-ball team, Naseem noted that effective communication with foreign coaches was challenging. He suggested that a translator or similar intermediary could facilitate clearer exchanges. The pacer also emphasized that communicating in one’s native language was significantly easier, referring to Pakistani players who primarily spoke Urdu, Punjabi, Sindhi, or Pashto.

“There is a language problem with foreign coaches. We need someone to translate the language. It is easier to communicate with the coach in your own language,” stated Naseem during a press conference, as quoted by Cricket Pakistan.

International cricket has its own pressure: Naseem Shah

Naseem acknowledged that their performances, whether Down Under following the disappointing 50-over World Cup last year in India or the T20 World Cup 2024 in the Americas, were far from commendable. However, he viewed the upcoming series against Bangladesh as an opportunity for redemption and for the team to reassert itself as a formidable force.

“Yes, our comeback wasn’t great, and we can’t deny that we didn’t play good cricket. Criticism is part of it, and we must endure it until things improve. This is a good chance to bounce back, play better, and show up as a team. That’s what I’m hoping for. I haven’t played red-ball cricket for 13 months, it’s not easy to play after a long time. International cricket has its own pressure. However, we are training hard for it,” added Naseem.

Pakistan is set to host a two-match Test series against Bangladesh on August 21 in Rawalpindi.