The spin bowling coach of the England cricket team, Mushtaq Ahmed has stretched his time along with the team and would be available until midway of the Test Series in the Caribbean. The initial schedule was that he would be present during the warm-up period at St Kitts for 10 days. However, the tour management concluded that his extension was essential.
Morris’s statement
The managing director of England cricket, Hugh Morris disclosed that Ahmed has made an excellent impression not only amongst the spin bowlers of England but also everybody on the tour. Taking into consideration Ahmed’s skill and experience at the international level, the team believed that he would be an important asset if retained for a longer period of time. They have always thought that Ahmed is the perfect person who can assist the spinners in the team.
Panesar’s opinion
Monty Panesar, the left arm spinner in the England team, has supported Morris’s opinion. Panesar revealed that working with Ahmed has been a great experience. Panesar has developed a liking for both Ahmed and his mode of coaching. Till date, he has been benefited due to his experience with Ahmed. He was excited after hearing the news that Ahmed would be with him for some more weeks. Panesar added that Ahmed and he spoke a lot regarding the art of spin bowling and the flow of bowling. The discussion was less technical and more regarding having a feel of what a spinner attempts to do with the ball. Ahmed explained issues in a straightforward and simple manner.