Mohammad Hafeez

Mohammad Hafeez emerged in the early 2000s as a dynamic cricketer for Pakistan, known for his free-flowing batting and bowling style reminiscent of Saqlain Mushtaq. He was among the fresh talents introduced after Pakistan’s disappointing 2003 World Cup campaign. Hafeez had an impressive start, taking two wickets on his ODI debut and hitting a half-century in his second match. His solid defence and temperament earned him a spot in the Test side against Bangladesh, where he scored both a fifty and a century, signalling a promising future.

Challenges and Comebacks

Despite early successes, Hafeez faced challenges with inconsistency. A lacklustre ODI series against Bangladesh and South Africa saw him dropped from the team. However, his domestic performances and stint with Pakistan A facilitated his return in 2005. Although he continued to struggle in ODIs, Hafeez’s 95 in the controversial Oval Test and a second Test century against the West Indies showcased his potential. As a versatile player, he remained a valuable fifth bowler and one of the team’s best fielders.

Captaincy and Further Struggles

Appointed T20I captain in 2012 after Misbah-ul-Haq’s departure, Hafeez thrived in the shorter format but struggled in ODIs and Tests. In 2013, his vulnerability to outswingers, especially from Dale Steyn, was exploited widely, leading to a justified omission from the squad for the Zimbabwe tour. Nevertheless, Hafeez rebounded against South Africa, contributing significantly to Pakistan’s first bilateral ODI series win by an Asian team in the country.

Career Highlights and Later Period

Although Hafeez had a subdued 2011 World Cup, he performed well in subsequent Tests and ODIs. An injury in 2015 ruled him out of the World Cup that year, but he made a strong return during the ICC Champions Trophy 2017, playing vital innings that led to Pakistan’s victory. Hafeez also featured in the 2019 World Cup, continuing to battle criticisms over his bowling action, which has led to bans from the ICC.

FAQs About Mohammad Hafeez

1. What are Mohammad Hafeez’s primary strengths as a cricketer?

Mohammad Hafeez is known for his versatile skills, including effective batting at the top order and reliable off-spin bowling, making him a well-rounded addition to the Pakistan team.

2. When did Mohammad Hafeez become the T20I captain for Pakistan?

Hafeez was appointed the captain of Pakistan’s T20I team in 2012 after Misbah-ul-Haq stepped down.

3. What issues has Hafeez faced with his bowling action?

Hafeez’s bowling action has been under scrutiny, leading to several bans by the ICC, though he has continued to contribute as an all-rounder.

4. How did Hafeez perform in key international tournaments?

Hafeez played in the 2011 and 2019 World Cups, and notably excelled in the ICC Champions Trophy 2017, where he played crucial innings for Pakistan.

5. What was significant about Hafeez’s performance against South Africa?

Hafeez played a pivotal role in Pakistan’s historic ODI series win in South Africa, marking the first bilateral series victory by an Asian team in the country.