Manchester: West Indies’ legendary pacer and now a renowned commentator, Michael Holding has been dazzled by Pakistan’s fast bowling against England on Day 2 of the Old Trafford Test.

Pakistani bowlers ripped apart England’s top-order early. Opener Rory Burns and Dom Sibley were back to the pavilion inside first over. Mohammad Abbas then produced a beauty to dismiss Ben Stokes. English captain Joe Root (14) was removed by Yasir Shah.

Holding also wished that he was powerful like Naseem Shah when he was his age. “I’m impressed with some of the fast bowling I’m seeing from Pakistan. That 17-year-old, I wish I was as strong as he is when I was 17. He certainly has some good pace and he looks strong. I’m looking forward to seeing him bowl more,” he said.

He also stated that it is hard to play Test cricket at the age of 17 as a pacer but it is good to see that Pakistan have faith in his abilities.

“Test match cricket is not easy and being a fast bowler at that age in Test cricket could be a little stressful. I would hate to see him go under too quickly. Pakistan have faith in his strength, they have faith in his fitness – let’s hope they are right,” he added.