Waqar praise for Umar
Pakistan coach Waqar Younis described Umar Akmal as one of the most talented players of his generation after watching the 20-year-old lead his side to a 23-run win in the first Twenty20 against Australia.
Umar, still in his first year as an international player, ensured Pakistan ended their 12-match losing run against Australia in all formats with his Twenty20 best of 64 from just 31 balls.
"He is probably the most talented cricketer I have seen in the past 15-20 years," Waqar said.
"We know that he is a talent and he can take us out of trouble. He's done it in the last few matches.
"At one stage we thought it was going to be very, very difficult, but the way he played was outstanding.
"He's just amazing. He's only young, he's only 20. He's got heaps of time and he's a good learner, a good listener which is good. I have no doubt that he is going to go right to the top.
"He's very talented. Time will teach him more and he'll be right up there at the top. He's fabulous to have in the side."
Replying to Pakistan's 167 for eight, Australia were bowled out for 144.
Australia skipper Michael Clarke, who could only manage five before he chipped Abdul Razzaq to Shahid Afridi at short cover, said afterwards: "I thought 167 was definitely a gettable total on a pretty good wicket and fast outfield. We were a little bit disappointing with the bat.
"Hopefully we can build a few more partnerships earlier on in Tuesday's game and when the spinners come on we've got batters who are in."
