Mickey Arthur wants Pakistan ‘Warriors’ from Lord's in Edgbaston

In spite of their impressive win at Lord’s, Pakistan was brought crashing back down to earth following a crushing defeat at Old Trafford. Clearly disappointed, Pakistan coach Mickey Arthur has stated that he would like to see the Pakistan ‘Warriors’ make a telling performance once again in the third Test at Edgbaston. The Test will also prove to be the decider as both teams are currently tied 1-1 in the series.

The term ‘Warriors’ emerged after the celebration was performed by the Pakistan side following the historic victory at Lord’s. “We’re going to have to raise our game considerably from Old Trafford — without a doubt,” Arthur told reporters at Edgbaston on Monday.

“I was really disappointed with our performance at Old Trafford — really disappointed … with the way we lost there,” the South African added ahead of the third Test, which starts at the Birmingham ground on Wednesday.

“There are credible losses, and there are losses when you lie down and are steamrollered … Old Trafford was clearly that.

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“I told the guys I thought we were warriors at Lord’s. We were completely the opposite at Old Trafford.

“We’re doing everything we can to get us back on the right track … and I’m 100 percent (sure) we will become the first ball on Wednesday.

“We had some good, hard conversations around our performance.

“So we’ve dissected Manchester, the guys are in good spirits and we’re ready to play again.

“The overriding feeling is still one of confidence.”

“They are all quality players … (but) at this level, confidence is such an important thing,” Arthur said.

“They clearly know when they walk out to bat that they are playing for their Test places.

“So that provides another level of pressure.

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Speaking about the quality of the England batting unit, Mickey Arthur said that they were indeed a quality side and added that Pakistan would have to work hard to overcome them. “It’s not just the opposition running in and bowling a cricket ball at you. Suddenly that pressure is intensified because they’re playing for their places as well.

“We feel if we can get into them with the new ball, we’ve got a real good chance. Clearly, Cook and Root are the beacons of England batting at the moment.”