For Razaullah, Test debut was not just an eye-catching individual show but also a three-day crash course in the unpredictable world of cricket.

The young pacer made a statement on day one of the Edgbaston Test. Razaullah bowled at around 90 miles per hour and gave the kind of pace and aggression Pakistan have been looking for and removed England’s world class batter Joe Root. Suddenly comparisons with Pakistan’s greats started coming up.

But cricket can turn its mood around.

Razaullah captured three more wickets on the second day to finish with four, but he also conceded 148 runs and his pace dropped considerably. The same bowler who had been talked up as Pakistan’s next great hope in fast bowling was suddenly being attacked for his economy rate and lack of control.

Then came the third day—and another transformation.

Razaullah turned his attention to batting, smashing nine sixes in a breathtaking 81. His fearless stroke play kept the crowd entertained and equalled Tim Southee's record for most sixes in a Test innings. In hours the condemnation had evaporated and the praise had resumed.

This was what made Razaullah’s performance so fascinating. Within three days he was the hero, the target of criticism and again the hero of the professional cricket.

More importantly his brave batting gave Pakistan something which they have generally lacked in recent years, confidence without fear. Razaullah attacked the bowling with the carefree attitude that reminds one of a young Shahid Afridi without any fear of failure.

But there the comparisons should end. Razaullah should be Razaullah and not the next Waqar Younis or Afridi.

But his performance has also pointed to a bigger problem for Pakistan cricket, there is no shortage of talent but are selectors looking in the right places?

Pakistan endured a disappointing Test campaign in England, but Razaullah’s emergence offers a reason for optimism. If he remains level-headed, works on his flaws and continues to get consistent opportunities, this debut could be the beginning of something special.

The trick now is not only to find Razaullah. But also, to develop him properly in Pakistan.

Credit: Independent News Pakistan (INP)