ISLAMABAD: Pakistan assistant coach Azhar Mahmood said on Sunday that Pakistan bowlers needed to step up and support pacer Muhammad Amir in the upcoming series against England and bowl as a unit, rather than as individuals. Writing in a blog on PakPassion.net, the former Pakistan all-rounder said: “Wahab Riaz, Imran Khan, and Rahat Ali all need to support Amir on the field.” He added that the national team had a very good pace bowling combination which should be utilised in the upcoming England series. The 41-year-old further said that spinner Yasir Shah would be a key weapon against England’s batsmen as the hosts have a history of struggling against high-class spinners. “Yasir Shah has a very important role for Pakistan as he is an attacking spinner and will not want the England batsmen to settle down,” he wrote. “We know that England batsmen struggle against high-class spinners and Yasir Shah’s influence will be even greater if the weather is to his advantage, therefore I expect him to have a good series providing he is patient.” The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) recently offered Azhar Mahmood the position of bowling coach of the national team, which also includes duties of the assistant coach. Prior to this, the former all-rounder was appointed bowling coach on a short-term basis for the World T20 in India, where Pakistan performed poorly which resulted in many changes to the team and management. Talking about his new role in the national team, the 41-year-old said that he was delighted at being given another opportunity to serve his country and is looking forward to working with an experienced coach like Mickey Arthur. Pakistan’s tour to England which includes four Tests, five ODIs and a one T20I, will begin with the first Test on July 14 at Lord’s cricket ground.