Pakistan will begin preparing for their tough assignment against South Africa today. PHOTO: AFP
A Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) official said all the players had been asked to report by yesterday evening since the board wanted to ensure full attendance on the opening day.
Pakistan will play two Tests, five One-Day Internationals and two Twenty20 games against South Africa in the UAE from October 14 to November 15.
Last week, the PCB invited 28 probables including 15 players from the Pakistan A team to the camp.
Mohammad Irfan has also been included in the camp on bowling coach Mohammad Akram’s recommendations. He was previously not named among the list of probables.
“Separate training sessions will be held on the first two days of the camp,” the PCB official told The Express Tribune.
“It includes fielding and physical training sessions, besides conducting batting and bowling sessions in the evening. Our focus will be to give our players the best batting preparations in the given time for the tough series.”
‘Three-day practice match vital’
The official stated that the three-day practice match during the camp was going to be important.
The match will be played between the Umar Amin-led Pakistan A team and the Test probables led by Misbahul Haq from October 2-4.
“It will be a multi-purpose game,” said the official. “The players will gain good match practice because as it will be played competitively.
“The selection committee will also have a close look at the performance of players for the selection of the final squad for the two Test matches.”
The practice game is also of grave importance for the selection of Mohammad Hafeez.
“An outstanding performance from Hafeez may ensure his place in the Test squad, whereas other players can also make a surprise entry into the team.”
Published in The Express Tribune, September 30th, 2013.
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I have a feeling that they will go easy on Hafeez and help him score runs. No bowler looking for a break into the T20 and ODI team will try to make Hafeez look like the test bunny that he has become.
Also - why is Fawad Alam not in the 28? He is the most consistent domestic performer.
For the good of Pakistan's future test career, I hope Hafeez DOESN'T do anything surprising, or out of character.