Younus Khan recuperating from influenza

Pakistan veteran batsman cleared of dengue symptoms

KARACHI: Pakistan’s seasoned Test batsman Younus Khan is recovering from a severe bout of influenza which has troubled him since last one week.

Younus is being treated by doctors at a private hospital in Karachi and has been cleared of dengue symptoms after the medical panel carried out tests to clear suspicions of a viral attack. He had a low platelette count combined with Influenza.

According to an associate of the 38-year-old, Younus has shown signs of improvement in the last 48 hours and is hopeful of a complete recovery before the three-match Test series against the West Indies which starts in Dubai on October 17.

Younus was named man-of-the-match for his innings of 218 in the Oval Test against England last month.

Younus Khan reveals secret behind his double-ton

Pakistan batsman Younus Khan realised his wish to give his fans an Independence Day gift on August 14 after his knock of 218 helped the visitors to victory and level the four-match Test series 2-2 against England at the Oval.

Prior to his match-winning performance, the veteran did not have a comfortable series, with irate cricket enthusiasts and former cricketers criticising his poor form.

Younus’ double century at The Oval was the only time he crossed the 35-run mark in four Tests, with scores of 33 and 25 at Lord’s, one and 28 at Old Trafford, and 31 and four at Edgbaston.

Nevertheless, the 38-year-old revealed during a post-match interview in London that he received a call from Indian batting great Mohammad Azharuddin before the last Test which allowed him to improve his performance.

Speaking about his knock, Younus said, “It was hard work for me, but I received a call before the game from Azharuddin and he talked about my batting.”

He added: “He told me to stay at the crease and trust other people, and it worked out for me.”