Top spot in shorter formats new target, says Malik

34-year-old believes number one ranking in Test cricket is result players' hard work

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan veteran all-rounder Shoaib Malik has said that the team is now focusing on achieving the number one spot in shorter formats as well.

In a press release issued from Dubai, the 34-year-old said that attaining  Test's number one spot is a result of hard work by the players, who competed against tougher oppositions on foreign grounds.

"The cricketers are trying their best,” said Malik. “Even though we haven't been playing international cricket in our country for quite some time, we’ve played against very good sides and beat them in their home conditions."

The former Pakistan ODI captain, who has represented the Men in Green in 79 T20Is, further said that the upcoming three-match series against the West Indies will not going to be easy for the hosts, who are coming on the back of an impressive performance against England in the one-off T20 at Old Trafford.

"Yes, we are well prepared,” he added. “Even though it was just one T20 match there, I think we played really well against a very strong English side. We have got some decent youngsters in our squad and I think it's going to be a great battle between two good teams."

The series, which will consist three T20Is, three ODIs and three Tests will begin on Friday. Greenshirts will be led by wicketkeeper-batsman Sarfraz Ahmed, while all-rounder Carlos Brathwaite will captain the West Indian side in the first part of the series.