Pakistan remain unperturbed

After announcing themselves at the World Cup, the players look to the vital clash tomorrow.

COLOMBO: Pakistan vice-captain Misbahul Haq has played down the threat of Sri Lanka’s bowling powered by Muttiah Muralitharan and the return of Lasith Malinga.

Pakistan thrashed Kenya in their World Cup opener by 205 runs but a bigger test awaits them tomorrow as they take on the hosts in Colombo.

“Both Murali and Malinga are world-class bowlers but we have played a lot against them,” said Misbah told media at the Premadasa Stadium. “We will play with merit against them. Hopefully with a positive display, things will go our way.”

The experienced batsman, however, expected a tough competition from the home side in the match. “Sri Lanka are a consistent side and we will have to play good cricket to beat them.”

“I will play at any position”

Misbah, while playing down the need for a change in the batting order, said he was ready to play at any position if required.

“The combination is working well for us and there is no need for a change. All the batsmen are playing their part at the moment,” said Misbah, who is currently placed at number five in the order. “If my captain asks me, I’m ready to play at any position.”

Umar vows to continue form

Meanwhile, Umar Akmal is eyeing a leading role in team’s campaign at the World Cup, saying he is looking to continue his form throughout the event. The middle-order batsman smashed 71 in his World Cup debut to claim the man-of-the-match award.

“I’m very happy with the start and I hope to continue my form,” said Akmal. “It’s my lucky venue where I scored my first century. So I’ll be looking to do it again against the hosts tomorrow.”

Akhtar, missing in action

As Pakistan trained for a four-hour training session in Columbo, paceman Shoaib Akhtar was hardly seen in action.

Pakistan reached Colombo from Hambantota yesterday after which the team had an extensive training session. However, Akhtar, who returned wicketless in his five over spell was seen on the sidelines most of the time during the session. He was also not seen bowling on the nets with Junaid Khan, Abdul Razzaq and Shahid Afridi.

Team manager Intikhab Alam, however, ruled out any injury scare to the fast-bowler.

“Shoaib is fit and in good touch like the rest of his team’s members.”

Published in The Express Tribune, February 25^th, 2011.