Umar ready to follow ‘role model Younus’

Middle-order batsman aims to make another international comeback

Pakistan middle-order batsman Umar Akmal, who was sent back to the country to work on his fitness after failing two tests in the national side’s training camp in Birmingham, believes he still has a lot cricket left in him.

The right-handed batsman, as quoted by ESPNcricinfo, apologised to his fans for his conduct and said that he is now more determined than ever to be a part of the national team.

"I want to ask forgiveness of all the fans who have been hurt by my conduct," said Umar. "I am ready to commit to cricket. I still have a lot of cricket left in me and I aim to make another international comeback. I am even more focused on cricket now. My role model is Younus Khan, and when he faced difficulties, he became even more determined. In the same way, I am now determined to come back better than ever.”

All-rounder Haris Sohail replaced Umar in Pakistan’s Champions Trophy squad after he beat left-handed batsman Umar Amin and right-handed batsman Asif Zakir in a fitness test conducted at the National Cricket Academy in Lahore. “Firstly, I want to wish Haris Sohail best of luck," said Umar, who has represented Pakistan in 116 ODIs with an average of 34.59 courtesy only two tons and 20 fifties.

The 26-year-old then applauded Pakistan chief selector Inzamamul Haq for enforcing the importance of fitness. "I also want to thank Inzi bhai [Inzamam] for conducting a fitness Test in Pakistan.”

Earlier, while announcing Umar’s fitness test results, Inzamam had said that the right-handed batsman was fit before the domestic 50-over tournament, the Pakistan Cup, however, he then managed to lose his focus. Umar said he is ready to fulfil all demands placed in front of him by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) to facilitate his return.

“Cricket is my bread and butter therefore I will try and fulfil all of PCB’s requirements so they can allow me to return,” he promised.

Umar also wished Pakistan best of luck for next month’s eight-team tournament in England. “My best wishes will always be with Pakistan, regardless of whether I'm with the team or not [for the Champions Trophy]."