‘Young players will be tested’
Pakistan coach Waqar Younis termed the upcoming West Indies tour as the ideal test for the young blood in the team. The former captain said that the inexperienced players should take this as an opportunity to show their worth after the seniors were rested keeping the future in mind.
Fast-bowler Umar Gul, all-rounder Abdul Razzaq, wicket-keeper Kamran Akmal and former captain Younus Khan will be missing the action in the Caribbean.
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has selected several uncapped places for the tour, featuring five One-Day Internationals, two Tests and one Twenty20, including wicket-keeper Mohammad Salman.
“The tour will be important for youngsters and it will be a test for them,” Younis told reporters at the Chief Minister House yesterday.
“They have been selected keeping the future in mind and it is up to them to avail this chance.”
‘Akhtar will be missed’
Younis, the legendary fast-bowler, felt it would be very hard for the team management to find a replacement for Shoaib Akhtar who retired from international cricket during the recently-concluded World Cup.
“He was a great bowler and will be missed. It would be tough to find his replacement.”
‘No differences with Miandad’
Younis also brushed aside speculations on his differences with former captain Javed Miandad who has been tipped to become Pakistan’s batting coach.
“Appointing a coach is the PCB’s job and I have no issues if Miandad is given the responsibility.”
Miandad also said that he was ready and willing to serve the country’s cricket in any capacity.
Published in The Express Tribune, April 9th, 2011.
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