Zulqarnain aims to replace Akmal

LAHORE: Pakistan’s England-bound Test squad includes the surprise selection of Zulqarnain Haider as first-choice wicket-keeper Kamran Akmal’s backup with the rookie determined to replace his senior compatriot in the playing-eleven through good performances.

Haider, whose only outing for Pakistan was a Twenty20 against South Africa in 2007, was preferred over Sarfraz Ahmed for the series against Australia and England starting from next month.

“I had the faith to win back my place in the side and I am proud that I have been selected on merit,” Haider told The Express Tribune. “I am aware that Kamran Akmal is a senior player and a handy batsman but nobody is there to stay forever.”

Haider remains confident of performing in England given his experience in the local league.

“I’ve improved my batting and have been performing at the domestic level but more importantly I’m used to the English conditions.”

Published in The Express Tribune, June 23^rd, 2010.