Yousuf called to rescue after heavy loss

Mohammad Yousuf has been called into Pakistan’s squad after the PCB reacted to the heavy loss at Trent Bridge.

KARACHI: Former Pakistan captain Mohammad Yousuf has been called into Pakistan’s squad after the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) reacted to the heavy loss at Trent Bridge.

In a statement, the PCB announced that the batting maestro has been included in the side with immediate effect while leg-spinner Danish Kaneria has been axed following his disappointing performance on the tour. Left-arm spinner Raza Hasan has been named as Kaneria’s replacement.

Yousuf, who retired from international cricket in March had earlier stated that he was ready to play for Pakistan again under any captain if the PCB invited him.

A PCB official however did not confirm Yousuf’s participation in the second Test saying that there was little time left before the Test starts on August 6 in Birmingham.

“We are not sure of his participation in the second Test but we will make all out efforts to send him before the Test”, the official told The Express Tribune.

‘Kaneria not excluded for the whole series’

A Pakistan team official has said that Danish Kaneria has been dropped from the second Test and the leg-spinner can retain his place in the remaining matches.

“We have released Kaneria to play for Essex so he can retain his form,” said the team management adding the leg spinner may be considered for the rest of the series after his performance with Essex is reviewed. The official also hailed inclusion Raza Hasan in the national side.

“Raza has a lot of potential, everybody has seen his performance in the Under-19 World Cup and he may prove to be an asset,” added the official.

Qadir opposes PCB decision

Former Test cricketer and chief selector Abdul Qadir has opposed the PCB’s decision of sending Yousuf and Raza to England and said that the decision will further affect the team’s composition.

“It’s a wrong decision, the squad already has players who can replace the boys not performing up well,” said Qadir.

Published in The Express Tribune, August 2^nd, 2010.