‘Only the fittest will make Champions Trophy squad’

Coaches, selection committee begin fitness assessments for final lineup.

KARACHI: Pakistan coach Dav Whatmore’s unexpected arrival at the Wasim Akram-supervised fast-bowling camp at the National Stadium was for a reason and that became obvious yesterday – to make a thorough assessment on the fitness of each participating bowler.

The fitness issue dearly cost Pakistan during their tour of South Africa where they lost both the Test and One-Day International series, as at least five of their key players including fast-bowlers Umar Gul and Mohammad Irfan fell victim to injuries.

Pakistan captain Misbahul Haq had recently suggested taking fitness tests of players, urging the selection committee to prefer fitness over experience.

In order to avoid another injury nightmare at the ICC Champions Trophy that begins next month in England, Whatmore, along with bowling coach Mohammad Akram, assessed each bowler closely. These include Junaid Khan and Irfan who are expected to spearhead Pakistan’s pace attack in Gul’s absence.

Selection committee member Salim Jaffer was also present. The former fast-bowler hinted that Sohail Tanvir was a strong contender for a place in the squad.

“Fitness will be preferred along with current form,” said a Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) official close to the team management. “There will be no compromise and only the fittest players will go.”

The official said the team management and selection committee were expected to make a similar assessment on the batsmen, adding that the final 15-man squad could spring up a few surprises.

Added pressure not an issue: Junaid 

Fast-bowler Junaid said he was undeterred by the increased responsibility due to Gul’s injury.

“I am confident of spearheading the pace attack successfully,” he said. “My experience of county cricket will help me in England. Wasim is an inspiration and his guidance will also be fruitful.”

Sidelined all-rounder Hammad Azam said he was working hard to regain his place in the national team.

“This camp will improve my bowling as I am targeting to become a valuable all-rounder for my country,” said Azam.

Anwar gives lecture to bowlers 

Pakistan legend Saeed Anwar visited the camp where he gave a lecture to the participating bowlers. The former opener spoke about batsmen’s weaknesses and advised how to vary styles in order to cope with different conditions.

PCB Chairman Zaka Ashraf is expected to attend the training session today.

Published in The Express Tribune, April 26^th, 2013.