‘My achievements are not being highlighted’

Hafeez hits back at critics, says he is working hard for Test revival.

KARACHI:

Pakistan Twenty20 captain Mohammad Hafeez has been experiencing contrasting fortunes recently in the limited overs format and the longer version.

Under his captaincy and inspiring performance, the national team has progressed well in the Twenty20 format, while his form in the One-Day Internationals (ODI) has also been influential.

However, his poor run with the bat throughout this year has put his Test berth in jeopardy for next month’s series against South Africa in the UAE.



Hafeez managed just 102 runs from five Tests [10 innings] this year against South Africa and Zimbabwe, a performance that has prompted the national selectors to consider replacements for the seasoned all-rounder.

However, the 32-year old has expressed the desire to be a part of the Test squad, hoping for a better show if provided with the opportunity. “As a player I am more concerned about my Test form,” said Hafeez.

“I am working hard in this [Test] version, more so than in the other formats. If given a chance against South Africa, I will give my best to show improvement.”

However, Hafeez added that he would not feel dejected if he was overlooked for the series.

Hafeez disapproves of being criticised only

Hafeez, whose place in the Test squad has been questioned, hit back at critics saying his achievements were not being highlighted as he continued to be bashed for his failure.

“I was named man of the series in the ODIs [against Zimbabwe] and scored a century,” said the Pakistan Twenty20 captain. “I also became the top all-rounder in the ODIs but that wasn’t highlighted.

“I am not complaining; just saying that criticism should be made for the right reasons. My achievements were also an honour for the country.”

Hafeez also dispelled the impression that he was in the Test squad only due to his close friendship with Misbahul Haq, stating that this was coming from the same people who had brewed stories of his tiff with the Test captain before.

To a query regarding the possible return of Abdul Razzaq and Shoaib Malik to the Twenty20 squad, Hafeez said he did not have issues with the inclusion of any player.

“My work is to take the best out of the team given to me.”

Captain, coach, selectors to assemble for selection

An extensive meeting between the selection committee, captain Misbah and head coach Dav Whatmore is expected today to mull over the Test squad for the South Africa series.

Both Misbah and Whatmore will give their input to the selection committee before it finalises the squad.

According to an official close to the selection process, Hafeez, along with Asad Shafiq, are at risk for losing their berths — the decision on this will be the main debate during the meeting.

The final squad is expected to be named by this weekend, while the training camp is scheduled to start next week.

Pakistan will play a two-match Test series against South Africa, starting from October 14 in Abu Dhabi.

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

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