Injured Irfan disappointed at missing South Africa tour

Fast-bowler hopeful of complete recovery ahead of Sri Lanka clash.

KARACHI: Mohammad Irfan was among the few Pakistan players who stood firm against the ruthless Proteas amid the glut of contest between the two counterparts this year.

The fast-bowler continued to trouble South Africa batsmen earlier on their home turf and then on the slow tracks of the UAE.

However, he missed the short tour of South Africa following an injury he sustained during the second Twenty20 in Dubai when he fell during his second over, developing a hip strain.

Irfan stayed in Dubai for medical checkups and an MRI scan to receive input that he was cleared from any serious injury.

“I’ve just been advised a week’s rest,” Irfan told The Express Tribune. “I am recovering well and will be back at the National Cricket Academy for training from Monday.”

The 31-year-old wants to start bowling as soon as possible and said he is eyeing a stint at the Departmental Twenty20 tournament starting in Lahore from November 27.

“I am looking forward to playing in the tournament, but I will have a clear idea of my participation after I begin training.”

Irfan added that he was aiming at regaining complete rhythm for the next home series against Sri Lanka to be held in the UAE next month.

“I am disappointed at missing the South Africa tour. I had a good run in our last tour to the country earlier this year.

“I enjoy bowling in South Africa because of a good bounce there. I was really looking forward to the series and it was unfortunate to miss the competition.

“However, now I am going to prepare for the series against Sri Lanka and will hopefully make a complete recovery before the assignment.”

The fast-bowler, who took seven wickets (two in Tests) and nine wickets (five in One-Day Internationals) against South Africa during the recently-concluded home series in the UAE was not satisfied with his individual performance.

“I will be happy with my performance when it helps my team in winning,” he said. “It was not the best of the series for us in terms of results.

“I am now targeting a leading role for my team with my bowling against Sri Lanka who are also a tough opposition.”

Published in The Express Tribune, November 23^rd, 2013.

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