'We want the title back'

Pakistan determined to make it to semi-finals, says off-spinner Ajmal.

KARACHI: With Australia virtually out of the semi-finals following two successive losses, a single defeat in the remaining two matches will also bring former champions Pakistan on the verge of an early exit.

However, Mohammad Hafeez’s team is not looking at the negative aspect as it strives to emulate its title-winning performance in 2009, according to veteran spinner Saeed Ajmal.

Pakistan are in a must-win situation against hosts Bangladesh (March 30) and defending champions, the West Indies (April 1) in their last Group 2 matches to solidify their chances for the semi-finals.

“The team is determined to give its best to earn victories in both matches,” said Ajmal.

“Our focus now is on the game against Bangladesh and the ultimate goal is to win the title and take the [World Twenty20] Cup back home.

“I love to bowl in difficult situations. Initially, I felt some pressure but there is nothing like that now.”

Meanwhile, the Pakistan team underwent a training session on Friday after a rest on Thursday. On a positive note, Umar Akmal also took part in training drills on Friday after missing previous training sessions due to a hamstring injury.

‘Sharjeel must replace Malik in playing eleven’  

As the Pakistan team management ponders over the playing eleven for Sunday’s game against Bangladesh, former chief selector Sallahuddin Ahmed advocated a place for Sharjeel Khan in the playing team. The former Test cricketer advised the team management to drop senior all-rounder Shoaib Malik to pave way for the left-handed opener.

“Malik is a good fielder but right now, he is not up to the mark in that area as well.  “I will go for Sharjeel who has yet to show his class. Pakistan can do with useful contribution from this talented opener if given confidence.”

Published in The Express Tribune, March 29^th, 2014.

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