Fakhar vows to justify his inclusion in Test squad

LAHORE: Opening batsman Fakhar Zaman wants to justify his selection during the upcoming tour of England and wanted to maintain his style of aggressive batting.

Talking to media on the sidelines of the national training camp at the Gaddafi Stadium, he would try to continue his aggressive style of batting in Test cricket as well. Pakistan will play a one-off Test against Ireland and a series of two-match Test rubber against England. Pakistan team will depart for UK on Monday.

The national team have started their training camp under the supervision of head coach Micky Arthur at Gaddafi stadium since Wednesday.The 16-member team which includes five uncapped players in the Test squad practiced on the first day on the training camp. They will play one Test against Ireland and two Tests against England.

Fakhar said that he is just focused on helping the team win and is not worried about batting at any number. He further stated that he is fully aware of the English conditions. Zaman, along with four other uncapped players — Saad Ali, Faheem Ashraf, Imamul Haq and Usman Salahuddin — were selected in the 16-member squad, which was announced last Sunday.

Zaman who rejected county contract over Pakistan duty said that playing for the country is his priority. He further said that he try to adjust to the conditions after assessing the bowling strength of the opposition.

“I am ready to bat at any number for the team’s cause,” said Zaman. As a professional, it is our duty to play according to the circumstances. I will try my best to do justice no matter where I play.”

Talking about conditions in England, Zaman revealed that he has had good preparation during the ongoing training camp. “Conditions in England are different, where the ball doesn’t come on to the bat easily,” he said. “Players have to make some adjustments and I’ve trained hard in the camp to overcome any difficulties there.”

“I’ve played in England already, even though it was in the 50-over format,” said Zaman. “But I believe that experience will help me immensely and I don’t think I will have any problems adjusting there.”

Talking about the team’s chances, Zaman is optimistic and said that Pakistan can compete against tough opposition because of a strong bowling line-up. “Our bowling line-up is pretty strong and I believe we can put up a tough fight,” he said.