Jalal satisfied with selection for fitness camp

KARACHI: Former Pakistan fast bowler Jalaluddin has expressed satisfaction on the selection of 23 probable players for the fitness camp ahead of the tour to England for an ODI series and the World Cup.

While talking to ‘The News’ on Friday, Jalal, who achieved the first ever hat–trick in ODI cricket, said that Umar Akmal and left arm spinner Umar Khan might also be considered. The latter was declared the best emerging player of the PSL.

"Overall the selection is good and now whole responsibility is on the team management, how they plan and design the strategy for the World Cup, and how they utilise the players according to their skills at the world’s biggest event.

“It is the biggest challenge for the team management. They have to make the players super fit. They have to make the players mentally tough," he said.

He said that Pakistan team would be in England for 45 days before the World Cup and would play five ODIs against England as well as some practice matches. "Thus, they have time to make the team stronger, giving attention to the conditions of England," he said.

He said left-arm fast bowler Muhammad Amir’s confidence was still shaky. "He does not have much time to restore his form. His wicket-taking ability is being questioned continuously. The team management should resolve his problems. He has been part of the national team for many months but so far the team management has failed to get him to perform to the best of his abilities," Jalal said.

He further said that Muhammad Hafeez was an experienced player and his services would be required in England. "His fitness issues should be sorted out before the departure," he added.

"Five ODIs against England and practice matches against counties should help the team management check the players, how they are learning and maintaining their form and fitness before the World Cup," Jalal said.