Lahore, May 1 (TNS): Pakistan Chief selector and former Pakistan batsman Inzamam-ul-Haq once again defended the team selection for Pakistan’s Test tour of Ireland and England, and persisted that his decisions are for the betterment of the team in the long run
Speaking to media in Lahore, the former captain insisted that he has not ended anyone’s career prospects.
“I have not ended anyone’s future. We are only trying to do what’s best for our team,” he said, reiterating that the 16 best players were chosen for the England/Ireland tour.
“Everybody knows English conditions are not easy [to play in]. That is why we sent the team there early so that they can adjust to the conditions [before the series starts].
“I am being criticised for expanding the pool of players. But I have been tasked with bringing forward new [and young] talent. We are giving chances to youngsters. They will make mistakes, but they will also learn,” he added.
Pakistan were dismissed for 168 in their four-day tour match against Kent at Canterbury. The uncapped Imam-ul-Haq who is also Inzamam’s nephew, top scoring with 61. The 22-year old left-handed batsman earlier faced criticism for his selection ahead of the constantly ignored Fawad Alam, who was once again left out of the final 16 of the squad selected for the tour, despite performing consistently well and better than some of the new selections in the domestic circuit.
“I am pleased whenever any batsman performs well because we review performances of all players,” said Inzamam, when asked about Imam’s impressive batting display in seaming conditions against Kent.
Inzamam refused to comment when asked about controversial fast bowler Mohammad Asif, who remains out of the team after getting convicted for spot-fixing eight years ago.
