ISLAMABAD
All-rounder Sohail Tanveer has set his sights on upcoming Australian series at the neutral venue of UAE.
Talking to The Nation, Sohail, who returned home after successfully participating in the Caribbean League where he scored 190 runs at an average of 39 and also took eight wickets in nine matches with two half centuries and one of them is the fastest in the league history, said: “It was very satisfactory performance. After a long time, I was provided with an opportunity to bat up the order. Darren Sammy demoted himself in the batting order after watching my consistent batting displays.”
“I always love to bat and score some quick-fire runs, but coming so late and at very awkward stage, it is almost impossible to score runs. If sent at right number to bat, I am quite confident, I could score some useful runs,” he added. Speaking about his chances in the one-day squad, Sohail said: “Frankly speaking, Pakistan team badly needs an experienced bowler who could bowl up front and most importantly at the depth overs. Bowling at the later stages is a very difficult task, as batsmen throw everything to get quick runs.”
When asked about Saeed Ajmal's ban, Sohail said: “It is quite unfortunate. As we all know, Ajmal shoulders the burden of at least half of bowling and produce wicket-taking performance, his presence in the team always remain a source of big help to the skipper. Now high-profile series against Australia and then New Zealand, Pakistan team will definitely miss his services. And there will be extra pressure on other bowlers, if given a chance I will not disappoint the selectors and give more than satisfactory performances both with leather and willow.”
“Upcoming T20 Cup in Karachi is a very good opportunity for all the players, especially for me, as the chief selector will also be present at the venue. It will encourage me, as my performances will be noticed and some key decisions will be taken as far as selection of the team is concerned,” Tanveer stated.
“I am training very hard and enjoying best spell of fitness and feeling mentally and physically very fit. I am quite confident the selectors will keep a very close eye on my recent performances and will give me a chance. Pakistan bowling in the absence of Ajmal looks very fragile, and situation demands inclusion of a seasoned campaigner like me,” Tanveer concluded.