The day before, Pakistan crushed England by 10 wickets in three days in the first of three tests.
“We are trying to provide a boost to the nation and fans of Pakistan cricket,” Khan said.
“We aim to show the world that there is more to Pakistan cricket than just negatives.”
Former internationals Salman Butt, Mohammad Amir and Mohammad Asif have been in a British prison since November, when they were found guilty of conspiring and cheating during the previous test series against England in mid 2010.
Since one of cricket’s worst scandals broke, Pakistan has recovered well in reaching the World Cup semifinals and beating New Zealand, Zimbabwe, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh in test series.
“These players can play an important part in improving the image of Pakistan cricket by playing tough cricket and winning consistently,” Khan said.
A former Pakistan test opener, Khan was appointed interim coach in October. He’s led the team, unbeaten in seven test series since that ill-fated England tour, to four victories in six tests.
He’s a candidate to be the full-time head coach, however Australia’s Dav Whatmore is considered the favorite to take charge next month after meeting with Pakistan Cricket Board officials in Lahore this week.
Pakistan twice bowled out top-ranked England for under 200 runs, with star offspinner Saeed Ajmal claiming 10 wickets in the match at Dubai International Cricket Stadium.
Ajmal was the top test wicket-taker in 2011 with 50.
“Ajmal was brilliant and when you play against the best team in the world then getting 10 wickets is a big achievement,” Khan said.
“But I would say that Umar Gul, Abdur Rehman and Aizaz Cheema all bowled well.”
Gul tormented England in the second innings by claiming the top four batsmen as England was shot out for 160.
Despite wrapping up the first test so early, Khan warned his players not to be complacent when the series moves to Abu Dhabi for the second test, starting on Wednesday.
Khan: Pakistan changing people’s perceptions
Publication Date:
Fri, 2012-01-20 16:03
Taxonomy upgrade extras:
© 2024 SAUDI RESEARCH & PUBLISHING COMPANY, All Rights Reserved And subject to Terms of Use Agreement.