Yousuf stands by struggling Kamran, rules out resting him for Hobart Test

Deepak Jain>Thu, Jan 07 10 05:05 PM

Lahore, Jan 7(ANI): Pakistan skipper Mohammad Yousuf has ruled out the option of resting wicketkeeper Kamran Akmal for the third Test against Australia in Hobart despite his dismal performance behind the stumps so far on the tour.

Kamran dropped Australian middle-order batsman Michael Hussey thrice off leg-spinner Danish Kaneria's bowling, on 27, 45 and 52, and also wasted a perfect opportunity to run out opener Shane Watson in the Sydney Test.

Hussey went to score an undefeated 134 runs, while Watson gave Australia a perfect start with his 97 runs and played a crucial role in Pakistan's shocking 36-run defeat.

"Things like this happen in cricket. Kamran is always trying his best. You tell me, how can we afford to give him (Kamran) a rest. He is such a good batsman. He scored well in New Zealand and we need him here," The Nation quoted Yousuf, as saying.

Yousuf further said that as the captain he wants to back his players, especially when they are struggling.

"One should back his players when they are struggling with form. Look at Ricky Ponting, he is getting support from every quarter even when he is not scoring many runs," Yousuf said.

Meanwhile, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has called up wicketkeeper Sarfraz Ahmed as a cover for Akmal and he will be flying to Australia on Thursday. (ANI)

Source: Web Search