‘I like the challenge of batting at No. 3’
sharjah — One of the most unassuming but successful Pakistani batsman, Asad Shafiq, is reveling in his new role in the country’s Test team.
Despite the presence of Pakistan’s living legend, Younis Khan, skipper Misbah-ul-Haq asked Asad to bat at the most crucial position from the team’s perspective — number three.
“For me, the one-down position is not new. I have batted at number three throughout my first class career and I like this new role in the Test side,” Asad said during an interaction with the media at the Sharjah Stadium, the venue for the Pakistan and West Indies third Test, starting from Sunday.
“Every position has its own challenges but batting at number three gives a batsman freedom to build his innings. I like this challenge and I am happy to bat at number three,” he said in reply to a question.
Asad remains modest despite being praised by his captain Misbah and other seniors in the team. “It is their greatness that they praised my efforts. It gives me great confidence and I always want to learn from my every innings and contribute to the team effort. I believe in the collective goal.”
The diminutive Karachi batsman is turning out to be one of the key players in the Pakistan side. “Upcoming visits to New Zealand and Australia will be challenging for Pakistan but we are ready to perform well on these tours,” he said while talking about Pakistan’s future away tours.
“While going to England we faced lot of questions but the team did well and we drew the Test series. We prepared well for the England tour and will do the same for New Zealand and Australia duties,” he said.
The fitness culture is changing in Pakistan camp and Asad agrees with this notion.
“Pakistan Cricket Board organises training camps regularly and it is paying dividends. Kakul camp under army instructors has played a huge role in improving the fitness of players. It is a good change and players are taking care of themselves.
“Everybody knows how important it is to stay fit for the rigours of the modern day cricket. There is always a crowded schedule and no time to recover from injuries.”
liqat@khaleejtimes.com