MOHAMMAD Yousuf could be recalled by Pakistan for their forthcoming Test series against England.
The former team captain has said he is willing to return to the international fold after six months in the wilderness. The 35-year-old, who has scored 7 431 runs in 88 Tests, was banned for life by the Pakistan Cricket Board in March along with fellow veteran Younus Khan after a disastrous tour of Australia. Yousuf retired from international cricket in protest at the harsh sanctions but, with the bans imposed since lifted, the path could now be clear to return.
The matter has taken on greater significance since Pakistan’s 150-run defeat by Australia in the first Test at Lord’s last week.
Captain Shahid Afridi announced his sudden retirement after that match and the middle order has an inexperienced look with Azhar Ali and Umar Amin at three and four respectively.
Yousuf will not be drafted in before the second Test at Headingley begins tomorrow but the England series starting later this month is now a distinct possibility.
Assistant coach Ijaz Ahmed said: “He can replace Afridi but the management haven’t decided yet who will come. It could come out in a couple of days.
“Maybe later, somebody will come but not at the moment.”
A return for Younus, who has been playing county cricket at Surrey, is also possible but Yousuf seems the more likely at present.
Ijaz added: “These are the only two players we are talking about, Younus Khan and Yousuf. Let’s see, it might be decided about Yousuf. Yousuf might be coming here.” (Eurosport)