Pakistan chief selector optimistic about available talent

The chairman of selectors Aamer Sohail Tuesday sounded optimistic about the future of Pakistan cricket on the basis of abundance of talent available in the country. In a statement, Aamer Sohail said a result of an extensive exercise carried out by holding two-day trials and a series of 10 practice matches at the Gaddafi Stadium and LCCA ground, the selectors have been able to identify 65-70 potential players for future national requirement. These were short listed from a total of over 150 players from all over the country who appeared in the trials and matches.

The chief selector was positive that his committee has been able to recognize at least three future replacements for every position in the Pakistan team. He was happy to note the abundance of talent and the variety available among the aspiring youngsters and felt that there was no shortage of talented players waiting in the wings.

"Our work has started and from hereon we shall work hard on the available talent to get Pakistan cricket back on track and bring the country to the required international level before long," he said.

However, this task, he said, cannot be achieved overnight and will take some time. The chief selector pinned high hopes on the National Cricket Academy, which will get underway soon. He felt that the short listed players will be groomed at the Academy, according to the demand of Pakistan cricket. The emphasis will be on proper physical fitness, technically well-equipped and mentally focused-on cricket players, he added.

"Selectors would like to thank the PCB allowing for such an extensive exercise without any hesitation, especially because it required a lot of funding," Aamer concluded.