Karachi: Pakistan batsman Mohammad Yousuf has expressed disappointment at the lack of international cricket opportunities available to the national team. Pakistan will go without a Test this year as Australia postponed their tour to Pakistan because of security reasons.
Yousuf, one of Pakistan's most accomplished batsmen with 79 Tests and 269 one-day internationals behind him, said he was concerned about the future of Pakistan cricket in the existing circumstances.
"It is very disappointing that Pakistan haven't played a Test match this year. I don't think such a thing has happened to any country in the past," Yousuf said.
To make matters worse the Champions Trophy which was to be held from September 12 in Karachi and Lahore was also postponed because of security concerns.
Yousuf said lack of Test cricket would affect the progress of Pakistani cricketers.
"We would have played at least three Tests had Australia toured Pakistan but it is very sad that we are having a year without Tests. The more Test matches in Pakistan, the better for the country since Test cricket is the real test of a player's temperament and skill," Yousuf said.
Pakistan last played a Test in December in India and their next match would also be against arch-rivals at home in January.
Yousuf also dispelled the impression that he had started to lose interest and passion for cricket because of his growing religious commitments.
"My religious duties are a way of life for me and cricket is my profession and passion. I don't mix both of them. I opted out of the Champions Trophy because I had prior commitments in Ramadhan," he said.
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Posted By Asif
when stars the ICL sereis?
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when start the chempion trophy?
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Posted By ghazanfar ali khan
Pakistan should host a five match one day series against srilanka in October and than srilanka may host Pakistan for
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