LAHORE, July 6: All 26 probables including pace trio of Shoaib Akhtar, Mohammad Sami and Umar Gul were fit and will be considered by the national selection committee for the Asia Cup.
Pakistan coach Bob Woolmer said on Tuesday that Sami, who had dehydration problems in last three days, has fully recovered and took part in the practice session. About Shoaib, who had strained his knee and calf, the coach said that those were minor problems for a fast bowler andhe will be fit for the tournament.
He pointed out that there were no seniors or juniors in the 26 probables as all were equal for him and very eager to perform for their country. Asked if new faces could be selected in the Pakistan team for the Asia Cup, to be held in Sri Lanka from July 16, Woolmer stated that the team would be a blend of youth and experience andsome new faces could be inducted.
The team is likely to be announced on Wednesday. Woolmer said that most probably nine batsmen, including the wicket-keeper and four fast bowlers and one spinner would comprise the squad of 14 members.
He added that the batting line should be flexible therefore nine batsmen were enough to face any conditions. He clarified that he was leaving on Wednesday for Cape Town (South Africa) and not London to undertake a coaching assignment there. He did not agree when asked if his absence from the camp at this stage would affect the team's preparations.
