April 20, 2007	Friday	Rabi-us-Sani 02, 1428

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LAHORE, April 19: Pakistan’s newly appointed captain Shoaib Malik on Thursday said he was expecting hundred per cent support from all senior and junior team-mates to put Pakistan back on winning track in international cricket.

“Though I have not been able to have a chat with my senior colleagues after my appointment today as captain, I believe they will extend full support to me because Pakistan require unity and discipline to meet the formidable challenges ahead,” Shoaib told Dawn prior to his departure for his native city, Sialkot.

Dismissing recent reports of re-emergence of player-power in the team, something also hinted at by ex-vice captain Younis Khan, Shoaib said: “We all are playing for Pakistan and I don't think there is any fear of player-power. I have great respect for my seniors and juniors and enjoy a great rapport with them,” said the all-rounder who made his ODI debut in Oct 1999 against the West Indies in Sharjah and two years later earned Test cap against Bangladesh at Multan.

Asked to comment on aspect which required immediate attention in Pakistan cricket, Shoaib said: “We need to concentrate on all three departments of the game to bring about a positive change and must look for grooming batsmen, bowlers and most importantly fielders for future success.”

Shoaib, who held a long meeting with PCB Chairman prior to his appointment as captain, said it was PCB’s job to pick a vice-captain and he has not been asked specifically about any player for the post. He, however, said he would give his recommendation on vice-captain if required by the board.

Commenting on the forthcoming series against Sri Lanka in Abu Dhabi, he said it would provide Pakistan an opportunity to restart its international campaign. “There is a long gap before the Twenty20 World Cup (in Sept 2007) in South Africa but, thankfully, we now have a series and that too against one of the best sides which is good for us,” he said.

Shying away from the debate over his batting position in the team, Shoaib said it was premature to comment on it but said he felt every batsman should have the nerve and adaptability to bat at different positions.