May 08, 2007	Tuesday	Rabi-us-Sani 20, 1428

LAHORE, May 7: Pakistan captain Shoaib Malik has said that his first priority is to win as many matches as possible and he is not concerned about the strength of the Sri Lankan team for the three-match series in Abu Dhabi.

"I am focused on our team's win and the absence or presence of any player in the rival team will not have any effect on our morale," Shoaib stated on Monday. "Our aim is to perform and work hard to win and that is most important for us."

Three star players of Sri Lanka — Muttiah Muralitharan, Chaminda Vaas and Kumar Sangakkara — are not available for the series as all three have opted to play county cricket.

Shoaib, pointed out that the best possible team was announced for the series and he also had given his input in the selection as co-opt member. "The boys are talented and have the potential to give their best against Sri Lanka," he added.

Shoaib, who will lead Pakistan for the first time in the series said all the players did their best during the training camp under extremely humid conditions.

Meanwhile, Mohammad Asif said his appointment as vice-captain was an honour for him and he would try to come up to everyone’s expectations.

"I consider it a honour and will try my best to give full support to my captain," the fast bowler told reporters.

About his elbow problem he said he had recovered from the pain and had proved his fitness in the trial match.