October 11, 2007	Thursday	Ramazan 28, 1428

LAHORE, Oct 10: Pakistan manager Talat Ali has dispelled the impression that his team is lacking in the opening department.

Talking to Dawn on Wednesday, Talat said the openers had provided stands of 71 and 90 in two innings out of three in the current Test series which was a sign of improvement but people were criticising the department.

He said Kamran Akmal had strengthened team’s opening but the manager was reluctant to confirm if the wicket-keeper would also open the innings in the ODI series.

“We also have other options in Taufiq Umar and Yasir Hameed so I cannot confirm at the moment that who will do the job,” he said.

Talat said the second Test was not over yet and with comprehensive planning, the home team could still bounce back.

He added that the first session on Thursday would be crucial for Pakistan and decide the fate of the match.