DHAKA, Jan 9: Pakistan captain Waqar Younis Wednesday expressed pleasure over recording a rare five-wicket haul and said taking six wickets is an achievement no matter how weak the opposition may be.

“I am pleased at this rare five-wicket haul because I have been getting to four wickets innings on numerous occasions, but five-wicket haul remained elusive,” said Younis.

Younis took 6-56 to rout Bangladesh for 160 on the opening day of the first Test. Pakistan closed the day at 126-3.

“I have taken eight four wickets in an innings and was slightly worried why I was not taking five wickets in an innings.”

Younis last took five wickets in an innings against Zimbabwe at Bulawayo in March 1998.

“I kept the ball up and specially after lunch found my rhythm.”

Younis took his six wickets in a span of 29 balls.

The Pakistan captain termed his performance good in the season opener. “We have a very tough season ahead and I am pleased that the team put up its best after a lean period of inactivity.”

Pakistan is playing its second Test in seven months as they are badly hit by the post-Sept 11 attacks on Afghanistan.

Meanwhile, Wasim Akram was ruled out of the ongoing first Test between Pakistan and Bangladesh in Dhaka Wednesday after pulling his hamstring muscle, coach Mudassar Nazar said.

“It’s unfortunate that Akram pulled his lower hamstring muscle and may hardly bowl in this Test,” Nazar said.

“Whether he would be able to play in the second Test in Chittagong will be known after 24 hours.”—SADA