KARACHI, Oct 5: Pakistan off-spinner Saqlain Mushtaq does not expect to make his Test comeback against England despite recovering well from a chronic knee injury. The 28-year-old has warned his team mates to expect a hard battle in the three-match series against England, who are keen to challenge Australia for top spot in the world rankings.

“The injury has healed and I resumed playing first-class cricket for Surrey this season.

But a comeback against England is not likely because I still need more match practice and training,” he said on Wednesday.

“After beating Australia England are keen to win in Pakistan and show everyone their Ashes victory was not a fluke.

Pakistan should expect on and off the field pressure tactics and mind games,” he said.

Saqlain also advised his team mates to play down the issue of attacking the touring side with spinners on slow pitches.

“Pakistan will have some home advantage but I really don’t know how much it will affect the outcome of the series,” he said.

“The last time England came in 2000 only Graham Thorpe could play spin well now they have several good players of spin.”—Reuters