KARACHI, Aug 3: Former captain Moin Khan was Saturday named in the 20 World Cup probables list that is to be submitted to the organizers in October.
The chairman of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Lt Gen Tauqir Zia told reporters that the gutsy wicketkeeper would continue to serve as second choice to Rashid Latif.
Tauqir said Moin had been included “because of his vast experience and big match temperament”.
The PCB chairman, however, said the probables list had not been submitted because the decision to include paceman Mohammad Zahid had not be taken.
“I have 18 players (in the camp), Moin becomes 19th. But the decision on the 20th has not been taken. We are keeping a close watch at Zahid who, I have been told, is bowling faster than Shoaib Akhtar.
“He is under the supervizion of Dr Tauseef Razzak and I am waiting for his observations,” the general said, adding” I trust Tauseef because he has delivered what he promised.”
Moin, who lost his place to Rashid last March, had an incredible strike-rate of 103 in the 1999 World Cup. His whirlwind knocks, particularly against Australia when he toyed with Glenn McGrath, are still considered as the best-ever innings.
The wicketkeeper, with over 200 matches experience under the belt, was delighted with the announcement.
“It is a motivation for me to keep going. I am thankful to the PCB chairman who kept faith in my abilities,” he said from Multan where is coaching a group of youngsters.
“I will continue to work harder and wait for my opportunity. I know Rashid is doing an excellent job with the gloves and it is difficult to dislodge him at this moment. But then professionalizm says one must be prepared all times and that’s what my priority will be from now,” he said.
The PCB chairman said he was optimistic of Pakistan’s chances in the World Cup.
“I can say with conviction that it is the best ever Pakistan team that has assembled. I am not comparing individuals with players of yesteryear but as a unit and team.
“But I believe the key to success will be unity. The boys need to stick together and support each other,” he said.
The general said if Pakistan can lose to India and Bangladesh (in the 1999 World Cup) on a bad day, it had the capability to beat Australia and South Africa on its day.