Two of Pakistan’s most senior players are also its fittest, according to chief selector and now interim coach Mohsin Khan.

Khan says Misbah-ul-Haq (37) and Younis Khan (34) have set the benchmark for others in the team and their motivation should serve as an inspiration to the younger players.

“I don't think age is now a major issue as long as the player is very fit and hungry for cricket. Because it is difficult to hide a player who is not 100 per cent fit in international cricket and in every format of the game,” Mohsin said.

“Even at their age they (Misbah and Younis) are more fit than some of the younger players which is a tribute to them.”

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) in customary fashion surprised many by recently naming Khan, the chief selector of the national team, as the coach of the national team.

Mohammad Illyas, a member of the selection committee, was made the acting chief selector for Pakistan’s series against Sri Lanka in UAE.

Thrust into this new role, Khan said he was looking forward to the coaching assignment as a big challenge.

“It will be a good experience watching these players up close and obviously our target is to try to win the series against Sri Lanka but for that we have to be very fit and more hungry for success,” he added.