Waqar welcomes Younus Khan's return to Pak team

Pakistan team coach Waqar Younis welcomed the return of senior batsman Younus Khan to the national side but hoped injured Mohammad Yousuf would also be fit before the Test series against South Africa in Abu Dhabi and Dubai.

"It is a great sign for Pakistan cricket that he (Younus Khan) is back. It will do good for the team. Because in the past he has performed a lot for Pakistan and proven his worth," Waqar said.

Talking to the media at the conclusion of a short conditioning camp for the South Africa series, Waqar also made it clear that he was hoping senior batsman Yousuf would be fit in time for the Tests.

"Yousuf and Younus are proven performers and their presence in the middle order will give us a lot of stability. We need them against a top side like South Africa. I am hoping Yousuf will also be available for the Tests," he said.

The national selectors included Younus in place of unfit Yousuf in national squad after the latter pulled a hamstring during training and has been advised two-three weeks rest.

Manager Intikhab Alam said although Yousuf was out of the Twenty20 and ODI series against South Africa he could be back in time for the Tests.

"It all depends on the selectors if they feel and are satisfied with his fitness. Yousuf will start training again in 10 days time," he said.

Waqar also made it clear that he believed coach needed to be consulted by the national selectors when they pick any team.

His comments came in response to the press conference of chief selector Mohsin Khan, who said earlier that it was not binding upon him to consult the captain or coach.

Waqar said he was looking forward to a evenly competed series against the Proteas.

"We have a very balanced side for all forms of the sport and I think, we are in a position to beat South Africa," he added.

The former fast bowler also made it clear fielding had always remained Pakistan's weakest section and this can only be improved by working at the grass-root level.

Waqar said in the short conditioning camp there had been lot of stress laid on fielding drills and sessions.

The national coach said he would have no problems if the Board decides to appoint a specialist coach with the national team on permanent basis. "Anything that can help the team improve and do well I will always support it," he said.

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