LAHORE: Pakistan cricket team’s head coach Waqar Younis said on Friday he was not bothered by ‘foul-mouthed’ criticism targeted at his coaching or the team and was solely focussed on the job at hand.
Talking to reporters at the Gaddafi Stadium after team’s practice session for the upcoming series against Bangladesh, Waqar said he was aware of all the comments being directed towards the team but had blocked out ‘foul-mouthed’ rants from former players and experts.
“It is only natural that with so many media outlets, someone, somewhere will have their opinion to give. While I’m all for constructive criticism, those who cross the boundaries of decency, I have no place for them,” Waqar said.
The 43-year-old coach said the team management was making all efforts to address their shortcomings, the details of which were submitted in his ‘World Cup review’ document.
“I think the board has looked into my report and also taken some steps in that regard. The most important thing for me is attitude. If you don’t have the right attitude, you cannot be part of the team.”
The ‘Burewalla Express’ said he had also emphasised to the board the need to improve things on the domestic front.
“The Pakistan Cricket Board needs to invest in the Pakistan A, Under-19 and domestic teams.
“We also need to look after our stadiums as well. We must not lag behind on any front when international cricket returns to Pakistan,” Waqar said.
Pakistan’s horror show with the bat during the World Cup was a major concern as the team prepares for its series against Bangladesh. He remained confident in the ability of his bowling stocks, however.
“Our bowlers did a commendable job. The bowlers we took to the tournament were superb,” he added.
Pakistan bowling resources will be further bolstered with the return of spin king Saeed Ajmal, who Waqar said would make an immediate impact.
“We must praise Saeed Ajmal for working so hard for eight months. Though there is a difference between a match and practice session, I am sure he will do well,” he added.
Waqar was also optimistic of the new players making it to the national squad. He said Pakistan cricket had benefited from the services of Misbah-ul-Haq and Younis Khan but in their absence, the juniors must step up and play with responsibility.
“Youngsters must realise that they have been fortunate enough to make it to the national team and be responsible on the field,” he said.
“Newcomers like Sami Aslam and Babar Azam are talented young batsmen and I am sure they will make the most out of this opportunity,” he added.
Waqar appreciated the efforts Bangladesh team management has put in and said they would pose a real threat to Pakistan in the upcoming series.
“Bangladesh have been playing really good cricket and we don’t consider them an easy opponent. This is our first tour after the World Cup and I am hopeful that Pakistan would do well,” Waqar said.