Sydney, Jan 6 (Inditop.com) Pakistan captain Mohammad Yousuf has ruled out the option of resting Kamran Akmal despite the wicketkeeper’s lacklustre performance behind the stumps.
Akmal dropped Australia’s middle order batsman Michael Hussey thrice on the third day of the second Test in Sydney Tuesday and also wasted a perfect opportunity to run out opener Shane Watson. Hussey went on to complete his 11th ton Wednesday after Watson gave Australia a perfect start with his 97 runs.
Akmal has come under immense criticism for his poor showing with some suggesting he should be given a rest as he has been playing too much cricket. Young wicketkeeper Sarfraz Ahmed has been suggested as a possible replacement for Akmal.
However, Yousuf made it clear Pakistan have no such plans. The Pakistan captain, instead, staunchly supported the wicketkeeper saying they cannot do without him.
“Things like this happen in cricket,” said Yousuf referring to Kamran’s poor catching Tuesday when he dropped Michael Hussey on 27, 45 and 52 off Kaneria. “Kamran is always trying his best.”
“You tell me, how can we afford to give him (Kamran) a rest,” he asked. “He is such a good batsman. He scored well in New Zealand and we need him here.”
Yousuf said that as captain he wants to back his players, especially when they are struggling.
“One should back his players when they are struggling with form,” he said. “Look at (Australia captain) Ricky Ponting. He is getting support from every quarter even when he is not scoring many runs.”