Waqar Younis advocates India-Pakistan series

Pakistan national team head coach, Waqar Younis, has laid emphasis on the need for revival of India-Pakistan cricketing ties for the triumph of the sport.  He compelled the International Cricket Council (ICC) and the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) to take suitable measures in this regard. The cricket veteran claimed that the match between the two cricketing giants is greater in magnitude than the Ashes Series.
“The most important thing for Pakistan is the revival of our contests with India, which is also beneficial for the entire cricketing world. The rivalry [between India and Pakistan] is more important than the Ashes,” said Waqar Younis, stressing on the restoration of India-Pakistan cricket.
He appreciated the move by the India Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh and his Pakistan counterpart Yousuf Raza Gillani to watch the World Cup semi final match together at the Punjab Cricket Association stadium, in Mohali on March 30.
Similar gestures in the future can help bridge the void between the nationals of both the countries.
Speaking of Pakistan former cricket captain Javed Miandad’s refusal to act as the team’s batting coach, Waqar suggested PCB to consider other capable candidates instead of pushing Miandad to assume the role against his will.
In reference to the upcoming West Indies tour that starts on April 18, Waqar Younis promised the nation that the mistakes from the World Cup 2011 performances will not be repeated again. The squad is not taking the Caribbean side lightly and our considering them as tough contenders. This is suggested by the hard work and commitment shown by the Men in Green during their practice sessions.
The seasoned cricketer also said that the induction of the young blood in the team is a sign of hope for Pakistan cricket. Few of the promising youngsters on the squad include Junaid Khan, Sadaf Hussain, Usman Salahuddin and Mohammed Salman. He believes the West Indies tour to be a lucrative opportunity for the new entrants to flaunt their talent.
“After the World Cup it is a practice that every country inducts youngsters while targeting the next World Cup. And so we also included some new players for the West Indies series. And all of them will get chances,” stated Waqar.