Our target is to get Ajmal back before the World Cup: Saqlain

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s former spin-magician Saqlain Mushtaq is confident and believes that spin-wizard Saeed Ajmal will correct his bowling action and will play next year’s World Cup at Australia and New Zealand.

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has hired spin legend Saqlain to help Ajmal to correct his bowling action due to which he was suspended by International Cricket Council (ICC) from international cricket earlier this month.

The inventor of ‘doosra’ Saqlain arrived Lahore on Wednesday and did two session with Ajmal at National Cricket Academy (NCA), in the presence of Pakistan spin bowling coach Mushtaq Ahmed and fast bowling coach Muhammad Akram.

Talking to the media Saqlain said, ‘What has happened in the past stays in the past. I know my role and it is a matter of pride for me. The Pakistan shirt and the stars on it are embedded in my heart.’

Speaking about Ajmal he said, ‘I consider this opportunity a challenge for me. I had one session with Ajmal last evening and another this morning and I am certain we will have results. Ajmal is very positive and a hard working individual. Our support staff is also very optimistic and we hope to accomplish what we have set out to.’

Saqlain further said, ‘Everyone has seen the ICC report and it is our job to rectify Ajmal’s action and we are very positive that we shall be able to do so. All we need is some time to bring back the quality. However, it also depends on the player. If a player is hard working and determined he can produce the required results.’

Talking about Ajmal’s return in the World Cup 2015 he said, ‘We hope Ajmal can return before the World Cup. That is our target. His physical condition is much better. I’ve read his report and his muscles and hand movement is fine.’

Commenting on the new technology Saqlain said, ‘I have the cameras, equipment’s and software’s with me in my laptop. Our target is to bring him back to international cricket and I am certain we will achieve this because Ajmal is a fighter. I request everyone to support him. He is an asset for the world.’

Saqlain concluded, ‘There is a system for everything and it’s very important to focus on the task at hand. I want to utilize my efforts and energy on achieving the aforementioned target. Both Saeed Ajmal and I are positive that he will return to international cricket.’