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Younis Khan opts out of Bangladesh series

July 31, 2003 17:09 IST

Unlike World champions Australia who treated Bangladesh with all seriousness, Pakistan appear to be taking the upcoming home series against the minnows lightly, with Younis Khan today joining a growing list of leading players either opting out or not reporting fit for the three-Test series.

Experienced middle-order bat Younis Khan has conveyed his non-availability for the first two Tests against Bangladesh, citing pressing family commitments.

It is learnt that Younis, whose sister is to get married, had informed the Pakistan team management about his decision in England last month.

Younis, however, has said he would be available for the third Test match.

Younis has played 27 Tests and scored 1646 runs at an average of 38.27.

Meanwhile, Pakistan's injured strike bowler Muhammad Sami is due to return home from England on August 4 and may be available to play the latter part of the home series.

According to The News, the 24-year-old fast bowler contacted Pakistan captain Rashid Latif and conveyed to him  that he wants to play the series but would only be available for the final Test and five match One-day International series.

Pakistan skipper Rashid Latif was a worried man after he learned that Sami also may not be available for the Bangladesh series, especially since the team is already without the services of express bowler Shoaib Akhtar.

Shoaib, who is contracted to play with English county side Durham till Setember 17, has been permitted to skip the  Bangladesh series.

Pakistan is still awaiting word on the availability of all-rounder Azhar Mahmood and Abdur Razzaq, who are also playing county cricket in England.


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