Abrar wants to be Pakistan’s all-format spinner

ISLAMABAD: Orthodox spinner Abrar Ahmed, who is eyeing a permanent spot in Pakistan’s all format teams, said that becoming a first choice spinner for the national outfit was his main target.

In a media talk at the Pindi Stadium Thursday, Abrar said all these months sitting on the sidelines he was making efforts to sharpen his skills as a spin bowler. “My main target is to become first choice spinner for all format teams of Pakistan. For the purpose I have worked hard over the years while staying on the sidelines. Making you part of the playing XI is a sole responsibility of the management.

When the management will feel it is the right time for me, I will be given the opportunity to flex my muscles. Till that time all I can do is to work hard and stay in touch. My efforts have always been to work hard on my fitness and form and I have been doing this to my best of abilities.”

When asked about the introduction of any new delivery into his armory, Abrar said he had been trying to add a new delivery. “I have been working on that recently. Hopefully, I would be in a position to add new delivery in the coming days. For that you need extraordinary efforts and extra training.”

The orthodox leg-spinner dispelled the impression that he was not fully fit that turned out to be the reason behind not getting any game during the T20 World Cup. “I did not have any injury issues. I was fit and ready to travel with the team. It is up to the management to decide on the playing XI. My job is to stay fit and ready for each game.”

On the forthcoming series against Bangladesh and apparent decision to prepare green pitch at the first Test at the Pindi Stadium, Abrar said he had no issue playing on green tops as the only spinner.

“I am used to bowling on green tops. I returned as the highest wicket-taker on these surfaces in domestic cricket. So I am used to bowling and taking wickets on green surfaces. It is all about keeping a good line and length.”

He had all praise for Imad Wasim, Shoaib Malik and Mohammad Nawaz for helping him out. “All three really helped me in learning the art of spin bowling over the years. Even bowling in their company has helped me in many ways. I have gone through a process of learning the art of spin bowling in the company of the best spinners.”