Karachi: Pakistan captain Inzamam-ul-Haq termed his decision to pull out of the third and final cricket Test against India as the toughest of his career but hoped his absence would not affect team confidence and morale.
"It was definitely the toughest decision I have made in my career. I desperately wanted to play in the game but I was not feeling comfortable and fit. I underwent a fitness test this morning before deciding to withdraw from the game," Inzamam said before the toss.
"I tried as hard as I could to get fit by taking extensive treatment and physiotherapy. But the back still hurts when I bend or take a few quick steps," the Pakistan skipper said.
Inzamam suffered a muscular injury in the lower part of his back on the opening day of the Faisalabad Test before returning on the second afternoon to complete his 25th Test century. However, he did not take any further part in the match.
"I did not want to end up being a liability for the team by breaking down during the course of the match. It has been a tough decision because of many reasons and the most important one considering the significance of this game."
"I don't think my absence would affect the team much because all the batsmen have scored plenty of runs in the series and look in good form. As far as motivation is concerned, it is always there when you are playing against your traditional rivals," Inzamam, who missed two Tests in Australia in 2004-05 because of a back injury, said.
Inzamam said he had briefed his players last evening while announcing the 12 that included his name.
"The boys had been mentally prepared for the eventuality if I did not play," he said.
Inzamam said he was hoping to be fit for the One-Day series that begins in Peshawar on February 6.
"After a good week or 10 days' rest, I am confident that I will be able to lead the team in the One-Day series," he added.
Comments
0 comment