Injured Pakistan batsman Taufeeq Umar is confident he will be able to regain his place once he’s recovered from his shin troubles, despite his replacement, Nasir Jamshed, making a name for himself. Umar was forced to miss the tour to South Africa because of his injury, a blow for the side considering his good record against the Proteas, but he feels that he’ll be able to slot back into the side for the next series against the West Indies in June. Taufeeq said: “Injury is always a setback for any player in world cricket. I was unfortunate to have it at such a wrong time. But I was lucky it was not a serious injury and I am positive about my future. “I only require another four weeks to get back in shape. The disappointment is obviously there as I was looking forward to the South Africa tour for a long time as I always enjoy playing against them and score a lot of runs. “Injuries do come but that doesn’t mean that is it. I have been doing well since my comeback in 2010 and have nothing to fear about. The next months obviously are tough but I am ready to put in all the hard work to reclaim my place in the side.”
He continued: “There are certain teams I love to score runs against and South Africa is one of them. I need not worry at all about whoever comes in to replace me. It’s in fact a good sign as there is a sense of competition for the slot, which is good for the team. “I have good wishes for Nasir or whoever replaces me what is important is that they perform well. I am positive and have nothing to lose, I know I am around and will be available for the next series.” The fact that there is such a big gap between Test series for the Pakistanis is a concern for the batsman, as they play fewer Tests than any of the other top sides.
