'We've to get on with life'

Younis laments the volatile situation in Pakistan

Pakistan stood isolated among the world cricketing community after the terrorist attack on Sri Lanka at Lahore in March. The International Cricket Council was swift to take action against Pakistan, stripping them of World Cup hosting rights.

Pakistan skipper Younis Khan admitted that his country has been going through a tough phase but said the best way to cope with the situation was to get on with life.

“After that attack on the Sri Lankan team, it was very hard for us because such a thing had never happened before in Pakistan. Then there was this bombing in my home town in Peshawar. We are all human beings and it is affecting our performance,” Younis said
The Mardan batsman had invited sharp criticism from all quarters for terming Twenty20 as a fun game. However, Younis stuck to his point. “I am a simple guy. Sometimes people think I am wrong because when we lose I am still laughing," Younis said.

"You must look forward, if you lose or win. This is life. Sometimes you have good days, sometimes you have bad days. In this form it is better to take it easy and have fun. It is like WWF,” he added.

Amidst all the strife, Younis was hoping to provide some joy for his countrymen by winning the T20 World Championship which they came close to winning a couple of years ago in South Africa.  “I wish to face India in the finals and as captain I would really like that. It will be a great joy for our people.”

The return of Abdul Razzaq, replacement for the injured Yaseer Arafat, has also made him happy. The all-rounder has recently snapped ties with the Indian Cricket League. “It’s a big relief for me to have him in the team.

“This game is not possible but I think he will manage the last two games. He is a good name in world cricket and in Twenty20 he is a fantastic all-rounder. He is a senior guy and his return will be good for Pakistan cricket. He would be in any team in the world."
DH News Service