Karachi: Senior Pakistan batsman Younis Khan has expressed his desire to play at number three position in the batting line-up in the upcoming one-day series against New Zealand.
Younis, who has been recalled to the one-day squad after much bitterness with the selectors over his place in the 50-overs format and World Cup plans, said he had always felt most comfortable batting at the one down position.
"Most of the times in my career I have batted at number three and scored most of my runs at that position. I would like to bat at this spot in the one-day series as well," Younis said on Geo Super channel.
The former captain made it clear that he was not sure what the team management had planned for the ODIs against New Zealand.
"I am not part of the team's think tank so I don't know but I feel they should play those players who they feel have a strong chance to be in the World Cup squad," said Younis.
He also said the series against New Zealand was important as Pakistan didn't have many ODI matches in hand before the World Cup to get their combination settled.
Referring to the big defeat against New Zealand in the third Test, Younis said credit must be given to the visitors for planning and executing well.
"They were better than us in executing their plans but I think we remain a dangerous side for the World Cup. We have some exciting players and we need to have a strong management and captain in the World Cup as well."
Younis felt that Pakistan should play their natural game in the World Cup and not try to copy any other team.
"I am happy to be back in the one-day squad and my mind is clear I will continue to play for Pakistan as long as I am fit and enjoying the game."
Younis said Pakistan team players had been shocked by the Phil Hughes tragic death.
"It came as a shock to us on the morning of the second day of the third Test because here was a person who had been playing against us just a few weeks back," said Younis. "It took a while for us to reconcile with the situation. It is a huge tragedy for us also.
