PCB chief hints at return of Yousuf, Younus for England Test series

Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Ejaz Butt has indicated that former captains Muhammad Yousuf and Younus Khan may return to the national team for the Test series against England next month.

“The issue of both these players was discussed at our meeting in London on last Friday where it was felt that since there is little time left before the start of second Test against Australia at Leeds, it would be difficult to judge their fitness and form,” The Daily Times quoted Butt, as saying.

“Since we have tour games before the Test series against England they can be considered, but obviously the selectors and the team management must feel satisfied that they are fit and ready to return to top cricket,” he added.

Butt also confirmed that he had spoken to Yousuf over the phone, but declined to divulge any details.

The decision comes after Pakistan’s 150 run defeat in the first Test against Australia at Lord’s.

However, despite the disappointing performance, Butt said that he was satisfied with the youngsters.

“The fact is sooner or later we need to induct younger players into the side,” he added.

Younus is currently in England playing for the Surrey county team, and has also been in good form in their domestic leagues.

Meanwhile, Yousuf was part of the Lahore Premier League competition in his hometown, which was his first appearance on the field after having announced his retirement from international cricket in March.

He had retired to protest the decision of the board to impose an indefinite ban on him for indiscipline on the Australian tour early in the year.