Mushtaq Ahmed ready to spin web around England by AFP

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Player:	Mushtaq Ahmed
Event:	England in Pakistan 2005/06

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DateLine: 2nd October 2005

 

Pakistan leg-spinner Mushtaq Ahmed said Sunday he was confident he can play a key role against England next month if selected.

 

The 35-year-old said he had studied the England batsmen closely during his county stint at Sussex.

 

"If I am recalled I can still spin a web around the England batsmen," said Mushtaq, who is tipped to earn a recall after two years out of the national side.

 

Pakistan host England for three Tests and a five-match one-day series. The first Test starts in Multan from November 12.

 

Pakistan captain Inzamam-ul-Haq and coach Bob Woolmer have hinted at giving Mushtaq another chance after the bearded leg-spinner took 80 wickets for Sussex.

 

His efforts helped the country finish second behind champions Nottinghamshire and boosted his chances of playing for Pakistan. "I am right up there and enjoying my bowling, and if my country needs me I will be there and even if, God forbid, I am not recalled I am ready to pass on my experience and my knowledge of the English batsmen," he said.

 

Mushtaq, who played last of his 52 Tests against South Africa two years ago, said he was confident he could get under England's skin despite their recent Ashes success against Australia.

 

"England are now a very confident side with players like Andrew Flintoff and Kevin Pietersen, but I have special plans for both of them and have dismissed them cheaply," said Mushtaq, who made his Test debut against Australia in 1990.

 

"I have not seen such an aggressive player like Pietersen who plays fast and spin with equal aggression but he is vulnerable to spin," said Mushtaq, whose 2003 recall ended in a flop when he took just two wicket in two Tests.

 

He disagrees, however, with those who say his devotion to religion has halted his cricketing career. "Islam has given me faith and now I am a relaxed man who knows my future and success are in the hands of Almighty Allah and turning to religion is not an impediment in cricket, never."

(Article: Copyright © 2005 AFP)