Mohsin tells boys to stay focused

SHARJAH: Despite Pakistan's huge success in sweeping the Test series against England, interim coach Mohsin Khan stressed the team would not take anything lightly and were completely focused ahead of the four-match ODI series starting from February 13 in Abu Dhabi.

"After winning the Test series 3-0 against England, our boys are excited but they are not relaxing. We have to carry the same spirit and enthusiasm we had in the Tests going into the ODIs if we are to continue our winning streak," Khan told XPRESS.

Wary of England

Pakistan were impressive in the Test series after surprising the number one Test team, convincingly winning all the three matches.

But Khan said England were a strong side and had the ability to come back hard.

"England are a very good, strong and balanced side. We all know our boys have done a wonderful job in the Tests and due credit to the players for the success but that is not the end of their responsibilities.

"England are the No 1 Test team but are still a strong side in the ODIs as well and are among one of the top teams in the world. They have a very professional and talented team with experienced players and they can come back stronger.

"Our boys are working hard and are looking forward to the challenge. I believe that God helps those who help themselves."

Prior to the one-dayers against England, Pakistan will play Afghanistan in a One-Day International in Sharjah on Friday. This will be Afghanistan's first-ever One-Day International against a Test-playing nation after having played all their earlier 18 ODIs, since gaining the status in 2009, against associate and affiliate teams including Canada, The Netherlands, Ireland, Kenya and Scotland.

"I believe this will be a good practice match for the team before playing England in the ODIs. I always tell the boys not to take any team lightly. When the format gets shorter it becomes all the more challenging.

"We will take this game seriously and we all know Afghanistan are a very talented team and they have played well in the recent past.

"So a victory against them should be a good preparation for our team," the former Pakistan opener added.