Rising above everythingthat life throws at them

Dubai: Pakistan's star batsman Younus Khan might be harsh on bowlers but very few know he helped launch his country's national team for physically disabled cricketers.

The special Pakistan team arrived in the UAE to play three One-day Internationals (ODIs) and two Twenty20 matches against their England counterparts.

Soon after launching the Pakistan team, Khan had appealed to the Pakistan Cricket Board and ordinary citizens to come forward and support it.

"The most important part of this campaign is that disabled people can't be ignored as they are part of our daily life," Khan says.

Special talent

England's 15-member squad will be led by James Williams while Salim Karim will captain Pakistan.

Karim's right leg is withered by polio and his left leg was damaged in an accident but he has been the driving force of the team after he assembled it in 2006 with funds from his own pocket.

Farhan Saeed, a fast bowler from Karachi and an amputee generates good pace jumping onto a crutch in order to deliver the ball.

England's Callum Flynn plays with a replacement knee following a battle with bone cancer and pacer Daniel Holder has played for county side Gloucestershire's second eleven despite the absence of his left hand and forearm.

"Entrance is free to see this unique cricket contest," said Maqbul Dudhia, general manager — sports business, for Dubai Sports City, the venue for the matches.