Tags:
Journalism of Courage
Shoaib8217;s out but, before you begin celebrating, factor in his support cast. If Shoaib has been the lead actor in Pakistan8217;s pace attack, Mohammad Sami, Umar Gul and Shabbir Ahmed are a pretty competent backup team. Just ask the Indian team for horror stories of how Gul destroyed them single-handed in Lahore. The problem for Pakistan is their fitness. The Indian Express spoke to each about their current status and readiness for a hard series in India
SHABBIR AHMED 
Treatment: Operated on in Sept 2004, advised rest since then
Travel plans: Highly unlikely for the Test matches, ODIs look more probable
Current status: Just started training this week. I8217;m feeling very good about myself
Prediction: Indian pitches will be suited to batting so if all of us fast bowlers had been fit we would have made a difference. Gul8217;s injury is disappointing. But you cannot underestimate the new guys, they8217;ve done well so far
Key to win: We need to get India out twice, that8217;s it. We couldn8217;t do that last time
Waqar as coach: Tremendous, he8217;s been a match-winner on his own and whatever he teaches us will only benefit the youngsters
Treatment: Rest
Travel plans: Available for both Test and ODIs
Current status: Just come off three weeks8217; training, now playing second domestic match of the season. Completely fit and ready for the series
Prediction: Watch out India. Last time they played us at home was different. Every day is a new day in cricket. The wickets will be flat and we have to be accurate and that I think will help our cause.
Key to win: India8217;s batsmen are very good, I haven8217;t set any one batsman as a target
Waqar factor: I8217;ll really benefit if he takes me under his wings
UMAR GUL 
Treatment: Got treated by a South African doc last May-June. Have been on complete rest since then
Travel plans: Ruled out for Test matches, iffy for ODIs
Current status: Can8217;t train until scan gives me an all-clear
Key to win: India8217;s batting order has some of the best players, especially the top order
8212; Chandresh Narayanan
