Azhar Mahmood's entry into Test cricket was truly remarkable as he made a century on debut against South Africa in 1997.

It seemed to suggest that Pakistan's conveyer belt of gifted young cricketers had produced another gem.

But since then, his performances have seen many ups and downs and he has found himself on the fringes of the national squad.

After being overlooked for the series against West Indies, the Rawalpindi born player is back on the international scene for next week's Sharjah tournament.

And he is looking to use the tournament, which also features New Zealand and Sri Lanka, to re-establish himself in the side.

Temperament

Azhar has been critcised for giving away his wicket too often in both Test and one-day cricket.

Former Pakistan coach Richard Pybus says Azhar is a very aggressive player, who looks to dominate opposition attacks.

"Sometimes he is, possibly, over-aggressive and simply follows his instincts," he told BBC Sport Online.

"The game of cricket is played in the mind, so obviously, temperament is one important factor to count.

Azhar insists he is able to contain his natural instincts, if the occasion demands.

"Whatever I do, be it cricket or anything else in life, my natural aggression comes into it," he says.

"Yes, I can be patient, obviously not like Viswanath or Gavaskar, but to an extent that is not harmful to my natural style."

But temperament is not the only reason contributing to his intermittent appearances in the Pakistani team.

Fitness problems have long been a source of concern for Pakistan, and Azhar has had his share of injuries.

"Fitness problems are very common among bowlers, but modern facilities make all the difference for early recovery," said Azhar.

Problem of plenty

"During my injuries in 1999 and 2000, new players performed well, so naturally, they stayed in the team on a more permanent basis."

That, perhaps, is the key factor - the emergence at almost the same time of another all-rounder, Abdur Razzaq.