 Lara ended the day just four runs short of a double century |
Captain Brian Lara insisted he felt as fired up as ever about his batting after his unbeaten 196 put West Indies in charge against Pakistan. The 37-year-old was at his imperious best as the tourists ended day three of the second Test 152 runs ahead.
And he said: "I am very enthusiastic every time I go out. I want to do well.
"I want to see the team do well. I have the energy and desire to carry on. But now it's about building partnerships and piling the pressure on Pakistan."
The veteran struck a 77-ball century before lunch before seeing out the day still at the crease with the Windies on 509-5.
 | I wouldn't say we are out of this game. Waqar Younis Pakistan bowling coach |
But he played down suggestions he could reach a triple century for the third time in his career.
"I am not necessarily looking at a triple century. I don't look at my innings in a personal context. What matters is we are in a good position in this match and we try to finish it off well.
"We need to have a sizable lead because the pitch is still playing pretty well and we want to give the bowlers the necessary runs to play with.
"If that happens it would add value to my runs."
And Lara added that the only downside of the day was watching Chris Gayle (93), Daren Ganga (82) and Dwayne Bravo (89) miss out on centuries.
"I like to see the younger players get hundreds - it's more important for them than it is for me. But with time and opportunity I hope they learn."
Home captain Inzamam-ul-haq paid tribute to his opposite number after stumps, saying: "I said it before. Lara is a batsman who can turn the game around anytime. He did it today.
"He played brilliantly. But this game is still not over as yet."
Pakistan bowling coach Waqar Younis added: "I wouldn't say we are out of this game.
"It is not hard to bat on this pitch but we have to get him [Lara] and a couple of wickets first thing in the morning,"