BBC SPORT | Cricket | Waqar calls for support

After suffering an abject humiliation at the hands of Australia, Pakistan get the chance to rebuild their shattered confidence as they head to Zimbabwe.

Waqar Younis' side are used to the regular criticism from fans and media.

A poor run of early season one-day international results was enough to see coach Mudassar Nazar sacked.

"This sort of criticism is nothing new in Pakistan cricket," said Waqar.

"You win 10 matches and lose one and they take shots at the team, management and board."

Zimbabwe have always been worthy opponents in their own backyard

Waqar Younis

But Pakistan's meeting with the Aussies is Sri Lanka and Sharjah marked a new low.

In the absence of three leading batsmen because of injuries, and some questionable selection decisions, it is hardly surprising that Waqar's youngsters suffered.

But consecutive innings defeats in the final two Tests, capping a 3-0 whitewash, were too much for the fans at home to take.

Board chairman Tauqir Zia offered his resignation after the team were bowled out for record lowest scores of 59 and 53 in the second Test, although he was convinced to stay on.

Waqar Younis
Waqar's sights are set firmly on the World Cup
Waqar, though, says it is time for the critics to give their support to the side.

"At least we had the courage to face one of the best teams in the world with such an inexperienced and young team on neutral ground," he said.

"Everyday I get up and read statements from former players.

"I don't want to take names but some of the criticism is a shame. It is criticism for criticism's sake. It is not helping anyone."

Home advantage

Vice-captain Inzamam-ul Haq and batsman Yousuf Youhana are both back for the Zimbabwe leg of the trip, with two Tests followed by five one-day internationals.

Meanwhile their opponents have won just four Tests - three against lowly Bangladesh - in the last two years.

They did, though manage to draw a two-Test home series with India in June 2001.

"After our recent performances we can't take any team lightly," claimed Waqar.

"I know it is not going to be easy for us because Zimbabwe, even without Heath Streak, have always been worthy opponents in their own backyard."

Campbell to captain Zimbabwe

There as much at stake off the field of play - where both teams have suffered boycotts by touring nations - as on it.

Heath Streak
Zimbabwqe are without injured skipper Streak
Eighth plays ninth in the ICC Test Championship, with Pakistan defending a 1-0 series win in 1997/98, although they cannot drop a place if they lose.

Two further Tests follow in South Africa, but it is on the one-day game that Pakistan are concentrating, with the World Cup beginning in the Republic next February.

"This is a crucial time for the team," said Waqar. "We are trying to strike a right balance for the World Cup.

"Things have not been easy for us with so many senior players either injured or not playing."

Wasim Akram, reportedly rested from the Sharjah series so that he could focus on the World Cup, will join the one-day side for the 10 matches.

"This is the time for everyone including the media, former players and the people to support us and keep faith in the team," said Waqar.

"Or else we will never do well in the World Cup."


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