Yousuf’s return sparks confusion and controversy

That Pakistani cricket is full of confusion and controversy is a well-known fact. Another chapter was added to the existing book of the aforementioned couple of Cs. The recall of Mohammad Yousuf to the Pakistani side for the remainder of the three Test matches against England not only added to the confusion, but can best be defined as controversial.

For one, the decision was made without the consultation with the captain and coach, who were both kept in dark about the same. In fact, rather surprisingly, Salman Butt, the captain had made a statement only a day back that it did not make sense to call back a senior to assist the Pakistani batting.

This was followed by a statement from the chief of selectors, Mohsin Khan, who said that it was at the behest of the captain and the coach that Yousuf was sent across to England. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman, Ejaz Butt washed the matter off his hands then, saying that he had had no say in the same.

But the point here is that Butt did have a say. After all, it was the PCB that exonerated Yousuf in the first place. That, after they had themselves banned the player only four months ago. And it was not as if Yousuf had appealed against the ban, as the other players had, and yet, Yousuf was allowed to get away.

What will go in Yousuf’s favour is that in terms of batting, the Pakistanis are at such a low ebb that even without too much practice, Yousuf should be able to assist the resurrection. Whether that will bring a smile on Salman Butt’s countenance despite his reluctance to have Yousuf back, is a question-mark.

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Tags: Ejaz Butt, England, Mohammad Yousuf, Mohsin Khan, Pakistan, Pakistan Cricket Board, PCB, Salman Butt