The Pakistan cricket selectors have decided against sending opener Saeed Anwar to South Africa for a two-Test series starting at Durban from December 26 but have almost guaranteed him a place in the World Cup squad. The team management had Wednesday requested for the left-hander arguing that an experienced hand was required on top of the order.

"We (the selectors) deliberated at length and finally reached the conclusion that Saeed Anwar should not be sent to South Africa (for the Test matches) because he has not played any competitive cricket for over two months. We are not sure of his match fitness and form," the chairman of selectors Wasim Bari said.

Bari added: "We have reasons to believe that pitches for the two-Test series would be difficult and different as to what would be in the World Cup. Instead of taking the risk of sending Saeed now and shattering his confidence, we have decided that since he is now a near certainty for the World Cup, he be allowed to play in the domestic circuit so that he can regain the required form, fitness and confidence."

Pakistan's first-class competition, the Quaid-i-Azam Trophy, will commence from December 21 and Saeed will have at least five first-class matches to reclaim his magical touch.

Saeed, who last played a Test against Bangladesh at Multan 16 months ago, has scored 4,052 runs from 55 Tests at 45.53.

"Of course, it has been a hard decision to make and a lot of thought has gone in. But I believe we have taken the right decision that is in the interest of the player, team and the country," Bari said.

Bari said it was now clear after the one-dayers in South Africa that, at least, an opener's slot was available. "Naturally with the experience Saeed has, he is now a near certainty (for the World Cup) and we expect him to avail the opportunity of making the best use of the domestic first-class matches."

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December 19, 2002

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