Inzamam still uncertain for VB Series

Inzamam is in a late race to prove his fitness for the VB Series © AFP

Inzamam-ul-Haq will take a late decision on whether to make himself available for the VB Series against Australia and West Indies. Inzamam missed the last two Tests against Australia because of back problems, but has responded well to treatment.

"I will decide then but I am trying my level best to be fit," he told the BBC website. "The muscular injury was hurting deep when I was bending to take stance or while I was running. Now the pain has eased out but I have to make the right calculation about my comeback because I can't afford to blow away my chances of touring India in March."

Inzamam has come under fierce criticism from former Pakistan players for his side's 3-0 defeat to Australia. He scored only one run in his two innings at Perth last month, and Imran Khan, who was the captain when Inzamam first entered international cricket, condemned his attitude.

"I have the highest regard for him but I wish Imran had seen the medical reports," Inzamam said, responding to the criticism. "We are more disappointed and sad than our supporters because we are not as bad as the results reflect. We improved gradually but we played against the best team in the world in their backyard."

But Inzamam reckoned that some pride could be won back in the VB Series: "The players have been working extremely hard as they know this may be their last chance to win back the confidence and trust of their supporters. If we are a good and talented team, we have to perform well in this tournament."