Waqar defends batsmen, praises Pakistan bowling unit

Pakistan coach Waqar Younis has said that his players have to motivate themselves as a special committee is formed back home to monitor Pakistan's performance and examine the selection process for the upcoming World Twenty20, following their early exit from the Asia Cup in Bangladesh.

Waqar has urged the country to rally behind his team ahead of their World T20 campaign in India, despite their recent performances, after Pakistan picked up a consolation win over Sri Lanka to end the round robin stage.

"This word, tehqiqat (investigation), isn't very pleasant," Younis said. "But the circumstances are such that such words will be used. I think there are far worse words being used in our media. But that's the way it is. You have to take it on the chin when you are in this business. I guess this is why everyone is trying their best to have a good World T20.

"We have to pick ourselves up, not only the team but even the management. Even the entire country I feel… We are going to a big tournament. You cannot really just put everyone down at all times and then send them to such a big event. I think it is about time that should we all back our boys as well as the management because all the backing will be required."

Younis admitted that they have problems with the top-order but he was impressed with the middle-order batsmen and the bowling attack led by Mohammad Amir, who took seven wickets at an average of 11.57. "We have not been very happy with the top-order but to be fair to them, it has been a tough outing for them if you consider the pitches or conditions here. It's been very difficult. The bowlers have had a good say especially with the new ball.

"So I think the most positive I would like to take is that our bowlers bowled really well. I am really impressed with Mohammad Amir's bowling. Irfan is coming really good. Wahab Riaz played today. We scored 50 in the first six overs but it came late. But we will go to the World T20 with this win.

"Sarfraz's batting has been the highlight. Umar Akmal has played well. Shoaib Malik has played well. The middle and lower-middle order, they've been pretty good. It is just that the top three batsmen have struggled in the matches before this match. But yeah, we have to really fix that."