Hussain: we must embrace the different cultures

Nasser Hussain has spoken of his desire for the England side to embrace the culture of each of the countries they tour this winter. The England captain has also admitted that the winter will provide new conditions and challenges for his developing team, but he is confident that they can continue to build on the good work of this summer.

"This winter is going to be completely different," Hussain explained. "We've not been to Pakistan for 13 years and this side has not toured Asia before, but we're going with a completely open mind."

"We want to go out there and learn more about the game. I've always been told that the more different conditions you can play in the better player you can become. There are 18 of us who want to improve this winter."

Hussain is aware that the last tour to Pakistan, in 1987, was an acrimonious affair, culminating in the Gatting-Rana incident, yet is determined that his side travel with no negative preconceptions.

"All the other stuff happened the last time that England were out there and will be of great interest to others, but we're going out to enjoy all three countries and play as hard as we can," he stated.

"We're looking forward to being out there, we're looking forward to being in an area of the world where cricket is hugely important and is part of the culture."

"We have to go out and enjoy the culture and make sure the team as a unit are happy and playing good cricket."

"The team are out there to continue the work we did this summer, to try to win Test matches and play like a side who look like they were working for each other."

Hussain openly admitted to feeling weary through the summer, and that tiredness contributed towards his batting average for the season of just 11. He hinted that he could have done with a longer rest after the emotional upheavals of the summer.

"It's not been a long break," he said," but it's been an enjoyable two or three weeks getting my golf handicap down. Most of us have been away, but it has been harder for the boys who played right up to the end of the season. It would have been nice to have a bit longer, and I'd be lying if I said three weeks was enough, but once we get out there and the cricket starts we'll be fine."