Inzamam begins slimming exercise

Islamabad, Aug 30: Test star Inzamamul Haq was in Islamabad for three days has been categorically told to reduce his weight and enhance his fitness level for future assignments.

Chairman national selection Committee Pakistan Cricket Board ad hoc committee Col (R) Noushad Ali told Dawn on Monday that the move may also be termed as "confidence building initiative" since Haq would form the backbone of Pakistan's batting line up.

Haq and Shahid Afridi were invited to Islamabad by the chief selector for the specific reason to communicate few "suggestions" to improve their game.

Inzamamul Haq whose weight and sluggish running approach during the World Cup raised him to a status of "cult figure" in England has adhered to the advice well since the bulky batsman was seen utilising the gym of a five-star hotel during his short stay in the capital besides visiting the Redco cricket ground. On the commencement of national training camp in Lahore from Sept 2, Col Noushad said that all the concerned departments have been communicated the names of the cricketers who have to report to the camp.