Pakistan president offers team some advice

General Pervez Musharraf, the Pakistan president, took some time off yesterday to watch the second NatWest Challenge match against England at The Oval - and give the Pakistan squad some advice.

Pakistan lost the match by seven wickets due mostly to inspired performances from James Anderson and Marcus Trescothick but while in the Pakistan dressing room, Musharraf expressed his delight following the team's thrilling victory in the first game at Old Trafford.

He also advised the team to continue with their hard work: "Although I didn't see your victory, I know that you have given the nation much needed delight and happiness. I would advise you to continue with your hard work."

He added: "Winning and losing is part of the game. Just try to give your best, play hard cricket in the true spirit of the game. I have all the reasons to believe that if you play to your potential, you can be world-beaters. You are the best talent that has assembled here. You are the future of Pakistan cricket."

Musharraf is also a patron of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and reminded the players: "Pakistan cricket is in safe hands and I am optimistic that you will help Pakistan regain the lost glory."

When introduced to Shoaib Akhtar, he had some words of appreciation as well as some rather sobering advice for Pakistan's fiery bowler who is so often surrounded by controversy: "I have seen you bowling and I am a real fan of yours. But I have observed that at times you don't strike the balance that is essential to be a successful sportsman."

On meeting Rashid Latif, the Pakistan captain, he was happy to see a new team unity under his leadership: "I am impressed with your leadership. You have gelled the team together and that is the key to get the best out of your unit."

Musharraf addressed the whole team and was forthright in telling the young squad that the captain was the only commander of the team and advised the boys to respect and listen to him: "You can run your unit when you have one commander and I am glad that this team has one captain who calls the shots."