Woolmer admits pressure on Pakistan

Pakistan coach Bob Woolmer has said he is determined to spoil Brian Lara's last tour of Pakistan. Woolmer recalled how Lara had spoiled his side South Africa's chances in the 1996 World Cup by piling up an impressive 111 that helped beat South Africa in the quarter-final in Karachi. "I remember Lara said 'sorry, Bob, this is my day' when West Indies had the better of us and I hope I can return the favour in the coming Test series," Woolmer said. "We would like to spoil his party but for that we have to play good cricket." Lara had vowed yesterday to make his last tour of Pakistan memorable.

Woolmer agreed with Lara that the absence of two key bowlers - Shoaib Akhtar and Mohammad Asif - would boost West Indies' chances. "Certainly I can understand where Brian is coming from. Shoaib is one of the fastest bowlers and Asif is a very fine bowler and they have not played against them. Without (the) genuine pace of Shoaib and without Asif's terrific ability to make the ball move, we will have to find bowlers to do the job. It would have been an advantage for us so, yes, it puts more pressure on our attack."

One of the most resourceful coaches going around, Woolmer said they will find different ways of taking wickets and winning Test matches. "It is not only about getting 20 wickets but it is also about getting (a) good total."

With the two main strike bowlers absent, Danish Kaneria remains an important part of Pakistan's plans. "Kaneria has been our number one strike bowler but every bowler will have to chip in with wickets. Whoever plays (will) have to take wickets. Shahid Nazir had a terrific tour of England and left-armer Samiullah Niazi is impressive."

Pakistan have included uncapped Niazi, second leading wicket-taker in the 2005-06 domestic season, in a 15-man squad for the first two Tests.

Woolmer refused to underrate West Indies but didn't forget to rub in the fact that they have had miserable time in Test matches recently. "That is nice to know they have won only one Test, but I always say yesterday is history and tomorrow is a mystery and you can't always pick a statistic. It might mean they are probably due to win a Test now."

"West Indies have got some good players in Chris Gayle, Lara, Ramnaresh Sarwan and other up-and-coming bowlers. We can't underestimate them at all."