Younis wants players to learn from Australia

Pakistan captain Younis Khan is disappointed that Australia have rested key members of their squad for the ODI series, beginning on April 22, because their presence would have benefited a young Pakistan side. The Australian selectors left out Ricky Ponting, Michael Hussey and Mitchell Johnson from the five-match series in Dubai.

"When you play against the top players like Ponting, you learn different and good things," Younis told AFP. "Ponting is a brilliant captain and, when you play against such a leader, you tend to learn. Hussey is a stubborn batsman and Johnson has developed into a world-class bowler whose every delivery is near 140 kmph. So we will miss them."

Michael Clarke was named captain for the series and the Australia squad also includes returning allrounders Andrew Symonds, Shane Watson and fast bowler Brett Lee. "It is a great opportunity for this young [Pakistan] team," Younis said. "When you play against a top team like Australia there are a lot of opportunities to learn and I hope my team gain in experience."

Younis said that he was not "expecting much" from his team but hoped that his players would learn from Australia's attitude on the field. "The Australians have an attitude which says everything about their cricket. That is, not to give up, aggression in all situations and I am sure my team will observe that.

"If my team plays a little bit above their potential then I am sure we can achieve better results. I am not expecting much from this team but my main expectation is that they play with full throttle and potential."

Pakistan's squad for the series includes Shoaib Akhtar, who has returned after recovering from a knee injury. "My request to Akhtar is to play for the team, for himself, and remain focused on the game," Younis said. "I will not put extra pressure of expectations on him but he will have to play with his full ability."