“I can perform well at No 3 and the notion that I am fearful of playing at demanding No 3 spot is wrong. Indeed, I have played at that position in the past and also have performed well,” Younis told reporters during a practice session in Lahore.
Younis reiterated that playing at No 3 had made him a different kind of cricketer and he had performed well on many occasions.
“I can take the responsibility of going up at No 3. I fear the least and hopefully I would not struggle during the World Cup if am asked to play at that position,” he said.
He further mentioned Imran Khan and said that he would like to emulate the legendary player, who promoted himself to No 3 when the team was struggling in batting department during World Cup 1992, which also was held in Australia and New Zealand. Imran went on to put some memorable performances during the tournament, which Team Pakistan eventually won.
Younis further said that co-host Australia and dangerous South Africa may have an edge during the tournament but many other teams would also stand almost the same chance to excel.
“New Zealand played impressively against us in UAE. They fielded well and they also stand a chance. In ODIs and in a tournament like World Cup, every team stands a chance. Pakistan also stands a chance of winning the tournament just like any other team,” he said.
“One-day cricket has changed and rules like five players in the circle has made it a game for every team, who put a united show. If we are motivated and each of us go all out put our best as a team, then I believe Allah will also help us. So I am optimistic of our good performance during the tournament,” Younis said.
On his retirement plans, Younis said that he would keep on playing till he believes he was fit and in-form and there was hunger for playing more.
“Retiring from international cricket is a personal decision of Misbah (Misbah-ul-Haq) and (Shahid) Afridi and I believe there is no need to make it controversial. As far as I am concerned, I will play till I believe I am fit, in-form and there is hunger for cricket,” he stressed.
He further said that he love to play with youngsters and there was no insecurity in him. “If some youngster replace me with good performance than I would be happy. There is no insecurity in me,” he said.
Younis praised Misbah for captaining Pakistan cricket team during its toughest phase after match-fixing scandal engulfed it.
“Misbah should be praised for leading the team during its difficult period. He led the team with unity and therefore everyone should laud him,” he added.
