Poor participation in domestic cricket reason behind Pakistan's Test woes: Umar Gul

Karachi: Pakistan fast bowler Umar Gul believes that lack of participation in the domestic cricket by the national players is the reason behind their poor performance in the Test format of the game.

The 34-year-old has suggested the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) to ensure players' involvement in the first-class cricket if they want to improve their figures in the Test cricket.

Gul's suggestion comes in the wake of Pakistan's 1-2 defeat at the hands of New Zealand in the recently-concluded three-match Test series in UAE.

"I think we are performing well in limited overs cricket. But the main reason behind Pakistan's poor performance in Test cricket which I think is lack of domestic cricket played by our national cricketers," The Express Tribune quoted Gul, as saying.

"Whenever our players get rest, they don't come and play first-class cricket. I suggest to the PCB that if our team is playing in the UAE, they should send other cricketers -who are not part of the playing XI-back to Pakistan to play domestic cricket," he added.

Talking about his own prospects of making a comeback in the national side, Gul stated that being an experienced player he still holds a chance to get a spot in the team and that he is waiting for his last chance.

"I think I can make a comeback in Pakistan Test team. Being an experienced campaigner, I think there is still space for me in the side. I have worked hard this season. I worked on my fitness and I have played every single match this season," Gul said.

"I am satisfied with my level of fitness now. My rhythm is great and I'm bowling with good pace. Although I prefer Test cricket but I'm currently focusing on my return in any format of the game. I am just waiting for my last chance," he added.

The pacer also hailed the Pakistan Super League (PSL), saying that it is a good platform for the emerging and young players of the country.

"PSL is a good sign for cricket in our country. It is currently one of the top three leagues in the world. It is highly competitive and more importantly it is our own brand," he said.

"It is a great platform for the emerging and young cricketers of the country. They get the opportunity to share the dressing room with foreign players and also become better off financially," he added.

Gul has played a total of 47 Test matches taking 163 wickets with an economy rate of 3.47.