Injured Hafeez hopeful to join Pakistan in World Cup 2019

Pakistan cricket's senior player and former captain Mohammad Hafeez has said that he is hopeful to represent his country in the upcoming World Cup 2019, as he recovers from a hand injury sustained during recent Pakistan Super League (PSL).

“I am hopeful that very soon I would restart my international career… I am optimistic to start my activities by the mid of April and hope that I would represent Pakistan in the World Cup” said Hafeez, while talking to local media.

Pakistan's all rounder has underwent two surgeries, after a hand injury sustained while attempting a return catch in Lahore Qalandars' match against Karachi Kings at PSL in February.

Speaking about his previous World Cup experience, which the all rounder missed due to an injury as well, Hafeez said that it was something ‘unfortunate’ but such incidents are part of any sporting career.

“It was very disappointing and unfortunate that I was not able to play the 2015 World Cup, held in Australia and New Zealand. I still missed that but I believe one needs to be thankful for the opportunities he gets,” said Hafeez.

Addressing Pakistan’s issue of low strike rate, Hafeez said that the batsman should learn to dominate once they get settled on the field.  “In today’s cricket, once the batsman gets settled, then it is his responsibility to dominate the bowling attack,” he said.