by Abdul Habib
21st June 2010

Wahab Riaz has taken 10 wickets in the only 5 ODIs he's played for Pakistan but despite those impressive figures he hasnt had a game in almost exactly 2 years. During that time Wahab's been travelling with the Pakistan A team and has been taking wickets for fun. He's taken 17 wickets in just 11 limited overs games against top opposition (Eng A, Aus A and SL A). But he's no pushover in first class cricket either. In 4 first class games (against Aus A and SL A) he's taken a huge 22 wickets, something our senior bowlers failed to do.

That's why I wasn't surprised to see Wahab get selected for the England tour, the only surprise has been how long it's taken to get him back into the Pakistan team.

Speaking exclusively to Cricistan.com; Wahab reveals that he heard the news at home whilst watching TV.

"I was watching TV at home when the announcement was made and I just couldn't believe my eyes when my name came up. My parents were with me and my father was probably happier than I was. Both my parents have given me a lot of support but especially my father who's dream it is to see me become a regular for the Pakistan team. They were the first ones to congratulate me on my re-selection and then after that the phone started ringing." Wahab told Cricistan.com

What's refreshing about Wahab's attitude is that his first words are about winning games for Pakistan.

"I see this selection as a show of faith from the PCB and the selectors in my ability as a bowler. I can't wait to get on the field in a Pakistan shirt and to start helping Pakistan win games. I'm in good form with the ball and I can only hope that I will carry this form onto the international stage with me. I will do my best to fulfill the expectations of all the fans, may family and the PCB." Wahab said to Cricistan.com

Wahab's right about one thing, over the last 2 or 3 years he's been in great bowling form. I look forward to seeing him recreate that during the long tour of England.