Pakistan fast bowler Mohammad Asif said Wednesday he hoped for an early return to international cricket after missing the one-day series against India due to an elbow injury. The 24-year-old paceman was withdrawn from Pakistan's one-day squad hours before the team's departure on November 1 when his injury became aggravated.
"I hope to play a part in the Test series against India because I am feeling better. Once I start bowling, a timeframe can be set for my return," Asif told AFP. Pakistan face India in the fourth one-day international at Gwalior on Thursday. India lead the five-match series 2-1. The three-Test series starts in New Delhi from November 22. The other two Tests will be played at Calcutta (November 30-December 4) and at Bangalore (December 8-12).
Pakistan selectors are due to name the Test squad on Thursday but Asif's name will not be considered. "We will only consider Asif's name once we get a clean sheet on him from the medical board," chief selector Salahuddin Ahmed said.