“They both met and decided to join the training camp”

Image courtesy of: ESPNcricinfo

Pakistan ODI captain Azhar Ali and batsman Mohammad Hafeez have ended their protest and agreed to participate in the ongoing conditioning camp in Lahore.

Ali and Hafeez initially refused to take part in the camp due to the presence of left-arm seamer Mohammad Amir. But, after meeting with Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman Shaharyar Khan on Friday, the duo changed their minds.

“They both met and decided to join the training camp,” Khan said. “I do respect their concerns but some of them, I told them, are not acceptable. So they understood and confirmed that they are on the same page with us and now we are looking forward to the success of the team.

“We have also conveyed that we have only selected Amir in the training session and he has not been selected in the national team so far.”

Khan also made it clear that if Amir is picked for next month’s tour of New Zealand, Ali and Hafeez “both have to stand with him and should not see him with suspicion or behave badly with him”.

“It is now their responsibility to take him like a family. We, at the same time, will ensure that Amir stays on course and does not commit any mistake in future,” Khan added.

Speaking about the situation, Hafeez said: “My stance has been simple all the way, that anyone who damages the pride and integrity of the country should not be given a chance again. It was my principle stance and will remain the same throughout my life.

“I am happy that the PCB chairman heard my reservations and agreed to safeguard our concerns for the sake of Pakistan cricket.”