Malik urges Pakistan focus

Shoaib Malik is urging his team to build on their recent triangular series success

Pakistan skipper Shoaib Malik has warned his players against complacency as the team start their preparations for the Asia Cup.

The hosts have been labelled favourites to win the title, especially after their victory over India in the tri-series final in Bangladesh, but Malik claims his team must prove themselves again.

“The victory in Bangladesh has boosted our confidence,” he said. “But the Asia Cup will be a different tournament altogether. We will have to start from scratch.”

Pakistan will kick off the tournament when they take on minnows Hong Kong on June 24, but Malik is refusing to take any team lightly.

“We will work hard and give our best in every match no matter who we play against,” he said.

“Let’s not forget that India are a dangerous team. They have beaten Australia this year. And Sri Lanka cannot be taken lightly. Both teams are well balanced.”

Meanwhile, the Asian Cricket Council have announced there will be random dope tests on players during the tournament, with WADA rules in force.