Strengthened Younus urges unity

New Zealand's Champions Trophy form, which included a defeat of Pakistan, should be a warning, says Younus Khan

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Pakistan captain Younus Khan has called for a team effort in order to secure victory against New Zealand in the limited-overs series in the United Arab Emirates beginning next week.

Younus’ team was accused of throwing their final group game in the ICC Champions Trophy against Australia, and also their semi-final with New Zealand, by the chairman of the National Assembly standing committee on sports, Jamshed Khan Dasti.

Younus offered to step down, but his resignation was declined by the Pakistan Cricket Board and he was named captain of the team until the 2011 ICC World Cup in the sub-continent.

Younus has denied reports of a rift in the camp and instead called for a united effort from his players.

“New Zealand did very well in the Champions Trophy and I hope we can avenge our defeat by playing as a team against them,” Younus said.

“They play as a unit and we need to be at our best to beat them,” he said.

Younus said his decision to offer his resignation had succeeded in garnering support for his team.

“I did not resign to acquire more power,” he said. “Instead I got the nation (to) back us, which is more important.

“If this support continues, Pakistan will win several titles in future,” he said.

Younus was roundly criticised for playing in the Champions Trophy semi-final despite a finger injury, but the Pakistan skipper has made a full recovery.

“The finger injury is not that serious,” Younus said. “I only needed some rest and I am completely fit now.”

In a series shifted to a neutral venue due to the security situation in the country, Pakistan will “host” New Zealand for three one-dayers in Abu Dhabi before travelling to Dubai for two Twenty20 internationals.

Pakistan will then tour New Zealand for a Test series immediately after.