Sharjeel Khan eager to don whites for Pakistan

Karachi [Pakistan], Oct.29 (ANI):Pakistan's explosive batsman Sharjeel Khan, who has already secured his place in the limited-overs national squad, has expressed his desire to represent the country in the Test cricket as well. Known for his hard-hitting batting style, Sharjeel said it is an honour to play for Pakistan in any format of the game, but admitted that representing the country in Tests would be much more special. "I want to prove myself in all formats of the game. I am enjoying my time on the pitch and I think I am ready to launch my Test career. I am always ready to give my best wherever I am given the chance," Sharjeel was quoted as saying by the Express Tribune. With the Pakistan Cricket Board's (PCB) selection committee looking to field an extra opener in the team's tour of New Zealand next month, the 27-year-old is hopeful to make the cut. Sharjeel, who made his international debut in 2013, has played a total of 76 first-class matches and made 4,853 runs at an average of 37.91. In August, the Hyderabad-born batsman made an impressive comeback by an innings of 152 off 86 balls against Ireland after being sidelined for a year due to a dip in form and from thereafter he has played some memorably explosive knocks. Sharjeel, however, believes he has lot more to offer to Pakistan than 'just hitting fours and sixes. "I love to play big shots but my batting is not all about hitting four and sixes. I've been focusing on staying longer on the crease and can play shots in any direction," he said. (ANI)