Pacer Umar Gul believes that Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) must ensure that players give more respect to domestic cricket, if they are to improve their graph in Test cricket.

While speaking in an exclusive interview with Cricket Pakistan, Gul said that lack of domestic cricket appearances by the members of team’s Test squad is one of the reasons behind their poor performances in the longest format of the game — during the recent past.

“I think we are performing well in limited overs cricket. But the main reason behind Pakistan’s poor performance in Test cricket which I think is lack of domestic cricket played by our national cricketers,” said Gul. “Whenever our players get rest, they don’t come and play first-class cricket. I suggest to PCB that if our team is playing in the UAE, they should send the other cricketers — who are not part of the playing XI — back to Pakistan to play domestic cricket.”

Gul was also keen about making a comeback in the side because he feels good about his bowling, right now, and his fitness level is also considerably better.

“I think I can make a comeback in Pakistan Test team. Being an experienced campaigner, I think there is still space for me in the side,” he said. “I have worked hard this season. I worked on my fitness and I have played every single match this season. I’m satisfied with my level of fitness now. My rhythm is great and I’m bowling with good pace. Although I prefer Test cricket but I’m currently focusing on my return in any format of the game. I’m just waiting for my last chance.”

He admitted that he failed to impress the selectors, when he last played for Pakistan — against England in 2016.  

“Last time I toured with Pakistan, it was in England. At that time I made my comeback after a year or more. I wasn’t feeling well at that time and I admit that I failed to impress the selectors at that time,” he said.

Gul also praised Pakistan Super League (PSL) and the role it is playing for the betterment of cricket in the country.

“PSL is a good sign for cricket in our country. It is currently one of the top three leagues in the world. It is highly competitive and more importantly it is our own brand,” he said. “It is a great platform for the emerging and young cricketers of the country. They get the opportunity to share the dressing room with foreign players and also become better off financially.”

He was also optimistic about Pakistan winning the 2019 World Cup in England and Wales.

“Pakistan have a bright chance of clinching the upcoming World Cup because they are playing as a unit. Their track record in England is magnificent,” he said. “I think South Africa series will be very crucial to get the momentum, heading into the tournament.”