I took my place in the team for granted: Fakhar Zaman

Pakistan opener Fakhar Zaman has admitted that he became overconfident and took his place for granted, which resulted in his loss of form in international cricket.

While speaking to reporters via video link on Tuesday, the left-hand opener said that he has realised the importance of spending time at the crease and then going for his shots.

"To be honest, I became overconfident. Even when I played domestic cricket, I always took my time. I'll give credit to Mickey Arthur that he gave me the freedom. Because of that, I started played aggressively," said Fakhar

"You cannot start hitting the new ball from the start. My role will remain the same - to be an aggressive player at the top. But, if you see, I tried playing a scoop in the first over against Sri Lanka. What I am saying is, I won't make those mistakes. I'll try that our run rate is about 8 or 9. My aim will be to ensure I bat long so that it helps the team," he added.

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Fakhar is hoping to benefit from the slight adjustments he has made in his batting technique.

"I have come up with this technique only, so I don't need to make a lot of changes. It is just some adjustments, like in the grip or a small change in the stance, I have made these small adjustments," he said. "At this level, if I change my technique, I won't have a lot of time. I am very happy with it, and you will see very soon when you see me playing how the adjustments I have made are making a huge difference."

Fakhar was named in the 29-member squad announced by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) for the upcoming tour of England. Pakistan is scheduled to take on the home side in three Tests and three Twenty20 Internationals (T20Is), which will be played in August-September.

The 30-year-old is aiming for a strong comeback on the England tour and wants to cement his place back in the national side.

"My goal now is to gain my permanent spot back with my performance. Irrespective of whether I score 15-20 or a fifty or a century, I hope it helps Pakistan in that match. In a T20 you don't plan much, but I hope to show the selectors that I belong to this level and that I can play for long for Pakistan," he said.