Diary
I still want to play for Pakistan
By Inzamam-ul-Haq
Aug 9, 2007, 12:27

I gave a statement recently that I have been made an offer by the Indian Cricket League. The PCB then gave a statement saying players would be banned if they play in this league. In my case this is rubbish.

It is understandable the board saying this about their players under a central contract but they have not given me any contract, and it’s an open market. If they are not selecting me I have a right to play cricket anywhere, whether in county cricket, Bangladesh, or India.  

Every player is asking their board for more money. This Indian league is offering more money. It’s like back in the Kerry Packer days when players were only getting about £500 for a Test match. When Kerry Packer came along their pay improved. It’s the same here. I have been offered about $50,000 a month.

The Boards and ICC are afraid because the players are asking for more money and they know that if they don’t pay the money the players may go and join the Indian league.

But I’m not only interested in money, I’m interested in playing cricket. The ICL is offering me good money and cricket. I have not played any cricket for four months since the World Cup. Although I am still desperate to play for Pakistan it is not good for me if I get picked for Test cricket with no match practice behind me. There is no cricket in Pakistan before the South Africa series so I need to play. 

I would like to go and play in India and then as soon as my country needs me I would come back for national duty. I hope things can work out because I am still desperate to play for my country but I also need to play. I have to give a decision in about three or four days. Inshallah things will work out.

My training is going well, I have been doing a lot of running and gym work and I have lost a lot of weight, about 8kgs. Inshallah it will help me if and when I play again for Pakistan.