Younus disappointed to miss out against the elite

Younus Khan, the Pakistan captain, is disappointed he will not get the chance to pit his wits against Ricky Ponting. Australia's selectors rested Ponting, along with Michael Hussey and left-arm bowler Mitchell Johnson, from the team who will play five one-dayers and a Twenty20 international against Pakistan in Abu Dhabi and Dubai. "When you play against the top players like Ponting, you learn many different things," said Younus. "Ponting is a brilliant captain, Hussey is a stubborn batsman and Johnson has developed into a world-class bowler whose every delivery is near the 140 kph mark.

"It's disappointing not to be playing against them." Despite the absence of the triumvirate, Younus believes Australia will still be hard to beat, adding the series will be a learning experience for his young Pakistan side who have been starved of international cricket due to security concerns in Pakistan. "It is a great opportunity and a learning experience for our youngsters," he said. "In terms of results, I do not expect much, but I'd expect my players to play to full potential. Perhaps, if the players raise their game slightly, we would have better results."

Intikhab Alam, the Pakistan coach, said he was happy controversial fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar had been recalled to the side. "A fit Shoaib Akhtar is a great addition to our team," said Intikhab. "He adds more firepower to our bowling attack and I'm happy that he is back." Alam, who has reviewed the conditions of the pitches at the two venues - Dubai Sports City and Zayed Cricket Stadium - said he is pleased with their quality.

"The wickets have been prepared keeping in mind our strengths," he said. "They would be good for batting. It will be interesting to see how Australia adapt to the conditions." * With agencies