DUBAI: Talented opener Shan Masood said he was happy to be back in the final eleven for Pakistan in the second Test against New Zealand in Dubai on Monday.
The energetic and knowledgeable Shan was one of three changes Pakistan were forced to make in the second Test after Ahmed Shehzad and Mohammad Hafeez were ruled out with injuries and paceman Imran Khan was rested.
Shan said it is an honour to play for Pakistan.
"Any game you play for Pakistan is an honour and I am very happy to be back in the team,” said Shan, 25.
"Both our openers have done well but it is unfortunate that they got injured. It’s now up to Taufeeq and me to score runs and we will do our best," said Shan.
On New Zealand's 243/3 at close on the opening day with Tom Latham hitting a second successive hundred with 137 not out, Shan said the situation is not worrying for Pakistan.
"New Zealand haven't gotten away, they have 240 odd with three down but had it been 300 plus it would have been worrying. If we get early wickets tomorrow, we can put pressure on them.
"Credit to them the way they batted, especially Latham," said Shan. “It's a slow wicket with less turn but you have to apply yourself on this and bat patiently."
On his catch to dismiss Ross Taylor, Shan said, “It's not easy to field so close and for someone 6-feet-2-inches tall, you automatically stand up but I have practiced a lot and our usual fielder at this position, Azhar Ali, gave me some good tips so it was good to have a catch at that position."
