Wasim Akram admits Gul will be missed in ICC Champions Trophy

Karachi: Pakistan bowling coach Mohammad Akram has said fast-bowler Umar Gul would be "severely" missed in the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy, adding that it is going to be a tough assignment and Gul`s experience would have come in handy.

Akram, however, is hopeful that pacemen Mohammad Irfan and Junaid Khan will be able to fill the void created by Gul`s absence. Gul injured his knee during the South Africa tour and was advised surgery, ruling him out of action for at least eight weeks. After comments that Pakistan`s fast-bowling department was not performing upto the mark, Gul`s absence from the event in England will be a major blow, the report said. Gul has a phenomenal One-Day International (ODI) record in England, featuring in six matches and taking 14 wickets with his career-best figures of six for 42 coming at The Oval in 2010 against the hosts. However, Akram hoped Irfan and Junaid will cover-up for Gul`s absence, adding that it is a good chance for the youngsters to prove themselves. Akram was also confident that Pakistan would do well at the event, adding that the ongoing training camp - being supervised by the legendary Wasim Akram - would aid the bowlers. ANI