Off-spinner Ajmal learning `new mystery bowling variations`

Karachi: Pakistan off-spinner Saaed Ajmal is preparing to learn new variations in bowling ahead of the ICC Champions Trophy, even as he represents his company in the ongoing domestic President`s Cup ODI tournament.

Ajmal, currently rated the best in the business, has been the country`s trump card in the past few series and he has not let the team down. According to the ace off-spinner, who has enjoyed a comfortable time since the new rules came into place by securing 16 wickets from eight matches during the series against India and South Africa, although he is coping with the rules, he is still looking at ways to learn new variations that will be effective with the current playing conditions. Ajmal further said that the introduction of new rules in ODIs is an indication that spinners have to work harder than fast-bowlers, adding that it is the reason why there is a greater need to introduce more variety in the format. Agreeing with Shahid Afridi`s grievance that the new ODI rules were affecting the efficacy of all spin bowlers in the world, Ajmal said that it is not easy to manage with just four fielders outside the circle because spinners can be hit at will, adding that the rule of two new balls in an innings is also a difficult one. However, the spinner said that he respected the decision of ICC and added that the changes just meant a harder challenge for the slow bowlers, although he added that their next main game, the ICC Champions Trophy, will be another difficult test for the spinners. ANI