Hyped-up Geraint Jones looks forward to Pakistan challenge by AFP

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Player:	GO Jones
Event:	England in Pakistan 2005/06

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DateLine: 29th October 2005

 

England wicket-keeper Geraint Jones said Saturday that low bounce and spin on Pakistani pitches would be a new challenge for him but he was fully prepared.

 

"I have extensively prepared for lower and sharper catches...and it has definitely helped since landing on this tour," Jones told reporters.

 

The 29-year-old Jones, often criticised for his flashy keeping and dropped catches, is the first choice keeper for England who play three Tests and five one-day matches on their current tour.

 

Jones said he was going to make the most of every opportunity during the tour, aware of pressure to keep his place in the side. A good luck message from England stumper Jack Russell had boosted his confidence.

 

"Jack (Russell) sent me a text message to wish me well," he said.

 

"If something comes up, hes great to talk to and pick his brain on," said Jones of Russell, who played 54 Tests for England in the 1980s and 90s.

 

England open their 58-day tour with a three-day side match against Pakistan Cricket Board Patron's XI at Rawalpindi from Monday.

 

Jones said if Pakistan prepared spin tracks it would also help the tourists.

 

"If the wickets do turn it's (an) advantage for us as well because Ashley (Giles) is bowling well. (I) heard rumours that pitches might turn more and now that Mushys been called back they would," Jones said, referring to recalled Pakistani leg-spinner Mushtaq Ahmed.

 

Jones, who has so far played 20 Tests, said his team's preparation for the first Test which starts at Multan on November 12 had been good.

 

Jones, who clung on to an edge from Australian tail-ender Michael Kasprowicz to help England square the Ashes 1-1 at Edgbaston, said he knows the way to keep wickets in Pakistani conditions.

 

"You need a lot more time up to the stumps to the spin guys and there are lower and sharper catches but I am very aware of how theyll come."

 

Despite criticism on his keeping, England selectors and team management kept faith in Jones.

 

"It's great to know youve got the backing of your team-mates, because ultimately thats whats most important," he said.

(Article: Copyright © 2005 AFP)