Don't think Ajmal will be ready: Aaqib Javed

ABU DHABI: The last time a 50-over World Cup was held in Australia and New Zealand over 22 years ago, Aaqib Javed was part of the winning Pakistan team.
Today, he coaches the UAE side which, according to him, is looking at "realistic targets" at the World Cup. The former Pakistan pacer spoke to TOI on his coaching stint with UAE, his favourites for the World Cup, the on-field rivalry against India, and lots more.Excerpts:
Talk to us about your stint with the UAE side which will be part of the World Cup?
I have always believed in setting realistic targets. We are looking to win at least a few matches in the World Cup. Now, these wins need not be against weaker teams, but can even come versus stronger oppositions.
Apart from playing against various sides as build up for the World Cup, could you share any specific programs conducted for the UAE side?
We managed to rope in former England players Paul Collingwood, Chris Read and Paul Franks for a few sessions with the boys.While Collingwood concentrated on close-in catching and fielding at the boundary, Read passed on a few tips on improving the wicket-keeping skills. I have known Franks for long, and he shared inputs on bowling.
Your career-best of 7-37 in ODIs, which included a hat-trick, came against India in Sharjah. What was it that brought the best out of Pakistan especially against India?
As a player, I wanted to play against India since it brought the best out of me. Playing India meant a lot of pressure, and I would revel in it.
All three were LBWs in the hat-trick, do you believe the ball would have hit the stumps on all three occasions?
(Laughs) Not all three. Some would have missed. But yes, it was my day and I just got those wickets.
With the PCB asking ICC to delay in conducting the biometric tests on Saeed Ajmal, do you think the team's World Cup preparations will take a hit?
Firstly, I don't think Ajmal will play the upcoming World Cup. The reason being--it is tough for any bowler to remodel his action at his age (37). Change in action means you are sending a new message to your body -a new muscle memory -which is definitely not easy .
Your take on Pakistan's chances at the WC?
They do have a chance. It all depends on their fast bowlers' fitness. In the last 12 months, I have seen Pakistani pacers getting injured regularly which is a cause for concern.