England retain Saqlain Mushtaq as spin consultant for India ODIs

Former Pakistan off-spinner Saqlain Mushtaq will continue to help the touring English spinners in the upcoming ODI series in India next month.

Saqlain confirmed that he had signed a contract to assist English spinners, Moeen Ali and Adil Rashid, during the three-match ODI series against India. (Also read: In Mumbai, an embattled England team has history to fall back upon)

Saqlain, who was hired by the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) to help the English spinners for the first two Tests, will continue in his role in the ODI series, starting from January 15.

After a draw in the first Test, England has been outplayed in the next two Tests by the Indian spinners, particularly Ravichandran Ashwin who has taken 15 wickets in the three matches. (Keaton Jennings admits England are under pressure)

Saqlain told the Pakistani media from England that he had enjoyed coaching the English players in India despite the ongoing tensions between the two neighbouring countries.

"I faced no problems and it was a good experience for me as a bowling coach and consultant," Saqlain said.

He also felt that the English spinners were eager learners and would improve as the series progresses.

But Saqlain expressed his desire to work with Pakistan cricket.

"It is a matter of pride for me that I am asked to help spinners from different countries but my wish is still to give something back to Pakistan cricket," he said.

"I am ready to offer my services to the Pakistan Cricket Board whenever they need me."

Saqlain, who was hired for a short time by the PCB to work with Saeed Ajmal last year, said Director, Academies Mudassar Nazar had indicated to him that his services would be required soon in Pakistan.