I will try to justify my selection: Sami

Pakistan fast bowler Mohammad Sami, while expressing his delight at being named in all three squads for the forthcoming tour of Sri Lanka, admitted that it is probably the last opportunity for him to prove his credentials as an international cricketer.

The 31-year-old, who has had a chequered career with only 84 wickets in 35 Tests at an astronomical average of 52.27, pledged to prove critics wrong that he is a spent force, reports The Dawn.

"Right now I have this 'over the moon' feeling at being provided another chance to play for the country. If the opportunities (to play in the Sri Lanka series) come my way I will give my best to justify the selectors' faith in my abilities," Sami said.

"However, I must frankly admit that this is perhaps the final opportunity which I'm going to get to re-establish myself as an international cricketer," he added.

Sami said he was disappointed at times after being constantly overlooked for the national outfit, but he never lost heart and continued to perform in domestic competitions.

"I kept working hard, both at my fitness and game, just in case I was recalled. I never gave up because I always remained optimistic and knew that I'm still good enough to serve Pakistan cricket at the international level," he said.

Sami, who has six wickets in three Twenty20 International appearances, which came during the ICC event in the West Indies in May 2010, is looking forward to the two T20 Internationals at the start of the coming tour from June 1.

"I am raring to grab the first available chance when we reach Sri Lanka. It is not everyday you dream of such a prospect after all the disappointments you go through," Sami said, adding, "And if all goes well in the beginning, then I may get to play in the one-dayers as well as the Test matches."