LAHORE: Former Pakistan captain Younus Khan raised hopes of an international comeback soon, saying he would be available for the team whenever needed.

The 32-year-old, who was not considered for the tour of Australia after he did not make himself available and could not be contacted by selectors, made a surprise appearance at a coaching course in Lahore. Younus, who also pulled out of the Test tour to New Zealand last month citing lack of form, skipped most of the questions, but promised he will return when the team needed him.

“I will be in action soon and will also return to play for Pakistan whenever the team needed me,” Younus said.

He managed just 22 runs in the three one-dayers against New Zealand last month in Abu Dhabi, but said he was not running away from cricket. “I needed rest, which I have taken, and I will be playing domestic cricket very soon. I have never run from domestic matches and even after coming from the tours I played a domestic match the very next day,” said Younus.

Asked if he wanted to lead the team again, Younus praised Mohammad Yousuf, who replaced him as captain. “I am impressed with Yousuf’s leadership qualities. He is leading from the front and if the seniors perform well, Pakistan can become world champions,” said Younus.

Pakistan play the first of three Tests in Melbourne from December 26. Chief selector Iqbal Qasim confirmed Younus is expected to be in action in domestic matches, which could bring him back into contention for a place in the one-day series against Australia, which will be played after the Tests.