The team management is desperately hoping to see Junaid Khan back in full swing ahead of the third and final Test against South Africa in Centurion.

The fast-bowler is set to resume training today after missing the second Test due to a thigh injury prior to the Cape Town match.According to Pakistan team manager Naved Akram Cheema, the left-armer had recovered from the injury, but he was yet to start full-fledged training.

Junaid’s wounds have healed,” Cheema told The Express Tribune yesterday after the team reached Johannesburg from Cape Town.We’ll be having our first practice session after the second Test on Wednesday [today]. He will take part in the session, during which an assessment will be made to decide on his availability for the final Test. So far, he has avoided straining his body and concentrated more on light training.”

In the Cape Town Test, Pakistan received little support from the pacers — Umar Gul, Mohammad Irfan and Tanvir Ahmed managed to take just five wickets, which included three from Irfan in the first-innings.Another pacer Rahat Ali remained wicket-less in his debut Test in Johannesburg while rookie fast-bowler Ehsan Adil has yet to be given an opportunity in the series.

The manager agreed that Junaid will be needed in Centurion where Pakistan will play to salvage their pride as they conceded an unassailable lead after losing the first two matches.“Yes, he has become an important part of the team and we are hoping he will be able to play the Test.”