Surrey County Cricket Club’s off-spin bowler, Saqlain Mushtaq, has revealed in an exclusive interview with Surrey TV that he would, if he was asked, like to play cricket for England.

Saqlain re-signed with Surrey this winter as an English qualified player having had a stint with County Champions, Sussex, last season. He spoke exclusively to Surrey TV this morning as the Club demonstrated their determination for 2008 with fitness testing at the Brit Oval.

Discussing a possible selection for England, Saqlain commented:

“I love my cricket and I want to play at the highest level. If they [England] call me, definitely I'll play.”

“Last year the press asked me the question but I said 'I'm looking after my body and my form at the moment'. But this year I feel much better physically and mentally. I have discussed it with my family and my elders and they have all said 'Saqqy, if they give you the chance, definitely go for it'.”

“Cricket is in my heart, so it does not matter who I play for – I don’t want to lose.”

Saqlain joined other Surrey squad members including Mark Ramprakash and Mark Butcher, who have not travelled abroad this winter to take part in fitness testing at the Brit Oval this morning.

This morning’s fitness testing, which included the infamous bleep test, is a sure sign of the Brown Caps’ determination to hit the ground running in readiness for the start of the season. And Saqlain re-iterated this desire.

“I have great memories of playing here and I know Salisbury is not here, but Schofield is and hopefully with me, we can bring the memories back and some trophies into the dressing room.

You can see the whole of Saqlain’s interview, where he discusses his time with Surrey and how he invented the doosra, by going to Surrey TV.

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