South Australia: Younis on the radar

ADELAIDE- South Australia have made an offer to secure the services of Younus Khan and could reach a deal with the Pakistan batsman by the end of the week.
Redbacks coach Mark Sorell confirmed an offer had been "put on the table" but added Younus and the South Australia Cricket Association were still negotiating the extent of his playing commitments with the side.
At this stage the 30-year-old player would be available for the opening of the Pura Cup season but would have to travel back to Pakistan after Christmas. There is a possibility he could then return to Australia if the team made the final.
Sorell said an agreement would be beneficial to both Younus and the Redbacks.
"He's obviously still a world-class player and sees it as a great opportunity to prepare for their India tour early next year," Sorell said.
"He's played in county cricket before so he's used to playing in that type of set-up. I've spoken to quite a few of our players and they are all excited about the idea of playing with a world-class cricketer."
The Redbacks lost four experienced players last season and Sorell said it was important to bolster the team's batting stocks with a seasoned campaigner.
The South Australia coach was not concerned a recruit would reduce the opportunities for local talent to make the side.
"I actually see it more as a nurturing, supporting role for some of our younger guys. We are talking about six batting spots available and if we can fill one with a world-class player like Younus then it's only going to help the younger players," he said.
"Recruiting an international marquee player is a new approach for SACA and a bit outside the square at the domestic level in Australia. But in my opinion one of the things to be learnt from the IPL is just how much younger Australian players from the domestic level have really benefited from being exposed to, and playing with, some of the world's best international players."