We can't survive without specialists, says Butt

GUWAHATI: Specialist opening batsmen are a must for any team in all forms of cricket, feels Pakistan's Salman Butt.

"Specialist players have key roles. You can't survive in any form of cricket without specialists. They are always better than bits and pieces players," said the 23-year-old Butt soon after reaching here for the first One-Day International (ODI) against India on Monday.

Butt, a left-hander whose his wristy style reminds people of former Pakistan opener Saeed Anwar, has played 36 ODIs and 16 Tests.

In his short international career, the 23-year-old has gone through many ups and downs.

"I had my ups and downs in the team. All these things are part of the trade and you have to learn all these things," he said.

"If you have to become strong, then you have to learn from all these things. What all of this has done (is that it) has made me a better player at the end of the day."

Butt also had a word of praise for his bowlers.

"Since Pakistan is known for its bowling that takes the pressure off the batsman. Teams win matches only by the collective performance of batsmen, bowlers and fielders," said Butt.