Gul back home; Pak SOS for replacement

Kolkata, Nov 29 (UNI) The Pakistan team has sent an SOS back home seeking replacements ahead of the second test against India commencing tomorrow.

Pakistan are already down 1-0 in the three-match test series and if they lose at the Eden Gardens, the series would be lost.

Pakistan skipper Shoaib Malik told reporters today, ''We have no option but to win. Its a do or die situation for us. We are struggling and moreover, have so many injuries in the side.'' ''We have talked to the selectors and asked for urgent replacements. The new players are expected to arrive by today evening,'' he said.

Asked who were the replacements, Malik said, ''That is confidential. We have given a list of names and it is for the selectors to decide.'' While Shoaib Malik himself is doubtful for the test tomorrow with an ankle injury, Umar Gul was packed off to Pakistan as he needed prolonged treatment. There is also a big question mark over either Shoaib Akhtar or Mohammed Sami before the test as both were recovering from a viral infection.

Misbah ul Haq is also to appear for a fitness test tomorrow before the match commences. However, he is expected to do well.

UNI