India's left-arm pacer Irfan Pathan [Images] praised Zaheer Khan [Images] for his brilliant performance in the recent Ranji Trophy matches saying his return to the Indian team would strengthen the side's attack against Pakistan.

In an informal chat with newspersons, Pathan said he has learnt a lot from Zaheer and is happy to see him back in the team for the Pakistan tour.

Asked about the upcoming Pakistan series, the Baroda speedster said the confidence level of the Indian team is very high after beating Sri Lanka [Images] 2-0 in the Test series.

"We are shaping up nicely and going to do pretty well in Pakistan," a confident Pathan said.

When asked whether he considers himself an all-rounder after his remarkable performance with both bat and ball recently, the youngster said a player must have talent and consistency in both the departments of the game to be a successful all-rounder.

"Presently, I am working more seriously on my bowling rather than batting," Pathan said.

Regarding his preparation for Pakistan, Pathan said except for the basics, there would be no special training for the tour. The team would decide its strategy for the Test series after all the players meet up at New Delhi before leaving for Lahore [Images].

Asked about his promotion to Grade 'A' in the new contracts announced by the BCCI, Pathan said he is happy to make it to the higher grade.

"But to be very honest, it is not important as all this comes naturally if you play well," he added.

(UNI)