Misbahul Haq might have led Pakistan to a perfect series-record in 2011, but his defensive approach, questioned by coach Mohsin Khan as well, has forced the team captain to face a lot of criticism.
Replying to criticism on the team’s defensive approach under him, Misbah said he targets victories without caring much about the entertainment factor, saying wins in Tests were important for the team at a stage where it is seeking improvement in world rankings.
Although Pakistan remained unbeaten in a Test series last year, beating New Zealand, Zimbabwe, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh besides drawing in the West Indies, the experienced batsman’s leadership came into questioning.
Misbah, however, wants to stay focussed on results alone.
“The most important thing is to win matches,” Misbah told PakPassion.net. “We are just focusing on winning at the moment because it is more important than entertaining in the longer format.”
The captain maintained that there was a need to build the players’ confidence which only comes with continuous success. “Once the confidence is there and you are winning, you can look at being more aggressive and more positive.”
2012 crucial for Pakistan, says captain
Expressing his satisfaction on the team’s show last year, Misbah termed 2012 as the year which will define the true standing of the team.
“The recent improvement in the rankings is a good sign. It’s something we’ll look to improve on with every series. I see 2012 as a year that will define where we stand as a team.”
Failure in Mohali biggest low last year
While success came aplenty for Misbah and Pakistan, the World Cup semi-final loss against India in Mohali remained the lowest point of the year for the captain.
“The World Cup semi-final was the lowest point last year. It was disappointing to lose that match. Not being able to win the Test series in the Caribbean for the first time in 54 years was also sad, especially after coming so close.”
Batsmen must support bowlers
Meanwhile, the upcoming series against England will be Misbah’s first against these opponents, one where he has urged his batsmen to support the bowlers in order to have a chance against the ‘tough and balanced’ opposition.
“England have everything: a top spinner, good fast-bowlers and a strong batting line-up. In order to beat them, we’ll have to be disciplined. Our strength is our bowling but the key is for our batsmen to put runs on the board and allow the bowlers room to work with.”
(Read: And Pakistan’s standout performer is...)
Published in The Express Tribune, January 3rd, 2012.
COMMENTS (4)
Comments are moderated and generally will be posted if they are on-topic and not abusive.
For more information, please see our Comments FAQ
Why star performer Tanvir Ahmed with 6 wickets on debut is ignored in this series. He is left out for no reason after 16 wickets in 4 tests. This is really insane for a talented performer. His experience on dead pitches should have been utilized. PCB need to eliminate element of injustice from their ranks.
Stay focussed, don't be distracted by criticism e.g. unfortunate and Ill-timed public comments by Mohsin Khan. Win or looses, play competitive cricket.
Misbah is doing excellent job...all the best wishes for future to the Captain Cool...