Warming the bench in BPL was not easy, says Misbah

Pakistan Test captain Misbahul Haq, signed by Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) side Rangpur Riders, was at a loss as to why he spent most of the tournament on the bench; despite a man-of-the-match display in the first match where he scored a match-winning half-century.

The 41-year-old, who has retired from international limited overs cricket, said it was not easy watching on from the sidelines.

“It is not easy sitting on the bench for so long,” said Misbah. “I can't say much on this, but I guess the team owners and the coaches know what is required.”

Left-arm fast bowler Wahab Riaz, who returned to Lahore midway through the tournament, said Misbah handled himself really well despite the snub.

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“Obviously it is not easy to be ignored like this for the majority of the matches,” said Wahab. “It has been tough on Misbah but he has handled himself well.”

Other Pakistani players were also clueless as to why they were left on the bench. “I didn't go there only for the money,” said discarded wicketkeeper-batsman Kamran Akmal, who was afforded only two starts. “I went there as I thought the BPL would allow me to further remind the selectors that I am doing well.”

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The article appeared on NDTV.com