Misbah vows quick return to the team

LAHORE: Pakistan’s discarded middle-order batsman Misbahul Haq has ruled out quitting international cricket following his omission from the Asia Cup and the tour of England squad.

Misbah, who holds a central contract, remains optimistic about his return to the Pakistan team and has targeted the 2011 World Cup as his final swansong.

“My performance in the last 12 months hasn’t been up to the mark but my passion for the game remains,” Misbah told The Express Tribune. “I’m working hard to regain my form and until the day I remain fit, I’ll remain available for selection.”

He was omitted from the squad following disappointment in Australia and the West Indies.“Obviously being overlooked comes as a huge disappointment. I am currently undergoing extensive training to keep my body in shape.”

Misbah, who was drafted into the side for the 2007 World Twenty20 in place of Mohammad Yousuf, has filled the middle-order slot vacated by the former captain Inzamamul Haq. “I’m fully fit and able to perform. On that basis, I believe I can play another two years and I’d specially want to participate in the 2011 World Cup before walking away from cricket.”

Published in the Express Tribune, June 6^th, 2010.