Sri Lanka tough but not invincible: Misbah
Pakistan's Test and ODI captain confident of team’s performance.
KARACHI:
Pakistan’s Test and One-Day International (ODI) captain Misbahul Haq is aiming for a repeat of the performance that saw his side prevail over Sri Lanka in the UAE last year, eyeing more series wins when the two sides meet next month.
The difference from then to now, however, will be Sri Lanka’s recent resurgence under the leadership of Mahela Jayawardene and their home-ground advantage.
But Misbah said Pakistan’s win in the UAE will stand them in good stead and give his side the confidence to keep the streak intact.
“Sri Lanka are a tough side anywhere in the world, not just at home,” said Misbah. “Although they exploit home conditions well, we’ve achieved good results against them recently. I’m hoping the side does well as were going there full of confidence.”
‘Practice matches crucial’
Misbah termed the four practice matches, to be held during the training camp, crucial ahead of the tour.
“We got a well-deserved rest after a hectic season until the Asia Cup. Holding these Twenty20 and one-day matches is important since it will help remove the rustiness that may have crept in.”
Less burdened now
Meanwhile, Misbah is feeling less burdened after being removed from Twenty20 captaincy but has extended his support to captain Mohammad Hafeez if needed.
“I don’t see playing cricket or leading the team as a burden. But in a way, I’m feeling less of it and looking forward to focusing more in Tests and ODIs.”
Misbah, who turns 38 this month, added that he has a good understanding with Hafeez, who will be his deputy in ODIs and Tests, while reiterating that he has no intention to retire from Twenty20s.
Misbah stressed that the batting positions for players are determined by the team management, according to the situation’s requirement.
Umar Akmal, who usually bats lower down the order, has recently expressed a desire to be sent in earlier. However, Misbah said a player cannot choose his position in the batting order.
“There's a lot of talk about the batting order. Some want me to bat at number three while others want Younus Khan. Batting-order is made according to team requirement and nobody can choose his position on his own.”
The right-hander gave a thumbs-up to the progress made by the team in the fielding department, saying that a major difference will be visible on the upcoming tour.
Published in The Express Tribune, May 19th, 2012.
Pakistan’s Test and One-Day International (ODI) captain Misbahul Haq is aiming for a repeat of the performance that saw his side prevail over Sri Lanka in the UAE last year, eyeing more series wins when the two sides meet next month.
The difference from then to now, however, will be Sri Lanka’s recent resurgence under the leadership of Mahela Jayawardene and their home-ground advantage.
But Misbah said Pakistan’s win in the UAE will stand them in good stead and give his side the confidence to keep the streak intact.
“Sri Lanka are a tough side anywhere in the world, not just at home,” said Misbah. “Although they exploit home conditions well, we’ve achieved good results against them recently. I’m hoping the side does well as were going there full of confidence.”
‘Practice matches crucial’
Misbah termed the four practice matches, to be held during the training camp, crucial ahead of the tour.
“We got a well-deserved rest after a hectic season until the Asia Cup. Holding these Twenty20 and one-day matches is important since it will help remove the rustiness that may have crept in.”
Less burdened now
Meanwhile, Misbah is feeling less burdened after being removed from Twenty20 captaincy but has extended his support to captain Mohammad Hafeez if needed.
“I don’t see playing cricket or leading the team as a burden. But in a way, I’m feeling less of it and looking forward to focusing more in Tests and ODIs.”
Misbah, who turns 38 this month, added that he has a good understanding with Hafeez, who will be his deputy in ODIs and Tests, while reiterating that he has no intention to retire from Twenty20s.
Misbah stressed that the batting positions for players are determined by the team management, according to the situation’s requirement.
Umar Akmal, who usually bats lower down the order, has recently expressed a desire to be sent in earlier. However, Misbah said a player cannot choose his position in the batting order.
“There's a lot of talk about the batting order. Some want me to bat at number three while others want Younus Khan. Batting-order is made according to team requirement and nobody can choose his position on his own.”
The right-hander gave a thumbs-up to the progress made by the team in the fielding department, saying that a major difference will be visible on the upcoming tour.
Published in The Express Tribune, May 19th, 2012.