‘Misbah still the fittest mentally and physically’

Former coach Mohsin backs Pakistan captain to continue.

KARACHI:

For long Misbahul Haq has been the centre of attention. Sometimes it has been for good reasons, while, on occasions, his defensive tactics and batting style have come under severe criticism.

Calls for removal of the Pakistan One-Day International (ODI) and Test captain gained momentum after the team suffered a 3-0 whitewash at the hands of South Africa  in the Test series.

Recently, former captain Moin Khan demanded sweeping changes in the team, calling for the removal of seasoned players and also asked the 38-year old Misbah to review his future in limited-overs cricket.

However, former coach Mohsin Khan is not convinced and backed the senior players, particularly Misbah.

“Even if Misbah is 40 years old, I will select him,” the former Test opener told The Express Tribune. “I have spent a lot of time with the team and my assessment says Misbah and Younus Khan are the most physically fit players in our squad.

“To be precise, Misbah is the fittest cricketer – mentally and physically – among the current lot. I heard people still asking for Misbah’s removal despite his match-winning knock in the fourth ODI against South Africa.

“I want to ask these people what do they want from a player who is fit and is performing well.”



Besides hitting a match-winning 80, Misbah also chipped in with an unbeaten 57 to guide Pakistan to a win in the second ODI. The series is currently level 2-2 with the final ODI due to take place tomorrow.

“Both these wins were not possible without Misbah’s innings.”

The former Test cricketer also backed seasoned campaigners Shoaib Malik and Shahid Afridi.

“Malik has proved his mettle in short cameos in the series and Afridi is still an influential player in the team.”

While commenting on a struggling Younus, Mohsin said the former captain was the best judge for himself.

“It is for him to decide whether to concentrate on Test cricket or call it a day after the tour of South Africa.”

‘Pakistan made comfortable win difficult’

Meanwhile, the former coach said Pakistan made it difficult for themselves during the fourth ODI in Durban.

“Pakistan should have bowled South Africa out for under 150 after reducing them to 38 for four. It showed an absence of a game plan and the captain had no support from the coach if he was making a mistake in restricting the opponents.”

However, Mohsin praised fast-bowlers Mohammad Irfan and Junaid Khan.

“Both are very hardworking and improving each day. Irfan has overcome his fitness issues and now he is ready to bowl his full quota.”

The former opening batsman also hailed a successful ODI comeback for Imran Farhat.

“He played according to the situation and his knock was vital along with Misbah’s innings.”

Misbah playing with responsibility: Tauseef

Meanwhile, former Test cricketer Tauseef Ahmed praised Misbah’s match-winning innings in the penultimate ODI.

“This was a genuine captain’s knock. Misbah has shown a lot of responsibility and his innings will boost his confidence which is also a good sign for the team.”

Published in The Express Tribune, March 23^rd, 2013.