Evergreen Misbah is determined to stick it out in the national team until his fitness starts waning. PHOTO: AFP
The veteran Pakistan captain sent out a clear signal to his critics about his hunger to keep playing for his team as long as his fitness allows him.
It has been a roller-coaster ride for the middle-order batsman — garnering fame for his impressive performance in the Twenty20 World Cup in 2007 as well as receiving severe criticism after he failed to guide the team to a win in the Mohali semi-finals against arch-rivals India in the 2011 World Cup.
Additionally, at a time when many youngsters are knocking at the team’s door for the 2015 World Cup, Misbah’s presence has become a debate with varying opinions.
Former coach and chief selector Mohsin Khan believes that despite being the oldest in the team, Misbah is physically and mentally the fittest in the squad. However, many former cricketers feel Misbah should quit to pave the way for youngsters.
However, the Pakistan One-Day International and Test captain is not ready to draw lines on his career yet.
Asked in Birmingham whether the upcoming Champions Trophy was his last chance to get an International Cricket Council (ICC) trophy, Misbah refused to comment on his future.
“You can’t say anything about that,” he replied. “You never know how long you’re going to play. You cannot predict what you will be doing even tomorrow.
“So I’m not thinking about that. I’m focused on playing well in this tournament and looking forward to do well for Pakistan.”
‘Games against Windies and Proteas equally important’
Misbah also termed the first two games against West Indies and South Africa as important as the much-anticipated clash with India on June 15.
He said the tours of Scotland and Ireland before the tournament helped the team to acclimatise to the cold conditions.
The captain hoped to witness a special performance by spinner Saeed Ajmal and reiterated the team’s resolve to win the competition, saying the confidence was high.
Published in The Express Tribune, May 29th, 2013.
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Misbah....we are proud of you!!!
Misbah I salute you for your commitment for cricket. Misbah has played 117 ODI with the average of 42.3. do we have any other player in team with this average and fitness. I would like to add, Afridi should pay attention to his fitness and comeback to form. All the best green in ICC Champions Trophy.
Live long Misbah !! and Play Long too :)