Tour of West Indies: Misbah open to squad changes

Pakistan skipper expresses confidence in the team despite hammering in England, urges consistency.

ISLAMABAD: After a dismal performance in the Champions Trophy earlier in June, the national cricket team captain Misbahul Haq said on Thursday that he is open to the idea of making changes in the squad for the upcoming series against West Indies in July.

Pakistan had a disappointing Champions Trophy campaign, losing all three of their group games.

"No player should think that his place in the national team is confirmed if he does not perform up to expectations. I will be coming home soon and will be actively deliberating the selection of the squad for the upcoming tours of West Indies and Zimbabwe," Misbah, who has yet to return home, was quoted as saying by website cricbuzz.com on Thursday.

Misbah and other squad players are under spot light after their poor show in the recently concluded Champions Trophy. After almost every series in the past six months, there has been a call for Misbah’s sacking. This time, however, even coach Dav Whatmore has come in for scathing criticism but the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is expected to retain the same management for the series against West Indies, where they are scheduled to play five ODIs and two T20Is.

The Pakistan skipper expressed confidence in the team despite being hammered in England. "Our main problem for a long time has been consistency. If we can overcome that, then we can beat any side in the world."

Given the dismal state of the team, the selection committee has reconsidered their decision to leave out explosive all-rounder Shahid Afridi. He, along with and other players, were called up for fitness tests at the National Cricket Academy.