Misbah hits back at criticism

Newly-appointed Test captain vows to silence his critics through his performance.

LAHORE: Newly-appointed Test captain Misbahul Haq has waved off all criticism aimed at his recall and elevation in the Test squad and has vowed to silence his critics through his performance.

The batsman was overlooked for the Asia Cup and the tour of England but was a surprise inclusion in all three squads for the series against South Africa before being named Salman Butt’s replacement as captain of the Test squad.

“If you listen to everyone, you can never do well in life,” said Misbah. “Instead, I’ve decided to accept the challenge and will try and focus on my performance, which remains my primary goal.” Misbah added that he will not be learning much from his current domestic assignment but it will be his “10-year experience in domestic cricket” that will help him lead Pakistan.

Regarding his limited-over speciality, Misbah said, “I think nobody can know the future but you can only try out players”.

Published in The Express Tribune, October 12^th, 2010.