Misbah vows to ‘lift Pak team on and off the field’ following turbulent period

LAHORE - In the wake of numerous controversies engulfing the Pakistan cricket team, newly inducted Test captain Misbah-ul-Haq has expressed the hope of resurrecting it, and added that the off-field problems would end if the players focused on on-field performances.

“I will try to lift the team on and off the field with the help of the management,” The News quoted Misbah, as saying to a news agency.

“I think if all the players focus on performance on the ground, then all the off-field things which are disturbing us will be solved,” he added.

Talking about the upcoming series against South Africa, the batsman noted that conditions in Abu Dhabi and Dubai would favour Pakistan.

“South Africa is one of the top sides in Test cricket, so we need to be at our best to compete with them. I am confident that conditions in UAE will suit us,” he said.

Though he said his vast experience captaining domestic teams would come in handy, he acknowledged that “captaining a national team is different, and is a great challenge.”

“Our bowling is exceptionally good and will be able to hold all challenges,” he noted, adding, “We need to lift our batting, which has been a big problem.”

“As far as my own performance (is concened), I will try my best to make lead contributions, and want to play as long as I am performing well. That has always been my goal,” he said.

Misbah, who has never before captained Pakistan in Test matches, has been recalled to the national team for the one-dayers and Twenty20s against South Africa after a gap of six months.

The 36-year-old has so far played 19 Tests, 56 one-day and 29 Twenty20 for Pakistan since his debut in 2001. (ANI)