Misbah backs Sarfraz’s captaincy for longer period

KARACHI: Pakistan’s current Test captain and former ODI captain Misbahul Haq has backed Sarfraz Ahmed for the role of Pakistan’s captain for a longer period.

Talking to media in Karachi, Misbah said that Sarfraz, as a captain, has been very positive and has produced good results for the country.

“He is positive and has led Pakistan to victories in all the T20Is he has captained so far, which is very good sign for him as a captain,” Misbah told journalists in Karachi on sidelines of his photo-session with the official trophy of ICC Champions’ Trophy.

“He (Sarfraz) needs to remain positive like this and keep all the players gelled together with positivity for a successful tenure as captain,” the former ODI captain advised.

The Test captain added that Sarfraz has played good combinations and has used his players very tactically which is a good sign and if he can continue with this strategy, Pakistan team will be back on track very soon.

“At the moment he is doing very good as a captain. We all must support and back him,” said Misbah.

Misbah, who is considered as Pakistan’s most dependable batsman in the current Test team, said that Pakistan can do good in this year’s Champions’ Trophy, adding that the game against India will decide team’s momentum in the tournament.

“Our first match is against India, and a good result in that match would provide launch pad for Pakistan’s positive momentum in the tournament,” he said.

“Pakistan and India match are always crucial for both the teams in any tournament. Both the teams should also play bilateral series on more regular basis,” said Misbah adding that political matters have halted the cricket between two countries which has deprived fans around the world.

The 42-year-old added that the series against West Indies is also very important for Pakistan and a possible win in the series would provide Pakistan with some confidence ahead of the ICC event this year.

“Every match in the buildup to ICC Champions Trophy is important. Every win will give you confidence and if you are confident then you can defeat any team,” he added.