Sports
Time for Pakistan cricket to look forward: Misbah
Perth, March 6
Skipper Misbah-ul-Haq, who will
retire from One-Day Internationals (ODIs) post the World Cup, hopes his
retirement will bring in a new era for Pakistan cricket in which a
young leader will be chosen and given the responsibility to carry it
forward.
"It's the time for Pakistan to look forward. If you are
going to give captaincy to a youngster, he needs some time to develop a
team and develop himself as a captain," Misbah was quoted as saying by
espncricinfo on Friday.
"I would really appreciate if the board
shows confidence in someone for a long time. That can build stability in
your team. It's time to change and put some responsibility on the
shoulders of these youngsters."
Misbah has faced severe criticism
for his captaincy in the quadrennial event, but only he has been a
bright spark in the wobbly batting line up. He thus believes that if one
is satisfied with his performance he need not listen to other people’s
words.
"You don't play the game because you want appreciation
from people or you want somebody to speak highly (of you). It's the
passion, you love the game," he said.
"You should know in
yourself what you are doing right and wrong. If you are really satisfied
you are on the right path, you don't have to listen to the people."
The
40-year-old did not, however, mention if former Pakistan pacer Shoaib
Akhtar's accusations that he was "cowardly" and "selfish" were weighing
on him. But he said he would continue playing whole-heartedly for his
country.
"There is no need to react to that. I am focusing on
what we are doing here. It's really important for us that we stay calm
and focussed. Whatever is happening in media, just leave it behind,"
Misbah said.
"Pakistan needs us here."