The Pakistan Test team captain Misbah-ul-Haq, who recently said in the post-match press conference at the Oval that Pakistan deserves the number one position in the ICC Test Cricket Rankings, is keen to leave a legacy after the England series. The 42-year-old skipper also told the reporters about the hardships faced by the Pakistani players as they have played most of their games outside their home for close to seven years.
The Pakistan team gifted the nation with a 10-wicket victory over England in the fourth Test match at The Oval on their independence day. The win also ensured that the series ended with a score of 2-2 against England.
As quoted by AFP, the veteran skipper of the Pakistan team said, "The Oval win is not only pleasing as it is achieved on the Independence Day but it will also help us form a legacy for our future Test teams.” Misbah spoke about the aim of his captaincy and said, "When I took over as captain that was my aim, so this win will help me leave a legacy for future Test teams.”
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After the infamous incident of the Pakistan team during their England tour in 2010, Misbah was called back to share his experience with the team and lead them towards victory.
It was in 2010 when the then captain of the Pakistan team, Salman Butt and fast bowlers Mohammad Amir and Mohammad Asif were banned from playing cricket and were penalised with jail terms for their active part in spot-fixing where they intentionally bowled no-balls. With Misbah’s comeback, the team is more united and free from scandals and other problems which have plagued the side.
Misbah spoke about the importance of unity and the outcome of a united team. He told that it has been very important for him to reunite the team.
Also read: Misbah-ul-Haq: Nothing Pakistani about him
The skipper added, "This series-leveling win will go a long way in establishing this team because in the next six months we have series against the West Indies, New Zealand and Australia.
"With a bit of luck, we could have won this Test series but even drawing a series in England against a team of quality players is a big achievement."
Misbah said that the people of Pakistan love cricket but they can’t watch the team playing in home grounds since 2009 due to security issues. The skipper added, "So it is important that we keep winning and give youngsters and up and coming players the encouragement to take up the game and make their names."
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