Appointment of Azhar Ali as ODI captain was a mistake: Miandad

Karachi [Pakistan], Aug 31 (ANI): Legendary Pakistan cricketer Javed Miandad has launched a scathing attack on his country's cricket board, saying it should admit its mistake in appointing Azhar Ali as the ODI captain following a humiliating series loss against England. Chasing a daunting victory target of 445, Pakistan failed to produce a spirited performance as they were bundled out for 275 in the third match at Trent Bridge on Tuesday. With the win, England have taken an unassailable 3-0 lead in the five-match series. Former captain and legendary batsman Miandad suggested that the Pakistan Cricket Board should appoint someone else as captain for next month's series against the West Indies, pointing out that Azhar's appointment as captain last year made no sense as he was not a part of the ODI team since 2013, the Express Tribune reported. Meanwhile, ex-captain Wasim Akram said that Sarfraz Ahmed was an ideal choice to replace Azhar as the ODI captain, describing the wicketkeeper-batsman as a performer under pressure. On the other hand, former skipper and renowned commentator Ramiz Raja believes that Azhar's performance at the Test level could suffer after coming under enormous pressure in the ongoing series. Pakistan, the top-ranked team in the Test rankings but a lowly ninth in the ODI table, have two matches left to regain some pride and will play next game at Leeds on Thursday. (ANI)