Misbah to lead Pakistan in Windies Tests

Karachi [Pakistan], Mar. 6 (ANI): Misbah-ul-Haq will lead Pakistan in the upcoming three-match Test series against West Indies, announced Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman Shaharyar Khan on Monday. Sarfraz Ahmed has been named as Misbah's deputy for the West Indies Tests. "Misbah-ul-Haq has conveyed to the chairman [of] PCB his desire to continue as captain of the Pakistan Test team," ESPNcricinfo quoted the PCB as saying in a statement. "Accordingly, the chairman has approved his appointment for the upcoming West Indies Test series. The chairman has also approved appointment of Sarfraz Ahmed as vice-captain of the Pakistan Test team." Misbah, who will turn 43 in May, had asked the PCB for time to decide on his future following whitewash defeats in his last two series against Australia and New Zealand, respectively. Misbah has been at the receiving end towards the late end of his career. However, leaving the 0-2 thrashing against New Zealand, followed by 0-3 whitewash against Australia, the 42-year-old has been the shining star for the side. He also inspired Pakistan to the top of the ICC Test team rankings for the first time in history. Although their stint at the top was short-lived as India replaced them. The three-match series starts in Barbados from April 22. The tour also includes four T20 and three one-day internationals starting from March 26 but Misbah will not be part of those matches having already retired from both the formats. Misbah had hinted his international career was over after Pakistan lost the second of three Tests in Australia but changed his mind before the third in Sydney. The selectors are due to announce a limited over squad later this week while a Test team will be announced later. (ANI)