KARACHI - Former skipper Zaheer Abbas has backed Misbah-ul-Haq as the captain of Pakistan team for next year's Cricket World Cup co-hosted by Australia and New Zealand.
"Misbah had been doing well, consistent and fit to lead the team in the prestigious event," he told APP in an interview at the National Stadium here on Friday.
Zaheer, who is also the chief consultant of Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Najam Sethi, believed that in the current circumstances "Misbah is the best choice". He said Misbah got his own style in batting, but he had shown consistency in the past couple of years while leading the team. He recalled that PCB Chairman Najam Sethi have also supported Misbah-ul-Haq as captain. He opined that despite some difficulties, Pakistan will be able to raise good combination for the World Cup. He said coming series against Sri Lanka, Australia and New Zealand will be good build-up in preparations for the World Cup.
Zaheer lauded Najam Sethi’s achievements during the recent meetings of International Cricket Council in Melbourne. "Sethi brought good news for Pakistan cricket as we will also be getting presidentship of ICC in coming years," he added.
He expressed that resumption of ties with India and six series against the arch-rival will highly beneficial for Pakistan. "Signing of Memorandum of Understanding with India will be greatly in boosting PCB revenue," legendary batsman Zaheer commented.
He said besides regular cricket with India, PCB needed to enhance its financial position which was very important. Zaheer wanted the activation of National Stadium for regular cricket activity because it was imperative for the development of cricket in Pakistan's biggest metropolis.
He suggested more matches should be staged in this premier Test centre and even wanted holding of some Grade-II matches at this ground to inspire and motivate players. Zaheer also wanted development of new cricket ground in the parking area of the ground to attract larger number of youth playing in this ground. He said he wanted more development at the stadium and will be recommending his thoughts to PCB Chairman.
Zaheer with former Test fast bowler Rashid Khan and senior Manager NSK Arshad Khan also visited different parts of the stadium.