Lahore: Pakistan’s most successful skipper Misbah-ul-Haq will retire after the upcoming Test series against the West Indies, he announced Thursday, ending months of speculation over his future.
“The series against the West Indies is my last series,” the 42-year-old told reporters at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore, adding that he had been under no pressure to retire.
“I am satisfied,” he said.
Since taking over the captaincy in the wake of an international spot-fixing scandal in 2010, Misbah -- who is currently the oldest international cricketer -- has led Pakistan in 53 Tests, winning 24, losing 18 and drawing 11. He also briefly led his team to world number one Test rankings last year, despite playing no matches at home due to concerns over security.
The feat earned him widespread acclaim throughout the cricketing world. Earlier this year, coach Mickey Arthur described Misbah as “integral” to the Pakistan side.
But the veteran has long been expected to call time on his illustrious career, with former Pakistan cricket heavyweights demanding he step down in January after a 3-0 rout in Australia. - AFP
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