Words and statistics alone are not enough to portray the enigma of Misbah Ul Haq in the Pakistani dressing room. When Misbah took reins of the test side in late 2010, Pakistan was a messed up side, with the then spot-fixing controversy having eroded the morale of the team. From then on, Misbah went on to script Pakistan’s resurgence in test cricket and there has been no looking back since then.
In Pakistan’s recent series against England, a 2-2 result depicts the never say die attitude of the Pakistanis. The credit must be given to Misbah again, as he began the series with a delightful century at Lord’s. Throughout the series, despite the moment of lows, Misbah went on to motivate his side and that was evident with Pakistan’s comeback in the fourth test.
In an interview post the series, Misbah joked, that he would love to continue leading the side till he turns 50. “Probably I am ready to make another world record, playing until the age of 50,” said Misbah. Speaking about the series, Misbah added, “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.” “When I took over as captain that was my aim, so this win will help me leave a legacy for future Test teams,” he added.
Former England captain and commentator Nasser Hussain praised Misbah for his character and binding the team together. “I think what he has done for Pakistan cricket is amazing and long may it continue, said Hussain. “When he speaks in the dressing room, the players listen. He is someone they all look up to and admire and he does give them the freedom to be fiery at times,” he added.
“In my view, Misbah seems to be someone who the Pakistani players listen to rather than going away and just doing things their own way; that’s always the sign of a good captain. The players trust him and are buying into his ideas but why wouldn’t they as his record as captain is very good,” said Hussain.