Daily Times

Pakistan Test captain Misbah-ul-Haq has said that he is contemplating retirement but has not marked a particular series to hang his boots.

Earlier in the week, local media reported that Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Shehreyar Khan asked the 42-year-old to prolong his career to 2018.

In an interview with a leading cricket website on Wednesday, Pakistan’s most successful Test captain revealed that he was thinking about retiring but he had not decided anything. “I am at a certain stage of my career where I only think what I can give back to my team.

“I am thinking but haven’t reached any conclusion, but my whole thought process is all about the team – if they can move on without me or not. And how I can do more as a senior to inspire and make this team stand on its own.

“I do believe these boys have the capability to take responsibility and can deliver. So I am actually thinking if it’s a good to leave at this stage. But this is a decision I want to take on my own and I don’t think I need to pre-announce it. I don’t think that it is necessary for me to mark any series my last but I can take it any time without even having a farewell. I don’t have to make my retirement plan a big issue by beating drums all over.”

Despite the 2-0 whitewash by New Zealand and a defeat in the last of the three-Test series against the West Indies in Sharjah last month, Misbah is confident of achieving good results in Australia.

“It’s not like we are not capable enough to compete against Australia in Australia. We are. Yes, we are low on confidence after losing three straight Tests and it’s tough to regather ourselves but we have to and we will. Our batsmen have done it in the past, our bowlers are good but they need to be pushed hard and they have to take responsibility. So, overall this team has everything you need to win a game and I am sure we are very much capable.”

Pakistan compete the Steven Smith-led Australia in three Tests from December 15.