Daily Times

A Lahore High Court (LHC) Judge, Justice Mr Ameer Bhatti, on Friday directed the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) to submit its response in regard to former Test captain Misbahul Haq’s appointment as the head coach and chief selector for the men’s cricket team. During the hearing on a petition seeking to declare Misbah’s appointment as illegal, Justice Bhatti remarked that the former captain was Pakistan’s star. “We should be glad that the PCB did not ‘import’ a head coach this time,” he said. “Shouldn’t the PCB be appreciated for this decision?” he asked. “Shouldn’t players like Misbah lead the team as the coach?” Jusitce Bhatti also asked the petitioner if he had any doubts in Misbah’s capabilities. At this, the petitioner responded saying he had no doubts in the former captain. He, however, said that the appointment was made against the rules and merit. The petitioner maintained that Misbah did not have any experience of serving as the head coach. He went on to add that the appointment was against the law.

He also pointed out that the former skipper’s salary and other benefits exceeded the pay structure set for the position. He pleaded to the court to declare Misbah’s appointment as illegal. On September 4, the PCB appointed Misbah on the positions — a first in Pakistan cricket — while Waqar Younis was named the bowling coach. The decision received a mixed response from former and current players.