Skip to content

Misbah-ul-Haq to captain Pakistan on England tour

 Pakistan captain Misbah-ul-Haq salutes the crowd after reaching his century during the 2nd Test against England in Dubai
Image: Pakistan captain Misbah-ul-Haq celebrates scoring a century

Pakistan captain Misbah-ul-Haq has confirmed he will skipper the side on their tour of England this summer.

Misbah is Pakistan's most successful Test captain, having led his country to 20 victories, 11 draws and 11 defeats in his 42 matches in charge - a better record than the legendary Imran Khan.

But his desire to continue has been in doubt since Pakistan's 2-0 win over England last November, with doubts over his hunger to continue compounded by a calf injury in January that flared up during the Pakistan Super League a month later.

Misbah, who turns 42 next month, said he had now made up his mind and was determined to play on, pending form and fitness.

"I am working on my fitness," he said. "I am trying to get a contract with a county so that I can get some practice ahead of the England tour but if that doesn't come through, then I will be touring England with Pakistan 'A' ahead of the four Tests to get acclimatised."

Pakistan skipper Misbah-ul-Haq goes on the offensive on day one
Image: Misbah goes on the offensive

Pakistan's second string will play four-day matches with county teams in June before the national team contests two three-day practice matches against Somerset and Sussex.

The first of four Tests will start at Lord's from July 14.

Also See:

Surprisingly, Misbah has not played a single Test in England during a 61-match career.

"I know it's a big challenge, so I am doing the best preparations for the tour and realise the strength of the opposition," said Misbah. "After the England tour, I am planning to play until the Australia tour as there is not that much gap between the two series.

"All my plans are related to fitness and form and that's my priority."

Around Sky