Dubai: Former Pakistan captain Misbah-ul Haq, whose retirement has created a vacuum in the Pakistan batting line-up, showered praise on veteran Sri Lankan spinner Rangana Herath for his match-winning performance in Abu Dhabi.
“We have played a lot of matches against him, but still he used to get us out. That threat of him has always been there. Pakistan team has the potential to come back. They need to be a little more proactive against the spinners, especially on day four and five. On spinning tracks, it is difficult to survive any type of spinner because sooner or later they may get you out.”
Asked asked whether his absence was affecting the Pakistan team, Misbah told Gulf News: “When this sort of performance happens (losing the first Test to Sri Lanka) I will be missed, but overall it is an young team and we know before the series that the threat of Herath is there because he is such a good bowler.”
Misbah, who has played more Test matches than anyone at this venue, reveals that UAE wickets have a speciality. “UAE wickets will behave in a particular way for the first three days and totally different in the fourth and fifth day. Batting stability has to come in. You need to understand how one has to play spinners on these Asian tracks.”
The elder statesmen of Pakistan cricket is happy that they have lifted the Champions Trophy earlier this year. “Champions Trophy win was a big win for Pakistan. I am proud of them as they fought back after the first game (against India). It is such a big achievement because everybody fought for the team, they played fearless cricket and that is what is needed from the team. In limited overs cricket, Pakistan is a power and what they need is little more confidence.”
Misbah believes that international cricket will return to Pakistan sooner than later. “The World XI match was a massive step and everyone is hopeful and that international cricket will get revived soon. The people of Pakistan are happy at the moment and are hoping for more international cricket soon.
And what does Misbah think of Pakistan regaining the No. 1 Test slot that he earned for the team as captain? “I am happy that the new players are performing, but they need to be consistent if Pakistan has to become No. 1 again. You need to win more matches and play as a unit in all three departments. Right now, the team is on the right path, but they need to keep on improving their performance and fitness too.”
