Khan's decision is indeed gutsy

Younus Khan's decision to step down as Pakistan captain citing poor form can undoubtedly be termed as one of the most sporting acts by a skipper in recent cricket history. How many captains will have the guts to do what Khan did after losing to New Zealand in the One-day series?

Instances of captains hanging on to their position despite their poor personal form, thus demoralising the team, are many. It is not easy to surrender one's place in the team, especially when you are in command. Most players in his position would have held on to the post hoping to come up with that one knock that would silence their critics.

Technically, Khan is one of the best batsmen in the world, and his recent run drought can be attributed to bad luck. Moreover, leading a Pakistan team is not easy when you are struggling for form. It is a team that, to a great extent, needs someone who can lead through performance.

Country first

In every interview with Khan, he has always stated that his team and country matter to him more than anything else. By stepping down he has proved true to his words.

A cricketer who has played nearly a decade of international cricket can easily judge his own form and identify ways of rectifying it. He is aware of when to take a break and return to domestic cricket to regain his form. Unfortunately, the lure of money and the glamour of playing international cricket force them to carry on hoping that they might click soon. Even the greatest players have been victims to this false hope.

Contribution

Had Pakistan won the third One-day in Abu Dhabi and the series, Khan would have continued as captain. But one cannot deny the fact that their seniors did not contribute to the game in that crucial match and the Pakistan batting collapsed like a pack of cards. Only Mohammad Aamer, batting at 10, showed how easy it was to get runs.

Khan has stated that problems from the seniors in the team were also a factor that prompted him to step down. And should that be true, all those seniors who created trouble to ensure his exit must quickly work hard on their form. A fighter that Khan is, he will be playing domestic cricket and may very well return with a bang.