Misbah wants an Indo-Pak series before quiting game

Pakistan Test captain Misbah-ul-Haq today made it clear that he is eager to play a series against India before taking a final decision on his retirement.

Talking to the media in Lahore, Misbah said just like everyone else he wanted to witness and play in an India-Pakistan series.

“It is my desire to play a series against India before I retire and as far as retirement is concerned I have taken no decision on it. When I do I will inform the Cricket Board (PCB) about it,” Misbah said.

He also talked about next year’s tour to England.

“If I decide to go to England I will go there fully prepared and I would also like to see our team go there ready for the challenge. Our team is capable of winning anywhere,” Misbah added.

Misbah has put off a final decision on his retirement plans from Test cricket but the PCB chairman Shahayar Khan has said he would like to see the experienced batsman continue as captain for the tour to England in July-September next year.

The senior batsman has led Pakistan in Tests since late 2010 and only retired from OIDIs as captain and player after the World Cup early this year.

Misbah, 41, also said he was not surprised at England’s comeback in the ongoing ODI series against Pakistan in the UAE.

“England has a very good ODI outfit and they are capable of doing well in any conditions but I know Pakistan will come back strongly in the third match,” he said.

Misbah also felt that Pakistan’s young players have loads of talent but they need to be more mature to adjust to international cricket.

“The good thing is their fitness levels are good.