I doff my cap to Misbah-ul-Haq

Misbah-ul-Haq assumed the Pakistan captaincy during one of the most challenging phases of the nation’s cricketing history. The tour to England had ended in disaster and three members of that side are spending time at Her Majesty’s Pleasure.

Misbah has the led way for Pakistan with his attitude and his batting

There was much work to be done to restore pride in Pakistan’s cricket and to achieve this, the PCB made their best decision for many years – they turned to Misbah.

He was entrusted with the seemingly thankless task of rejuvenating the side. It was shorn of many of its star turns and was, and still is, playing its ‘home’ cricket in international exile in the United Arab Emirates.

From terror attacks to spot fixing, nothing had been going right for Pakistan.

Under Misbah’s guidance, however, Pakistan are now, somewhat surprisingly, an international cricketing force to be reckoned with.

In the 13 Tests that Misbah has captained since November 12, 2010 against South Africa, Pakistan have won seven, lost one and drawn five; a thoroughly respectable return. An amazing return if you look at where the team was just before this period began.

They have beaten Bangladesh twice, New Zealand once, West Indies once, Zimbabwe once, Sri Lanka once and England once.

Draws have come against South Africa twice, Sri Lanka twice and New Zealand once. Their only defeat came in Providence against West Indies in a low scoring affair.

Misbah’s Pakistan may have built up a reputation for being a bit dull, but they have won over half of their games so far and the mission statement was to make this outfit a tough one to beat. I think it’s fair to say that that mission has been accomplished.

Detractors could also point to the fact that Misbah has faced up to Bangladesh twice and Zimbabwe once. All three games were won. I would counter that you can only beat what’s in front of you.

At the heart of Pakistan’s revival has been Misbah himself. He has shown the way, top scoring for Pakistan since he became captain with 1037 runs at an impressive average of 74.07. He clearly relishes leading the side.

On top of his own personal contribution to the team, his captaincy has been very smart. His decision to bring Mohammad Hafeez after five overs against England in the first Test in Dubai last week was a master stroke.

On a flat track there was nothing to lose for Misbah in throwing the ball to Hafeez. Three balls later and Alastair Cook was trudging back to the pavilion.

The seed had been majestically sown: England were irked by the ‘spin’ on offer and collapsed. Twice. Misbah was left to toast a memorable victory.

Pakistan should be proud of their skipper and all he has achieved. I like his stoic nature and canny leadership. Appointing him as captain is the best decision the PCB has made for a long, long time.

By Miles Reucroft