Pakistan’s head coach Misbah ul Haq has downplayed the news about his uncertain future after the ongoing series against South Africa and said that he is focusing on winning and nothing else.
While talking to a group of journalist, Misbah said that, “I have told the media before and I will say it again that I am not listening to the chatter going around. I am focused on winning the upcoming Test match and the series. Those things are not in my hand.”
Since the disastrous tour of New Zealand where Pakistan was humbled comprehensively, there have been reports of sacking the current management and South African series is their last chance.
During the press conference, he also talked about the team combination and said that playing eleven will be decided a day before or on the Test match morning. “We will evaluate the conditions and pitch and make changes accordingly. If we feel like the pitch is helpful for the seamers we can go with an all pace attack.”
The head coach also stressed upon the fact that although his team is leading the series they should not take the Proteas side lightly as they have all the ingredients to make a comeback.
Speaking about Muhammad Hafeez’s exclusion for the T20I series, he said that medical team has made the guidelines and all of us should abide by them. It will be unfortunate to not have him for the games as he is in prolific form but at the same time its an opportunity for a youngster to make a mark.
On Hasan Ali’s inclusion in the side, Misbah was of the view that we shouldn’t judge him on the basis of a single game. He has done exceptionally well in the domestic season and as a package, he gives us more flexibility.
Today, both South Africa and Pakistan did practice in Rawalpindi Cricket Ground. The second Test of the series will begin on February 4. Pakistan team is hopeful of wrapping up the series while visitors will try to make a comeback.
