Misbah admits Pakistan’s shortcomings despite Bangladesh triumph

Pakistan’s head coach-cum-chief selector Misbahul Haq has admitted that Pakistan are lagging behind in some aspects of their game, despite their recently concluded Twenty20 International (T20I) series win over Bangladesh on home soil.

While talking during a press conference after the conclusion of the series, Misbah said that the win gave the side much-needed breathing space but they still need to work on their deficiencies.

"You play to win and you try to perform as well as you can because it's important to give yourself breathing space. But we have to still look at the shortcomings in the team and where we need to strengthen. Under pressure, you keep running after things and sometimes it's difficult to catch up. So it's good for the team and for me, and for the young players that we have a confidence booster and we can relax a bit and think about the future,” said Misbah.

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Misbah also stressed on the importance of the upcoming edition of Habib Bank Limited (HBL) Pakistan Super League (PSL), with regards to finding an appropriate team combination, ahead of this year's T20 World Cup in Australia.   

“We will keep everything in mind when we are making a team for the T20 World Cup. Obviously, PSL will be very important for us. The hitters who were in the team previously couldn't perform that well. We then brought Khushdil and Iftikhar in the team. We have these options,” he said.

"The point of looking at PSL is that you get to see the performances and you can analyse where players fit in and where we need players in the team. Then we grind further in the matches we will play, then decide on the squad. In domestic cricket, there is lesser pressure. In PSL, at some level you can say that with media and international players, the standard comes a bit closer to international cricket. The temperament of a player can be checked there and then finally, the requirement of the team. Then you can pick the player and ready them,” he added.

The former Pakistan captain also shed light on the team’s selection policy and brushed aside the notion that he was against the inclusion of senior players in the squad.

"Malik and Hafeez played good innings and Babar also backed them to do well. So the door isn't closed for anyone. Regarding policy, until a player is fit and performing and we think he can contribute, he should be in the team and you can utilise them especially with a World Cup around the corner. Their form is good and their fitness is good, the fitness test results were also improved. So for the team's benefit, there's no issue with including seniors,” he concluded.