Lastly, Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has pronounced Shahid Afridi to lead Pakistan side in the cricket World Cup, to be held from February 19 to April 2 in India, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh; a decision ends many ambiguities regarding the choosing captain between Misbah and Afridi.
Pakistan were the only team among 14 not to have named their captain when PCB announced the squad for World Cup, as Misbah-ul-Haq, the Test Captain, could take over the leadership from Shahid Afridi, whereas Misbah-ul-Haq was named vice-captain of the World Cup Squad.
Afridi has been Pakistan's ODI captain over the last year but, just before the ongoing New Zealand tour, a number of key players and team management officials raised concerns with the board over his captaincy. The development placed the board in a quandary, caught between players and the captain, ultimately compelling them to delay the announcement of a leader.
PCB chairman Ijaz Butt said the decision had widespread backing. "I had detailed discussions with team management and players in New Zealand regarding captain and vice captain and am pleased to state that everyone fully endorsed these decisions. The PCB's decision to delay naming the captain had been disparaged by former players and fans.
Afridi had earlier said: It would not be an issue for me if I am removed from captaincy. It doesn’t make a difference whether Misbah leads the side or I lead the side because we both are playing for our country. Afridi had also dismissed reports of differences with Misbah. We don’t have any differences. He is a good player who remains focused on his job.
Misbah had backed all-rounder Afridi as captain. I think Afridi has done a great job as captain and he has kept the team together and every player is contributing and wants to do well. He has led well.
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