Inzy appointed Pakistan selector

PAKISTAN yesterday appointed former captain and batting great Inzamam-ul-Haq as their new chief selector, part of wholesale changes following the team’s disastrous exit from the World Twenty20 in India.

The 46-year-old resigned as Afghanistan coach on Sunday to take on his new job, arguably among the most thankless in the sport with the holder routinely turfed out following the team’s failure in a high profile event.

Pakistan Cricket Board chairman Shaharyar Khan told reporters: “Inzamam agreed to take over as chief selector and we are thankful to Afghanistan cricket board for releasing him.”

During his six months as Afghanistan’s coach, Inzamam led cricket’s upand-comers to one-day and Twenty20 series victories over Zimbabwe and qualification for the main rounds of the World Twenty20 – the high point of which was their win over eventual champions the West Indies in the group stages.

Former spinner Tauseef Ahmed, allrounder Wasim Haider and opener Wajahatullah Wasti will round out the selection committee.

Inzamam, who replaces former batsman Haroon Rasheed, said he will do his best to lift country’s cricket.

“It was my long time wish to serve Pakistan cricket,” said Inzamam who played 120 Tests and 378 one-day during an illustrious career for Pakistan.

“I will try my best to be on the same page with captains and coach of the team for better results.”

Pakistan is likely to name a head coach later this month after Waqar Younis quit following team’s failure to reach the last four in the World Twenty20.

Meanwhile, ageing Pakistan Test captain Misbah-ul-Haq yesterday confirmed he will not only lead his side in their four-match series in England, but is determined to play on until next year’s tour of Australia.

He is Pakistan’s most successful Test captain, having led his country to 20 wins, 11 draws and 11 defeats in his 42 matches in charge – a better record than the legendary Imran Khan.

But his desire to continue has been in doubt since Pakistan’s 2-0 win over England last November, with doubts over his hunger to continue compounded by a calf injury.

Misbah, who turns 42 next month, said he was determined to play on, pending form and fitness. — AFP