OTD | Pakistan’s man for rescue, Misbah-ul-Haq turns 49

Former Pakistan cricketer Misbah-ul-Haq, widely regarded as one of the country’s most successful captains, celebrates his 49th birthday on 28th May 2023. As he reaches this milestone, it is an opportunity to reflect on his remarkable journey and the impact he has had on Pakistani cricket.

Misbah-ul-Haq, born on May 28, 1974, emerged as a strong and disciplined leader during his playing days. He was known for his calm demeanour and ability to steer the team through challenging situations. Misbah’s leadership skills came to the forefront when he was appointed as the captain of the Pakistani Test team in 2010, a role he held until his retirement in 2017.

Under Misbah’s captaincy, Pakistan reached new heights in the Test format. He led the team to their first-ever Test series win against England in England in 2016, which was a historic achievement for Pakistani cricket. Misbah’s steady batting style and his knack for building partnerships made him a reliable batsman in the middle order.

Apart from his captaincy, Misbah also made significant contributions with the bat throughout his career. He holds the record for the fastest Test century in terms of balls faced, achieving the feat in just 56 balls against Australia in 2014. Misbah’s ability to remain calm under pressure and his strong work ethic earned him respect from teammates and opponents alike.

Misbah’s impact on Pakistani cricket extended beyond his playing career. After retiring from the game, he took on the role of head coach and chief selector of the Pakistan national team. During his tenure, he focused on grooming young talent and instilling a winning mentality in the squad.

As Misbah celebrates his 49th birthday, his legacy in Pakistan cricket remains indelible. He will be remembered as a remarkable leader, a dependable batsman, and a true gentleman of the game. His contributions have inspired a new generation of cricketers in Pakistan, and his influence will continue to be felt in the years to come.