Waqar praises Misbah in report to PCB

Pakistan coach Waqar Younis has lavished praise on Test and one-day captain Misbah-ul-Haq, describing him as an exemplary leader and a keen learner of the game.

In a report that Waqar sent to the Pakistan Cricket Board on the team players after the West Indies tour, the former pacer described Misbah as a mature player and captain.

"I have to give full credit to Misbah as he has stabilized the team and leads from the front," Waqar wrote in his report which was published in the "Dawn" daily newspaper on Sunday.

Misbah was named Test captain last year by the PCB when Shahid Afridi had retired from Tests after leading Pakistan in just one match against Australia at Lords and than when Salman Butt was suspended in the spot-fixing case.

In May, the PCB chairman, Ijaz Butt also appointed Misbah as captain of the one-day team in place of Afridi.

"His performance is also outstanding. He makes the boys very comfortable and relaxed so they actually enjoy their cricket. He is mature and willing to learn," Waqar said about the 37-year old batsman.

Waqar, however, noted that the one unfortunate aspect of Misbah was the age factor.

"On that account I don't think he would be able to lead the side in the next World Cup and there I would advise the Board that we should start grooming a young captain from now," the former Test captain said.