24 January 2004	Saturday	01 Zilhaj 1424

LAHORE, Jan 23: Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) on Friday named Inzamam-ul-Haq as captain for the whole of 2004 in a break from the policy of series-by-series appointment.

Inzamam arguably country's most experienced as well as the best batsman, will lead Pakistan through to the three-Test tour of Australia starting in December.

"It is a well thought out decision taken in consultation with chief executive Rameez Raja and chairman of selectors Wasim Bari," Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman Shaharyar Khan said in a statement.

"Inzamam led the team well in New Zealand and is showing tremendous improvement in his leadership qualities. He enjoys great respect amongst his team members and we are optimistic about his leadership," said PCB chief.

Inzamam, 34, took over as captain last November in the home series against South Africa. He has played 91 Tests and 307 one-day internationals, captaining the side in 19 one-dayers and four Tests.

On the recent tour of New Zealand, he led Pakistan to a 1-0 victory in the two-Test series and a 4-1 defeat in the ODIs. Inzamam's acid test as skipper will be the home series against arch-rivals India starting in March.

Inzamam, in a statement said: "I am honoured to have been awarded the job to lead Pakistan this year. My recent experiences have given me valuable insight into the characteristics to be a successful leader. I am confident that I will be able to transfer my recent experience into this year. I have learnt a lot while playing under brilliant captains like Imran Khan, Wasim Akram, and Waqar Younis.

I believe now I am well equipped to take on what is one of the most prestigious jobs in Pakistan sports. "To me, every series this year will be equally important. But naturally, there will be more focus on the forthcoming series against India which I am sure will produce the highest quality of cricket.

"My team has worked extremely hard recently and I have no doubt in my mind that if they continue to work with the same dedication and commitment, they will put up a good performance". Inzamam was to leave on Friday for Saudi Arabia to perform Haj.