September 03, 2008	Wednesday	Ramazan 2, 1429

LAHORE, Sept 2: Pakistan cricket team’s vice captain Misbah-ul-Haq has rejected the idea of his elevation as captain, saying he has no desire for leadership.

The reliable batsman of the team in recent years said he was enjoying his game and his prime objective was to concentrate on polishing his batting skills.

“Obviously, leadership brings extra load of responsibility and I am enjoying my present status of vice captain in the team,” he said here on Tuesday.

At a time when change in the leadership of Pakistan team is echoed as Shoaib Malik has lost the faith of national selectors because of his failure to lift the fortunes of the team, Misbah emerged as hot favourite along with Younis Khan and Shahid Afridi for the slot of skipper.

But his refusal has paved the way for Younis and Afridi who both are in a desperate race to become the captain. “I know it is a great honour to be the captain of the team but I feel contended the way I am,” he asserted.

Some of the cricket sources claimed that Younis is too keen to replace Shoaib and has started lobbying in this regard.

Afridi has not stayed back. He is said to be in constant touch with PCB authorities and the selectors, especially with the chief selector who has always given him preference, to plead his case as the next captain.—APP