JOHANNESBURG, Sept 19: Middle-order batsman Misbah-ul-Haq, who propelled Pakistan to a fabulous 6-wicket win over world champions Australia on Tuesday in the Twenty20 Championship, said on Wednesday that he had justified his selection in the team after some heavy criticism earlier this month.

“I was under heavy load of pressure due to criticism on my selection in the team earlier this month,” said Misbah while talking to newsmen here. “But I have justified my selection with my performance and am confident to carry on my good form in the coming matches.”

“Even the selectors were blamed when I was named in the squad but thankfully, everything has gone right. Whenever I came in to bat I aimed about doing my best and have succeeded so far,” said the beaming right-hander.

Commenting on the nerve-fraying contest with the Aussies on Tuesday, Misbah said Pakistan were in dire straits when he arrived at the crease but encouragement from captain Shoaib Malik and his own confidence did the trick for him and the team.

“If you perform outstandingly but your team fails to win, it has no value. But my knock proved a match-winning one and it will remain a memorable day in my life,” added Misbah.—APP