ISLAMABAD: Former Pakistan captain and legendary batsman Zaheer Abbas has thrown his weight behind Misbah-ul-Haq after his batting heroic pushed Pakistan across the line against New Zealand in the fourth ODI at McLean Park, Napier on Tuesday.

Misbah's 93 not out from 91 balls, his highest score in ODI internationals was the foundation for Pakistan’s run-chase as New Zealand set them a challenging 263 for victory.

Commenting at the end of the match, Abbas said Misbah’s composed innings was the hallmark of a fine leader and once again back him for the role of Pakistan’s ODI captain for the upcoming World Cup that starts in less than three weeks.

“Everyone can see his performance with the bat which is very remarkable and adds to the team's confidence,” Abbas said while talking to APP.

“PCB has yet to announce captain for the World Cup and the way Misbah is performing, I believe there are chances that PCB could choose him as ODI skipper,” he said.

He was of the view that Pakistan played excellently under the captaincy of Misbah in the last three test matches where two test matches ended in a draw against South Africa in the UAE while one against New Zealand was won.

“A player should have the temperament to stay on the crease and not go after hitting every ball. Misbah has impressed everyone with his captaincy during the test and ODI matches and has made important contributions with the bat,” he concluded.