Misbah-ul-Haq expresses interest in becoming Pakistan head coach

The 45-year-old has consequently stepped down from the Pakistan Cricket Board Cricket Committee

Former Pakistan captain Misbah-ul-Haq has expressed an interest in becoming head coach of his former side, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has announced.

The 45-year-old, who has consequently stepped down from his role on the PCB Cricket Committee, informed the board's director of international cricket Zakir Khan of his decision on Monday.

The news comes a few days after Rameez Raja, another former Pakistan skipper, stated that Misbah is not suited for the role because of the "safe and secure" approach he took in his playing days, maintaining Pakistan require someone who will encourage more aggressive cricket.

On his decision to apply for the head coach role, Misbah said: "It has been interesting to see my name being mentioned as a future head coach of the Pakistan cricket team, but the fact is I only made the decision today.

"I am applying for the head coach's role fully aware that the competition will be tough as I envisage there will be a few more very competent and highly qualified people applying for one of the most challenging jobs in the game.

"In saying so, I have to admit it is everyone's dream to coach the Pakistan cricket team, which has tremendous potential to be a force to be reckoned with across all formats."

The deadline for applications for the role end on Monday, with the PCB keen to appoint someone ahead of the ODI and T20I series against Sri Lanka that begins on September 27.

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