By IANS,
Karachi : Buoyed by Pakistan Cricket Board’s decision (PCB) to retain him as the captain, Shoaib Malik vowed to guide his team to the top of the world rankings.
Malik, 26, said Tuesday that he would work with renewed vigour to ensure that Pakistan gives its best under him this year.
The Sialkot-born all-rounder said the PCB’s decision to extend his captaincy tenure has added to his motivation.
“The day I took over as (Pakistan) captain, my aim has been to fight and play as a unit, so that remains the prime target, and I aim to take Pakistan to the top place in the world,” Malik said.
PCB chairman Ijaz Butt announced that Malik will continue indefinitely as Pakistan captain, saying that the all-rounder is doing a good job.
“It’s great that the board kept faith in me,” he said. “I am thankful to the PCB for showing faith and confidence in me. I will always try my level best to keep the team on the winning track.”
Malik took over as Pakistan captain soon after its embarrassing first round exit from the 2007 World Cup. He lost back-to-back Test series against South Africa and India but led Pakistan to the final of the inaugural World Twenty20 championship in South Africa in 2007. He has led Pakistan in 33 one-day internationals, winning 23 and losing 10.
The reason why the board decided to retain Malik as Pakistan captain is the 3-0 whitewash he achieved in Abu Dhabi last November against the West Indies.
Malik said he is now focusing on the proposed home series against Sri Lanka which is likely to be held later this season.