Misbah receives ICC Test Championship mace

LAHORE: Pakistan captain Misbah-ul-Haq received the ICC Test Championship mace from ICC Chief Executive David Richardson at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore today.

Pakistan achieved No 1 Test ranking for the first time since the current ranking system was introduced in 2003 after they played a two-all draw against England.

Pakistan’s cause was also helped by Sri Lanka, who defeated Australia by 3-0, while a wet ground in Port of Spain denied India the opportunity to defend the top spot as they won their four-Test series against the West Indies by 2-0.

Pakistan are currently sitting on 111 points, one ahead of India, while Australia and England are on 108 points each. The top seven Test sides are separated by just 16 points.

Reuters adds: Pakistan captain Misbah-ul-Haq hopes international cricket will soon return to the country as he celebrated the team´s climb to the top of the test rankings by being awarded the ceremonial mace to mark the achievement on Tuesday.

It was a poignant occasion for the 42-year-old Misbah as he accepted the silver and gold-plated trophy at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore, a venue where Pakistan played their last test on home soil.

"There can´t be a better location to receive the ICC Test Championship mace than this ground," Misbah said after receiving the trophy from International Cricket Council (ICC) chief executive David Richardson.

"It is ironic for both the players as well as the fans that the journey to the number one position has been (made) outside Pakistan.

"The players have missed on the crowd support, while the spectators have been unable to watch live some magnificent team and individual performances.

But I am confident that things will change and international cricket will soon return to Pakistan."

"The next target we have set for ourselves is to finish as the number one ranked test side at the April 1 cutoff date," said Misbah, referring to the prize money on offer to the ranking leaders on that day.

"It is not going to be easy as we have series against formidable sides like the West Indies, New Zealand and Australia.

"But instead of getting overawed by our opponents, we need to trust in our abilities, focus on our strengths and try to be as consistent as possible."