England v Pakistan: Misbah-ul-Haq the glue to Pakistan team, says David Lloyd
Friday 22 July 2016 20:23, UK
David Lloyd praised the evergreen Misbah-ul-Haq after the Pakistan skipper hit a century for his side on day one of the first Investec Test at Lord's.
Misbah notched an unbeaten 110 on his first visit to Lord's, but with Pakistan 282-6 at the close of play after losing two late wickets, Lloyd says there is plenty for England to be encouraged by on day one.
"It was a terrific knock from the captain," said Lloyd. "I'm going to call him 42 years young. He has been the glue of the team.
"It was a terrific time for him to score a century, but it can still be called a satisfactory day too for England, to get that last one out means they've now taken six wickets and will get another go with that new ball on Friday
"Misbah was tested at times by England with the short ball, but he refused to take it on, he wasn't going to hook it.
"He might look a little bit awkward with it at times with ones directed in at his rib cage, but he survived it.
"Then when the spinner came on, he treated it as his reward, He thought, 'I've done my hard work, now it's my turn to have some fun'.
"He clearly didn't let Moeen Ali settle at all, and enjoyed all the sweeps and reverse sweeps he played. A well-deserved century, and he's still there."
Former Pakistan batsman Ramiz Raja echoed Lloyd's assessment, marveling at Misbah's determination as he continues to re-write the record books.
"You've got to salute his resilience," added Raja. "He is not the most stylish in the way he scores his runs, but he is such a smart cricketer.
"His temperament is rock solid. He is a bit like Steve Waugh - dogged, determined, he never gives up.
"He is extremely fit and has lost a fair bit of weight - he looks rock solid, and is so focused. He is re-writing the record books.
"He has the most hundreds by a Pakistan captain now - he has eight, beating Inzamam-ul-Haq's effort.
"He is a great role model for this side as he took the reins when Pakistan cricket was in the doldrums. He has done remarkably well."
Watch day two of the first Test live on Sky Sports 2 from 10am on Friday. Before then don't miss highlights of the opening's day play from 8pm, followed by Wasim Akram on The Verdict at 9pm - all on the same channel.
