Former Pak Coach Mickey Arthur Defends Remarks On Wasim Akram, Misbah

Arthur said he had supported the participation of both Wasim and Misbah on the committee but was disappointed with the decision after placing his trust in them

Former Pakistani head coach Mickey Arthur caused a stir earlier this week after opening up boldly on his axing by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB). The PCB set up a committee, including Wasim and Misbah, to shape the team’s future direction following a disappointing World Cup performance. The committee decided against retaining Arthur, which paved the way for Misbah to be named the country’s chief selector and new head coach. Arthur said he had supported the participation of both Wasim and Misbah on the committee but was disappointed with the decision after placing his trust in them. Later on Friday, he once again defended his comments. “I was dignified in my comments because I love Pakistan, the players I worked with, spent time with for three years and respect Misbah and Wasim,” said Arthur. “I felt disappointed because I had some unfinished business to do with the Pakistan team and would have loved to continue. But now we have moved on and I wish Pakistan team the best of luck under Misbah.” Earlier in an interview with ESPN Cricinfo, Arthur stated that he was disappointed as the people who he trusted, didn’t follow through. “I guess the only disappointment I have out of the whole lot is that there were some people I really trusted who ultimately didn’t follow through,” said Arthur during the interview. “And it just happened to be that Misbah was on the committee that didn’t renew our contracts and becomes this heir-apparent,” he added. Reacting to Arthur’s comments, Misbah asserted that Arthur was entitled to his opinion. “I think what he has said is his opinion,” said Misbah. “Whatever he has thought he has said. I always say that everyone has his opinion. “As a member of the cricket committee, we gave our honest opinion. I had good relations with Mickey,” he added.