Javed Miandad lashes out at PCB, calls Azhar Ali's appointment as captain a MISTAKE

Karachi: Legendary Pakistan cricketer Javed Miandad has launched a scathing attack on his country`s cricket board, saying it should admit its mistake in appointing Azhar Ali as the ODI captain following a humiliating series loss against England.

Chasing a daunting victory target of 445, Pakistan failed to produce a spirited performance as they were bundled out for 275 in the third match at Trent Bridge on Tuesday. With the win, England have taken an unassailable 3-0 lead in the five-match series.

Former captain and legendary batsman Miandad suggested that the Pakistan Cricket Board should appoint someone else as captain for next month`s series against the West Indies, pointing out that Azhar`s appointment as captain last year made no sense as he was not a part of the ODI team since 2013, the Express Tribune reported.

Meanwhile, ex-captain Wasim Akram said that Sarfraz Ahmed was an ideal choice to replace Azhar as the ODI captain, describing the wicketkeeper-batsman as a performer under pressure.

On the other hand, former skipper and renowned commentator Ramiz Raja believes that Azhar`s performance at the Test level could suffer after coming under enormous pressure in the ongoing series.

Pakistan, the top-ranked team in the Test rankings but a lowly ninth in the ODI table, have two matches left to regain some pride and will play next game at Leeds on Thursday.