Misbah-ul Haq to lead Pakistan

CRICKET: LAHORE, Pakistan, May 12 (AFP) - Pakistan on Thursday dropped captain Misbah-ul Haq from the Twenty20 squad and made all-rounder Mohammad Hafeez the new skipper after the series defeat to England.

The decision was widely expected after Misbah led Pakistan to a 2-1 loss in the three-match Twenty20 series against England in February. Misbah, who turns 38 later this month, is regarded as too old for the fastest brand of the game, but will still lead Pakistan for one-dayers and Tests on next month's Sri Lanka tour.

Pakistan play two Twenty20s, five one-days and three Tests on the tour. They open with a Twenty20 match in Hambantota on June 1.

Misbah said he was not retiring from Twenty20 cricket.

"I accept this decision and will continue to serve my country in the best possible manner," he said. "I have not decided to retire from the Twenty20 and will play at domestic level to stage a comeback."