Miandad intends to talk to Musharraf over team's debacle
Monday, March 10 2003 15:56 Hrs (IST)

Islamabad: Former cricketing great Javed Miandad is seeking an audience with President Pervez Musharraf to discuss plans to rebuild the team after Pakistan's dismal performance in the World Cup.

"One of these days I will speak to Gen. Musharraf if I get an opportunity," Miandad said.

And Miandad may be planning to put his head on the chopping block again and offer his services as a coach though he has not been "sounded" yet, according to sources.

Miandad was sacked as coach for the second time last year following differences with players over sharing the cash prizes and sponsorship money.

"No one has said anything to me," Miandad was quoted as saying by the daily 'The News'.

Miandad has not rested in peace ever since the team's thrashing at the hands of India and early exit from the World Cup, calling for a change of approach by the Board and the players during the past few weeks.

"It is so depressing what is happening," Miandad said.

Miandad was apparently all the more disappointed by the reluctance of the senior players to quit the game owning responsibility for the dismal show and felt the Board should decide on behalf of the veterans.

"Right now I don't think it is a question of the seniors deciding to retire or not. The ball is now in the Board's court to take a decision on behalf of the seniors and decide what they want to do for the future -- either discard the seniors or again repose some trust in them," Miandad said.

But Miandad was not surprised at the players' stand. "Look in the past and you will see most of the players just faded away after being ignored by the selectors."

PTI

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