Misbah picks positives from narrow loss, praises bowlers

His team is facing a do-or-die battle against South Africa after losing its Champions Trophy opener, but Pakistan captain Misbah-ul-Haq remains unruffled, choosing to highlight the fine performance of his bowlers in the narrow loss.
Pakistan lost their opening group B match against the West Indies here yesterday. Misbah, who scored 96 not out after coming in at No. 5 against West Indies, who almost made a hash of a 171-target and won with just two wickets to spare.
"I think the biggest positive from this game was our bowling. All the seamers bowled really well and bowled their heart out and took wickets. And at one time we were really in the hunt, so it's really a big positive, and it just creates pressure on the opposition, Misbah said.

"They bowled really well against South Africa (in the practice game) and even today. So I think it gives confidence to the team and also to the batsmen that if they can go and just give them a good total, our bowling attack can win the matches for us," he added.
Monday's match against South Africa will be a shootout of sorts. In Cardiff on Thursday, South Africa lost their tournament-opener against India by 26 runs and now face the challenge of playing Pakistan without two of their main strike bowlers.
Dale Steyn is still doubtful and Morne Morkel is back in South Africa after suffering a groin injury in the India match.

The close defeat against West Indies has upset Pakistani fans here. In Birmingham, Pakistan are expected to enjoy more 'home' support and Misbah wants them to keep faith in his team.