Potential captain Malik likely to be included in Pak squad

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Former Pakistan captain Shoaib Malik is likely to get a one-day international berth for the series against England, as selectors believe that he is the best choice to take over after Misbah-ul Haq steps down.

A national selector has confirmed that Malik is a contender for an ODI berth.

"The feeling is that we should be preparing someone as the next captain whenever Misbah steps down and Malik appears to be the strongest bet," a well-placed source close to the selectors was quoted, as saying.

"The selectors have had a word with the team management and there is support for Malik to make a comeback for the limited over games against England," the source added.

Malik was removed as captain after the report of the manager and coach alleged that he had an attitude problem and could not communicate well with players.

"The feeling now is that Malik has matured as a person and player and is best suited to become the next captain whenever Misbah steps down," the source said.

Meanwhile, Malik said he is keen to make a comeback in the international cricket.

"I know there is a lot of pressure involved on you when as a senior player you make a comeback to international cricket but I am learning to cope with that," The Daily Times quoted Malik, as saying.

"Right now my focus is only on making a comeback with my performances. But it is up to the selectors what they decide for the England series," Malik added.

Malik, who was dropped due to poor form in the Test series against England in 2011, has been scoring runs in domestic cricket.