Inzamam retained as captain

Inzamam-ul-Haq has been confirmed as Pakistan's captain for 2004. His first stint officially ended after Pakistan's recent tour of New Zealand, but Shaharyar Khan, Pakistan's chairman, today announced that Inzamam will continue in charge for the rest of the year.

Inzamam's first assignment of a busy year will be the small matter of a Test and one-day series against India in March and April. Pakistan then tour Malaysia to play Sri Lanka, play a tri-nation series against India and Australia, and then travel to England for the ICC Champions Trophy in September.

It doesn't stop there. Next up is a home series against Zimbabwe in October, followed by the tricky challenge of a three-Test series and triangular one-day tournament in Australia.

Inzamam, who has played 91 Tests and scored 6,680 runs at 49.85, was appointed captain in September 2003, and led Pakistan to a 1-0 win in the Test series in New Zealand.

"It is a well-thought decision also taken in consultation with Rameez Raja and chairman of selectors, Wasim Bari," Khan said. "Inzamam led the team well in New Zealand and is showing tremendous improvement in his leadership qualities. He enjoys great respect amongst his team members. The PCB is optimistic that under his leadership, the Pakistan cricket team will continue to make upward progress."

Inzamam, in a statement said: "I am honoured to have been awarded the job to lead Pakistan this year. My recent experiences have given me valuable insight into the characteristics to be a successful leader. I am confident that I will be able to transfer my recent experience into this year."

He continued: "I have learnt a lot while playing under brilliant captains like Imran Khan, Wasim Akram, and Waqar Younis. I believe now I am well equipped to take on what is one of the most prestigious jobs in Pakistan sports.

"To me, every series this year will be equally important. But naturally, there will be more focus on the forthcoming series against India which I am sure will produce the highest quality of cricket. My team has worked extremely hard recently and I have no doubt in my mind that if they continue to work with the same dedication and commitment, they will put up a good performance."