CHRISTCHURCH – Pakistan captain Misbah-ul-Haq has pulled out of the New Zealand tour to return home due to death of his father-in-law, a team spokesman said Sunday.
Misbah’s wife, Uzma, who was with him in Christchurch, tweeted the news about the demise of her father.
My father passed away, plz pray for his maghfirat. me and @captainmisbahpk on board coming back to pakistan
— Uzma Misbah Ul Haq (@uzeekhanjee) November 20, 2016
Misbah received the news early Sunday and headed to the airport with his wife and daughter as soon as the match ended.
Azhar Ali will take over as captain and no immediate decision was made about flying out a replacement before the second Test starts in Hamilton on Friday.
New Zealand won the first Test by eight wickets midway through the fourth day.
New Zealand lead the series 1-0.
