Shoaib takes the reins

Shoaib Malik © Getty Images

Shoaib Malik has been named as Inzamam-ul-Haq’s successor as Pakistan captain.

Shoaib, a 25-year-old off-spinning all-rounder, has been chosen ahead of more established names such as Mohammad Yousuf as the Pakistan Cricket Board seeks a fresh start after the disappointing early exit from the World Cup.

“He is the best man to lead the Pakistan team,” said PCB chairman Nasim Ashraf.

Younis Khan last week rejected the chance to become the new skipper, according to reports on the sub-continent.

The 29-year-old, who is currently playing for Yorkshire in the LV County Championship, claims he was offered the position by the PCB.

Inzamam stepped down from the role of captain - and retired from one-day cricket - after Paksitan's elimination from the showpiece event in the Caribbean.

They lost by 54 runs to hosts West Indies in the opening group match and suffered a shock three-wicket defeat to Ireland in their next encounter to seal their fate.

Coach Bob Woolmer was found murdered in his Kingston hotel room the day after the Ireland loss.