Pakistan head coach Misbah Ul Haq believes culturally unique Asian cricketers are much more immune to mental health concerns borne out of the extended living within bio-bubbles than their counterparts in "western countries". 

With the COVID-19 pandemic enforcing a secluded life on players off the field, Misbah stressed on an important aspect of cricket matches being played in these difficult times in an interview to the 'Cricket Baaz' channel on YouTube.

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“Yes it is an issue about players and team officials facing mental health issues if cricket continues to be played like it is being held right now," he said. "As far as Pakistan is concerned I think our players due to their social environment are mentally very strong so they can get through this period."

“But yes I believe in the long run, players and officials from western countries could be facing more such problems because their culture is different from ours," Misbah added. "For them, I think this existing Covid-19 environment that has been created to ensure cricket is played is more of a challenge."

Pakistan players themselves spent best part of two months isolated from the public outside during their summer trip to England for three Tests and three T20Is. 

"I think it was good for us because communication improved between management and players, the players were supporting each other a lot and generally the bonding in the team improved a lot," said Misbah, pointing a positive of cricket behind closed doors. 

However, while opining on western players, Misbah said he isn't at all suggesting that there is no mental challenge for Pakistani cricketers, emphasizing why the pandemic needs to be over as soon as possible. 

“Staying indoors all the time, movement being restricted and not being able to go out with freedom do take a toll on the players and even officials," he said. 

On his term so far and Pakistan's preparations for the major world tournaments coming up, Misbah said: "I have completed one year in the job and there are a lot of things to be positive about."

“There has been development and progress in the team and more importantly I can say with confidence that the mindset and approach of the players to white ball cricket has changed for the better."

"I think we are on that path-the talent we have now and it is increasing. I can safely say that by early next year after the Pakistan Super League we will have a pool of players who can serve us well in the three World Cups in 2021, 22 and 23," added the former Pakistan captain, who recently quit the post of chief selector to solely focus on coaching responsibilities. 

Misbah also responded to accusation from outside that he intends to end the career of wicketkeeper batsman Sarfaraz Ahmed, skipper of Pakistan until last year, who has been left out of the upcoming home limited-overs series versus Zimbabwe. 

“Why would I want to do that? What do I have against him. If we wanted to end his career we would not have given him a central contract and just told him to go and play domestic cricket and try to come back."

“But we realised that even though Muhammad Rizwan is performing exceptionally well but we still don’t have a back-up or replacement who we can count on for experience and performances."

"Remember we need a proper back up or all three formats even now," he signed off.