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Misbah, the man of the tour, guided Pakistan to a 2-1 series lead in Napier last night and his masterful unbeaten 93 also provided a blueprint for New Zealand's staggering top order to attempt to replicate in the final two matches. So much so, in fact, that they were to analyse Misbah's innings this afternoon.
"His was exactly the type of innings we need," Wright said today. "I think throughout this series he's been their glue, and we probably need some glue.
"There's not much between these sides, the difference has been their middle order -- in the last two games three of their batters have had significant innings, and that's what we need to do."
Misbah has batted six times in the test and one-day series' and passed 50 on five occasions, averaging 115.50 in the tests and 89 in the one-dayers.
He is indeed the glue in the middle order, boasting the ability to be circumspect and also produce the big shots depending on what the situation requires.
The test captain admits he is in career-best form and is keen to help his team wrap up the six-match series here tomorrow.
"There are few days in cricket like this so I'm really enjoying this form and I'm really enjoying New Zealand, I'm happy that my performances are doing a good job for the team," he said.
"Cricket is all about confidence and at the moment the confidence is high, that's why the form is good and I'm scoring runs.
"You are playing for your country and you are here to do something for the country, and that's the beauty. I thank God I am doing that."
Misbah and a misfiring top order are not New Zealand's only issues heading into tomorrow's pivotal match.
Captain Daniel Vettori tweaked a hamstring while bowling during last night's two-wicket loss and is a doubtful starter, as is opening batsman Jesse Ryder, who bruised a finger playing for Wellington last Sunday and missed the Napier match. Decisions on both players will be made tomorrow.
"We'd be pretty hopeful about Jesse," Wright said.
"I'm not quite so sure about Dan, I think it's just general stiffness but we'll have to have a look. He's probably more uncertain but we've got a physio who is very experienced so we'll act on the expert's advice."
All 15 members of the World Cup squad are in Hamilton so there is cover on both fronts, but New Zealand want to put an end to the player rotation and start fielding their best 11 in an attempt to win the series. They need to win the last two matches to do so.
"I think we need to go with our frontline side (injuries permitting)," Wright said.
"I've always believed at this level you pick your best side, that tends to solve a lot of problems because you have your best chance of winning and getting some momentum going.
"Players identify with the opportunity to play and those who miss out want to take their place, so I've always thought survival of the fittest."
The selectors were to meet tonight to nut out a 12 for tomorrow, with Wright and Vettori then taking over.
There is some thought being given to resting Tim Southee, who played in both tests and the four one-dayers. He was not at his best at the death in Napier.
That would give Kyle Mills a chance but Wright emphasised the need to play what they considered their top team given the series was at stake.
The coach was happy with the bowling and fielding last night but is demanding big innings from at least two of the top order.
"The answer is clearly that we have to start generating some runs and the boys are aware of that. They're trying real hard and they can play.
"They've been through a tough time but we've just got to show some faith and confidence."
NZPA
