Pakistan on Wednesday appointed Mohammad Yousuf as captain for the Test tour of New Zealand after Younus Khan asked for a rest following the one-day series defeat against the same country.

"Yes, Younus has asked for a rest so we have appointed Younus as captain for the three-Test tour," Pakistan Cricket Board chairman Ijaz Butt told AFP, adding,"it has nothing to do with the defeat against New Zealand."

Pakistan lost the three-match series 2-1 after a narrow seven-run defeat in the final match on Monday.

Following the one-day series defeat, Pakistani media reported that Younus had lost the confidence of his fellow players, who wanted him to be replaced.

Pakistan will fly from here on Sunday to play three Tests in New Zealand.

(Article: Copyright © 2009 AFP)