Sayyiduna Marthad bin Abi Marthad al-Ghanawi (may Allah be pleased with him), who had the honour of taking part in the Battle of Badr, narrates that the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) said: "If it pleases you that your prayer be accepted, then let the best among you lead you in prayer, for they will be your envoys regarding what is between you and your Lord."
Al-Tabarani recorded it in al-Mu'jam al-Kabir; its chain contains Yahya bin Ya'la al-Aslami, who is da'if (weak).
Hadith Referenceمجمع الزوائد ومنبع الفوائد / كتاب الصلاة / 2325
Hadith Gradingمحدثین:إسنادہ ضعیف
Hadith Takhrij«أخرجه المستدرك على الصحيحين برقم: 5034»