Sarfraz Ahmed has been appointed as the skipper of Pakistan Test side. Pakistan’s only Champions Trophy winning captain takes over the reins from Misbah-ul-Haq, who called it quits along with Younis Khan after the conclusion of Test series against Windies, which Pakistan won by a margin of 2-1.

Just after the Champions Trophy win, the reports suggested that Sarfraz will be named the skipper of the side in the longest format of the game and Pakistan Board did not delay and within few days, handed over the baton to Sarfraz. This means that Sarfraz will lead Pakistan in all formats of the game now.

Sarfraz was a natural successor to Misbah, as selectors had no other option to consider. He led the eighth-ranked Pakistan side to Champions Trophy victory in England, even when no one rated Pakistan a team who could win it. They started off with a losing note against India but went on to win rest of their games to qualify for the finals.

After losing the toss, Pakistan was asked to bat in the final against India and the Men in Green made most out of it to put on a score of 338 for four on the board.

Mohammad Amir, Pakistan’s prime bowler did no mistake and scalped three early wickets to dent India’s hopes and riding on an all-round show, Pakistan wrested Champions Trophy from India to claim the cup. Safraz became an overnight hero in his country and received a grand welcome along with his team.

Babar Azam could have been a competitor to Sarfraz for the job due to his good form in ODIs game but failures to emulate his ODI performance in Test cricket can now also see Babar losing his place in the Test side. Though the retirement of Misbah and Younis might force selectors to give him another go.

Sarfraz, who was appointed as the captain of the ODI team after resignations of Azhar Ali, will have an experience of leading a side in the longest format when Pakistan face Sri Lanka later this year.

(Read Here: Ishan Kishan Interview)

(Read Here: There Was No Rift Between Kohli, Kumble)