In the latest development, Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has confirmed that wicketkeeper-batsman Sarfraz Ahmed will continue to lead Pakistan. He’s also going to lead the Men in Green in the upcoming 2019 World Cup. The ODI showpiece will commence from May 30 in London.
Earlier, during the South Africa tour, Sarfraz faced the wrath for his racist comments on all-rounder Andile Phehlukawyo during the second ODI. However, Sarfraz was quick to tender the public apology on the micro-blogging website Twitter, before personally meeting Phehlukwayo to extend an apology.
However, the world cricket governing body has handed Pakistan skipper a four-match ban.
Ehsan Mani backs Sarfraz:
The news came to the fore when PCB Chairman Ehsan Mani had a meeting with Sarfraz. Moreover, the joint press conference is expected on the evening of Tuesday (February 5). Recently, PCB spokesperson told Cricbuzz that the middle-order batsman Sarfraz was at the helm on ‘series-to-series basis’.
“Sarfaraz has been an integral part of the Pakistan’s World Cup preparations. He has proved to be a good strategist, leader and performer,” ESPNcricinfo quoted Mani.
Mani, who replaced Najam Sethi to be at the helm of the Board added Sarfraz had played a significant role within a team. He added under the leadership of Sarfraz, Pakistan won the 2017 ICC Champions Trophy and now top the Twenty20 team table.
“He led Pakistan to CT 2017 title as well as to top of the ICC T20I rankings,” Mani added.
Besides, while shedding light on 31-year-old Sarfraz’s future as a leader, Mani made it clear that they will access the situation following the culmination of the quadrennial event in England and Wales.
Sarfraz is eager to make a return in the national fold as while taking on Australia in March.
However, in between the gloveman will don captaincy hat for the Pakistan Super League (PSL) franchise Quetta Gladiators.
Wasim Akram on Sarfraz’s Punishment:
Pakistan former skipper Wasim Akram remarked certain people are happy over the suspension of Sarfraz.
“We highlighted Sarfraz’s mistake all over the world. The social media raised the issue from time to time. There are a few people who are happy over the ban,” Geo Tv quoted Akram as saying.
The Karachi-based Sarfraz has so far featured in 101 One-day Internationals (ODIs), 54 Twenty20 International (T20Is) and 49 Tests for Pakistan. He made his international debut in 2007 against India at Jaipur.