Sarfaraz Ahmed ideal man to lead Pakistan in World Cup 2019, reckons Wasim Akram

Following his racial comments against Proteas all-rounder Phehlukwayo during the second ODI in Durban, Sarfaraz was handed over a four-match suspension by the ICC.

Sarfaraz Ahmed | Twitter

Legendary fast bowler Wasim Akram has come out in support of Sarfaraz Ahmed amidst widespread criticism of the Pakistan skipper. Akram believes Sarfaraz, who has captained Pakistan to the ICC Champions Trophy 2017 title win, should lead the team till World Cup 2019.

“We no longer have the time to change the captain. Sarfraz is a passionate captain and also there is no alternative choice available,” Akram quoted as saying by The Express Tribune.

Following his racial comments against Proteas all-rounder Andile Phehlukwayo during the second ODI in Durban, Sarfaraz was handed over a four-match suspension by the International Cricket Council (ICC).

After the ban was imposed, Sarfaraz was called back to Pakistan by the PCB and veteran batsman Shoaib Malik was named captain for the remaining fixtures.

Akram didn’t support the decision to call Sarfaraz back since the wicketkeeper batsman has already admitted his mistake.

“Sarfaraz made a mistake but he admitted it and hopefully won’t repeat such a thing in the future. Calling him back from the tour is not a good decision,” he asserted.

Talking about PCB’s decision to shoulder the captaincy role to Malik, Akram said he has proved his leadership abilities in the past and Pakistan should focus on the long-term policy.

“We should focus on long-term policy making rather than short-term. Malik captained the side well in the fourth ODI but he has already said that he will retire from ODI cricket after World Cup 2019,” Wasim concluded.

 
 

By Salman Anjum - 29 Jan, 2019

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