People can't even imagine what we're going through: Sarfaraz Ahmed

Pakistan captain says some former cricketers act like Gods on TV screens.

June 22, 2019
Sarfaraz has been receiving severe criticism from back home due to the team's performance. — AFP

LONDON: Pakistan captain Sarfaraz Ahmed spoke his heart out on Saturday while talking about the abuse and harassment his team is facing following their defeat to India in the ongoing World Cup 2019.

The skipper looked emotional, disturbed and also bitter when journalists asked him questions about how former cricketers on media and fans on social media are treating Pakistan cricketers.

“Anybody can say anything to us on social media. It is okay if you talk about our cricket but to abuse us is something which nobody would appreciate,” Sarfaraz said.

“We are going through a phase which people sitting outside can’t even imagine.”

He also expressed his disappointment at the comments made by some former cricketers.

“What can I say to them. If I reply, they would bash me more. Some of them don’t even consider us cricketers, they have become Gods on TV screens,” Sarfraz said.

The wicketkeeper-batsman said that he tries to remain "grounded because he knows that cricket, and especially Pakistan cricket, is where the tables turn on you within days".

“You’re on top one day and at the bottom the other. It is important not to fly high so that you don’t get hurt when you’re dragged down,” he explained.

Sarfaraz, however, was hopeful that the dark days will also pass and team will be back on track, starting tomorrow's match against South Africa at Lord’s.

“We are still alive in the tournament have a [mathematical] chance of qualifying. We are focused on our game on Sunday and God willing we will play our best cricket and win the game,” he said.

“We have a good record against South Africa in ICC tournaments. Even in Champions Trophy, our comeback started with a win against South Africa so I am hopeful of better results."

The captain also confirmed that there will be changes made to the playing XI.

“We have made our mind. There will be changes but the playing XI would be finalised around toss in the morning,” he said.

“Both the teams are fighting for their survival and we expect to have good encounter tomorrow,” Sarfaraz said.

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Faizan Lakhani is Deputy Editor (Sports) at Geo News.

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