PCB needs more clarity with Sarfaraz's captaincy: Shahid Afridi

The Pakistani superstar gets candid and shares a few words of wisdom.

By Web Desk
September 22, 2019
Photo: AFP

Cricket superstar Shahid Afridi suggested to the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) to be more transparent of Sarfaraz Ahmed’s captaincy, according to an interview for Dawn.

The former Pakistan captain found it questionable when the board announced Sarfaraz’s captaincy for just one series.

“In my opinion there should be clear thinking on part of PCB about captain of Pakistan cricket team. After 2019 World Cup, PCB has change the entire team management but there is not enough clarity on the captain," said Afridi.

"Either they announce a new captain or give current captain Sarfraz all the confidence to lead Pakistan by announcing him for a longer period of time,” he adds.

The all-rounder also expressed that the captain should take his role up a notch and should be looking to bat up in the order.

“Sarfraz should now lead the team from the front and should try to contribute from his bat and performance too to win matches. He (Sarfraz) should also bat up in the order in my opinion,” he said. 

When speaking of Misbah-ul-Haq’s dual role, Afridi admitted that it was a challenge but not one that the former cricketer could not manage.

“Holding the two key positions is a big, big test for Misbah. But we all should support him and if he is able to deliver, he will be remembered as one of the greatest personalities of Pakistan cricket history.

“Misbah has already done very well for Pakistan and his success as official will be a further boost for him,” the all rounder said. 

Afridi has words for Waqar Younis and the PCB

Afridi also had some words of wisdom for bowling coach Waqar Younis and said that it would be better if Waqar kept his leg out of Misbah’s matters and kept himself to his duties.

Other than this, Afridi advised comebacks Umar Akmal and Ahmad Shahzad to silence critics with their performance.

“People are saying a lot of things about thee two players but i feel that Umar and Shehzad should focus on their fitness and performance to silence their critics,” he suggests. 

Furthermore, the 44-year-old lauded Babar Azam saying that the ‘world class player’ may potentially see himself as the next captain.

Afridi also had words for the PCB and advised the board to take former cricket legends Younis Khan, Muhammad Yousuf, Abdul Razzaq as well as other seniors for consultation, adding that the experience of the formers could do a great deal of good, if utilized properly.    

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