Pakistan’s team director, Mohammad Hafeez, swiftly came to the defense of wicketkeeper-batsman Sarfaraz Ahmed following a challenging outing in Perth. Sarfaraz endured a forgettable match, tallying just seven runs across two innings, prompting questions about his form.
However, Hafeez stood resolute, emphasizing that the management won’t pivot drastically after a solitary match. He underscored the track record of Sarfaraz Ahmed, highlighting his commendable performances in recent series, especially during Pakistan’s encounter against New Zealand on home turf.
“Sarfaraz has given a lot of performances for Pakistan. In the New Zealand series in Pakistan, he was excellent. Unfortunately, this match didnāt go well for Sarfaraz according to our expectations. However, it doesn’t warrant an overhaul in our perspective after one game,” Hafeez articulated during the post-match press briefing.
So Mohammad Hafeez isn't going to drop oldie Sarfaraz Ahmed after failing in first test, this shows he is scared of Karachi Mafia Compaign. Well Played Hafeez š„
— B1LAL (@oyeeebilal) December 18, 2023
Highlighting Sarfaraz’s extensive experience across tours in Australia, South Africa, and England, Hafeez reiterated the importance of continuity and confidence in a player’s ability, emphasizing that a single match shouldn’t overshadow his overall contribution.
Admitting Sarfaraz’s shortfall in meeting expectations both as a batsman and a keeper in Perth, Hafeez was firm in his stance that dropping a player based on one match doesn’t align with their team philosophy. “Performance in one match can’t define a player’s versatility or restrict their potential to excel in varied conditions,” he emphasized, defending Sarfaraz’s skill set.
Notably, Pakistan has experienced wicket keeper Mohammad Rizwan sitting on the sidelines, prompting many fans to call for his inclusion in the next Test over Sarfaraz Ahmed.
The debate for Rizwan over Sarfaraz has been boiling up on social media with fans on both sides reasoning how one is better than the other.
This sarfaraz over Rizwan saga has exposed how really dumb Hafeez and Shan are. The more things change, the more they remain same. https://t.co/0cceLCiCUU
— Nut Bolt (@asinavyporysaoo) December 18, 2023
Meanwhile, Australia’s commanding lead of 1-0 in the Test series after a dominant 360-run victory in Perth propelled by a phenomenal performance from all-rounder Mitchell Marsh has placed Pakistan under scrutiny.
As the teams gear up for the second Test at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground starting December 26, Pakistan seeks redemption after a challenging start, eyeing an opportunity to level the series against a formidable Australian side.
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