Tag: Sarfaraz Ahmed

Former Pakistan cricketer Basit Ali has urged the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) to name former skipper Sarfaraz Ahmed as the national team’s mentor for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025.

Basit Ali, while speaking on his YouTube channel, highlighted the significant value Sarfaraz’s extensive experience, particularly in high-stakes matches against India, would bring to the Pakistani squad for the upcoming tournament.

“Afghanistan appointed Younis Khan as a mentor, which is a great choice. In Pakistan, it seems people, including the board, are asleep. Against India, you need someone who has won you the Champions Trophy before: Sarfaraz Ahmed,” said Basit.

Follow us on our Official WhatsApp channel

“In this match, Sarfaraz’s suggestions will be invaluable. He knows how to handle pressure and has already lifted the trophy against them. I wouldn’t recommend anyone else.”

Additionally, he voiced concerns regarding the tournament’s venue arrangements, positing that India may encounter difficulties playing in Dubai, where all of their matches are set to take place.

“Dubai hasn’t historically favored India,” he said. “If their matches were held in Sri Lanka instead of Dubai, I could potentially see them as finalists. But given the challenges they’ve faced in Dubai, it might not be an easy road for them this time.”

It’s worth noting that Sarfaraz Ahmed, who famously guided Pakistan to their first-ever Champions Trophy victory in 2017, is currently taking on the role of mentor for the Dolphins team competing in the Champions Cup.

READ: Shan Masood opens up on Mohammad Abbas’ exclusion from Test squad

Former Pakistan captain Sarfaraz Ahmed has reacted to the shocking retirement of pace bowler Mohammad Amir and all-rounder Imad Wasim.

Amir and Wasim came out of international retirement earlier this year and made themselves available for the ICC T20 World Cup 2024, which was played in the West Indies and the United States of America (USA) in June.

Wasim managed three wickets in three games at an average of 14.66 and scored a meagre 19 runs in two outings. Meanwhile, Amir was Pakistan’s best bowler in the tournament, taking seven wickets in four matches at an impressive average of 10.28.

However, their presence did not help as Pakistan crashed out of the tournament from the group stage, mainly due to their gut-wrenching defeats against the United States of America (USA) and arch-rivals India.

Both players were not considered for Pakistan’s white-ball assignments after the T20 World Cup, which resulted in them stepping away from international cricket.

Follow us on our Official WhatsApp channel

Sarfaraz Ahmed, who is currently mentoring Dolphins in the Champions T20 Cup, posted a story on his official Instagram account, extending his best wishes to both players for their future endeavours.

“Happy retirement to both my teammates and brothers, best of luck for your future,” the former captain posted.

“Maddy [Imad] and I share great memories, winning [the] U19 World Cup final and Champions Trophy final.

“[Amir is a] Champion bowler and champion player, I Will never forget your world-class spell in [the] Champions Trophy final game.

“Be happy wherever you are with lots of prayers.”

It’s worth noting that Imad Wasim and Mohammad Amir were part of the Pakistan squad that won the ICC Champions Trophy 2017 under the inspired leadership of Sarfaraz Ahmed.

READ: Saim Ayub opens up after missing maiden T20I century against South Africa

Former Pakistan captain Sarfaraz Ahmed has clarified his recent statement, which sparked speculation about his retirement from international cricket.

The veteran wicket-keeper, who is currently serving as the mentor of the Dolphins in the ongoing Champions T20 Cup, was questioned about his future during a media interaction last week.

“Look, as far as my career is concerned. I think I don’t need to say anything. Nothing is left. I know what you are waiting for and it will happen soon,” Sarfaraz responded, which fueled the speculations about his retirement.

However, in an interview with a local news channel on Monday, the former captain took the time to clarify his current status and future plans.

Despite the ongoing speculations regarding his retirement after being left out of the squad for the South Africa tour, Sarfaraz Ahmed asserted that he remains actively engaged in playing cricket and is open to seizing any opportunities that may come his way.

He reaffirmed his commitment and willingness to play for Pakistan in any position if given another opportunity.

“I’ve never demanded, ‘I want to bat here or there.’ If I am given the chance to play for the national team, I will gladly accept it,” he stated.

Follow us on our Official WhatsApp channel

The former captain stated that his decision to retire is deeply personal, and he will step down whenever he feels he can no longer contribute as a player.

“As far as leaving cricket is concerned, that is my personal decision. When I feel that I should quit cricket, I will quit,” he concluded.

Sarfaraz made his international debut for Pakistan in 2007 and has since become a significant figure in the team’s history.

He has worn the national jersey in 54 Test matches, 117 ODIs, and 61 T20 Internationals, amassing a total of 6,164 runs which includes six centuries and 32 half-centuries to his name.

His most notable achievement came in 2017 when he led Pakistan to its first-ever ICC Men’s Champions Trophy title with a stunning 180-run victory over fierce rivals India in the final.

Under his leadership, the Green Shirts achieved an impressive feat of 11 consecutive T20I series victories, the highest number ever accomplished by a captain of the Pakistan team.

However, his last appearance for the national side was in the first Test of a three-match series against Australia last year, where he managed to score only seven runs before being dropped from the squad.

Although he remained part of the Test setup for the home series against Bangladesh and the opening Test against England, he found himself warming the bench. Eventually, after a disheartening defeat in the first Test against England, he was released from the squad.

Meanwhile, his last appearance in a white-ball match for Pakistan dates back to November 2021.

READ: Tabraiz Shamsi names THIS Pakistani spinner as his inspiration

Former Pakistan captain Sarfaraz Ahmed has recently hinted at his potential retirement ahead of the upcoming Champions T20 Cup.

The veteran wicket-keeper, who is set to mentor the Dolphins in the Champions T20 Cup, was questioned about his future in the national team during a media interaction at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium on Friday.

Sarfaraz Ahmed responded in a sarcastic tone, acknowledging the speculation surrounding his potential retirement. He stated that there was little left for him to say and that he might be hanging up his boots soon.

“Look, as far as my career is concerned. I think I don’t need to say anything. Nothing is left. I know what you are waiting for and it will happen soon,” he said.

Sarfaraz made his international debut for Pakistan in 2007 and has since become a significant figure in the team’s history.

He has worn the national jersey in 54 Test matches, 117 ODIs, and 61 T20 Internationals, amassing a total of 6,164 runs which includes six centuries and 32 half-centuries to his name.

His most notable achievement came in 2017 when he led Pakistan to its first-ever ICC Men’s Champions Trophy title with a stunning 180-run victory over fierce rivals India in the final.

Follow us on our Official WhatsApp channel

Under his leadership, the Green Shirts achieved an impressive feat of 11 consecutive T20I series victories, the highest number ever accomplished by a captain of the Pakistan team.

However, his last appearance for the national side was in the first Test of a three-match series against Australia last year, where he managed to score only seven runs before being dropped from the squad.

Although he remained part of the Test setup for the home series against Bangladesh and the opening Test against England, he found himself warming the bench. Eventually, after a disheartening defeat in the first Test against England, he was released from the squad.

Meanwhile, his last appearance in a white-ball match for Pakistan dates back to November 2021.

READ: Ahmed Shehzad questions Sajid Khan’s exclusion from Test squad

Former Pakistan captain Sarfaraz Ahmed, who led the country to their first-ever ICC Champions Trophy title in 2017, attended the trophy tour event at a private college in Karachi on Friday.

Sarfaraz received a hero’s welcome from students and faculty alike upon his arrival.

The wicket-keeper, while talking with students, reminisced about the unforgettable moments from their victorious campaign.

“All our players will remember every single moment from that event. It was a historic achievement for us,” he shared.

He posed proudly with the gleaming Champions Trophy, surrounded by the eager students, who were thrilled to be part of the occasion.

Originally, Sarfaraz Ahmed was scheduled to join the Champions Trophy tour at the iconic Mohatta Palace, however, due to permission issues, the photo shoot was relocated to the college.

Follow us on our Official WhatsApp channel

The ongoing Champions Trophy tour commenced in Karachi on November 20, captivating the city. On the inaugural day, the trophy was showcased at the vibrant Burns Road food street, allowing fans to soak in the atmosphere of celebration.

The following day, the silverware was showcased at the Hanif Mohammad High-Performance Centre, located in the National Bank Cricket Arena.

The trophy was later taken to the Edhi Centre followed by a picturesque photoshoot at Seaview, capturing the trophy against the stunning backdrop of the coastline.

It’s worth noting that the trophy’s tour of Karachi is set to continue until November 25. The much-anticipated journey of the prestigious silverware began with a grand launch at the Pakistan Monument in Islamabad on November 17.

Schedule of Trophy Tour of Champions Trophy 2025

• 22 – 25 November – Karachi, Pakistan
• 26 – 28 November – Afghanistan
• 10 – 13 December – Bangladesh
• 15 – 22 December – South Africa
• 25 December – 5 January – Australia
• 6 – 11 January – New Zealand
• 12 – 14 January – England
• 15 – 26 January – India

READ: PCB appoints Azhar Ali as Head of Youth Development

Former Pakistan captain Sarfaraz Ahmed, who led the country to their first-ever ICC Champions Trophy title in 2017, is set to make a special appearance later today at the iconic Mohatta Palace in Karachi as part of the prestigious trophy tour.

The sources have confirmed that Sarfaraz has received an exclusive invitation for a photoshoot at Mohatta Palace alongside the coveted Champions Trophy following the Friday prayers.

While fans will be unable to interact directly with the cricketing icon during this exclusive event, it is a celebration of Sarfaraz’s monumental contributions to the sport and the nation’s cricketing legacy.

Pakistan, under the inspired leadership of Sarfaraz Ahmed, clinched the Champions Trophy in 2017, securing a historic 180-run victory over their arch-rivals India in the final.

Follow us on our Official WhatsApp channel

The ongoing Champions Trophy tour commenced in Karachi on November 20, captivating the city. On the inaugural day, the trophy was showcased at the vibrant Burns Road food street, allowing fans to soak in the atmosphere of celebration.

The following day, the silverware was showcased at the Hanif Mohammad High-Performance Centre, located in the National Bank Cricket Arena.

The trophy was later taken to the Edhi Centre followed by a picturesque photoshoot at Seaview, capturing the trophy against the stunning backdrop of the coastline.

It’s worth noting that the trophy’s tour of Karachi is set to continue until November 25. The much-anticipated journey of the prestigious silverware began with a grand launch at the Pakistan Monument in Islamabad on November 17.

Schedule of Trophy Tour of Champions Trophy 2025

• 22 – 25 November – Karachi, Pakistan
• 26 – 28 November – Afghanistan
• 10 – 13 December – Bangladesh
• 15 – 22 December – South Africa
• 25 December – 5 January – Australia
• 6 – 11 January – New Zealand
• 12 – 14 January – England
• 15 – 26 January – India

READ: Pakistan Shaheens and Sri Lanka A settle for a draw

Pakistan Test cricketer Ahmed Shehzad shared a piece of advice for ageing Sarfaraz Ahmed, stating that the former captain “must now consider his career direction”.

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) on Tuesday, announced a 15-member squad for the first Test against England, which marked the return of fast bowling all-rounder Aamir Jamal and left-arm spinner Noman Ali.

Sarfaraz, who served as the mentor for the Dolphins in the ongoing Champions One-Day Cup, retained his place in the squad as the backup wicket-keeper alongside Mohammad Rizwan.

However, during the Champions One-Day Cup Eliminator 1 between Lions and Stallions, Jason Gillespie highlighted Sarfaraz’s growing age and the need to give chances to young wicketkeepers.

“Sarfaraz [Ahmed] has always been a wonderful servant, leading the team very well. However, we know Sarfaraz is not getting any younger, and at some point, we need to start exploring and offering opportunities to other players,” Gillespie said.

Follow us on our Official WhatsApp channel

Meanwhile, Ahmed Shehzad, speaking on his YouTube channel, reacted to Jason Gillespie’s remarks about Sarfaraz Ahmed and highlighted the wicketkeeper batter’s services to the national cricket team before suggesting that he should consider his career direction.

“Jason Gillespie, the red-ball coach, said about Sarfaraz Ahmed that ‘Sarfaraz is not getting younger anymore; we need to keep finding youngsters.’ He also mentioned that there can’t be too many changes in the Pakistan team because they have only lost one series so far, and potential players can’t just be ruled out after a single series,” he said.

“Sarfaraz Ahmed has made significant contributions to Pakistan cricket, notably winning the 2017 Champions Trophy as captain. Despite criticisms of his leadership and decision-making, he has consistently played well. After a tough period when he was dropped due to declining performances, Babar Azam supported him and kept him connected with the team. However, Sarfaraz must now consider his career direction, especially as he’s not getting younger. Jason Gillespie raises a crucial point, but is there a capable replacement for him in the pipeline?

“For now, Sarfaraz must now consider his career direction, especially as he’s not getting younger. The PCB needs to ensure there’s a solid backup ready to step up.”

READ: Markhors qualify for Champions Cup final as Eliminator two washed out

FAISALABAD: Pakistan’s Test head coach Jason Gillespie on Wednesday, opened up about the future of veteran wicket-keeper Sarfaraz Ahmed in the national team.

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) on Tuesday, announced a 15-member squad for the first Test against England, which marked the return of fast bowling all-rounder Aamir Jamal and left-arm spinner Noman Ali.

Sarfaraz, who served as the mentor for the Dolphins in the ongoing Champions One-Day Cup, retained his place in the squad as the backup wicket-keeper alongside Mohammad Rizwan.

However, during the Champions One-Day Cup Eliminator 1 between Lions and Stallions, Jason Gillespie highlighted Sarfaraz’s growing age and the need to give chances to young wicketkeepers.

Follow us on our Official WhatsApp channel

“Sarfaraz [Ahmed] has always been a wonderful servant, leading the team very well. However, we know Sarfaraz is not getting any younger, and at some point, we need to start exploring and offering opportunities to other players,” Gillespie said.

Moreover, Gillespie was also asked about the exclusion of Kamran Ghulam from the Test squad.

Gillespie acknowledged Ghulam’s performances in domestic cricket and also for Pakistan Shaheens on their tour to Darwin but emphasized showing faith in the current squad.

“I saw him perform with Pakistan Shaheens in Darwin. His form has been acknowledged, but we’re showing faith and patience in our current squad,” said Gillespie.

Pakistan Squad for first England Test:

Shan Masood (captain), Saud Shakeel (vice-captain), Aamir Jamal, Abdullah Shafique, Abrar Ahmed, Babar Azam, Mir Hamza, Mohammad Huraira, Mohammad Rizwan (wicket-keeper), Naseem Shah, Noman Ali, Saim Ayub, Salman Ali Agha, Sarfaraz Ahmed (wicket-keeper), and Shaheen Shah Afridi.

READ: Four Pakistanis in Hashmatullah Shahidi’s All-time ODI XI

Former Pakistan captain Sarfaraz Ahmed’s hilarious comments about current white-ball captain Babar Azam during Thursday’s Champions One-Day Cup clash between the Dolphins and Stallions went viral on social media.

The seventh match of the tournament saw Saud Shakeel-led Dolphins taking on Stallions captained by wicketkeeping batter Mohammad Haris.

Batting first, the Stallions got off to a steady start with Pakistan red-ball captain Shan Masood and Yasir Khan giving them a 76-run start for the first wicket.

The left-handed batter was dismissed after scoring a 36-run knock, bringing Babar Azam to the crease.

The Pakistan white-ball captain’s arrival was met with loud cheers and chants of ‘Babar, Babar’ from the spectators in Faisalabad.

Follow us on our Official WhatsApp channel

As spinner Sufyan Moqim was getting ready for his first over of the game, Dolphins’ wicketkeeper Sarfaraz Ahmed was caught on stump mic encouraging his teammates along with a hilarious jibe at Babar Azam.

“Koi jaldi nahi. Inko Babar, Babar karne do. Hum Babar ko 40 over khila denge, baki sare out ho jayenge. (No hurry. Let them keep chanting Babar, Babar. We will make Babar play for 40 overs, the rest of the team will get out.),” Ahmed said.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Cricket Shithousery (@cricket.shithousery)

His sledging left fans in splits as several maintained that the dig was a reference to a common perception that Babar Azam batting for long would only benefit his team.

The game, however, saw the Pakistan white-ball captain playing a crucial unbeaten 104-run knock to guide his team to a 271-run total in their game against the Dolphins in the Champions Cup.

In response, the Dolphins’ batting unit skittled for a meagre 97 runs in 25 overs and thus succumbed to a crushing 174-run defeat, their third in the ongoing Champions One-Day Cup.

READ: Babar, bowlers give Stallions thumping victory over Dolphins

Former Pakistan captain and Dolphins’ mentor Sarfaraz Ahmed has revealed the reason behind the absence of emerging wicket-keeper Haseebullah Khan from the ongoing Champions One-Day Cup.

Haseebullah was part of the Markhors side, which is led by Pakistan’s current all-format wicket-keeper Mohammad Rizwan.

However, the fans wondered why Haseebullah did not feature in any game during the five-team tournament.

It’s worth noting that in the ongoing clash between Markhors and Dolphins, Bismillah Khan donned the wicket-keeping gloves, while Rizwan is playing as a specialist batter, which further raised questions about Haseebullah’s absence.

But Sarfaraz Ahmed shared during a mid-match conversation that Haseebullah is unfit, resulting in his absence from the tournament.

“Wicketkeepers are coming up surely. I don’t think people know this but Haseebullah got unfit, unfortunately,” Sarfaraz revealed.

Follow us on our Official WhatsApp channel

The former captain further praised young wicket-keepers Mohammad Haris, Saad Baig and Rohail Nazir, expressing hope that they can represent Pakistan in future.

“Mohammad Haris, Saad Baig and Rohail Nazir are there as well. As you said, I know two teams are featuring batter keepers but the future of keeping is still very bright,” he added.

“These players have been performing consistently in domestic cricket, so I am hopeful they can represent Pakistan in future,” Sarfaraz concluded.

For the unversed, Mohammad Haris is leading the Stallions team, featuring Pakistan’s white-ball captain Babar Azam and Test captain Shan Masood.

Meanwhile, Rohail Nazir is part of the Shaheen Afridi-led Lions, but he has yet to get a game.

READ: Kamindu Mendis equals Saud Shakeel’s Test record