Sarfraz Ahmed to captain Pakistan in WC2019, confirms PCB

Sarfaraz has played in 101 ODIs, including 35 as captain. He has scored 1,942 runs at just under 33 and has dismissed 121 batsmen behind the wickets. As captain, he has won 21 matches

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), on Tuesday, confirmed that Sarfraz Ahmed will lead the side in the forthcoming ICC Cricket World Cup, slated to begin from May 30 in England and Wales. Addressing a press conference in Lahore, PCB chief Ehsaan Mani made the announcement and asserted that ‘Sarfraz has been an integral part of the Pakistan cricket team’s World Cup preparations and has proved to be a good strategist, leader and performer’.

“I am happy to confirm that Sarfaraz will remain Pakistan captain till the World Cup. I was always clear in my mind that Sarfaraz would be the captain,” Mani said.

“He led Pakistan to the ICC Champions Trophy 2017 title as well as to the top of the ICC Twenty20 International rankings. His achievements and contributions as a captain and as a valuable all-round cricketer cannot be undermined or overlooked because of the team’s recent Test results,” Mani added.

Sarfraz was recently slapped with a four-match ban from the International Cricket Council (ICC) for his racial remarks on Andile Phehlukwayo during the third ODI. Following the council’s decision, he had to return home while Shoaib Malik stepped into his shoes for the remainder of the tour.

Once Sarfraz returned, he apologised for his actions. While on Tuesday, he expressed that getting the responsibility to lead Pakistan in the World Cup has ‘boosted his confidence tremendously’.

“I feel humbled and honoured. It is the dream of any international cricketer to play in a World Cup, but to be appointed captain in the biggest cricket spectacle on the planet is something that is extremely special.

“The reality is that the last few weeks have been extremely difficult for me as a person and professional. But I am delighted that the PCB has reassured its confidence and faith in me. It has boosted my confidence tremendously,” said Sarfraz in the press conference.

Since his debut against India in November 2007, Sarfaraz has played in 101 ODIs, including 35 as captain. He has scored 1,942 runs at just under 33 and has dismissed 121 batsmen behind the wickets. As captain, he has won 21 matches. He had played three matches in the ICC Cricket World Cup 2015, finishing with 160 runs as an opener.