Pakistan Cricket Board decides to remove Sarfaraz Ahmed as Test captain: Report

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has reportedly decided to remove Sarfaraz Ahmed as Test captain. Sarfaraz, who has led the side in 13 Tests has been able to get a win under his belt on only four occasions, losing eight and one ending in a draw. The team is currently placed at the seventh position in the Test rankings, which from a distance looks worry as the ICC Test Championship is all set to begin with the first Ashes Test between England and Australia.

It is further reported that Sarfaraz has asked the members of the board that he is willing to continue as the skipper in the longest format. However, the management along with the board look to be on the other side of the table.

The report adds that PCB’s Cricket Committee will take the final call in the meeting which is scheduled next week on Friday in Lahore. It is believed that the board might be willing to hand over the job to Shan Masood.

The report further stated that not all the members of the board are eager over Masood’s appointment, but the decision has been made in principle by PCB’s think tank.

“It’s not that I’m saying I refuse to resign. All I’m saying is the decision rests with the PCB, the same way as the decision to appoint me captain was taken by them. I’m sure they’ll take the decision that’s best for Pakistan,” he told reporters earlier this month.

A few to days before, Pakistan speedster Mohammad Amir, who finished ICC World Cup 2019 being the highest wicket taker for his side has announced retirement from Test cricket. Mohammad Amir made his Test debut as a 17-year-old in Sri Lanka in 2009, and after some hurdles in his International career he finally calls it a day in the longest format. He walks away from the format after having picked 119 wickets in the 36 games he has played. Interestingly, Amir will continue to feature in shorter format of the game.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Pakistan finished at the fifth position in points table. 
• PCB reportedly deciding to remove Sarfaraz as Test skipper. 
• ICC Test championship will begin with the Ashes which is scheduled to start on August 1.