Ahmed Shehzad questions Sarfaraz Ahmed’s coaching appointment

LAHORE (Web Desk): Former Pakistan opening batter Ahmed Shahzad has strongly criticised the appointment of Sarfaraz Ahmed as head coach of the Pakistan Test team, questioning the merit-based structure of Pakistan cricket.

In a post on social media platform X, Shahzad stated that Pakistan cricket’s main issue is not lack of talent but lack of merit. He expressed concerns over Sarfaraz Ahmed’s rapid progression from franchise cricket and domestic roles to coaching responsibilities, despite limited formal coaching experience.

Shahzad also raised concerns about potential conflicts of interest, referring to the involvement of former cricketer Asad Shafiq in multiple roles, including selection-related duties and coaching responsibilities, suggesting that overlapping positions raise questions about transparency and professionalism.

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He further questioned several selection decisions, pointing to the omission of players such as Saad Baig, Rohail Nazir, Kamran Ghulam, Asif Afridi, Abrar Ahmed, and Mohammad Huraira, while also raising concerns over team leadership standards.

Shahzad highlighted inconsistencies in performance evaluation, asking about selection criteria and the continued inclusion or exclusion of certain players despite domestic performances.

Concluding his remarks, Shahzad said that merit remains the most important element in any sports system and expressed concern that it is currently lacking in Pakistan cricket.