Waqar says Sarfaraz cannot open, Irfan will be fit

NAPIER, New Zealand: All eyes were on Pakistan Coach Waqar Younis as he addressed the media following his team’s win against the UAE.

Waqar was asked why regular wicket-keeper Sarafaz Ahmed has not been given a chance in the playing 11, especially in light of three failed outings by opener Nasir Jamshed.

Waqar’s answer caught several reports off-guard as he said he was not aware that Sarafaz was capable of opening the innings. Pakistan’s coach added that Sarafaz could not be used as an opener in the team.

The pressure to include Sarafaz Ahmed in the squad has been building not only due to the dismal performance of Nasir Jamshed as the opener but also Umer Akmal who has looked shaky behind the stumps.

During his news conference Waqar also erased doubts over the fitness of seamer Mohammad Irfan who was injured during the win against UAE.

"I don´t think it´s a major concern," said Waqar after the match. "He has an issue with his gluteus and it´s an old problem.

"Irfan will be fine in the next couple of days and will play against South Africa."

Irfan, the tallest ever cricketer at 7 feet, one inch, managed to bowl just three overs and hurt his hip in the field on Wednesday.

The 32-year-old paceman has taken six wickets in the tournament with a best of 4-30 against Zimbabwe in Brisbane on Sunday.

He will be key in Pakistan´s crunch game against South Africa in Auckland on Saturday.

Pakistan have four points in as many games and need to win their next two games -- the last against Ireland in Adelaide on March 15.