Misbah sends 'clear message for Sarfaraz and others'

LAHORE: Pakistan head coach and chief selector Misbah-ul Haq said message is clear for Sarfaraz Ahmed and all the players that performance is key to be in the team.

Announcing Pakistan squad for Australia series on Monday, Misbah attempted to clear the air regarding the controversial decision of removing the cricketer from the captaincy and said there’s no conspiracy against him.

The former skipper was also not considered for the wicket-keeping slot as Rizwan was selected in his place for the crucial series.

The head coach pointed out that chairman PCB also mentioned in the press release that the only criteria for the team selection was merit and drop in Sarfaraz’s recent form was the only reason behind him being not given the task of leading the team.

Former Pakistan greats have also critisced the Pakistan Cricket Board for the way Sarfaraz was treated.

Misbah said he and Chairman Ehsan Mani and MD Waseem Khan discussed in detail regarding Pakistan’s furure plan of action.

The doors are open for Sarfaraz and everyone else to regain form in the domestic cricket and comeback, said Misbah.

‘We have always backed Sarfaraz and he is a good enough player and has performed for the country.’

Australia tour

Our strategy for Australia is to play aggressive cricket and challenge the Aussies in their home ground.

We have selected to new bowlers Naseem Shah and Moosa Khan and they are capable of surprising the opposition, said Misbah adding that we are going there to win and have confidence in new players that they will prove their selection.