Former cricketer Sikandar Bakht has raised eyebrows with his recent revelation that wicketkeeper-batsman Mohammad Rizwan expressed opposition to the idea of Sarfaraz Ahmed making a comeback to the Pakistan cricket team. Bakht, who used to be a fast bowler and is now 65 years old, shared this information that he had received from another cricketer. He highlighted the tight-knit nature of the cricket community in Pakistan, which often leads to the rapid spread of controversies.
Rizwan took on the role of Pakistan’s primary wicketkeeper-batsman following Sarfaraz Ahmed’s removal as captain in October 2019. After losing the captaincy, Sarfaraz’s involvement in the team decreased, and he often found himself in a backup position. In some instances, younger players like Mohammad Haris were preferred over him.
However, a recent turn of events saw the 35-year-old Sarfaraz Ahmed being given the opportunity to play in a two-Test series against New Zealand, effectively taking over Rizwan’s role. Sarfaraz seized this chance and performed remarkably well, amassing an impressive total of 335 runs. This included a personal best of 118 runs and three half-centuries, all achieved at an average of 83.75.
Bakht candidly shared his perspective on the situation during an interview, expressing his belief that the decision-makers within the cricket management seem to have made up their minds about not allowing Sarfaraz to make a successful return to the team. Bakht emphasized the swift spread of information within the cricket community, citing a fellow cricketer who participates in programs with him. According to Bakht, this cricketer had informed him that Rizwan had made a firm statement: “I will never let Sarfaraz make a comeback to the Pakistan team.”
The revelation by Bakht sheds light on the behind-the-scenes dynamics and player sentiments that can influence team selection and composition. It underlines the intense competition for positions within the Pakistan cricket team and the personal aspirations of players involved.
Read more: PCB Chooses Inzamam-ul-Haq as Chief Selector Once Again
As the cricketing community digests Bakht’s claim, cricket enthusiasts and analysts will be closely watching how the cricket authorities respond to this revelation and whether it has any impact on future team decisions. The statement attributed to Rizwan brings into focus the complexities of team dynamics and player relationships, factors that can play a crucial role in the overall performance and success of a cricket team.
