ON VERGE OF COMEBACK: Fawad was recently recalled to the National Cricket Academy, and Sarfraz believes it is a sign the batsman is still in contention for a return to the national fold. PHOTO: AFP
Fawad was recently recalled to the National Cricket Academy where he met several coaches, and Sarfraz believes that is a clear sign that the seemingly out-of-favour batsman is still pretty much in contention for a return to the national fold.
“He (Fawad) has been performing in domestic cricket for a long time, which gives me the hope that he will soon make his international comeback,” said Sarfraz at the launch ceremony of senior sports journalist Saleem Khaliq's new book ‘Cricket Corner 2’ where Fawad was also in attendance alongside former cricketers Intekhab Alam, Sallahuddin Sallu, Ejaz Farooqi, Sohaib Muhammad and Faisal Iqbal.
“We need players who perform for the team, and if he is performing, he will be considered,” he added.
Sarfraz also clarified that the selectors always consult him and take his suggestions before announcing squads for the national team.
“The selection committee takes me on board before finalising the squad for any international tournament," he said. "Whenever I ask for a specific player to be added to the team, they support me. The selection committee tries its best to facilitate me.”
'Nno reservations regarding Kamran Akmal'
Similarly, the 30-year-old says he has no qualms if veteran wicketkeeper-batsman Kamran Akmal — who is also one of domestic circuit's top performers — is recalled.
"I have no reservations regarding Kamran," said Sarfraz. "This cricket team plays for Pakistan, and whoever performs well will get a fair chance to represent the country. If Kamran is performing and someone in the team doesn’t perform, he can take his place.”
The skipper is such a staunch proponent of meritocracy that he feels even he should not be immune to the axe in case his performance — God forbid — sinks below par.
“If I fail to put together good performances for the team then even I could lose my place to someone who is performing,” he said.
Tour of New Zealand
Next up for the national team is the tour of New Zealand — and assignment Sarfraz is hopeful of passing with flying colours.
“We are in good shape and have the momentum with us," he said. "We are hopeful that the team will carry that in New Zealand."
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