Sarfaraz wants Gladiators to shine in HBL PSL X

Former Paki1stan captain and newly-appointed Team Director of Quetta Gladiators, Sarfaraz Ahmed, has expressed his commitment to creating a positive environment within the squad as they gear up for the 10th edition of the Pakistan Super League (PSL).

In an exclusive interview with Cricket Pakistan, Sarfaraz highlighted his long-standing association with the franchise and shared how his role has evolved.

"I have had a long journey with Quetta Gladiators, playing as a captain and player for several years. Now, returning as the Team Director is a new challenge for me," Sarfaraz said.

"My main focus will be to provide players with a comfortable and encouraging atmosphere where they can perform at their best and enjoy the game," he added.

Sarfaraz also clarified the division of responsibilities within the team setup, stating that head coach Moin Khan will continue to handle coaching duties.

"The coaching responsibilities lie with Moin Khan. As Director, I'll be focusing on the team's overall performance, mental well-being of the players, and ensuring a healthy dressing room environment," he added.

No retirement

Sarfaraz also opened up about his future plans and how stepping away from the game is never easy for any cricketer.

"I haven't announced my retirement yet," he said.

"When someone has played cricket all their life, it obviously hurts to stay away from the game. There comes a time when every player has to step away from cricket, but I try to make the most of whatever matches I get," he added.

The veteran wicketkeeper-batter added that he always keeps some hope alive for a comeback.

"I still keep some hope alive that maybe I'll get another chance. I never said that I have to play for Pakistan - of course, it's every player's dream to represent their country. I just want to perform well in whatever cricket I play and give my 100 percent," he further added.

Sarfaraz further said he would only announce retirement when he truly feels the time has come.

"When I feel the moment has arrived, I'll say it myself - yes, my cricket is over now," he concluded.

Sarfaraz also called on ex-cricketers to focus their criticism on players' performances rather than making personal attacks.

He shared his concerns over the harsh and personal nature of criticism often seen in the country, especially when the national team is under pressure.

"When I was playing, I saw former players being critical. Now that I'm not playing, I still see it," Sarfaraz said. "I always say that a player should be judged on performance, not personal matters. Those who have played cricket should remember the challenges they themselves faced and give fair and balanced analysis."

He highlighted that countries like South Africa, England, and Australia also face early exits from tournaments, but the kind of personal remarks made in Pakistan's media are rarely seen elsewhere.

Sarfaraz backed the current squad which was selected for the ICC Champions Trophy and New Zealand tour, saying the choices were right, but unfortunately, the results didn't go in Pakistan's favor.

"People talk about how five chairmen and six coaches have changed, which is true, but if you look at the playing group, the core remains the same. These 7-8 senior players have been part of the team for years. It's their responsibility to pull Pakistan out of tough situations," he emphasized.

He also reflected on Pakistan's rich cricketing legacy, naming icons like Wasim Akram, Waqar Younis, Inzamam-ul-Haq, Javed Miandad, Hanif Mohammad, Zaheer Abbas, Shahid Afridi, Mohammad Yousuf, Younis Khan, and Misbah-ul-Haq, who served the country with distinction.