Sarfraz likely to be named Test captain

LAHORE: Wicketkeeper batsman Sarfraz Ahmed is likely to be appointed the captain of the Test team after the success in the Champions Trophy, sources said on Wednesday.

Sarfraz has so far captained Pakistan in nine ODIs and eight T20 Internationals.

A senior official of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) said that the decision had been taken by PCB chiefs in London.

The position of the Test captain fell vacant with the retirement of

Misbah-ul-Haq, who quit after the recent series against West Indies. Sarfraz was his deputy.

The official said that after PCB chairman Shaharyar’s return to Pakistan, which is expected within a week, a meeting of the governing body would be held which would give approval for the appointment of Sarfraz.

Pakistan’s next Test series is not until September when they host Sri Lanka in the UAE.

Pakistan were to play against Bangladesh in July but opted out.

The official said that there might be a change or two in the support staff. A committee comprising former Test players Haroon Rasheed and Mudassar Nazar as well as PCB COO Subhan Ahmed would submit its feedback on the performance of the support staff.

“Chairman Shaharyar is happy with the work of head coach Mickey Arthur,” he said.

Arthur’s contract will be reviewed next year in April.

Meanwhile, the Champions Trophy title win has turned Pakistan cricketers into millionaires.

Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif has announced a cash reward of Rs10 million for every member of the team.

PCB has announced Rs1 million for each member of the squad.

In addition, a bonus of Rs29 million will be divided among the players according to their ceilings in central contracts.

Minister of State for Information Marriyum Aurangzeb said the PM announced the awards as the national team had lifted the spirits of the nation.

She added that the Pakistan team outclassed their opponents in all departments, batting, fielding and bowling. “The team deserves appreciation,” she said.

Shaharyar and Executive Committee chairman Najam Sethi have congratulated the Pakistan team for winning the Champions Trophy.

Besides captain Sarfraz and all members of the team, they appreciated coach Mickey Arthur and his staff. “Positive and supporting role of the management has been critical in achieving success for the team. Special appreciation is also due to national chief selector Inzamam-ul-Haq and his fellow selectors,” they said in a PCB statement.