Good communication with PCB’s hierarchy important for captain success: Sarfaraz

• Sarfaraz led Pakistan in this year’s ICC World Cup where team finished fifth.
• I have also finalized my batting position, says the wicketkeeper.
• The 31-year-old has set his eyes on the series against Sri Lanka.

KARACHI: Pakistan Cricket Team skipper Sarfaraz Ahmed has termed good communication with the hierarchy in the board is the key for captain’s success.

“Regular communication with the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB)’s top officials would give confidence to any captain, said Sarfaraz after being retained as captain for Men in Green for Sri Lanka’s tour of Pakistan.

“It is very important for any captain. A captain must be able to communicate with officials in the board. It helps a lot when someone from the helm of affairs comes to you and says a few supportive words,” the wicketkeeper told reporters at the UBL Sports Complex.

Sarfaraz led Pakistan in this year’s ICC World Cup where team finished fifth and missed playing the semi final merely on basis of NRR.

The 31-year-old, when asked if he wanted to be a long term captain, said that it is not up to him to decide to who has to be captain and for how long.

“It is not my domain,” the skipper responded to journalist.

For now, Sarfaraz has set his eyes on the series against Sri Lanka and has also decided a number to bat for himself. “In last few days at pre-season camp, I have discussed a lot with Misbah ul Haq. I have also finalized my batting position and I will come to that position during the series against Lankans.

Commenting on Babar Azam’s appointment as his deputy, Sarfaraz said that he’s always enjoyed Babar’s company and it’s a good sign to see a youngster being groomed.

“He’s also a good performer, I enjoy very good coordination with him as he fields at slip with me and I usually discuss various plans with him.”

Meanwhile, star leg-spinner Yasir Shah pointed out the need of quality leg-spinners for future of Pakistan cricket.

“Apart from Shadab and Ibtisam, I haven’t seen a good leg-spinner yet. However, this is the first day of this season, I hope someone emerge from this new structure,” said Yasir.

He also denied of having an injury. “I have participated in the pre-season camp ahead of this match. Today I‘ve bowled over 30 overs and didn’t felt anything.”

The leggie also highlighted the need of quality fast bowlers after back to back retirements of Mohammad Amir and Wahab Riaz respectively from the Test Cricket.

“With Test championship is approaching, we need to find a good fast bowler to fill the void left by Amir and Wahab,” he concluded.