‘Disappointed’ skipper Sarfraz pin hopes on returning Abbas after first Test loss

Pakistan cricket captain Sarfraz Ahmed expressed his disappointment over his side dismal display against South Africa, as Proteas take a 1-0 lead in three match Test series on Friday.

“Very disappointed. Had an opportunity to score some runs but lost too many wickets in the final session. We have quality bowlers, but just didn't have the runs,” said Sarfraz, at the post match presentation.

The Proteas chased the 149 runs target easily with six wickets to spare in the first Test at Centurion thanks to Hashim Amla, who returned to form with an unbeaten half-century.

Chasing 149 to win on the third day of a low-scoring match, Amla finished on 63 not out, while opener Dean Elgar also added 50 runs as the hosts took the lead in the three-game series.

Meanwhile, Sarfraz was hopeful that the arrival of fast bowler Mohammad Abbas in the second Test would be a boon for Pakistan, however, the collapsing batting line is the major weakness for the side.

“Hopefully Abbas will be back for the second Test,” said the skipper while praising the batting performance of Imam ul Haq, Shan Masood and Babar Azam.

South Africa fast bowler Duanne Olivier was awarded the Man of the Match award, who claimed 11 wickets in the match, the fast bowler intimidated Pakistan with the pace and bounce generously on offer at the SuperSports Park.