Mani ends confusion, Sarfraz Ahmed to lead Pakistan in World Cup

Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman Ehsan Mani announced on Tuesday, that skipper Sarfraz Ahmed would lead the side for the upcoming World Cup 2019.

Addressing a press conference at the Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore, Mani said: "There should be no doubt that Sarfaraz is the Pakistan cricket team's captain. He will lead the team in the series against Australia and also in the World Cup.”

“There's no doubt that Sarfraz Ahmed is our captain and he will remain so until any other decision is taken. We all support Sarfraz as captain, and I am optimistic that we will be victorious under his leadership,” he said.

Sarfraz Ahmed, who accompanied Mani at the press conference, said that he was grateful for the opportunity to lead Pakistan in the upcoming World Cup.

“It is an honor for me to captain for Pakistan, but it will be a further distinction to lead Pakistan in the World Cup, putting my name among the likes of Imran Khan, Misbah ul Haq etc. We will try our best to perform well there," he said.

“The reality is that the last few weeks have been extremely difficult for me as a person and professional. But I am delighted that the PCB has reassured its confidence and faith in me. It has boosted my confidence tremendously," said Sarfraz.

Talking about the incident at Durban, during the tour of  South Africa, the skipper said that he has already apologized for it and one should move on with it. “We should move on with the incident and look forward for the future,” said Sarfraz.

Sarfraz, was banned for four international matches by the International Cricket Council for breaching its anti-racism code during the South Africa tour, after he was caught on stump mic using racial slur on South Africa’s all rounder Andile Phehlukwayo.

Mani also dispelled reports that there is a communication gap between the board and the captain. “There is no wall between us, whenever there is a issue we are just a phone call away,” said Mani.

A journey that began in the ICC U19 World Cup 2006 has continued to prosper over the last decade all the very best for the @cricketworldcup 2019 @SarfarazA_54

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— PCB Official (@TheRealPCB) 5 February 2019