Pakistan coach Misbah-ul-Haq disappointed with Sarfaraz Ahmed: Report
What's the story
All things aren't going well in the Pakistan cricket team at the moment. Newly-appointed head coach Misbah-ul-Haq is reportedly unhappy with several players' attitude regarding their discipline. He is also said to be disappointed with captain Sarfaraz Ahmed. Misbah feels Sarfaraz shies away from his responsibilities when the chips are down. Here is what the report states.
T20Is
Pakistan were thumped 3-0 by Sri Lanka in T20Is
Misbah, whose first assignment as the head coach came against Sri Lanka at home, got off to a strong start by winning the ODI series. However, they failed miserably in the three-match T20I series in Lahore. Pakistan's brand of cricket was awful and things looked off. Misbah was highly disappointed with the 3-0 whitewash. He also pointed out the issues for Pakistan's T20I struggles.
Sarfaraz
Misbah feels Sarfaraz shies away from taking responsibility
The report added Misbah isn't encouraged by Pakistan skipper Sarfaraz and it's a concern. "He is unhappy that some players are just too relaxed and take training lightly and are not working on improving their cricket discipline. He has also not been encouraged by the attitude of captain, Sarfaraz Ahmed whom he feels shies away from taking responsibility when the chips are down."
Quote
What has disturbed Misbah the most?
"What has disturbed Misbah the most in his first assignment as head coach and the chief selector is the reluctance of some players to follow directions of the management and do proper training to keep high fitness standards," one source said to PTI.
Surprise
Misbah surprised by the behaviour of three senior players
It has also been reported that Misbah was surprised by the behaviour of three senior players -- Wahab Riaz, Imad Wasim, and Haris Sohail. "Several times he felt they were making excuses to shy away from training and proper nets. He got the feeling they had some sort of excuse ready to go easy on their training," the source said.
Fitness
Misbah's major focus has been on fitness
Since Misbah appointed the head coach of the Pakistan cricket team, the major focus has been on fitness. Misbah came in and asked players to change their diets. He banned biryani and other fatty red-meat food items from the players' plate. When it comes to fitness levels, Pakistani players are way behind the rest. That saw this move implemented by Misbah.
Our take
What Misbah needs to do next?
Misbah needs to sit down with the Pakistani players and be direct on what he needs. If several players aren't with the management, then they should be shown the door. Also, Misbah needs to decide whether Sarfaraz can be trusted as the captain. He can opt for Babar Azam as the leader and bring a wave of fresh ideas. It's a crucial period ahead.