Is there a rift between Pakistan bowlers and skipper Sarfraz?
What's the story
South Africa beat Pakistan by nine wickets in the second Test in Cape Town on Sunday. With the victory, the Proteas lead the three-match Test series 2-0. Pakistan skipper Sarfraz Ahmed wasn't a happy man after his side was thrashed. Ahmed lashed out at his bowlers and said that they weren't up to the mark. Reports claim that this has caused a rift.
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Our bowling was not up to the mark: Sarfraz
In the Cape Town Test, the visitors were bowled out for 177 and 294 runs in their two innings. South Africa amassed a mammoth 431 and quickly chased down the 41 runs required. Sarfraz wasn't pleased with the bowling effort. "If you have to win Test matches, you've to take 20 wickets. Our bowling was not up to the mark in this Test."
Pace factor
Sarfraz points out lack of pace among Pakistan bowlers
The Pakistan captain had some strong words for his bowlers and highlighted their lack of pace as the difference between the two sides. "If you see, our bowlers were at 128-129, an average speed of 130kph, while they (the South Africans) were bowling at 145 kph. If there is lack of pace here, you will not get wickets."
Pakistan bowlers
Pakistan bowlers unhappy with Sarfraz's comments
Speedster Mohammad Amir, who generally clocks 135-140 kph, was way below his mark. Statistics reveal that 61% of his deliveries were between 120-132 kph. The other pacers also lacked genuine pace. According to a report in Geo TV, Sarfraz's comments did not go well with the Pakistan bowlers. They aren't happy with the sort of blame Sarfraz has put on them
Unhappy camp
Pakistan team environment has become unpleasant: Report
The report also added that the team environment has become unpleasant post the Cape Town Test. It is believed that the relationship between Sarfraz and the pace bowling unit has got affected. It remains to be seen how the proceedings pan out from here on. Rumors over the possibilities of Sarfraz stepping down gained solidity. But the report has quashed the same.