I haven't slept for 6 nights, claims Pakistan skipper Sarfraz
What's the story
Pakistan skipper, Sarfraz Ahmed, is blaming himself for his side's woeful show in the Asia Cup 2018. Pakistan bowed out of the tournament after losing the must-win fixture against Bangladesh by 37 runs in the Super Four. The side lost twice to India in the tournament. Their only wins came against Afghanistan and Hong Kong. Here is more on the same.
Poor
Sarfraz was a let down for Pakistan
Sarfraz Ahmed, himself, was a let down with the bat. He managed just 68 runs from four innings with a best of 44. Batting has remained a concern for this Pakistani side and Sarfraz's decision making on the field was questionable, as well. Moreover they do not have someone, who has leadership attributes, to take over if Sarfraz is shown the door.
Statement
Sarfraz is unhappy with himself
Sarfraz stated that the pressure of captaincy and not scoring enough runs led to some sleepless nights. "Obviously when you aren't performing and the team is losing then there is more pressure. The truth is that if I say I haven't slept for the last six nights nobody will believe me," said the Pakistani skipper to AFP.
Management
Sarfraz's message for the management
Sarfraz was handed the captaincy across all formats last year. He has led the side well in T20Is and also won the Champions Trophy in 2017. Sarfraz urged the authorities to remain calm. "I will say again we don't need to press the panic button. We need to back the players who have been doing well in the recent past," said Sarfraz,
Focus
Time for Pakistan to focus on Australia series
Sarfraz now needs to move on quickly from the sheepish performance in the Asia Cup and focus on the next assignment. Pakistan need to return back to winnings ways. They face Australia next month in a two-match Test series. That's where he should perform to his abilities and lead by example. Sarfraz also has to rally his troops and prove doubters wrong.