Sarfaraz Ahmed has responded to criticism after his appointment as head coach of Pakistan’s men’s Test team. He said he is fully focused on using the opportunity in a positive way. He made these remarks during a training camp ahead of the Bangladesh series.
Speaking to the media, Sarfaraz Ahmed said that external opinions do not affect him. He added that former players and colleagues are entitled to their views. However, he remains focused on team performance and improvement.
He said he is confident about his coaching role. He also stressed that the team management is working in full coordination. According to him, unity in the coaching staff is a key strength.
“My team management, including Umar Gul, Asad Shafiq, Grant Luden and Abdul Saad, is fully aligned,” Sarfaraz Ahmed said. He added that the group is confident about achieving success with the team.
The Pakistan Test squad is currently training at the Hanif Mohammad High-Performance Centre. The preparation is for a two-match Test series against Bangladesh. The series is part of the ICC World Test Championship 2025–27 cycle.
The first Test will be played in Mirpur at the Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium. It will take place from May 8 to May 12. The second Test will be held in Sylhet from May 16 to May 20.
Sarfaraz Ahmed also commented on Babar Azam’s recent form. He said it is positive to see the batter performing well again. He praised Babar’s technical improvement and consistency in T20 cricket.
He further said that once Babar joins the Test setup, his role will be assessed accordingly. Pakistan’s squad is expected to be strengthened with key players returning after PSL 11.
Babar Azam is expected to join the Test team after May 3. Other players, including Shan Masood and Khurram Shehzad, will also join after completing PSL duties.
Pakistan is currently fifth in the World Test Championship standings with 12 points. The team has played two matches so far in the current cycle.
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Looking ahead, Sarfaraz Ahmed said the team is preparing for upcoming series against England, Sri Lanka, and West Indies. He emphasized steady improvement and consistent performance as main goals.
