Sarfaraz Ahmed ​urges fan patience and team development amid HBL PSL 10 challenges

Former Pakistan captain Sarfaraz Ahmed has addressed the visibly low crowd turnout in Karachi during the ongoing HBL PSL 10, attributing it to the limited number of matches scheduled in the city this season.

Speaking exclusively to Nukta, Sarfaraz explained that Karachi’s cricket crowd traditionally takes time to warm up, and with only five games allocated to the venue, the city hasn’t had a chance to fully engage with the tournament.

Despite the quiet stands, the former skipper remains hopeful that fans will turn up in greater numbers for the remaining matches. He emphasized that the support of fans is crucial, especially during challenging times when the team is rebuilding.

Acknowledging the public’s disappointment with recent performances, he said the criticism is understandable but urged patience, believing that the team has the potential to bounce back stronger.

Sarfaraz shared that cricket has already fulfilled all his dreams. “There is nothing left now in terms of personal ambition,” he noted, adding that his current priority is his son's education. If his son chooses to pursue cricket, Sarfaraz said he would happily coach him.

As for his own playing career, he plans to make a decision about retirement from international or domestic cricket at the appropriate time.

Currently serving as the team director of Quetta Gladiators, Sarfaraz remains actively involved with the squad. He continues to participate in net sessions during training and expressed confidence in the leadership of Saud Shakeel, highlighting the team’s balanced mix of senior and junior players. He believes the Gladiators are strong contenders for the HBL PSL 10 title.

The 37-year-old veteran, who famously led Pakistan to victory in the 2017 ICC Champions Trophy, has had a prolific career as a wicketkeeper-batsman. He has scored nearly 3,000 runs in Test cricket with four centuries and 21 fifties, alongside 160 dismissals behind the stumps. He has also represented Pakistan in 117 ODIs and 61 T20 Internationals.

Beyond his HBL PSL role, Sarfaraz also serves as a mentor with the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB). He revealed plans for a two-month talent development camp to be launched after the PSL season concludes, aimed at discovering and grooming the next generation of cricket stars.