Ahmed Shahzad’s comments on Sarfaraz’s appointment have reignited debate over merit, coaching standards and player selection in Pakistan cricket after the former opener publicly opposed Sarfaraz Ahmed’s reported elevation to head coach of the Pakistan Test team.
Shahzad shared his criticism on X, arguing that Pakistan cricket does not suffer from a lack of talent. Instead, he said the bigger problem lies in the absence of merit within the system.
Shahzad questioned how Sarfaraz Ahmed moved so quickly through multiple roles without what he described as sufficient coaching experience. He pointed to Sarfaraz’s progression from franchise cricket to the Pakistan Cup, then to junior mentorship, the selection committee and now the Test coaching role.
According to Shahzad, such a rapid rise raises concerns about whether appointments are based on professional merit or on internal connections.
Shahzad also highlighted Asad Shafiq’s role, saying his overlapping responsibilities cast doubt on transparency. He said Shafiq works with the women’s team selection setup, the Karachi Cricket Academy, and the batting coach role while continuing to serve on the selection committee.
He argued that this overlap raises serious questions about decision-making within Pakistan cricket.
Beyond coaching appointments, Shahzad also criticised the selectors’ handling of certain players. He said Saad Baig scored 1,000 runs in a season but still did not earn selection, while selectors have continued to leave Rohail Nazir out despite his readiness.
He also questioned Shan Masood’s continued captaincy and asked what the current performance standard is. In addition, he criticised the exclusion of Kamran Ghulam and Asif Afridi, saying authorities have not rewarded recent performances fairly.
Shahzad further argued that Pakistan cricket is wasting proven domestic talent. He said selectors continue to leave out Abrar Ahmed, while they dropped Mohammad Huraira after only two opportunities despite his double and triple centuries in domestic cricket.
His comments reflect a wider frustration over how the national setup identifies, promotes and retains performers from the domestic circuit.
Shahzad concluded that merit remains the most important factor in any successful cricket system and claimed that Pakistan cricket is falling short in that regard.
His remarks are likely to fuel further debate over appointments, player pathways and accountability, especially at a time when Pakistan cricket continues to face scrutiny over its long-term direction.
