The Pakistan Cricket Board has directed the national team management to replace experienced Kamran Akmal with young Sarfaraz Ahmed in the third Test against Australia, commencing at Hobart from January 14.
Miffed with Akmal's poor show during the second Test defeat against Australia in Sydney, the selectors yesterday decided rush wicketkeeper-batsman Sarfraz to Down Under.
"The team management has been told in clear words that Sarfaraz must play in the third Test and Kamran should be rested," PCB sources said.
Sources said the message was conveyed to team management in Australia after a meeting between the PCB Chairman Ejaz Butt and the chief selector Iqbal Qasim.
Akmal had a horrifying time in the second Test in Sydney which Pakistan lost by 36 runs after being in a dominating position for most part of the match.
Akmal dropped four catches and missed a run out in Australia's second innings. He dropped centurian Mike Hussey thrice off Danish Kaneria and also failed to perform with the bat.
"The PCB Chairman is also clear that Kamran now needs a rest and Sarfaraz who has been doing well on the domestic front should get a chance in the Test team," the source said.
{{/usCountry}}"The PCB Chairman is also clear that Kamran now needs a rest and Sarfaraz who has been doing well on the domestic front should get a chance in the Test team," the source said.
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