zhar, on being named captain, said in a PCB release that there is "no bigger honour" than leading the national side in Test cricket. "I feel humbled, excited and privileged, and with the support of the team, look forward to justifying the faith that has been entrusted upon me for the World Test Championship".
Sarfaraz had a rocky stint as captain across formats - but did lead Pakistan to the 2017 Champions Trophy win in England - before recently facing a 0-3 whitewash in a T20 series against a second-string Sri Lanka at home and having also lost Test series against them and New Zealand in UAE in 2017 and 2018, respectively.
"It has been an honour to lead Pakistan at the highest level. I want to thank all my colleagues, coaches and selectors who have helped me in this journey. My good wishes are with Azhar Ali, Babar Azam and the Pakistan cricket team, and I hope they will continue to grow stronger and stronger", he said.
Sarfaraz Ahmed sacked as Pakistan Test and T20 captain
Wicketkeeper-batsman Sarfaraz Ahmed has been sacked as Pakistan’s Test and T20 captain ahead of the tour of Australia next month. Azhar Ali will assume the role of Test captain, while Babar Azam will replace him as T20 captain and is expected to lead Pakistan in this format at least until the World T20 in Australia next year. In addition to being removed as captain, Sarfaraz has also lost his place in both formats as Pakistan aims for a fresh start ahead of their first World Test Championship series.