Former cricketer wants Sarfaraz Ahmed to mentor Pakistan in Champions Trophy

Former Pakistan cricketer Basit Ali has urged the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) to name former skipper Sarfaraz Ahmed as the national team’s mentor for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025.

Basit Ali, while speaking on his YouTube channel, highlighted the significant value Sarfaraz’s extensive experience, particularly in high-stakes matches against India, would bring to the Pakistani squad for the upcoming tournament.

“Afghanistan appointed Younis Khan as a mentor, which is a great choice. In Pakistan, it seems people, including the board, are asleep. Against India, you need someone who has won you the Champions Trophy before: Sarfaraz Ahmed,” said Basit.

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“In this match, Sarfaraz’s suggestions will be invaluable. He knows how to handle pressure and has already lifted the trophy against them. I wouldn’t recommend anyone else.”

Additionally, he voiced concerns regarding the tournament’s venue arrangements, positing that India may encounter difficulties playing in Dubai, where all of their matches are set to take place.

“Dubai hasn’t historically favored India,” he said. “If their matches were held in Sri Lanka instead of Dubai, I could potentially see them as finalists. But given the challenges they’ve faced in Dubai, it might not be an easy road for them this time.”

It’s worth noting that Sarfaraz Ahmed, who famously guided Pakistan to their first-ever Champions Trophy victory in 2017, is currently taking on the role of mentor for the Dolphins team competing in the Champions Cup.

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