Sarfaraz Ahmed picks semifinalists of Champions Trophy, says Pakistan’s group is tough

Former Pakistan captain Sarfaraz Ahmed has picked Pakistan, India, Australia and Afghanistan as the four semifinalists of the upcoming Champions Trophy. India, Pakistan, New Zealand, and Bangladesh form Group A of the tournament whereas Australia, England, South Africa, and Afghanistan are in Group B.

Ahmed, who led Pakistan to the Champions Trophy glory in 2017, said that Men in Green are pitted in a tough group. Pakistan will begin their campaign against New Zealand at Karachi on Wednesday and Mohammad Rizwan’s team will look to come up with their best against the Kiwis. Pakistan recently suffered two losses against the Blackcaps in the tri-series.

Speaking to Cricket Pakistan, Ahmed said, “As we know, Pakistan’s group is very tough, but for me, I think Pakistan, India, Afghanistan, and Australia are the four strongest teams for the semi-finals.”

Ahmed said the current Pakistan team looks strong on paper and playing at home will give them an advantage.

“The team looks very strong, and playing in home conditions gives them a major advantage. They know their own grounds well, and that knowledge will play a crucial role. If you compare this team to the 2017 Champions Trophy-winning squad, this current team actually looks stronger on paper,” Sarfaraz said in the same interview.

Speaking on Pakistan’s batting, the former stumper believes Babar Azam and Fakhar Zaman will hold the key for the home team.

“Babar Azam is a world-class player now. Fakhar Zaman, who was a newcomer back then, has evolved into a much more experienced player. Back in 2017, Babar was still finding his footing, but today, he is Pakistan’s top batsman on the international stage. Fakhar has also developed into a top player.”

Fakhar Zaman had scored a match-winning century against arch-rivals India in the Champions Trophy final in 2017.