Sarfaraz Ahmed says he was unaware of discussions over Imran Khan’s sons’ interview during the England-Pakistan Test

Sarfaraz Ahmed  (Photo by Alex Davidson-ICC/ICC via Getty Images)

Pakistan coach Sarfaraz Ahmed stated he did not know about any discussions between the Pakistan Cricket Board and the England and Wales Cricket Board regarding the pre-recorded interview with Imran Khan’s sons that aired during the 2nd Test at Lord’s.

The interview, conducted by former England captain Mike Atherton, featured Imran Khan’s sons Suleiman and Kasim Khan and raised concerns about their father’s health and deteriorating eyesight while he remains in prison in Pakistan.

The PCB had reportedly considered withdrawing its players from the field after the lunch break on the opening day of the 2nd Test when Sky Sports proceeded to broadcast the interview despite the board’s objections. Sky Sports had delayed the broadcast before eventually airing the 18-minute interview during the lunch interval.

Following intervention by the England Cricket Board, the PCB settled its complaint and the Pakistani team returned to the field for the afternoon session.

Sarfaraz claims no knowledge of board discussions

When pressed further on the subject, the Pakistan coach appeared uncomfortable with the line of questioning and attempted to redirect the conversation back towards cricket. The controversy had unfolded against the backdrop of Pakistan’s challenging performance in the match, with the team folding for 110 in their first innings and allowing England to establish a 261-run lead on the second day.

“I don’t know anything. I’m just focusing on the match,” Sarfaraz said in a press-conference.

“You’re talking about the interview? We don’t know about the interview,” he added.

Coach redirects focus to cricket amid controversy

Sarfaraz maintained that the Pakistan team had been unaware of the broadcast during the lunch break, when players were away from the field. He sought to emphasise that the squad’s focus remained entirely on the cricket and the ongoing Test match at Lord’s.

“All are OK. We were having lunch at that time,” he concluded.

England strengthened their position on Day 2 of the second Test against Pakistan at Lord’s, taking a commanding 261-run lead at stumps. After bowling Pakistan out for 110, England reached 81/3 in 22 overs in their second innings, with a current run rate of 3.68.

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