Sarfaraz to replace 'struggling' Kamran for Hobart Test: Alam

Hobart, Jan 11(ANI): Pakistan coach Intikhab Alam has said that Sarfraz Ahmed will replace struggling Kamran Akmal as the wicketkeeper for the third Test against Australia in Hobart, due to his dismal performance behind the stumps on the tour so far.

However, Alam did not rule out retaining Kamran in the playing eleven as a specialist batsman.

"Sarfraz will be playing this Test as our wicketkeeper. We will wait and see if Kamran can play as a specialist batsman," The News quoted Alam, as saying.

Several former Pakistan players had earlier suggested replacing Kamran with Sarfarz, saying that his poor wicketkeeping was the main cause for Pakistan's defeat in the Sydney Test.

Kamran dropped Australian middle-order batsman Michael Hussey thrice off leg-spinner Danish Kaneria's bowling, on 27, 45 and 52, and also wasted a perfect opportunity to run out opener Shane Watson in the Sydney Test.

Hussey went to score an undefeated 134 runs, while Watson gave Australia a perfect start with his 97 runs and played a crucial role in Pakistan's shocking 36-run defeat.

Sarfraz was earlier selected ahead of Kamran for the 2008 Asia Cup, during which he impressed with his keeping skills, but did not have a chance to show his batting skills. (ANI)