KARACHI: Pakistan’s dashing wicket-keeper-batsman Sarfraz Ahmed who put up an excellent show in the Test series against Sri Lanka early this month was honoured by Tapal Tea Ltd in a well-attended reception held at the Karachi Gymkhana here on Sunday.

The reception also honoured Tapal Cricket Club for winning the Aga Khan Gymkhana Ramazan Cricket.

CEO Aftab Tapal praised Sarfraz’s performance in the Test series against Sri Lanka and said the wicket-keeper literally carried Pakistan’s hopes on his strong shoulders and set a great example for the youngsters aspiring to play for the country.

“We have always encouraged talented sportsmen and Sarfraz is one of them,” said Aftab.

“Tapal CC’s success is also great news and they owe it to their hardwork and efforts of club president Asif Azeem and Patron Ameen Merchant.”

Commissioner Karachi Shoaib Siddiqui , who was the chief guest on the occasion, also lauded the fantastic show put up by Sarfraz but rued the fact that the dashing players had unjustifiably been left out of the Pakistan ODI squad.

“Despite Sarfraz’s deeds in Tests, he has been omitted from the ODI series which is deplorable and reflects poorly on the PCB and national selectors,” said Shoaib.

President Tapal CC, Asif Azeem said Tapal CC triumph in Ramazan cricket tournament is the result of teamwork and encouragement from the owners.

Later, Aftab Tapal and Shoaib Siddiqui jointly handed a cheque of Rs100,000 to Sarfraz besides distributing cash prizes and trophies among Tapal CC players and officials.

Published in Dawn, August 31th, 2014