SYLHET: Pakistan red-ball head coach Sarfaraz Ahmed has thrown his support behind senior wicketkeeper-batter Mohammad Rizwan after his underwhelming performance in the opening Test against Bangladesh national cricket team in Mirpur.

Rizwan managed scores of 59 and 15 in the match, but Pakistan suffered a 104-run defeat after failing to chase down a 268-run target in the fourth innings.

Apart from his batting struggles, Rizwan also endured a difficult time behind the stumps, missing catches and a stumping opportunity that allowed Bangladesh to strengthen their position at key moments of the contest.

Speaking to the media ahead of the second Test in Sylhet, Sarfaraz expressed confidence in Rizwan’s ability to bounce back strongly.

“Rizwan has been a brilliant wicketkeeper for Pakistan. Yes, he did not perform up to the mark, but these things happen in cricket,” Sarfaraz said.

The former Pakistan captain, himself a wicketkeeper, acknowledged the challenges of returning to the format after a lengthy gap.

“When you play a format after a long time, such mistakes can happen. But I am hopeful that in the next match, he will deliver for Pakistan with both the bat and the gloves,” he added.

Interestingly, Sarfaraz was also seen working closely with Rizwan during training sessions, helping him address the mistakes from the first Test and regain confidence ahead of the crucial second match.

The Pakistan head coach admitted the team was disappointed with the defeat in the series opener but insisted the squad remains determined to stage a comeback.

“As a unit, we are disappointed after the first Test, but we are confident about responding strongly in the next game,” he said.

Sarfaraz also responded to criticism following Pakistan’s loss, making it clear that external opinions and social media discussions are not affecting the dressing room atmosphere.

“Criticism is part of the game whenever performances are below expectations, and comments from former players do not impact us,” he stated.

“Our entire focus is on the next match. I expect the senior players to take responsibility, and we will review everything after the game as planned,” he concluded.