Sarfaraz denies knowing about Pakistan threat to end tour
Pakistan cricket coach Sarfaraz Ahmed denied knowledge of a PCB threat to cancel the England tour over a Sky Sports interview with Imran Khan's sons. The interview, which aired despite the alleged threat, featured criticism of the UK government and concerns regarding the imprisoned former prime minister.
Why it matters
The incident highlights the intersection of international sports diplomacy and the volatile political climate surrounding former Pakistani leader Imran Khan.
Figure caption, Highlights: England enjoy another dominant day to close in on series win
Cricket Correspondent at Lord's Published 52 minutes ago Head coach Sarfaraz Ahmed said he and his players did not know about a Pakistan Cricket Board threat to the England and Wales Cricket Board over a Sky interview with the sons of Imran Khan.
During lunch on day one of the second Test, Sky Sports aired an interview with Suleiman and Kasim Khan, the sons of former Pakistan captain and prime minister Imran, who has been in prison for the past three years.
It is understood the PCB raised the prospect of cancelling the Test at Lord's and the remainder of the three-match tour if the interview aired.
A version of the interview was broadcast, and the players returned to the field after the interval to continue the match.
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