Pakistan captain Sarfaraz Ahmed was full of praises to his team. The Pakistan cricket team managed to overcome their disastrous start against West Indies and clinch victory against tournament favorites England.
Although, not many gave them a chance before the game, Pakistan played with more grit and purpose on the day. English bowlers ran out of ideas while bowling. Since the start of day, Pakistan were on front foot. Imam Ul Haq and Fakhar Zaman gave them a solid opening partnership.
Babar Azam alongside experienced Mohammed Hafeez and Sarfaraz Ahmed played cautiously. They made sure that the run rate is good and did not take unnecessary risks. With some contributions from the lower order, Pakistan scored 348.
In the chase, Pakistan bowlers came out of top. They managed to pick wickets at crucial junctures and reduced England to 118/4, Just when the game completely favored Pakistan, Joe Root and Jos Buttler came to England’s rescue. Both of them scored hundreds and kept England in the game.
However, once they were dismissed, the game was in balance. But Wahab Riaz brilliant bowling towards the end completely turned the game towards Pakistan. Eventually, Pakistan won the game by 14 runs.
Speaking after the game, Pakistan skipper credited his batsmen for the way they handled themselves. He also praised openers for negotiated initial overs and providing them a solid foundation to build on.
“It’s a great team effort. Credit to batsmen for taking us to 350. Then bowlers bowled really well today. Game starts at 10.30, so the first 10 overs are very important. If you lose early wickets, you can’t get this sort of a total. Fakhar and Imam did a really good job.”
Pakistan Bowlers on Top
Sarfaraz surprised everyone when he handed the ball to young Shadab Khan. However, the captain was quick to justify his action. He revealed English openers are not good batsmen against spin, so Sarafaraz did his experimentation.
“Started with Shadab today, because we know they’re not good batsmen against spin – Roy and Bairstow.”
On the other hand, the difference between the two sides was fielding. England were sloppy on the field. The hosts easily let off 15-20 runs with their poor fielding but Pakistan managed to be the better fielding side on the day. Sarfaraz expressed his delight on their efforts. He is also hopeful about Pakistan building on this win.
“Fielding a very important part. The last ODI series, fielding made the difference. Confidence booster for the future. Hopefully we’ll play better cricket from here. Not easy to come back from 11 losses in a row.”
Pakistan will play against Asian neighbours Sri Lanka on Friday in another important game. If they can play to their potential, they should be able to win the game. However, it is Pakistan cricket team and no one can predict how they will play.