For skipper Sarfaraz Ahmed, there wasn’t any better homecoming, as his side dominated the World XI outfit to clinch the three-match series 2-1. More than just the result, however, what stands out is the fact that cricket has returned to the shores of Pakistan, and things look far more promising now with international entities willing to tour the nation.
Like the first couple of games, the hosts batted first and put on a large total. Riding mainly on Ahmed Shehzad’s superb 89, Pakistan amassed 188 in 20 overs, as Babar Azam once again chipped in. The bowlers then did the rest, as Pakistan won the game quite comfortably in the end by 33 runs.
Post the series victory, Sarfaraz Ahmed lauded his side and thanked the World XI for their decision to tour Pakistan.
“My boys put in a fantastic effort. Babar Azam’s innings was beyond appreciation. We got a good start. We’ve been working out because fitness has become important nowadays. So the fielding is improving too. We got run-outs today; the boys fielded better,” Ahmed said.
“We are a young team, so the effort is to build the confidence. Players should get a fair rope at the international level. There’s talent in Pakistan; it’s about getting opportunities. Thanks to the crowd, the security forces, the groundsman for preparing the high-scoring pitches,” the Pakistan captain added.
Man of the Match Ahmed Shehzad too was thrilled with his show and thanked all stakeholders involved in organizing the series.
“I failed to score good runs in the first two matches but today I decided to stay till the end – thinking if others can do it why not me?! – and it came very nicely. I have been working hard. I’d like to name Arthur; the coaching staff has been through thick and thin. That’s what you want from them. I’d like to thank the crowd, the World XI; some of them want to come back. Cricket wins; we all love this game. As a nation, we have a lot of passion for the game,” said Shehzad.