June 13, 2017
CARDIFF: Sarfraz Ahmed – the captain of Pakistani team – was visibly excited after bagging a victory following the nail-biting match against Sri Lanka that took the team into the ICC Champions Trophy's 'final four'.
Pakistan now plays England at Cardiff in the semi-final scheduled for Wednesday and Sarfaraz is hopeful to repeat what transpired during the two team's previous encounter at the same venue, last year.
Talking to media after Pakistan’s win, the captain said the young team showed their capabilities, adding that the players need support from everyone back home.
“We proved that we can give positive results,” he said.
The 30-year-old captain credited bowlers for their disciplined show, saying they laid the foundation by restricting Sri Lanka to 236 runs, while Fakhar did his part by providing a good start.
“Fakhar did very well today and so did our bowlers. I am happy with them,” he said.
Nevertheless, Sarfaraz admitted that the middle order’s performance is a matter of high concern for him.
“Well… yeah, I am worried about it,” he said when asked about the gameplay of the team’s middle order, which, once again, failed to capitalise on a good 72-run start given by openers Fakhar and Azhar.
“I am glad of my own performance and will try to continue playing like this,” he added.
Sarfaraz said that luck was on also Pakistan's side since Sri Lankans dropped as many as three catches, including two of him.
“I think Allah helped us too,” he said, before highlighting that Aamir's show was brilliant. "Even I felt the pressure, but Aamir was outstanding and kept up with the momentum."
Although the skipper added he is aware of England’s strength, he warned that Pakistan is now in no position to look back now.
“England is stronger and I am aware of it, but we have regained our rhythm at the right time and it will be a good game against England,” he said.
“The last time we met England at this venue, we had chased over 300 runs. I am hoping to repeat it on Wednesday,” the skipper said.
