June 13, 2017
CARDIFF: Pakistan started off the ICC Champions Trophy as underdogs, with cricket pundits not rating them among favorites to reach the final four of the tournament, but the young outfit defied all odds and made it to the semi finals of the prestigious eight-team tournament.
Pakistan’s young skipper Sarfraz Ahmed was confident ahead of team’s semi final against England in Cardiff. Speaking exclusively to Geo.tv, Sarfraz said that he is looking forward to continue the team’s winning run in the tournament.
“England is a very strong team and looks in good form but the team which plays better on the match day would take it all. We have a good record at Cardiff against England, defeated them here last year and looking forward to repeat the history.” Sarfraz said.
The wicket-keeper batsman feels that the way team made comeback in the tournament after losing the opening encounter against India was remarkable and wins against South Africa and Sri Lanka have boosted team’s confidence.
“Past record is morale boosting, but the way we won last two games have energised our confidence as a team and I am looking forward for a better performance against England in the semi final,” he said.
About team’s remarkable comeback in the tournament, the skipper said that team management did great efforts to keep everyone’s confidence alive and players also responded professionally to all advises by the management.
“Team made a remarkable comeback after losing their first game to India; credit goes to the team management who boosted the morale of team after the initial loss in the tournament. Players also deserve credit for motivating themselves and making a comeback in the tournament,” he said.
He also spoke about the criticism and backlash team received after first loss against India in the tournament. According to Sarfraz, the team is capable of giving positive results and the young players need backing of everyone back home.
“Unnecessary criticism may dent confidence of youngsters, they need your support and I am very firm that this young group of players can give country a lot of success in international cricket in the days ahead,” he said.
Sarfaraz, like many back home and the coach Mickey Arthur, was worried about team’s struggling middle order but he still hasn’t lose the hope from the experienced players in the side, who are finding it difficult to perform with the bat.
“We have been discussing problems of middle order, players are trying very hard and I am hopeful that the middle order, which is very experienced, will score in the match against England,” he said.
“We all play for Pakistan and no one loses the wicket deliberately, I am sure everyone will give his best.” He added.
The skipper has now set his eyes on the match against England and has confidence that players will give their 100% in the match to continue the winning streak of team Pakistan.
“We will give our best in the ground on Wednesday, we will go all out in the match against England. I know that people back home always pray for us and we will try not to let down the nation,” said Sarfraz.
