SHARJAH: Skipper Shadab Khan claimed that the three-match T20I series against Afghanistan proved helpful for Pakistan in strengthening their bench strength for future fixtures.
Shadab, who captained the Green Shirts during their 2-1 series defeat against Afghanistan in Sharjah, stated the team achieved their desired objective from the series despite the forgettable results.
“The motive of this series was to prepare our bench strength and we have achieved this motive,” he said in a post-match press conference after Pakistan sealed a consolation win in the third T20I on Monday.
“Unfortunately the young players could not perform as we expected from them but definitely this new talent will prove beneficial for Pakistan in the future.”
Flanked by young opener Saim Ayub, who scored 49 from 40 to help Pakistan set a massive 183-run target, the Pakistan captain hailed the youngsters for their outstanding fightback under pressure and for outclassing the opponents in the competition.
“We’re happy that we prevailed in this match and answered the criticism happening against us in the media”
Saim, however, disclosed that the captain and team management had given constant support to the youngsters throughout the series.
“Obviously one undergoes a tremendous amount of pressure when he plays for his country for the first time,” said the 20-year-old.
“But I am happy that finally, I was able to score some runs after failures in the first two matches” he added.
The skipper, however, went on to suggest that the top performers of the series should be given a chance in the future as well.
“We must continue to support these new players as they all are very highly talented,” he requested to the nation.
It may be noted here that left-handed opener Saim Ayub’s sensible knock and a combined dominant effort by the bowlers led Pakistan to a 66-run victory in the third T20I and finished the series 2-1 against Afghanistan.
The national team suffered consecutive defeats after the inexperienced batting lineup slumped to batting collapses in the first two T20Is.
READ: Shadab Khan achieves unique landmark for Pakistan in T20Is
