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SHARJAH: Pakistan captain Salman Ali Agha opened up after his side’s 39-run victory over Afghanistan in the opening match of the tri-series here at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium on Friday.
Afghanistan were bundled out for 143 runs in 19.5 overs while chasing a 183-run target.
Haris Rauf and captain Salman Ali Agha starred for Pakistan in their commanding victory, with the former taking four wickets, whereas the latter scored a brisk, unbeaten half-century for the Green Shirts at a crucial time.
Salman Ali Agha was named the Player of the Match for his brisk 53* off 36 balls,
During the post-match presentation, Agha shed light on the team’s performance, giving credit to the bowlers.
“I saw the first seven-eight overs, it was holding (for the spinners when they bowled slow and for the change-ups of pacers),” he said.
“I knew that if I could get in, I could hit sixes against any bowlers, and that is what I did. I am not as good as I used to be, but we came here ten days early, and we know there is going to be a lot of spin, and we are up to that challenge,” he added.
He emphasized fast bowlers Haris Rauf and Shaheen Afridi and lengths on the Sharjah pitch, alongside lauding spinners for their role.
“Bowling was outstanding. Whoever came in, they bowled hard lengths. We knew there were going to be a lot of slower balls. They (Rauf and Shaheen) are some of the best fast bowlers in the world,” said Salman Ali Agha.
“Even Muqeem as well (was impressive). The pick of the bowlers for me was Nawaz. He always bowls difficult overs. It is not easy for a finger-spinner and he is doing so well,” he explained.
The skipper also mentioned the team’s total in the first innings, highlighting the team meeting and batting depth.
“Scoring above par (today), it was a 150-160 kind of wicket, we scored 180-odd and we knew it would be challenging for them. In team meetings and stuff, we talk about going above-par. We bat very deep. Faheem comes in at 8, and he is a good enough batter to win Pakistan games,” he concluded.
