Cricketers celebrate historic win, praise Rizwan’s leadership

ISLAMABAD: Pakistani cricketers were ecstatic after clinching their first ODI series win in Australia in 22 years, a triumph attributed to exceptional leadership and brilliant bowling performances.

Star pacer Shaheen Shah Afridi, who grabbed 3 for 32 in the series decider to seal a 2-1 victory, praised Rizwan’s dynamic captaincy. “Rizwan was fantastic as the captain. His aggressive style and unwavering support inspired every player to give their best. He instilled confidence, especially in the bowlers, encouraging them to push their limits. His bold leadership turned the series around, making history for Pakistan.”

Afridi shared insights on Pakistan’s approach, saying: “We reversed the strategy, using short-pitched bowling to pressure Australia on their home soil, which made a significant impact.”The tight line and length maintained by Pakistan’s pacers proved crucial in dismantling Australia’s batting in consecutive games, ultimately leading to the historic series win.

Despite sustaining a thumb injury, Afridi remained optimistic for the upcoming T20 series opener on November 14.Haris Rauf, who picked up ten wickets in the series to earn the Man of the Series award, praised the opening pair of Saim Ayub and Abdullah Shafique, saying that the openers fully backed bowlers.

“Look in the last two ODIs, Saim and Abdullah put up a solid opening wicket stand that helped bowlers in their effort to win the series. Such a solid batting performance backed us as bowlers ultimately helping us win the series.”

Haris was excited at the fans’ response. “This victory will go a long way in earning back fans’ confidence. These fans always support us. The win here will make them happy.”Abdullah gave the whole credit to the bowlers. “We dominated the series against Australia because of an exceptional bowling performance led by Haris Rauf. He was outstanding and so were other pace bowlers. They helped us win the series comfortably.”

Abdullah also praised the captaincy prowess put on display by Rizwan. “He was exceptional with his leadership qualities. As the opening pair, we tried to cash in on opportunities coming our way. Not losing the wicket early was the main target in which we succeeded.”

Abdullah was excited to see his partnership going well with Saim. “We struggled at the start but now things are moving forward in the right direction.”

Saim was also happy to see Pakistan win the series in Australia after years of wait. “Winning the series always gives you extra pleasure. The main objective was to win the series in which we succeeded. It was a result of hard work.”