Fakhar Zaman looks back on the defeat against New Zealand and commends Babar Azam’s class
Fakhar made it clear that he was not concerned about missing out on a century
Pakistan’s opener, Fakhar Zaman, expressed his disappointment following the team’s 78-run defeat to New Zealand in the opening match of the tri-nation ODI series. However, he made it clear that he wasn’t concerned about missing out on a century.
“While I am disappointed with the loss, I’m not bothered about not scoring a century,” Fakhar said during the post-match press conference.
Fakhar also expressed his gratitude for the warm reception he received from both the team and fans upon his return to the squad.
“I was away from the team for some time, and I’m thankful for the love and support I received from everyone when I came back,” he added.
Reflecting on the match, Fakhar shared his thoughts on watching the game from the dressing room at Gaddafi Stadium.
“It was an enjoyable experience to watch the match from the dressing room,” Fakhar said, noting the unique perspective.
He also acknowledged the role of New Zealand captain Kane Williamson, whose innings helped guide his side to a competitive total.
“Kane Williamson played a great innings and took the game forward in a way that benefitted the Kiwi team,” Fakhar explained.
Fakhar reassured fans that while the team is excited about the upcoming Champions Trophy, their focus remains on the current series.
“We’re definitely looking forward to the Champions Trophy, but right now, our focus is on this series,” he stated.
When asked about Babar Azam’s form, Fakhar expressed confidence in his teammate’s ability.
“Babar Azam has a class of his own. You’ll see that he’ll perform,” Fakhar said, expressing belief that Pakistan’s star batter will shine in upcoming matches.
Glenn Phillips’ century (106*) and Mitchell Santner’s 3/41 guided New Zealand to a commanding 78-run victory over Pakistan in the opening match of the tri-nation ODI series at Gaddafi Stadium on Saturday.
Chasing 331, Pakistan were bowled out for 254, with Fakhar Zaman top-scoring with 84. Despite solid contributions from Fakhar, Salman Ali Agha (40), and Tayyab Tahir (30), New Zealand’s bowlers, led by Santner and Matt Henry (3/53), kept the hosts in check.
Earlier, Phillips and Daryl Mitchell (81) helped New Zealand post 330/6. Shaheen Shah Afridi (3/88) and Abrar Ahmed (2/41) were Pakistan’s top bowlers. New Zealand’s all-round performance gave them a strong start to the series.
New Zealand will face South Africa in the second match of the tri-nation series at Gaddafi Stadium on Monday, while Pakistan will take on South Africa on Wednesday at National Bank Stadium in Karachi for the final group-stage game of the series.
