PAK vs SA: Sarfraz Ahmed named Man of the Match
Sarfraz Ahmed is the Man of the Match for his six catches and run-a-ball 49.
AUCKLAND (Web Desk) – Pakistan team management’s decision to include wicketkeeper batsman Sarfraz Ahmed proved fruitful in the crucial World Cup Pool B match against South Africa in Auckland on Saturday.
Sarfraz Ahmed, who did not play in Pakistan s first four pool matches, hit three sixes in one over before he ran himself out while taking a second run in a bid to reach his fifty.
He also hit five boundaries in his run-a-ball knock.
With his six catches in the match as a wicketkeeper, Sarfraz Ahmed also equaled the world record for most catches behind the stumps in a one-day international.
"I am very thankful to the world and Pakistan for this opportunity. I want to thank all those who supported me, including my family. This is my World Cup debut match, but Mushie bhai (Mushtaq Ahmed) had good words for me to encourage me and told me to go out and enjoy myself," Sarfraz said after receiving Man of the Match award.
The decision to not play Sarfraz had caused lot of controversy in Pakistan s cricket circles and media with some former players criticising the tour selection committee for constantly ignoring the player despite his splendid form in recent times.
After today’s victory, Pakistani fans also criticized head coach Waqar Younis who earlier insisted that conditions were very different for Sarfraz in Australia and New Zealand.
