Azhar lauds `exceptional` Sarfraz for heroics in Cardiff win

Karachi [Pakistan], Sept.5 (ANI): Pakistan ODI skipper Azhar Ali has heaped praise on the Sarfraz Ahmed by describing his performances as 'exceptional' after the wicketkeeper-batsman guided the side to a four-wicket win over England in the final match at Sophia Gardens in Cardiff. Chasing a modest target of 303 runs, the 29-year-old smashed a blistering 90-run knock, including ten boundaries and one six, besides sharing a huge 163-run partnership with Shoaib Malik (77) to chase down the target with 10 balls to spare and restrict England to settle with a 4-1 series win. `Man of the match` Sarfraz, who also scored Pakistan's first ODI hundred at Lord's in the second match, was the highest run-scorer in the series notching up a total of 300 runs at an average of 60. Azhar said Sarfraz had been really positive throughout the series and scored good runs for the side while batting at number five, the Express Tribune reported. While giving example of Sarfraz, Azhar insisted that his side had been performing well individually, adding there was a need to bind it together in order to turnaround tables for themselves. Meanwhile, Azhar also downplayed the suggestions that he should resign from the post of skipper by indicating that he wanted lead by example in the upcoming series. The skipper said that he had gained some confidence from his performances against England and was looking forward to maintain this form in the upcoming series. The two sides will now play lone T20 match on September 7 at Old Trafford in Manchester. (ANI)