Ecstatic Sarfraz credits openers, bowlers after ending England tour on high

Karachi [Pakistan], Sept.8 (ANI): Ecstatic after ending the England tour on a high note, new Pakistan T20 skipper Sarfraz Ahmed has credited openers Sharjeel Khan and Khalid Latif for guiding the team to a crushing nine-wicket win over Eoin Morgan's side in their lone T20 match at Old Trafford in Manchester. Chasing a target of 136 runs, Sharjeel and Khalid showcased a brilliant batting display as the duo went on to share a massive 106-run opening stand to help Pakistan cross the line with 31 balls to spare. While admitting that his side's morale was extremely high following their fifth ODI win in Cardiff, Sarfraz revealed that he had asked the players to play the lone T20 match with a lot of energy and good fielding if they want to clinch the victory. The 29-year-old, who was playing his first match as T20 skipper since replacing Shahid Afridi in April, also hailed his bowlers for the Manchester victory, the Express Tribune reported. Earlier, left-arm spinner Imad Wasim removed both England openers before fast-bowler Wahab Riaz scalped his T20I best figures of three for 18 as the hosts were held to 135 for seven in their stipulated 20 overs. Wahab, who broke the 90mph barrier in Manchester, said that it was bowling coach Azhar Mahmood who worked really hard on him and helped him in resolving his no-ball problems. Admitting that there was a need to have a lot of varieties in this T20 game, Wahab said that he was happy to implement the same and grab wickets for his side. (ANI)