Pakistan managed to keep their World Cup dream alive as they emerged victorious from a dramatic game against Afghanistan at Headingley on Saturday.
Imad Wasim hit the winning boundary, finishing off the match with two balls to spare. Wasim was awarded man of the match for his match-winning innings of 49 runs off 54 balls.
“When I went in they were bowling brilliantly but I just hung in there,” said Imad. “We wanted to bat out the 50 overs and see.
“Gulbadin (Naib) was the only one who could be targeted. They have world-class spinners so we attacked him. Thank you to the crowd, it feels like home here. They gave us a boost in confidence.”
Naib, in his post-match remarks, regretted the Afghan side had yet again failed to score but lauded Pakistan for keeping it together till the end.
“We fight really well, the boys gave 100 per cent but in the end we missed an opportunity to win the match,” said Afghanistan captain Naib.
“Credit to Pakistan, they controlled their nerves.
“We missed again. You can face a lot of these situations, we are working harder and harder. The matches we have lost, we have improved.”
The nerve wrecking nail biter between Pakistan and Afghanistan in the World Cup 2019 came to an end with the men in green on top, heading up the points table among the top four teams.
The nation rejoiced the victory with smiles flying around from one corner to another over the last over finish. Imad Wasim was the man of the match who sailed Pakistan’s ship to victory with a 49 not out.
Everyone from the top brass including the Prime Minister, DGISPR, politicians and celebrities congratulated the nation for the thrilling victory, bouncing back after a dismal start.
The premier tweeted.
‘Congratulations to the Pakistan team for keeping their nerve under pressure and in the end winning against Afghanistan. I also especially want to congratulate Afghanistan for the grit and determination with which they played against Pakistan today & against India earlier.’
Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi showered praise and encouraged the team for one more win and then off to the semi-finals.
‘Well Done Green Shirts. Exceptional fight back by the Afghan team. One more to go and then we re through to the semis. With belief & determination we can and we will. Insha Allah. #WeHaveWeWill,’ he added.
