Abrar Ahmed credits Rizwan for ‘confidence’ after successful ODI debut

BULAWAYO: Debutant leg-spinner Abrar Ahmed credited Pakistan’s white-ball captain Mohammad Rizwan for boosting his confidence, which helped him deliver a match-winning performance in the second ODI against Zimbabwe at Queens Sports Club on Tuesday.

Abrar, who took an impressive four wickets on his ODI debut, admitted to feeling the pressure, especially after Pakistan’s loss in the series opener. However, his self-belief and the trust Rizwan placed in him helped him shine.

“In international cricket, there’s always pressure, and losing the first match added to it. But I had faith in myself because I’ve been working hard, waiting for this opportunity,” Abrar said. “Rizwan gave me a lot of confidence from the start. He told me, ‘Abrar, you’ll bowl with the new ball and whenever I need you in the middle overs.’ That trust motivated me.”

Abrar’s outstanding bowling was supported by vice-captain Salman Ali Agha, who claimed three wickets, while part-timer Saim Ayub and left-arm spinner Faisal Akram took one wicket each. Zimbabwe were bowled out for just 145 in 32.3 overs.

In response, Pakistan’s chase was dominated by Saim Ayub, who smashed an unbeaten 113 off just 62 balls. His innings included 20 boundaries and three sixes, helping Pakistan secure a 10-wicket victory with 190 balls to spare.

Saim’s brilliant knock earned him the Player of the Match award, narrowly edging out Abrar’s stellar debut performance.

“No doubt, everyone knows what Saim Ayub can do. When he gets going, he can turn any game into a one-sided contest,” Abrar said. “I hope he keeps performing like this and continues winning matches for Pakistan.”