Pakistani players celebrate the wicket of South Africa's Farhaan Behardien. -Photo by AFP

DURBAN: Pakistan’s winning captain Misbah ul Haq praised his entire team for the collective effort made to level the one day international series 2-2 against South Africa on Thursday in Durban.

Misbah scored 80 to help Pakistan reach a target of 235 in the fourth ODI.

“Everyone gave 100 per cent,” said Misbah, who was named man of the match.

He praised the fast bowlers for putting South Africa under pressure, saying: “We needed that sort of start against a quality side,” he said.

Saeed Ajmal took three for 42 in ten overs, while Mohammad Irfan claimed three for 46 in nine and Junaid took three for 45 in nine.

Misbah said Ajmal had been outstanding.

“When there is a little bit of turn and a little bit of bounce he is really a key man,” he said.

He also praised Farhat, who was making his first appearance of the series:

“He batted very well, we needed someone just to stay at one side.”

South Africa captain Ab de Villiers said South Africa had fought back well after being under pressure because of their poor start. He said he looked forward to the match in Benoni.

“Hopefully it will be a great clash between two very good ODI teams,” he said.

The final ODI will be played on Sunday.

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