My aim is to win ODI series against England: Azhar Ali

Published June 17, 2016
"Personally I really want to prove myself in the English conditions, as performing in England gets you the limelight and you are recognised as a top player." — AFP/File
"Personally I really want to prove myself in the English conditions, as performing in England gets you the limelight and you are recognised as a top player." — AFP/File

KARACHI: Pakistan's One-Day International (ODI) skipper Azhar Ali promised a good show in the challenging English conditions ahead of the team's departure to the British Isles.

Talking to DawnNews, Azhar Ali said that the experience of 2010 English tour will come handy. Ali, who made his international debut on the same tour, is aware of the threats posed by the English pace attack.

"No doubt England tour will be a daunting one. James Anderson really bowled well in 2010 series and now Stuart broad will be tough to handle. But I am hopeful that the team will perform well in the Test Matches," said the right-hand batsman, who averaged 26 in six Test matches on the tour.

"Personally I really want to prove myself in the English conditions, as performing in England gets you the limelight and you are recognised as a top player," said the ODI skipper.

Azhar is aware of the difficulties the alien English conditions will pose to the Pakistan throughout the tour.

"Pakistan's ODI ranking is very low and our performance in this format over the last 2-3 years is not up the mark. We are working hard on skill level and trying to improve in the ODIs as well. My aim is to win ODI series against England and improve our ranking."

The 31-year-old is hopeful that the experience of Mickey Arthur will help to change the fortune of Green Shirts in ODI cricket.

"Mickey Arthur have vast experience as coach with quality teams and I'm sure his experience will help us to perform better in England and upcoming foreign series. We have been trying to play aggressive cricket during the last 12 months, but we lack consistency."

Once reluctant to accept Mohammad Amir into the dressing room, Azhar praised the left-arm fast-bowler for his remarkable return to the international arena.

"Amir is a wonderful bowler. Since his return he has proved himself. The English tour is surely going to be tough for him but he has the ability to perform and counter the pressure," he said.

The ODI skipper termed Yasir Shah, along Amir, as his main weapons. "Yasir Shah will be key! His record in Test Cricket is exceptional and he will be the key factor for Pakistan"

Azhar praised the veterans — Misbah-ul-Haq and Younis Khan — for their services to Pakistan cricket and wished that they could play for a longer time.

On a question regarding his extension of responsibilities on him when the duo retire, he stated that he is ready to help the country in whatever capacity.

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