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Today's Paper | May 04, 2024

Updated 17 Jun, 2017 10:09am

Hasan vows to continue splendid bowling spree in CT final against India

Pakistan seamer Hasan Ali has garnered international acclaim after becoming the top bowler of the Champions Trophy heading into the final.

Now, the 23-year-old bowler has vowed to keep up his stunning spell against arch-rivals India in Sunday's finale at The Oval.

"Thanks to Allah, my form and rhythm has been very well and I will continue to maintain this performance," he said, summing up his performance in the tournament.

Paceman Hasan returned excellent figures of three for 35 in 10 overs in the semi-final against England to become the tournament’s leading wicket-taker with 10.

It was the eighth time that Hasan has collected three wickets or more in his 20 ODIs.

"I had set a goal after the West Indies series to become the top bowler while in England. I am close to my goal and will try to maintain my title of top wicket taker till the end of final," the young bowler told a reporter.

Hasan said he is not feeling pressure ahead of the high-octane final match and will seek to gain the 'golden ball', awarded to the top wicket-taker of the tournament, with a relaxed mind.

Speaking about the key factors behind his success, Hasan said he has his personal hardwork and Azhar Mehmood's coaching to thank.

Hasan Ali celebrates taking the wicket of England's Eoin Morgan for 33 runs.— AFP

"Whatever plan he [Azhar] gives to me, i stick to it, and we have been successful so far."

About that spectacular celebration style that has become unique to the paceman after dismissing a player, Hasan said he enjoys it as much as his fans.

"It is like a bomb that goes off after dismissing someone."

Hasan urged his fans to pray that he is able pull his celebratory moves "three, four, five times" in Sunday's final.

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