Lost the match but won lots of hearts

Afghanistan draw praise, appreciation despite losing to Pakistan by seven wickets.

SHARJAH:

Pakistan captain Misbahul Haq praised Afghanistan's fighting spirit despite the minnows' loss in the One-Day International (ODI) to his side, saying they could give other teams a tough time.

Pakistan beat Afghanistan by seven wickets in the only ODI between the two countries.

Despite the loss, Afghanistan put up a spirited show before a 15,000-strong crowd, hitting six sixes in their 195 and taking two early wickets when Pakistan batted.

Misbah said he was impressed by Afghanistan's performance.

"It was a good game," said Misbah. "I'm really happy at the way Afghanistan played. They have some exciting cricketers."

Afghanistan earned ODI status in 2009 and have since achieved several milestones, qualifying for the World Twenty20 in the Caribbean and finishing silver medallists in the Asian Games in China, both in 2010. They also won the Inter-Continental Cup in 2010.

"Afghanistan can give a tough time to Zimbabwe, Bangladesh and even to better teams. If they play more against better teams, they'll improve."

After a brave start, which saw them take on Umar Gul and Wahab Riaz, Afghanistan lost their way against leg-spinner Shahid Afridi, who took five for 36. They were bowled out for under 200 but paceman Dawlat Zadran dismissed opener Mohammad Hafeez (eight) and Asad Shafiq (20) to give their side hope. However, Younus Khan (70*) and Imran Farhat (52) saw Pakistan through in the 38th over.

"Their fast-bowlers bowled well and their start with the bat was good. On this pitch, batting was not easy and the score of 195 was really good. They have many positives to take from this game," added Misbah.

Afghan captain satisfied

Afghanistan captain Nawroz Mangal, 27, was satisfied with his team's performance.

"Our start was very good," said Mangal. "Unfortunately the middle order collapsed and that prevented us from getting a big score but we got two early wickets and overall I'm satisfied with my team's performance.

"The most significant thing we learned from this game is maturity, especially against a tougher side."

Misbah praises Afridi

Misbah acknowledged Afridi's heroics after the all-rounder became the second-highest wicket-taking spinner, behind Sri Lanka's Muttiah Muralitharan, in ODIs."Afridi's a match winner. He's been outstanding in the last three series."

Pakistan and England contest the first of four ODIs tomorrow.

Published in The Express Tribune, February 12^th, 2012.