Pakistan skipper Sarfraz Ahmed stated they have already started their quest for the World Cup 2019 which is slated to be played next year in England and Wales. However, Sarfraz added they are currently gearing up for the Asia Cup 2018 which is scheduled to be held in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) from 15th September.
Moreover, Pakistan will be one of the favourites given their past experiences of playing in the country.
Meanwhile, Pakistan is also slated to play India in a Group A clash on 19th of September. An India-Pakistan game is always huge, and Sarfraz believes that the team will give their best in the match against India.
Wicketkeeper-batsman further added the team is fully prepared for the tournament.
“We are fully prepared for the tournament, as far as the match against India is concerned, we will give out best. Match against India is always a big game, but we are ready for it,” Sarfraz maintained.
“Momentum is the key, and we have high moral and hope that we will perform our best in the upcoming tournament,” he added.
Sarfaraz Ahmed says he is working hard on his batting:
“The ICC Champions Trophy final against India is done and dusted; We won it then. It has been over 1.5 years, so now it will be a new game. We will try to play better cricket,” he remarked.
Meanwhile, he also stated that he has worked on his batting recently as and when he has got the opportunity.
“I’m working hard on my batting; recently whenever I got the opportunity, I have performed,” he said.
Meanwhile, he clarified that why a new wicket-keeper wasn’t picked. However, he stated Pakistan has a good back-up in the form of Mohammad Rizwan.
“As far as reserve wicketkeeper is concerned, we haven’t played a big series commences on 4 to 5 Test matches. So we haven’t picked anyone yet. But if we need we have a good backup available in shape of Mohammad Rizwan,” Sarfraz said.
Sarfraz Ahmed revealed team was selected after receiving input from chief selector Inzamam-Ul-Haq, head coach Mickey Arthur and the skipper himself.
“As far as professionalism in the team is concerned, Pakistan team is improving day by day. Out fitness level is increased, and we are setting new benchmarks of fitness in Pakistan cricket,” Sarfraz concluded.