Sarfraz Ahmed is all praises for Pakistan’s man of the moment

Ahead of their encounter against New Zealand, Pakistan captain Sarfraz Ahmed has heaped rich praises on fast bowler Hasan Ali for his rapid strides in international cricket. The bowling sensation ended 2017 on a high, holding on to his number one spot in ICC ODI rankings for his 45 ODI wickets during the year.

Addressing a press conference in Wellington on Friday, Sarfraz, when asked about Hasan’s main strengths, said, “I think his main strength is bowling faster. The line and length is very good, as well as he is very fit and is improving day by day. He is listening to his coach [and] that’s the reason he is improving rapidly.”

2017 – A remarkable year for Ali

The right-arm pacer has been a vital part in the team’s ODI resurgence in 2017, especially during their journey to their maiden Champions Trophy title. He was the leading wicket-taker for Pakistan in the Champions Trophy 2017, picking up 13 wickets in five games, and also earning the golden ball award for the same. In the series against Sri Lanka, the 24-year-old picked up 5/34 in the third ODI in Abu Dhabi, which also made him the fastest Pakistan bowler to 50 ODI wickets, going past the previous record held by Waqar Younis.

It can be noted that it is a revamped bowling attack that has changed the fortunes of the Pakistan team in ODIs. Sarfraz was also hopeful that his bowlers will be able to ‘restrict’ the New Zealand batting, “If you see our bowling line up since Champions Trophy, our bowling has been the main strength, so we will hopefully restrict the New Zealand batting side as well,” Sarfraz concluded as per quotes on Bussiness Recorder.

Pakistan will play five-match ODI series followed by a three-match T20I series against New Zealand, starting from January 6. Ali’s bowling will be one thing to watch out for.

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