Mumbai: Mohammad Shahzad became highest ODI scorer in the history of Afghanistan cricket after he scored 131 runs and remained unbeaten at the end of his team’s win against Zimbabwe at the Sharjah Cricket Ground on Tuesday.
Speaking from UAE, the 28-year-old wicketkeeper-batsman said, "For this series I and Afghanistan team worked hard for one month on improving fitness and stamina, that’s why I was capable to field and earn tons with not out."
He was behind the wicket for 50 overs and came to open the Zimbabwe innings and carried his bat through.
"I am very thankful to Allah and cricket fans for motivating us. Yes I felt joyful and this was tremendous for me and cricket lover. This was proud moment for me, my team and Afghanistan when I scored a ton."
Shahzad is a fan of Team India limited overs’ skipper Mahendra Singh Dhoni and loves to play the helicopter shot like him.
"Oh, I missed that helicopter shot. I was ready for it. However, I did not receive yorker from any bowler (during second ODI against Zimbabwe). Hopefully will try in the next game," he added.
"Our coach Inzamam-Ul-Haq is a legendary cricket player and his presence in the team is outstanding and we are receiving tips and guidance for improving bating line. Now we felt the difference in our batting."
"Manoj Parbhakar is also helping a lot in bowling because Sharjah has a batting pitch but Afghan blowers have done a great job in both ODI’s. it’s because of guidance of these two coaches," he added.
"Thanks to almighty Allah we have improved domestic structure and we have excellent backup. Afghan players love cricket and we are also receiving good response from international community. I must say that now Afghanistan Cricket Team merits to play Test," he signed off.
Interestingly, three other Indians are also officiating in the series.
AK Chaudhary, C Shamshuddin and Vineet Kulkarni are officiating as the umpires.
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