Faheem Ashraf says not everyone performs every day as Pakistan edge past Netherlands

Pakistan all-rounder Faheem Ashraf has said that cricket is a team game where not every player performs in every match, adding that those who could not deliver on the day will do so in future games.

Speaking at a post-match press conference in Colombo after Pakistan’s thrilling win over the Netherlands, Faheem said he did not anticipate such an innings from himself.

“I wasn’t aware how the innings would unfold. Runs were not coming initially, but there was no pressure. This is my best innings in an ICC event. It’s not just memorable for me, but for Pakistan as well,” he said.

Faheem added that every innings in a World Cup carries significance. “When you perform for the team and for Pakistan, it always stays with you. Whether I get to bowl or not doesn’t bother me — whenever I get a chance, I try to contribute.”

He said the biggest relief for the team was securing the win. “In cricket, everyone does not perform every day. Those who couldn’t today will do it next time. After wickets fell, we needed partnerships. Had a partnership developed earlier, the situation would not have become so difficult.”

Commenting on the pitch conditions, Faheem said there was assistance for spinners early on, which gradually eased for fast bowlers as the match progressed. “Spin was getting help, which is why they bowled more. Even if I’m just fielding, I try to give my best. I request fans to keep supporting us and pray for us — we want to bring happiness to Pakistan.”

Pakistan defeated the Netherlands by three wickets in a nail-biting contest in the opening match of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup in Colombo.

Batting first, the Netherlands were bowled out for 147 runs. Pakistan started the chase well but once again struggled in the middle order, taking the match deep into the final overs.

Pakistan needed 29 runs from the last two overs when Faheem Ashraf turned the game around, smashing three sixes in the 19th over to collect 24 runs.

He then struck a boundary in the final over to seal the victory, finishing unbeaten on 29 off 11 balls. His match-winning performance earned him the Player of the Match award.