Faheem Ashraf: “We are playing keeping the Asia Cup in mind where we have to play India and other strong teams”

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Pakistan all-rounder Faheem Ashraf has revealed that his side have set their sights on winning the Asia Cup in September following their dominant performance against Zimbabwe.

Ashraf enjoyed a lot of success in the recently concluded ODI series against Zimbabwe, which Pakistan won 5-0, as he took nine wickets, including his first-ever five-for, at an average of 7.44.

Even though Pakistan will face India, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Afghanistan and the winner of the Asia Cup Qualifier, which will be between Hong Kong, Malaysia, Nepal, Oman, Singapore or the United Arab Emirates, Ashraf is confident that his side can emerge victorious.

“We are playing keeping the Asia Cup in mind where we have to play India and other strong teams,” he was quoted as saying by The Express Tribune. “After that, we have to play Australia and New Zealand. We are keeping the World Cup in focus as well.”

When asked about his maiden five-wicket haul, Ashraf admitted that bowling coach Azhar Mahmood deserves a lot of credit.

“A lot of credit for my first five-wicket haul in ODIs goes to Azhar Mahmood,” he said. “He has been extremely helpful by giving confidence and making me a better bowler.

“I try to hit the right areas and bowl stump to stump.”

Meanwhile, Ashraf also revealed that the national team have developed a strong bond since they won the Champions Trophy in England last year.

“It’s true that we are a very close team and we back each other all the time,” he added. “Since the Champions Trophy, we play as one unit and are happy with each other’s performances; which is one of the reasons why we are winning matches in all formats.”