Pakistan Test batsman Azhar Ali believes that the Men in Green’s skipper Sarfaraz Ahmed has the ability to win the 2019 International Cricket Council (ICC) World Cup for Pakistan.

While talking to Cricket Pakistan in an exclusive interview, Ali backed the leadership credentials of Sarfaraz.

“Sarfaraz is very passionate and leading the team well. He has won major trophies like the Under-19 World Cup and Champions Trophy in the past for Pakistan,” said Azhar. “He is capable of repeating history and can win the World Cup for Pakistan as well.”

Azhar also praised the Men in Green for their comeback wins against South Africa and New Zealand, despite being under immense pressure.

“It takes a lot of courage to bounce back after facing criticism from everywhere.  Pakistan also beat England after getting criticised for losing to West Indies in the first match,” he said. “Hopefully, Pakistan will now gain much-needed momentum and win their next two games.”

The 34-year-old also requested the fans and former cricketers to support the team when they are going through a tough phase.

“It was sad to see Pakistan players being abused after the defeat against India. It hurts more when former cricketers who have played the game, make below the belt comments against our team,” he said. “Everyone supports the team when they are winning, however, the teams need more support when they lose.”

Ali was also satisfied with his decision to retire from One Day International (ODI) cricket and wants to concentrate on prolonging his Test career.

“I think it was the right time to step down from ODI cricket as I was struggling with injury and young players like Imamul Haq and Fakhar Zaman were ready to take my place,” he said. “I want to concentrate on Test cricket now and want to perform my responsibility as a senior player after the retirements of Younis Khan and Misbahul Haq.”